Overview

The Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies programme at Columbia University provides students with a rigorous framework to examine the cultures, ideas, and politics of several overlapping global regions. This interdisciplinary course encourages deep engagement with creative movements and intellectual debates across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. By drawing on historical and contemporary sources, the curriculum prepares graduates to navigate complex cultural formations through various disciplinary lenses.

Why Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies at Columbia University?

Students benefit from a distinguished faculty with expertise spanning literary criticism, film studies, and intellectual history. The department offers an extensive range of language programmes, including Arabic, Persian, Swahili, and Sanskrit, supported by dedicated language coordinators. The university’s location in New York provides a vibrant backdrop for global studies, while the programme’s "tracks" allow for specialised focus or comparative regional analysis. Facilities such as the Language Resource Centre enhance the learning experience for all undergraduates.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around core theoretical requirements and regional specialisations. Students must complete introductory courses and advanced seminars to build a foundation in their chosen track. Modules may include:

Premodern Islamic Worlds
Indian Civilization
Major Debates in the Study of Africa
Theory and Culture
Critical Theory
Islamic Civilization
Cinemas of India
African Civilization
Sufism, Sharia, and Politics

Careers with Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies

Graduates from this programme are equipped with high-level linguistic proficiency and cross-cultural analytical skills, making them strong candidates for diverse international roles. The ability to interpret complex texts and understand global political landscapes is highly valued in sectors such as international relations, journalism, and law. Many students also pursue further academic research or careers in non-governmental organisations and cultural institutions. The rigorous training in writing and critical thinking ensures that alumni can effectively communicate across different social and economic contexts.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theory and Culture

African Civilization

Indian Civilization

Islamic Civilization

Asian Humanities

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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

Autobiographical information

Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities

Personal essay

An official high school transcript from all high schools attended

One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile

The completed Mid-Year Report

SAT or ACT

Applicants may self-report their scores

English proficiency examination score (if necessary)

These recommendations must come from teachers who taught you in academic disciplines

For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

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

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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 Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies.

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

Manhattan

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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