Overview

The Arabic programme at Western Kentucky University provides students with a deep understanding of the linguistic and cultural traditions of the Arab world. As the first major of its kind in Kentucky, this course prepares graduates for high-demand roles in international business, diplomacy, and security sectors.

The curriculum is designed to take students from foundational levels to advanced fluency, focusing on Modern Standard Arabic as the basis for all communication. Learners also have the opportunity to study colloquial varieties, ensuring they are prepared for both formal professional environments and everyday interactions in Arabic-speaking nations.

Why Arabic at Western Kentucky University?

Western Kentucky University boasts a robust modern languages department with a history spanning over a century. The Arabic division is distinguished by offering seventeen different courses, a number unmatched by any other institution within the Commonwealth of Kentucky, providing an exceptionally broad academic scope.

Students benefit from a structured four-year plan that includes access to specialised scholarships and study abroad opportunities. The teaching staff provide one-on-one language advising and maintain a rotating schedule of upper-level electives to ensure all students can complete their major requirements within a standard timeframe.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 29030 per year
National fee: USD 27000 per year
Local fee: USD 12072 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers language acquisition, media, and historical context. Modules may include:

Elementary Arabic
Intermediate Arabic
Advanced Arabic
Experiencing Arabic Abroad
Colloquial Arabic
Arabic Translation
Arabic Civilization
Internship in Arabic
Arabic Literature
Advanced Media Arabic
Topics in Arabic Media
Topics in Arabic Literature and Culture
Advanced Studies in Arabic

Careers with Arabic

Graduates of this programme are highly sought after by various United States government agencies due to the designation of Arabic as a critical language. Proficiency in this language is a priority for recruitment within the Department of Defence, the National Security Agency, the FBI, and the CIA.

Beyond government service, the rapid economic growth in the Arabian Gulf creates significant demand for Arabic-speaking professionals in the private sector. Career paths include roles in international banking, sales management, engineering, and nursing, as well as specialised positions in international affairs, economics, and military science.

Programme Structure

Courses Include:

Elementary Arabic
Intermediate Arabic
Advanced Arabic
Arab Civilization
Advanced ARABIC Media
Colloquial ARABIC

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

100

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bowling Green, United States

Disciplines

Middle Eastern studies View 143 other Bachelors in Middle Eastern studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A completed application (open WKU application for admission)
Minimum academic requirements: Freshmen: 2.5 GPA / Transfer:* 2.0 GPA
*Students with 24 or more earned hours of college credit
English proficiency requirements
$75 non-refundable application fee
Official Academic Records from schools attended with grades and any degrees/diplomas/certificates received. Should also include a literal English translation.
Financial Evidence of Support must be provided to obtain an I-20
Students transferring from within the US will need to fill out the Transfer-In Form

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

29030 USD / year

≈ 29030 USD / year
Out-of-State

27000 USD / year

≈ 27000 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12072 USD / year

≈ 12072 USD / year

Living costs

Bowling Green

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Arabic.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bowling Green

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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