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Middle Eastern Studies Minor
What are the origins of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, and how has the relationship
between these different faiths shaped the Middle East? How do natural resources such
as oil and water impact the Middle East’s social and political dynamics? What are
the causes of hot-button issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict and the Syrian
Civil War? What role can the United States play in promoting peace in the region?
The Middle Eastern Studies minor answers these questions and more by giving students
an in-depth understanding of the most complex region in the world. It is a 21-credit
interdisciplinary program that allows students to take courses across a variety of
social science and humanities disciplines. Students can also fulfill the program requirements
through completing study abroad opportunities, which provide a firsthand perspective
on the region that few people will ever experience. Upon completing the Middle Eastern
Studies minor, students will have developed a level of expertise in the region that
bolsters their applications for both employment and graduate school opportunities
after graduation.
Request More Information about Middle Eastern Studies
Resources for Current and Prospective Students
The Middle Eastern Studies Minor at a Glance
The Middle Eastern Studies minor is a 21-credit program that allows students to take courses across a variety of social science and humanities disciplines. Students can also fulfill the program requirements through completing study abroad opportunities. Students who complete the minor will develop a level of expertise that bolsters their applications for both employment and graduate school opportunities after graduation. The minor can be completed by taking courses in Political Science, Anthropology, History, Criminal Justice, Religious Studies, and Modern Languages.
Why Study the Middle East?
The Middle East is perhaps the most dynamic yet misunderstood region in the world. Despite its significance, however, the United States currently lacks the necessary experts on the Middle East to meet the demands of the U.S. government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. For this reason, expertise in the Middle East provides an excellent foundation for a career in law, politics, government, business, and the non-profit sector. Students who specialize in the Middle East will also be competitive for prestigious post-graduate programs such as Fulbright and the Peace Corps.
Study Abroad in the Middle East
The best way to learn about the Middle East is to see it for yourself! Students can travel to the region by selecting from among a number of study abroad options, including to Jordan, Israel, and Tunisia. UCM offers both short-term, faculty led programs to the Middle East, as well as longer-term opportunities. These programs all count for course credit that can fulfill the requirements of the minor.
The Middle East Beyond the Headlines
Every year, UCM students participate in The Middle East beyond the Headlines, a two-and-a-half week study abroad program to Jordan and Israel. By traveling to the region, students have the opportunity to understand the Middle East’s hot-button issues from a perspective that few Americans enjoy. Students will gain insight into the region through participating in a series of tours, excursions, and lectures. Among the program’s highlights are excursions to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and Jerusalem, the holiest city on Earth. Students also enjoy a generous amount of free time, allowing them to get to know their host countries through exploration. Many students use their free time to visit incredible places such as Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, the Baptism Site, Masada, Ein Gedi, and more. Check out the video to the left for a look into students' experiences in The Middle East beyond the Headlines.
testimonial
Being able to visit the Middle East was, without a doubt, one of the most valuable experiences I have ever had. Being able to have that experience has shown me things and places that most people will never experience in their life, it has transformed my levels of compassion and allowed me to expand my thoughts on the issues that others face in the world. My one piece of advice is this: This journey is a must. Get out of your comfort zone, break down any preconceived barriers and get ready for a life altering experience that you will never forget. Also get ready to fall in love with the cities, sites, and food!
ROBERT W., 2017 Middle East beyond the Headlines Participant
Contact
Dr. Michael Makara
Associate Professor, Political Science
203 Wood Hall
Tel: (660) 543-8321
