International Letters and Cultures (Arabic Studies), BA


At a Glance: program details

  • Location:
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: Yes
  • Math Intensity: General program math intensity general
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 114 - College Mathematics

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With approximately 420 million speakers around the world, Arabic is rooted in influential and emerging economies, ancient history and modern politics. When you learn this strategic language, you will also gain the cultural intelligence and competency that gives you a competitive edge and a pathway into a number of fields.

Program Description

The BA program in international letters and cultures with a concentration in Arabic studies provides critical and cultural diversity in advanced Arabic language and literature.

This concentration complements existing degree programs in the School of International Letters and Cultures and enhances studies in social science disciplines such as political science and global studies, as well as many humanities fields, including anthropology, history, philosophy and religious studies. The program provides a broad knowledge and understanding of the culture, literature and traditions of the vast Arabic-speaking world.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.




Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission


Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.


Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.


Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

Global Management

Gain hands-on experience and learn from the diverse perspectives of a global cohort of classmates. This program offers applied learning opportunities, 17 concentration options, and internships in real-world global settings.

Website | Locations: DTPHX


Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

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Career Outlook

The bachelor's degree in international letters and cultures with a concentration in Arabic studies provides greater insight into the vast Arab world of 22 countries and can lead to career opportunities in areas such as journalism, translation, international consultations, government (e.g., United Nations, CIA), social work, law and health.

Graduates are prepared for a thriving job market. The degree also benefits those interested in academic research and careers in public and diplomatic service as well as in national security.

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Business Intelligence Analysts


  • Growth: 35.2%
  • Median Salary*: 103500
  Bright Outlook

Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other


  • Growth: 6.5%
  • Median Salary*: 47290
  Bright Outlook

Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.9%
  • Median Salary*: 80910

Education Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: 66930

Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education


  • Growth: 1%
  • Median Salary*: 62360

Intelligence Analysts


  • Growth: 1.5%
  • Median Salary*: 86280

Lawyers


  • Growth: 7.5%
  • Median Salary*: 135740
  Bright Outlook

Political Scientists


  • Growth: 6.6%
  • Median Salary*: 128020
  Bright Outlook

Interpreters and Translators


  • Growth: 4.3%
  • Median Salary*: 53640

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

As students become scholars in the language, cultures and history of the Arabic-speaking world, studying abroad is the perfect transition from the classroom to real life. Students can become culturally and linguistically immersed while gaining a deeper insight on a particular part of the world. Each of the more than 300 Global Education program options provide an opportunity for students to develop a valuable skill set that can give them an advantage in their career as well as personal enrichment.

Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, Global Education programs encourage students to build communication skills, challenge them to adapt and persevere, expose them to differences across the world and increase their ability to work with diverse groups of people. When studying abroad, students gain the global perspective and knowledge that prepares them for a future-focused career.



Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.