All about Harvard's Middle Eastern Studies program

Hi everyone! I'm researching potential majors and I came across Harvard's Middle Eastern Studies program. Has anyone taken any courses in this field or know more about the program's offerings and professors? I'd appreciate any insights!

I'm glad you're interested in Harvard's Middle Eastern Studies program! It is a multidisciplinary program focusing on the history, culture, society, politics, and languages of the Middle East region. The program allows undergraduates to pursue both a major and minor in Middle Eastern Studies. There's also an option for a joint concentration, meaning you can pair it with another subject, such as government or religion.

One of the program's strengths is its faculty, with esteemed professors across various disciplines, such as history, anthropology, religious studies, and political science. Some notable faculty members include Tarek Masoud, who specializes in Middle East politics and comparative study of political transitions, and Malika Zeghal, who is an expert on contemporary Islamic thought and the politics of Islamic societies.

The Middle Eastern Studies program places a strong emphasis on language proficiency. Students need to complete at least four semesters of a relevant language, such as Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish. Harvard has language courses offered at various levels, from beginner to advanced, so you'll have the opportunity to deepen your understanding and fluency throughout your time at the university.

There are also many courses covering various aspects of the Middle East, such as its culture, religion, politics, and economy. Examples include courses like "The Ottoman Empire", "Modern Hebrew Literature in Translation", and "The Politics of Middle Eastern Sociology". Students are encouraged to build a comprehensive understanding of the region by taking a wide range of such courses.

In addition to coursework, Harvard offers numerous research opportunities, study abroad programs, and internships related to the Middle East. Students in the Middle Eastern Studies program can apply for funding to support their research projects or travel experiences, which can be invaluable to combining academic knowledge and real-world experience.

Lastly, there are extracurricular activities and resources on campus to further engage in Middle Eastern studies, such as clubs, organizations, lecture series, and more. This helps to create a vibrant scholarly community both inside and outside the classroom.

Overall, Harvard's Middle Eastern Studies program offers a thorough and comprehensive education in the field, providing students with an excellent foundation for careers in academia, government, journalism, business, and other industries related to the Middle East.