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​Middle Eastern Studies

Syracuse University’s Middle Eastern studies program offers world-class instruction, research opportunities, internships, and study-abroad options that provide you with insights into one of today’s fastest growing regions. Students of the program study the languages, history, culture, religions and politics of the Middle East.

Upon graduation, you’ll be well-versed in the field and ready to make important contributions to the region as well as the businesses and organizations it involves.


About the College of Arts and Sciences

The founding college of Syracuse University remains at the center of undergraduate learning. The College is divided into the natural sciences and mathematics, the humanities, and the social sciences, with the lattermost offered in partnership with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

Courses

Core coursework covers religion, history, and foreign language. Sample courses include:

  • Discovering Islam
  • US Foreign Policy in the Middle East
  • Sounds of the Silk Road
  • Social Theory & Middle East
  • Muslim Poets & Storytellers
  • Temple and the Dead Sea Scrolls

View official major requirements .

Practical Experience

Supplement your coursework through experiential and real-world learning opportunities.

  • Learn more about Israelis, Palestinians, and the greater Middle Eastern region as a member of LIME—the on-campus Israeli-Palestinian Dialogue Group.
  • Enrich your academic experience as a Renée Crown University Honors student.
  • Attend University lectures and network with resident and visiting experts.
  • Delve into your coursework as a student contributor to faculty research.

Study Abroad

Well-known among the top international education providers in the U.S.,  Syracuse Abroad  is a storied part of the Syracuse experience. With over 100 programs in 60 countries, almost half of all students go abroad during their time at Syracuse.

Middle Eastern Studies majors most often go abroad to our World Partner program AMIDEAST Area & Arabic Language Studies (Amman, Jordan and Rabat, Morocco).

Summer programs of interest include Religion, Law, and Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective (Strasbourg),  and Revolutions, War, and the Prospects for Democracy in the Middle East (Dubai, UAE).

Life After Syracuse University

With a degree in Middle Eastern Studies you can explore such careers as:

  • Diplomat
  • Community Activist
  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Interpreter
  • Reporter
  • Public Interest Advocate

Or, continue your education with a graduate degree in the areas of law, education, business, or sociology.