Develop an understanding of the Middle East, its history and its contemporary complexities with a minor in Middle Eastern and Islamic studies.
Why Minor in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies?
Middle Eastern and Islamic studies is an interdisciplinary field that familiarizes you with the history, arts, religions and politics of this important region. In addition, you'll build cultural competence and language proficiency.
With this minor, you'll examine the complex issues involved in understanding the Middle East and the broader Islamic world from a variety of perspectives.
The State of California has the largest number of Middle Eastern Americans in any U.S. state, with the Los Angeles area constituting the largest population in the state.
Why Study Middle Eastern and Islamics Studies at CSUN?
A Vibrant Program
The Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies (MEIS) program at CSUN is an interdisciplinary minor established in 2013. The program seeks to enhance students’ understanding of Islamic cultures and the Muslim communities both internationally and within the United States.
Access to Experts Across the University
You'll have access to professors from across the university who are experts in differing aspects of this important region. We provide a supportive academic space to explore, deepen and perhaps revise your beliefs and ideas about the region.
A Strong Addition
The program provides a center for the study of the intellectual and cultural conditions that have shaped our current understandings of the Middle East and Islamic societies. The program is ideal for students interested in becoming scholars, journalists, translators, interpreters, diplomats, negotiators and personnel in foreign offices and businesses.
What You'll Learn
You'll study Middle Eastern languages, history, cultures, religions and politics.
You'll learn to:
- Speak, comprehend and write one of the major Middle Eastern languages at an elementary level
- Identify the major events of Middle Eastern and Islamic history and articulate the internal and external forces that led up to and shaped these events
- Explain the current cultural, political and religious challenges facing people in the Middle East
- Describe and analyze significant Islamic religious beliefs, ethics, practices, philosophies and cultural expressions
- Describe the principal social contours of Islamic communities, families and gender relations, and explain the complex and multifaceted forms of identities
- Understand the minorities (ethnic, cultural, religious) within the larger Middle Eastern societies, as well as the dynamics of relationships among diverse groups
Study in the Middle East through CSUN
The California State University International Programs offer eligible students the opportunity to study abroad in one of 18 countries, including Israel, for one academic year or one semester.