Even if you would like to study one Middle Eastern language, some degree programs require students to take one or more additional languages. The purpose of studying an extra Middle Eastern language may be to provide perspective, better learn about structure of language or learn different dialects of the same language. For example, advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D. in Arabic studies, will require formal study of modern standard Arabic as well as a modern Arabic dialect and/or classical Arabic.
To earn a degree in Middle Eastern languages, you will be required to take elective courses in other disciplines such as history, art history, politics, global economics, anthropology, religious studies, philosophy, sociology, theater arts, or ethnomusicology. Such courses provide cultural context for the languages you are learning and can offer more resources in the original language for you to practice your language skills. Depending on your program, you may also be required to take linguistics courses, which will focus on the study of language as a science and the structure of related Middle Eastern languages.
Many universities offer the opportunity to study abroad in a Middle Eastern country. Study abroad programs allow you to learn the colloquial form of the language and speak with natives. You can study abroad long- or short-term, either through your university or private programs. Many of these programs, such as the University of California's Education Abroad Program, allow you to earn college credit while studying abroad and make progress toward your degree. You can also find summer programs where you can take intensive language courses which help you advance more quickly in your language during the regular school year.
The demand for individuals fluent in Middle Eastern languages led to the development of the Critical Languages Scholarship (CLS) program. For this reason, learning a Middle Eastern language can be a practical step in developing a career.The classification of certain languages as "critical languages" means the need for fluent speakers was not being adequately met by traditional means. The United States Department of State created the program to train individuals in meeting these demands. The Middle Eastern languages classified as "critical languages" include Arabic, Azerbaijani, Persian and Turkish. Through the CLS program, full-time university students can study a critical Middle Eastern language in a number of foreign countries.