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Middle East Studies

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Pursue Middle East Studies at Fordham

About the Middle East studies major

At Fordham, you’ll explore the history, cultures, and political impact of the Middle East and North Africa through a dynamic program rooted in NYC, a global hub for culture and diplomacy.

Alongside intellectually and culturally engaged professors and peers, you’ll examine real-world perspectives within Middle Eastern and North African communities across the city. Gain hands-on internship opportunities at renowned cultural institutions, human rights organizations, and government agencies. Explore the Arabic language and experience the Middle East through one of our study abroad programs. And use your knowledge to drive meaningful change locally and worldwide.

Our graduates go on to …

  • prestigious graduate programs
  • teaching and public service
  • careers in law, urban affairs, public history, journalism, and more

Visit the Middle East studies program page

 

Students in front of an old buildingMiddle East studies program profile

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

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Making an Impact

Profile pictures of 8 student Fulbright winners

Fulbright Students Shine                    

See why these students’ stories are the reason Fordham is recognized by the U.S. State Department as a top producer of Fulbright scholars.

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Islamic Studies at Fordham                    

Islamic studies minors build a rich understanding of all parts of Islam through hands-on classes, internships, and study abroad programs. Explore the ways students are deepening their knowledge of Islamic culture.

Josephine Butte, studying abroad in Morocco

Gain Global Experiences                    

For Josephine Butte, studying abroad in Morocco was the immersive experience she was looking for—from cultural excursions to hands-on humanitarian work as an intern with a local NGO. Explore our 100+ programs worldwide.

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Middle East studies program FAQ

  • Here, you’ll learn by doing. With hands-on opportunities in one of the world’s most multicultural cities, you’ll gain the skills and experiences employers seek. And in addition to the big city energy of New York, you’ll have a tight-knit, supportive campus community, eager for you to thrive.

  • Beyond your foundational courses in the history and culture of the Middle East and North Africa, you might dive into specific areas with classes like Islam in America, where you’ll explore the experiences of Muslims in the U.S. throughout history, or Sacred Texts of the Middle East, where you’ll examine religious literature from ancient cultures.

  • Middle East studies students pursue internships in government, NGOs, media, law, business, human rights, and international development. Our location in the heart of New York City means you’ll have the opportunity to intern with top organizations and partner institutions including the United Nations and the Arab American Association of New York.

  • You’ll be prepared for careers in a wide range of fields including education, public service, historical preservation, and urban affairs. You’ll also be uniquely qualified to pursue advanced study in areas like history, law, and anthropology.

    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 a Middle East studies major, you could even conduct research into how AI has affected perceptions of the Middle East, 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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