Why study Arabic Language and Culture?

The Arab world, made up of 22 countries and the Palestinians, extends from the Arabian/Persian Gulf in the east to the Atlantic Ocean in the west and has a population of about 300 million, 20 million of whom are Christian Arabs. Arabic is their dominant mode of expression. It is also an important language in other countries. Arabic is the language of Islam, and more than a billion people use it as a vital spiritual component of their daily lives. The United Nations adopted Arabic as one of its six official languages in 1974.

Events in the Middle East affect our daily lives, and only through the study of Arabic can one gain necessary insights into the cultural, religious, and political forces that motivate the inhabitants of that vital region - insights that our monolingual media seldom provide.

Middle East is the birthplace of civilization and the cradle of the three monotheistic religions. It also contains some of the world's greatest archeological and religious sites. It is the locus of two thirds of the world's known oil reserves. Moreover, it is rich with interesting cultures and warm, hospitable people. A good knowledge of Arabic will greatly enhance the enjoyment of travel in the region and the ability to work and interact with Arabic speaking people. Qualified students may seek available funding - for example, from the UC Office of International Programs, the Taft Foundation, and federal agencies - to enroll in an Arabic study abroad program.

Career Possibilities

The diligent study of Arabic can lead to exciting careers in various fields. The following are only a few of the many positions open to those who have a high proficiency in Arabic:

• Communications: foreign correspondent, reporter, translator.
• International finance: international banker, international consultant, political risk analyst.
• Industry: manager of government relations for oil companies, market analyst for export companies.
• Government: foreign service officer, development program officer, intelligence analyst, government relations specialist, translator or interpreter.
• Law: contractual and corporation consultant.
• Academia: teaching and research positions. The U.S. government currently considers Arabic a critical language and many scholarships and fellowships in Arabic studies are available.

[The above paragraphs are adapted from the website of The American Association of Teachers of Arabic.]

Major Maps

• Guide: Minor in Arabic Studies Curriculum

Advising

Contact the program director, whose name and information appear on this screen.

UC Advantages and Special Opportunities

Students in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) enjoy many benefits afforded through study at a research-extensive institution ranked among the nation's top 25 public research universities. UC's urban, Tristate location offers exciting opportunities for global education, research and service learning, while its student-centered focus includes an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, a nationally recognized Center for Exploratory Studies and a highly successful First Year Experience program that teaches critical skills for first-year students and provides connections with important campus resources.

Admission Requirements

Students already pursuing a degree in any college at UC can add the minor to their program. Be sure to submit a declaration of the minor using our online form.

In addition, you must the department so the faculty are aware that you are pursuing the minor and can advise you appropriately. Do this early enough to avoid delay in obtaining your minor.

Graduation Requirements

If you have declared the minor, it will appear on your application for graduation. Apply for graduation as you normally would for your bachelor’s degree.

Accreditation