MINOR IN PERSIAN STUDIES*

(*pending PCC final approval)  

1. The Center for Persian Studies (CPS) proposes to introduce a minor in Persian Studies. This 15-credit minor will provide students with a solid background in linguistic, literary, and/or cultural aspects of the study of Persian, most broadly defined and inclusive of the cultures of Iran, Afghanistan, Persian-speaking Central Asia, and the Persian diaspora. The minor is envisioned as anchored in the broadest possible social, cultural, and historical contexts; as such courses in Islamic and Middle Eastern studies will also satisfy the requirements of the minor. Of these a minimum of 9 credits must be from among Persian Language and Literature courses (category 1 below).

2. Students may choose from the following courses. A minimum of 9 credits must be on the 300 or 400 level. Native or heritage learners of Persian should seek the advice of the Undergraduate Advisor for Persian before choosing their courses. The minor is open to all students except Persian Studies majors. A grade of “C” or better is required in all classes.

3. A maximum of 6 credits may be applied to the minor from courses taken at other institutions. However, a maximum of 9 credits may be applied from a University of Maryland study abroad program. Students interested in pursuing the Minor in Persian Studies should contact the Undergraduate Persian Advisor, who will be responsible for oversight and record keeping.

Courses available at the University of Maryland for a minor in Persian Studies:

1. Persian Language and Literature Courses

PERS 211 Reading and Writing for Native Speakers (4)
PERS 301 Advanced Persian: Literary Texts (3)
PERS 302 Advanced Persian: Expository Texts (3)
PERS 451 Introduction to Persian Literature (3)
PERS 452 Modern Persian Literature: A Survey (3)

2. CPS Courses Taught in English

PERS 351 Introduction to Persian Literature (3) No prerequisites.
PERS 352 Iranian Culture and Civilization (3)
PERS 353 Iranian Life in Literature and Film (3)

3. Courses Offered by Other Departments of the University of Maryland

ARCH 436 History of Islamic Architecture
GVPT 447 Islamic Political Philosophy
GVPT 455 Contemporary Middle Eastern Politics
GVPT 485 Government and Politics of the Middle East
HIST 120 Islamic Civilization
HIST 390 Middle East I
HIST 391 Middle East II
HIST 392 History of the Contemporary Middle East
HIST 492 Women and Society in the Middle East