Course Overview

The Near Eastern Studies program at Cornell University offers an interdisciplinary approach to the history, cultures, languages, and societies of the Near East, spanning from ancient times to the modern era. The program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the region's political, religious, and cultural dynamics through rigorous coursework and research opportunities. Unique features include access to extensive library collections and a focus on language proficiency in Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, international relations, government, non-profit organizations, and cultural preservation. The program emphasizes critical thinking and cross-cultural communication, skills highly valued in globalized industries.

Key Faculty and Staff

The department includes renowned scholars in Near Eastern history, archaeology, and linguistics. Faculty expertise covers a wide range of topics, including ancient civilizations, Islamic studies, and modern Middle Eastern politics. Specific names and titles are available on the university's official department page.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students benefit from access to one of the most comprehensive collections of Near Eastern texts and artifacts in the United States, housed in the university's library system. The program also fosters connections with international research institutes and offers opportunities for fieldwork and study abroad in the region.