The Islamic and Middle Eastern studies track will enable students to learn about the geography, cultures, languages, literature, arts, religions, politics, law and governments of Islamic societies and the Middle East. As a multidisciplinary area of inquiry, Islamic and Middle Eastern studies aims to help students develop critical skills to understand the rich cultures, complex ideas, and extensive history that shape modern Islamic and Middle Eastern societies.
Examples of post-graduation opportunities for International Studies graduates who have completed the Islamic and Middle Eastern studies track include:
- Communications Assistant - International Programs (University of Iowa)
- Case Manager - US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (Des Moines, Iowa)
- Grant Writer & Developer - Grace Hills Settlement House (North St. Louis, Missouri)
- Diplomatic Intern - Kurdistan Regional Government - Iraq (Washington DC)
- Director of Outreach and Communications - The List Project to Resettle Iraqi Allies (Washington DC)
- Fulbright English Language Teaching Assistantship (Turkey)
- MPA/MA Arts Administration dual program - School of Public and Environmental Affairs (Indiana University)
- PhD program in Government and Politics (University of Maryland)
World Language Study
The regions which are the focus of Islamic and Middle Eastern studies have immense language diversity. For instance, in North African countries most people will be able to speak French. Additionally, since Indonesia is a Muslim country, Indonesian is also an important language within the field. Other relevant languages include: Arabic, Persian, Hebrew, Turkish, Urdu, Bangali.
The Language Media Center is an option for students who wish to study languages which are not currently taught at the University. This allows students to build language skills but because the Language Media Center does not offer credit, this language study does not satisfy the International Studies B.A. language requirement.
Track Requirements
The Islamic and Middle Eastern studies track requires a minimum of 18 s.h. of coursework, including at least 12 s.h. earned in courses numbered 2000 or above. Students may not count their foundation courses toward track requirements.