Overview

The Modern Middle Eastern Studies programme at the University of Pennsylvania offers a rigorous academic framework for students to explore the complexities of the Middle East. This interdisciplinary major integrates humanistic and social scientific methodologies to analyse the region’s diverse history, politics, and cultures.

Students benefit from a curriculum designed to foster advanced research skills and critical thinking. By engaging with faculty experts, learners examine pressing global issues such as international relations, economic development, and social thought. The programme emphasises the importance of linguistic proficiency as a foundation for authentic regional analysis.

The academic structure ensures that graduates possess a nuanced understanding of the Middle Eastern experience.

Why Modern Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Pennsylvania?

The University of Pennsylvania provides a distinctive environment for regional studies through its commitment to applied and research-oriented learning. Students have access to extensive resources within the School of Arts & Sciences, including faculty who are leaders in Middle Eastern scholarship. The institution’s interdisciplinary focus allows for a unique synthesis of political science, history, and ideology.

Facilities and academic opportunities at the university support deep immersion into the subject matter. The programme is structured to allow for significant flexibility, enabling students to pursue double majors or interdisciplinary projects. This academic rigour is complemented by a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to solving complex problems related to policy and international affairs.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63204 per year
National fee: USD 63204 per year
Local fee: USD 63204 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Humanities
Social Science
Arabic
Hebrew
Pashto
Persian
Turkish
Research Seminar

Careers with Modern Middle Eastern Studies

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional roles that require regional expertise and linguistic skills. The curriculum prepares students for careers in international relations, policy analysis, and government service. Many alumni also find success in sectors such as international business, non-governmental organisations, and academic research.

The analytical and communication skills developed during the course are highly valued by employers in various industries. By focusing on problems of politics, economic development, and social thought, the degree provides a versatile foundation for graduate study or immediate entry into the global workforce. Students are encouraged to utilise university career services to connect with potential employers.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

History of the Middle East Since 1800

Politics in the Contemporary Middle East

Islam in the Modern World

Faces of Jihad in African Islam

Water in the Middle East Throughout History

Who Owns the Past? Archaeology and Politics in the Middle East

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Islamic 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

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

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

Common App or Coalition Application & Penn-specific Essay

Official High School Transcript

School Report

Letters of Recommendation

Mid-Year Report

Interviews

Additional Letter of Recommendation

English Language Proficiency Tests scores

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

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Out-of-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year

Living costs

Philadelphia

United States

1313 - 2284 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 Modern Middle Eastern 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

Philadelphia

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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