UMass Boston

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Arabic Minor

Explore the Rich World of Arabic Language, Culture & History.

If you're proficient in Arabic, UMass Boston’s Arabic Minor gives you the opportunity to explore courses relevant to your academic and career goals. The minor program fosters a deeper understanding of the Arabic language and its cultural nuances, empowering you to engage in global conversations and contribute to a deeper understanding of the Middle East and its complex dynamics.

Arabic is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and is the official language in over 20 countries. This program equips you with valuable skills and knowledge, opening doors to diverse career paths, from international relations and business to politics and religious studies. 

Expand Your Studies

How to Apply/Declare

Current Undergraduate Students: Declare or change your minor by completing an Undergraduate Program Add/Change form.

Prospective Undergraduate Students: Apply for admission to UMass Boston by completing an application. Start by reviewing the first-year and transfer application pages for important information about requirements, deadlines, and application status checks. Use the links below to apply: 

Apply as a First-Year Student

Apply as a Transfer Student

Curriculum

Intermediate Language (6 Credits)

Students placed out of intermediate-level classes can substitute a related course approved by the minor advisors or department chair.

  • ARABIC 201 - Intermediate Arabic I 4 Credit(s)
  • ARABIC 202 - Intermediate Arabic II 4 Credit(s)

Arab World (6 Credits)

Take two courses from the list below. 

  • ARABIC 320 - Modern Arabic Literature 3 Credit(s)
  • ARABIC 252L - Global Refugee Narratives 3 Credit(s)
  • ARABIC 260L - Imagining the Modern Middle East 3 Credit(s)

Electives (6 Credits)

Take two courses from the list below.

  • POLSCI 369 - Politics of the Middle East (C) 3 Credit(s)
  • POLSCI 404 - The Politics of the Arab-Israeli Conflict 3 Credit(s)
  • RELSTY 233L - Introduction to Islam 3 Credit(s)

Completion Requirements

Complete at least 18 credits from six courses, including two intermediate language courses, two Arab world courses, and two electives from other departments.

Pass/fail: No courses taken pass/fail may be applied toward the minor.
Residency: At least three courses for the minor must be completed at UMass Boston.
Course level: At least two courses for the minor must be at the 300-level or higher.

Contact

Alexander Des Forges, PhD, Department Chair
McCormack Hall, 4th Floor, Room 228
Alex.Desforges [@] umb.edu

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Modern Languages, Literatures & Cultures

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Next Steps

Declare or Change Your Minor Request Info About UMass Boston Undergraduate Admissions