Overview

The Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Persian Languages and Literature B.A. at the University of Pennsylvania provides a comprehensive exploration of Iranian heritage from premodern times to the contemporary era. This academic pathway is designed to foster deep linguistic proficiency while situating the Persian language within the broader framework of Islamic civilisation. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that balances intensive language training with the critical study of regional history and religious traditions.

The programme emphasises the vital connection between language and the cultural contexts in which it flourishes. By examining various historical periods, learners gain a nuanced understanding of how Persian literature and thought have shaped, and been shaped by, societal shifts.

Why Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Persian Languages and Literature at the University of Pennsylvania?

Studying at this institution offers students access to a wealth of expertise within the School of Arts & Sciences. The programme is distinguished by its holistic approach, combining foundational Middle Eastern history with specialised concentrations in Persian poetic traditions and modern media. Students benefit from a structured academic environment that encourages interdisciplinary inquiry, drawing on the university's extensive resources in history, religion, and gender studies to provide a well-rounded educational experience.

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:

Persian
Persian Poetic Tradition
Modern Iran and the West Through the Lens of Fiction
Gender, Sexuality and the Erotic in Persian Literature
Media and Culture in Contemporary Iran
Ancient Middle East
The Making of the Middle East
Persian History
Islamic Religion

Careers with Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures - Persian Languages and Literature

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a variety of professional paths that require high-level linguistic competence and cultural intelligence. The analytical skills developed through the study of literature and history are highly transferable to sectors such as international relations, cultural consultancy, and heritage management. Many students also choose to pursue further academic research or roles within global organisations where expertise in Middle Eastern affairs and the Persian language is a significant asset.

Programme Structure

Course include:

Ancient Middle East
Middle East
Independent Study
Senior Conference

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

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies Literature 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 - Persian Languages and Literature.

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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