Course Overview

The Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations program at Harvard University offers an in-depth study of the languages, histories, cultures, and religions of the Near East, spanning from ancient times to the modern era. The program emphasizes rigorous training in primary languages such as Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, and Akkadian, alongside interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the region's civilizations. Unique features include access to unparalleled resources for research and a focus on both historical and contemporary issues in the Near East.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, cultural preservation, international relations, and policy analysis. The skills acquired, including language proficiency and critical analysis, also open opportunities in translation, journalism, and non-profit work focused on the Middle East.

Key Faculty and Staff

Renowned scholars in the field, including professors specializing in Islamic studies, ancient Near Eastern archaeology, and modern Middle Eastern history, lead the program. Specific names and titles are available on the university's official department page.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students benefit from access to world-class resources such as extensive library collections of Near Eastern texts, archaeological artifacts, and digital archives. The program also maintains affiliations with research centers and international institutions focused on Middle Eastern studies, fostering opportunities for fieldwork and collaboration.