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Middle Eastern Studies

Explore the complexities of the Middle Eastern region of the world in McDaniel's Middle Eastern Studies program. Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery, especially of the myriad benefits that await you with a Middle Eastern Studies minor.

Mortarboard
Degree Types
Minor
Institution
Complementary Programs
Arabic
Heart
Distinctive Requirements
Language Competency in Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew, or Turkish
Document
Study Abroad
Travel to a Middle Eastern country

Why McDaniel for a Degree in Middle Eastern Studies?

In McDaniel's interdisciplinary Middle Eastern Studies program, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the region's complexities and nuances, including its languages, religions, art, and literature. This knowledge is valuable in many professions, from international relations to business. Whatever your interests may be, a minor in Middle Eastern Studies equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the region. 

Middle Eastern Studies Careers

McDaniel College graduates with a degree in Middle Eastern Studies can pursue careers such as:

  • Political scientist
  • Interpreter
  • NGO Officer
  • Journalist
  • Public policy professional or lobbyist 
  • Lawyer
  • International business specialist
  • Foreign Service officer
  • Diplomat

Special Opportunities

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The Arabic House

The Arabic house provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Arabic language right on campus. Each year, an Arabic house director comes from an Arabic-speaking country to study at McDaniel, share their culture, and help you improve your Arabic. Living in the Arabic house will fulfill study abroad requirements for students who are unable to travel. 

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Model U.N., European Union, and Arab League

McDaniel's student delegations for National Model U.N. and the National Model European Union frequently earn recognition for their skillful diplomacy and negotiations at annual conferences. Students have traveled to New York City, Washington, D.C., and even China to showcase their skills in international relations.

Distinctive Courses

ARB 2215 - Al Amia-Colloquial Arabic

Al Amia or Colloquial Arabic is the main language used in speech in the Arab world. The emphasis in this course will be on the development of students’ listening and speaking skills in the widely spoken Levantine and Egyptian dialects. The course will focus on developing linguistic, communicative and cultural skills needed to function in everyday situations.

PSI 2302 - Model Arab League

An educational simulation and/or academic activity in which students can learn about diplomacy and international relations which involves and teaches researching, public speaking, debating, and writing skills, in addition to critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership abilities.

PSI 3333 - Conflict Resolution, Peacemaking, and Peacekeeping in Post-Cold War World

This course is designed to expose students to the multifaceted nature of conflict on the inter and intra state levels, historically, and in the current post Cold War period. This objective will be achieved by exploring the sources, causes, environmental impact, and determinants of conflict, presenting the various perspectives on the genesis and the amelioration of conflict, and utilizing some case method analysis to demonstrate the life cycles of some specific conflicts and the management or resolution thereof.

Program Requirements

Middle Eastern Studies Minor
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The McDaniel Commitment in Action

The McDaniel Commitment—a series of opportunities guaranteed to all students—provides enhanced mentoring and coaching, and ensures every undergraduate student completes at least two meaningful experiential learning opportunities.

McDaniel’s women’s basketball team in France.

Study Abroad

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Internships

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Research

Carol Zaru

Faculty Spotlight Carol Zaru Senior Lecturer

Carol Zaru was born in Jerusalem and lived in the city of Ramallah, Palestine, most of her life. She attended college in the United States, receiving a bachelor’s degree from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich. She returned to Palestine where she worked at Birzeit University in the West Bank and received an intermediate-level certificate in German from the Goethe Institute, Ramallah. She moved to Maryland in 2001. Fluent in both Arabic and English, she has been teaching Arabic at McDaniel since 2007.

Learn more about Zaru.

Related Programs

Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies
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Keep in Touch

Tell us a little about yourself and we'll share updates & information. (We'll also make sure you don't miss any important deadlines.)

Keep in Touch
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See Yourself Here

Take your first steps on the Hill! Visiting campus is one of the best ways to determine if McDaniel is right for you.

Visit McDaniel
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