Arabic Studies

Master of Arts in Arabic Studies

The Master's program in Arabic Studies offers graduate training in Arabic language (modern Fusha and the Classical language), linguistics, literature, and pedagogy, provides knowledge of linguistic analysis, literary and cultural history, literary criticism, and teaching methodology, and introduces research methods leading to independent investigation. Participation in the program assumes a B.A. degree in Arabic Language and Literature, or the equivalent, and requires a level of competence in modern Fusha Arabic (at least Intermediate High or higher in three of the four skills on a nationally recognized proficiency scale) that enables students to participate fully in courses conducted exclusively in Arabic. Credits to make up undergraduate deficiencies do not count toward the degree. With special permission, the thesis or report may be written in Arabic.

The Master of Arts with thesis requires thirty semester hours of coursework:

1. eighteen hours of linguistics, literature, and pedagogy;
2. six hours in the thesis course; and
3. six hours of electives chosen in consultation with a faculty adviser and the Arabic faculty.

The Master of Arts with report requires thirty-three semester hours of coursework:

1. twenty-one hours of linguistics, literature, and pedagogy;
2. three hours in the report course; and
3. nine hours of electives chosen in consultation with a faculty advise and the Arabic faculty. In both cases only nine hours may be in upper division courses.