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Middle Eastern Studies Minor

Develop a Deeper Understanding of the Middle East

The Middle Eastern Studies minor is an interdisciplinary program with a special interest in the Middle East and North Africa. The minor is designed to provide students with a strong understanding of and appreciation for the cultural, political, economic and religious diversity of the Middle East. 

Format

On Campus and Online 

Credit Hours

18 Credit Hours 

Additional Requirements

None

 

 

About the Program

Courses within the Middle Eastern Studies minor will provide students with a sound foundation for further study in fields related to this most critical region of the world. The minor offers courses from a variety of disciplines on Middle Eastern history, religions, geography, politics, culture and languages. These courses also fulfill requirements in the General Education program and several majors and minors in the College of Liberal Arts and Education.

Students from a variety of disciplines will find the minor of interest, including those in business, nursing and education, whose future clients, patients and students may be of Middle Eastern descent. Middle Eastern American students may also find this coursework beneficial in learning more about their cultural heritage and immigrant experience. Area residents with Middle Eastern backgrounds, especially those in Southwest Chicago, or those with an interest in the Middle Eastern history, culture, religions, and contemporary events, will also find the minor helpful in promoting lifelong learning and mutual understanding.

SXU is a unique place to learn about Middle Eastern Studies. 

  • SXU has been part of Chicago history for over 175 years, which includes involvement in the Middle Eastern communities and engagement with Chicago's rich diversity.
  • Students will work closely with fellow peers and form lifelong friendships. 
  • Our university comes from a tradition of faith, service, and core values.
  • Founded by the Sisters of Mercy, SXU will show students the value of each individual, which demands work toward ethnic, racial and cultural equality and understanding. 

Social Sciences Division

Learn more

Contact the Office of Admission

 

 

Featured Alumni

 

Samer Alhato, Class of 2018
Sociology major
Middle Eastern Studies and Anthropology minors

"The Social Sciences Division and the Middle Eastern Studies program helped prepare and nurture me for all the work I’m doing now, including research at other universities and my work with refugees. Participating in the PAS Study Abroad program at Birzeit University in Palestine changed my life. It was an honor studying at one of the greatest academic institutions in the world. It’s a program SXU should add to its study abroad options, because it helps shed light on Palestinian culture and grassroots movements."

 

department chair