COURSE CURRICULUM

The Arabic, Islamic, Middle Eastern and North African Studies BA offers an in-depth exploration of the languages, cultures, histories, politics, and societies of the Middle East, North Africa, and the wider Muslim world. Central to the degree is learning Arabic, one of the world’s major languages, with students developing skills in both written and spoken forms. These skills are further enhanced through a year abroad in an Arabic-speaking country, where students follow a tailored curriculum designed to deepen their proficiency and experience colloquial Arabic. The course also allows students to expand their linguistic knowledge by studying Persian. Alongside language acquisition, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of Islam, one of the world’s most influential religions, and examines contemporary issues affecting the regions studied, including cultural identity, gender, sexuality, and race. Students engage with a combination of compulsory and optional modules, covering areas such as Arab culture, politics, performance, Qur’anic studies, and Islamic law. The degree also emphasizes transferable skills, helping students to become resilient, adaptable, and reflective thinkers with strong analytical abilities. Graduates leave with linguistic expertise, cultural literacy, and critical understanding, equipping them for a range of professional, academic, and intercultural opportunities in a global context.