STUDY ABROAD IN ARAB AND ISLAMIC SOCIETIES

Islam is a global religion, and over 1 billion Muslims practicing their faith worldwide. Muslim nations are playing an increasingly important role in global trade, economic development, and global politics. The forces of globalization in today’s world make cross-cultural and inter-religious contact an unavoidable reality of contemporary life for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Yet in the post-9/11 era, misunderstandings between Muslim and non-Muslim nations are more widespread than ever, and the world seems torn apart by religious hatreds, cultural misunderstandings, intolerance, and a lack of informed dialogue.

In this context, it is important that non-Muslims in Western universities be educated about Islamic cultures, beliefs, and practices and the history of Muslim contributions to philosophy, science, commerce, and art. It is equally important that Muslims abroad be familiar with Western cultures, institutions, beliefs, and practices.

At DISC, we believe that the knowledge gained by cross-cultural experiences such as living and studying abroad are an essential part of this educational process. DISC strongly encourages all Islamic Studies students to study abroad, and experience studying or working in a majority-Muslim country is required of students earning an Islamic Studies certificate.

OPTIONS FOR THE STUDY OF ARABIC AND MUSLIM SOCIETIES ABROAD: Dept of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

Since 9/11 there has been a huge growth in interest in Arabic and Islamic studies. Many new Arabic language and Arab/Middle East culture programs have been introduced in the Arab world. Several have an Islamic studies component.

There are two kinds of study abroad options in the Arab world: American university systems and local university programs. Several countries have American university systems, the oldest being in Cairo and Beirut (19th century). There are new ones being introduced in several places, including Morocco (al-Akhawayn University), Sharja, Dubai, and most recently Kuwait. These universities offer study abroad options equivalent to a student going to another university in the U.S. and transferring credits. Arab universities and institutions have, or are launching programs in Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Syria, and Yemen. The department of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (formerly AALL) has a list of many study abroad options in Arab, Middle East, and Muslim countries.

DUKE-DOHA ARABIC LANGUAGE SCHOLARSHIPS

Three scholarships to study Arabic at Qatar University are available each year to Duke undergraduate and graduate students. Dylan Parkes, Eric Sliva, and Elissa Lerner are studying at Qatar University this year. For information or to apply, email Professor miriam cooke

OFFICE OF STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS

There are many other programs in majority-Muslim countries offered through the Duke Office of Study Abroad, including programs in Morocco, Egypt, and Turkey. In addition to information on study abroad programs, the Study Abroad website has information on policies, resources, and course approval and transfer credit policies.