Traditional arabic lamps on market in Morocco.

Arabic

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Study Arabic at Fordham

About the Arabic minor

Set yourself up for an international career with a minor in Arabic—one of the world’s fastest-growing languages that plays a crucial role in international diplomacy, business, and intelligence.

At Fordham, you’ll go beyond just learning Arabic in the classroom. Become fluent in the language and explore real-world perspectives of Arabic-speaking communities across New York City. Gain hands-on internship experience at renowned institutions like the United Nations. And use your knowledge to drive meaningful change in areas ranging from business and intelligence to international diplomacy. 

Our graduates go on to …

  • prestigious graduate programs
  • government agencies and human rights groups
  • careers in law, global affairs, business, and more

Visit the Department of Languages and Cultures

Students in a classroom

Arabic studies program profile

  • Rose Hill CampusMinor
    Rose Hill
  • Lincoln Center CampusMinor
    Lincoln Center

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Program at a glance

6

courses to complete the minor, including Intermediate Arabic I and II, Arabic Language and Literature, and Approaches to Arabic Culture

5

C’s of language acquisition—communication, culture, comparisons, connections, and community—shape the program

100+

study abroad programs across more than 50 countries, including Arabic-speaking options in Egypt and Morocco, with up to two courses applying toward the minor


70+

majors and minors to pair with your Arabic minor, so you can tailor your degree to your career path—from international studies and political science to Middle East studies

Diplomacy, Business, and Intelligence

just a few of the fields where Arabic speakers are in high demand globally

Arabic Immersion in Morocco

a monthlong summer course in Rabat, during which students live with Arabic-speaking host families, take classes taught primarily in Arabic, and go on cultural excursions

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Learning Arabic for the greater good

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Arabic program FAQ

  • Common majors paired with Arabic include international political economy, Middle East studies, history, business administration, computer science, and international studies. However, the minor in Arabic is meant for students in any major looking to learn one of the key modes of communication in our global society.

  • Beyond your foundational courses in Arabic language and culture, you might dive into specific areas with classes like Business Arabic I, where you’ll examine the norms and learn the vocabulary of Arab business culture, or Human Rights in Arabic Literature, where you’ll explore legal issues of race, gender, class, and social justice in Arabic pieces of writing.

  • You’ll be able to take advantage of the resources of our global hometown, New York City. That means year-round access to hands-on internships with partner organizations and institutions like the United Nations. You’ll also have the chance to study abroad in an Arabic-speaking country such as Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, or Syria.

  • As an Arabic minor, you’ll graduate with proficiency in the language and culture, preparing you for high-demand roles requiring bilingual skills in fields including intelligence, business, and diplomacy. You’ll also be uniquely prepared to pursue advanced study in areas such as foreign languages, international affairs, and law.

    Plus, you can connect with alumni through the Fordham Mentoring Program to receive one-on-one guidance and advice for your career.

  • At Fordham, you’ll use AI as a tool to enhance your learning. Our program will equip you with the skills to navigate the ever-changing landscape of AI in the workforce. As an Arabic minor, you could even conduct research into how AI has affected perceptions of Arabic-speaking countries, preparing you for careers in AI policy, strategy, and safety.

    You’ll also be able to earn credentials and paid micro-internships through IBM SkillsBuild’s Getting Started with AI course. All Fordham students and graduates have access to AI training through RamConnect, the University’s alumni and experiential learning platform.

    Above all, you’ll learn skills that can’t be replaced by AI, such as critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and integrity.

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