Studies & Degrees in Arabic Language and Literature (in Universities)

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Arabic Language and Literature (in Universities) Study Programs

Arabic
Saint Louis University, Madrid

Level: Undergraduate Associate     Location: Madrid

The Arabian Peninsula is not only rich in oil and fuel deposits but likewise in language and literature. Study of this back to back linguistic gem is inimical to understanding Arabian culture alongside Islam. Considering the vast Middle East territories plus other Islamic countries, learning more of this language is a major advantage. This holds true should you happen to encounter any of these Arabic-speaking countries or native speakers which is highly probable due to globalization. In particular, there are 26 countries declaring Arabic as their official language with over 280 million speakers making it the third most spoken language of the World.

Arabic language belongs to Afro-Asiatic language family under Semitic group. No wonder, it originated somewhere close to modern Syria before it became prominent in Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, and the Arabian Cape. Aside from the proximity, commerce and trade are believed to have paved the way for its popularity. Although it is strongly tied up with Islamic culture, it has been existent even before the rise of the Muslim religion. As a matter of fact, it has been spoken by ancient Arabians way back in the 4th century. It has been three centuries thereafter when Islamic doctrines were introduced utilizing the language.

In the same way, Arabic literature is equally interesting. Budding in the 6th century, its printed form was only realized after a century upon the introduction of Qur’an in Arabic. Consequently, it flourished along with the religion specifically in the Islamic Golden Age which further brought about its mileage reaching foreign lands as well as foreign tongues. There were but pre-Islamic masterpieces of oral literature such as the “Mu’allaqat” or the set of seven lengthy Arabic poems and the “Mufaddaliyat” or the ancient Arabic poem anthology which were subsequently put into writing later on.

Arabic language and Literature programs are offered in over 1,000 colleges and universities worldwide. These include Georgetown University, University of Utah, and Washington University. Moreover, this subject of study is accessible for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees. In general, core subjects are oriented towards linguistic and cultural facets of the Arab World. Not only that for it also focuses on the extensive language variety of the Arabic tongue such as Modern Standard Arabic (latest Arabic popular in multimedia), Classical Arabic (ancient Arabic incorporated on Qur’an), and Colloquial Arabic (Arabic lingua franca varying from one region to another). Other competencies are grounded on expertise regarding Arabic history, politics, and society.

There are extensive career opportunities for Arabic language and literature specialists. Teaching is the most apparent profession that extends from elementary, high school, college, and postgraduate levels. Another attractive privilege is the pool of marketing posts courtesy of multinational companies dealing with Arab clients. In the same way, financial placements are available for Arabic specialists with the Middle East being home to top business tycoons. Travel and Hospitality industry likewise opened its door to Arabic speakers who can accommodate Arab people considering the growing trend of Arabic tourists. Arabic interpreters are undoubtedly in demand in social, political, and trade negotiations. Other related jobs include researchers, publishers, translators, etc.