Middle Eastern & North African Studies
The Middle Eastern and North African Studies concentration explores the diverse societies, cultures, and histories of the MENA region through an interdisciplinary lens.
Bringing together insights from the humanities, social sciences, language study, and global affairs, the concentration helps you gain a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the region today. The concentration helps you build regional expertise, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and develop a global perspective on issues that influence communities both within the region and around the world.
What You’ll Study
In this concentration, you’ll explore how history, politics, religion, culture, and social change have shaped societies across the Middle East and North Africa. Coursework examines topics such as the origins of Islam, the Crusades, the modern Middle East, African political systems, social movements, and the lasting effects of colonialism and independence. You’ll also engage with Arabic cultures, religious and philosophical traditions, and the diverse communities that make up the region.
Drawing on perspectives from history, political science, anthropology, philosophy, geography, and international studies, you’ll investigate contemporary issues such as development, migration, sustainability, globalization, and international relations. By examining the region from multiple perspectives, you’ll develop a more nuanced understanding of a part of the world that is often oversimplified or misunderstood.
Arabic language study is an important part of the concentration, helping you build cultural understanding and engage more deeply with regional perspectives. Through research and interdisciplinary analysis, you’ll develop the skills to understand the complexity and diversity of the MENA region and its role in an increasingly interconnected world.
Featured Courses
LARA 250: Introduction to Arabic Cultures
Explore literature, film, visual and performing arts, and other cultural works from across the Arabic-speaking world. By engaging with materials from different time periods and artistic traditions, you’ll discover how the Arabic language, literature, and culture have shaped and influenced one another.
POLS 444: Comparative African Politics
Discover how history has shaped politics across Africa. This course examines the impact of colonialism, the rise of nationalist movements, the formation of new political systems, and the role of development in shaping contemporary African governments and societies.
Career & Professional Pathways
The Middle East and North Africa sit at the crossroads of global conversations about culture, religion, politics, economics, and international affairs. Through Arabic language study and interdisciplinary coursework, you’ll build specialized knowledge that can prepare you for careers in diplomacy and foreign service to journalism, education, public policy, international development, intelligence analysis, and work with nonprofit, governmental, and global organizations.
Beyond the Classroom
Understanding the MENA region extends beyond coursework. Whether you’re attending cultural events, participating in internationally focused student organizations, engaging with visiting speakers, or connecting with communities on and off campus, you’ll have opportunities to deepen your understanding of the region from multiple perspectives.
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Arabic Culture and Language Club
The Arabic Culture and Language Club brings together students interested in Arabic language and Arab cultures through conversation, cultural programming, guest speakers, and community-building events. Open to all experience levels, the club creates opportunities to engage with diverse perspectives, practice language skills, and connect with others who share an interest in the Middle East and North Africa. Arabic tutoring is also available for students enrolled in introductory language courses.
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Education Abroad
Study abroad opportunities in Africa and Morocco allow you to explore language, culture, migration, and contemporary global issues through immersive experiences. You can also participate in community engagement programs in Ghana and Zambia, where you’ll work across cultures while gaining insight into international development and local communities.
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Gamze Çavdar
- Professor
970-491-4869
Social Science Hall 2923 (Former Clark C)
Faculty Spotlight
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. Gamze Çavdar specializes in Middle East and North African politics, with research focused on gender, social policy, and political change. Her work encourages students to explore the region through the lens of contemporary issues and lived experiences.
Accelerated B.A.
International Studies majors concentrating in Middle Eastern and North African Studies can graduate in 3 or 3.5 years with thoughtful planning alongside your academic advisor. Accelerated Programs typically include 15-16 credits each fall and spring semester for three years, plus 6-9 credits each summer.
Next Steps
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