Arabic Language and Culture Studies, Minor
Program Director: Enaya Othman, Ph.D.
The interdisciplinary Arabic Language Studies and Culture minor provides students with an understanding of the importance of the Arab world and Islamic cultures in today’s global community. Students acquire intermediate proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing in modern standard Arabic language and Levantine vernacular. Proficiency in the Arabic language and culture equips students for professional opportunities, which can be found in education, international business, law, nursing, social work, journalism, community advocacy, political analysis, tourism and hospitality, government and armed forces. It trains students in all aspects of language skills and connects language learning with other disciplines. The interdisciplinary minor includes an array of classes that provide students with the historical, religious, cultural and political significance of the Arab world and Muslim communities. Students examine major Arabic literary genres, engage in an interaction with diverse Arab and Muslim communities, and gain invaluable insight through study abroad opportunities. The Arabic Language Studies and Culture minor is one of the important avenues that articulates Marquette’s Jesuit values and mission through enhancing students’ skills and awareness of world religions, languages, and cultures, thus preparing them as global citizens. Students in this program assume a role as peace and interfaith messengers and educators who actively promote an understanding of Arab and Muslim communities through outreach and collaboration at local, national and international levels. Minors in Arabic Language and Culture may combine studies with other disciplines in the humanities, social sciences or sciences.
In addition to the Arabic minor, students are encouraged to major or minor in Middle East North Africa (MENA) studies.