Letter from Professor Anne Betteridge
Director of Undergraduate Studies 

Christine Dykgraaf
Near Eastern Studies Academic Advisor

Dear Prospective Student,

Thank you very much for your interest in the Department of Near Eastern Studies. The Department’s web site, as well as the web site of the Center For Middle Eastern Studies, and the web site of Judaic Studies provide useful information about programs and links to resources in Near and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Arizona.

Students who pursue this field of study learn about the art, beliefs, culture, histories, and literatures of the peoples of the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia . They learn one or more of the languages offered by Department: Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, and Turkish. These are the four major languages of the region, spoken in places as diverse as Fez , Tel Aviv, Isfahan, Istanbul, and Samarkand.  Upon completing their undergraduate degree, students often go on to graduate school to conduct research on diverse topics related to these regions, or enter professional schools in business, law, library sciences, or medicine.   Some students enter the job market for governmental positions (eg. U.S. Department of State, other government agencies), teaching and academic positions, or the private sector in work for business firms with international interests. We often encourage students to have a minor or major in another field to broaden their perspective and career qualifications. There is with the process of globalization an increasing demand for individuals who possess an interdisciplinary background and knowledge of one or more foreign languages.  Because the Middle East is one of the most vital and dynamic regions of the world, graduates with a grasp of the languages, cultures, and histories of this region have an advantage when they apply for advanced study or seek employment. 

Please do not hesitate to contact Christine Dykgraaf, NES Undergraduate Advisor (dykgraaf@email.arizona.edu, phone 621-5471), Beth Marlatt (Marlatt@email.arizona.edu), Business Manager in the Department of Near Eastern Studies, or me if we can help you explore the possibility of a degree program, major or minor, in Near Eastern Studies.  

With all best wishes,