Arabic Language
Arabic is one of the world’s most widely spoken and strategically important languages. The Arabic minor helps students develop proficiency in both Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and the Egyptian dialect through a theme-based curriculum that emphasizes reading, writing, listening, and speaking. As students explore the cultures and societies of the Arabic-speaking world, they broaden their horizons, strengthen their understanding of internationalism and globalization, and develop the intercultural competence needed to become informed global citizens. Students undertake three years of language study (or equivalent). We encourage study abroad.
Degree Types: Minor
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- International Politics
- Global and International Studies
- History
- Political Science
- International Affairs
- Anthropology
- Religious Studies
- Comparative Literature
- Middle Eastern Studies
- Security and Risk Analysis
- Business
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You are curious about the histories, cultures, and societies of the Middle East and North Africa.
- You enjoy learning languages and communicating across cultures.
- You want to prepare for careers in international relations, diplomacy, government, business, journalism, education, or nonprofit organizations.
- You value global perspectives and want to develop the cultural competence needed in today’s interconnected world.
- You are interested in studying abroad and engaging directly with Arabic-speaking communities.
Transferable Skills
- Cross-cultural communication
- Oral and written Professional communication
- Global and intercultural competency
- Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
- Adaptability and collaboration
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- History, cultures, religion, and societies of the Arab world
- Contemporary politics of the Middle East
- Arabic literature and storytelling
- Media and popular culture
- Global migration and cultural exchange
- Business and commerce in the Arab world
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
Students can pursue internships that utilize language and intercultural skills through opportunities such as:
- Government agencies
- International nonprofit organizations
- International businesses
- Cultural institutions and museums
- News and media organizations
- Translation and interpretation services
- Study abroad and international education programs
- Penn State Global and internationally focused campus offices
Education Abroad Destinations
Egypt
Jordan
Morocco
Oman
Qatar
United Arab Emirates
Career Paths
Continuing Education
Graduates may pursue advanced study in fields such as:
- International Affairs
- Middle Eastern Studies
- Arabic Language and Literature
- Comparative Literature
- Applied linguistics
- Political Science
- International Education
- Law
- Translation and Interpretation
Job Titles
- Translator or Interpreter
- Teacher or Language Instructor
- International Program Coordinator
- Diplomatic Security Specialist
- Foreign Service Officer
- International Affairs Specialist
Industries
Education, Government and Public Administration, International Relations, Interpretation, Library/Information Sciences, Publishing, Translation
Employers
- U.S. Department of State
- U.S. Department of Defense
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
- National Security Agency (NSA)
- United Nations
- International NGOs
- Global consulting firms
- Multinational corporations
- Universities and colleges
- International schools
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Comparative Literature
at Penn State University Park.