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International Letters and Cultures (Arabic Studies) ,BA

International Letters and Cultures (Arabic Studies), BA

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / International Letters and Cultures (Arabic Studies)

Arabic, Culture, Islam, Language, Middle Eastern, islamic, literature, religion

With approximately 420 million speakers around the world, Arabic is rooted in influential and emerging economies, ancient history and modern politics. When you learn this strategic language, you will also gain the cultural intelligence and competency that gives you a competitive edge and a pathway into a number of fields.

Program description

The BA program in international letters and cultures with a concentration in Arabic studies provides critical and cultural diversity in advanced Arabic language and literature.

This concentration complements existing degree programs in the School of International Letters and Cultures and enhances studies in social science disciplines such as political science and global studies, as well as many humanities fields, including anthropology, history, philosophy and religious studies. The program provides a broad knowledge and understanding of the culture, literature and traditions of the vast Arabic-speaking world.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: Yes
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

As students become scholars in the language, cultures and history of the Arabic-speaking world, studying abroad is the perfect transition from the classroom to real life. Students can become culturally and linguistically immersed while gaining a deeper insight on a particular part of the world. Each of the more than 300 Global Education program options provide an opportunity for students to develop a valuable skill set that can give them an advantage in their career as well as personal enrichment.

Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, Global Education programs encourage students to build communication skills, challenge them to adapt and persevere, expose them to differences across the world and increase their ability to work with diverse groups of people. When studying abroad, students gain the global perspective and knowledge that prepares them for a future-focused career.

Career opportunities

The bachelor's degree in international letters and cultures with a concentration in Arabic studies provides greater insight into the vast Arab world of 22 countries and can lead to career opportunities in areas such as journalism, translation, international consultations, government (e.g., United Nations, CIA), social work, law and health.

Graduates are prepared for a thriving job market. The degree also benefits those interested in academic research and careers in public and diplomatic service as well as in national security.

Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.


Career *Growth *Median salary
35.2%
$103,500
6.5%
$47,290
3.9%
$80,910
3.7%
$66,930
1.0%
$62,360
1.5%
$86,280
Lawyer   Bright Outlook
7.5%
$135,740
6.6%
$128,020
4.3%
$53,640
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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