Overview

The Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures Arabic and Islamic Studies B.A. at the University of Pennsylvania provides a comprehensive exploration of the wider Middle East through the lens of Islamic civilisation. Students engage in a rigorous academic journey that balances advanced linguistic training with a deep investigation into the historical and religious frameworks of the region. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that graduates possess both the practical communication skills and the analytical depth required to understand complex global cultures.

Why Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures Arabic and Islamic Studies at University of Pennsylvania?

Studying at this institution offers students access to the prestigious School of Arts & Sciences, where the curriculum is designed to foster a nuanced understanding of the Middle Eastern world. The programme is distinguished by its emphasis on primary source materials and the opportunity to work closely with expert faculty. Students benefit from a structured breadth requirement that connects ancient history with modern developments, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of the Middle East.

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:

Elementary and Intermediate Arabic
Readings in the Qur'an and Tafsir
Arabic Readings in Belles-Lettres
Arabic Readings in the Social Sciences and the Media
Readings in Arabic Literature
Pre-Modern Arabic Texts
History & Fiction in Arabic
The Making of the Middle East
Ancient Middle East

Careers with Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures Arabic and Islamic Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths that require high-level linguistic proficiency and cross-cultural competency. The analytical skills gained through the study of history, religion, and literature are highly valued in sectors such as international relations, diplomacy, and academia. Many students also pursue roles in journalism, non-governmental organisations, and global business, where a sophisticated understanding of Islamic tradition and Middle Eastern societies is essential for success.

Programme Structure

Course include:

Arabic and Islamic Literature
Arabic and Islamic History
Arabic and Islamic Religion
Ancient Middle East
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

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies Islamic Studies Middle Eastern studies View 2636 other Bachelors in Language Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

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 Application or Coalition Application & Penn-specific Essay
Official High School Transcript
School Report
Counselor Recommendation
Academic Teacher Evaluations
Early Decision Agreement (only if applying for Early Decision)
Mid-Year Report
Final Report
SAT or ACT
English language proficiency

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 Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures Arabic and Islamic 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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