Arabic

Degree Options: Minor Only
Locations: Lincoln Center, Rose Hill
Visit the Arabic Program

Study one of the fastest-growing languages in the world and the cultures that utilize it.

With Fordham’s minor in Arabic, you’ll study the Arabic language and culture structurally and functionally. Arabic speakers are in high demand globally, with the language playing an important role in international diplomacy, business, and intelligence.

Our curriculum reflects the Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the 21st Century, which describes the five C's of language acquisition: communication, culture, comparisons, connections, and community. With the Arabic minor, you’ll have the opportunity to practice the three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational), to learn about Arabic culture (products, practices, and perspectives), and to make comparisons between your first language and culture and the Arabic language and culture.

Of course, you’ll learn more than Arabic here. You’ll also study philosophy, theology, history, mathematics, languages, and the arts through Fordham’s common core curriculum, the centerpiece of our liberal arts education. We want you to excel in your field—and as a human being. 

  • The Arabic minor consists of six courses, three of which must be taken at Fordham. Students may also apply up to two courses from study abroad toward the minor.

    Required core courses:

    • Intermediate Arabic I
    • Intermediate Arabic II
    • Language and Literature
    • Approaches to Arabic Culture

    Arabic electives (minors will choose at least two):

    • The Short Story of Arabic Literature
    • Arabic Conversation and Composition
    • Arabic Immersion in Morocco
    • Business Arabic I
    • Topics in Arabic Cultures
    • Human Rights in Arabic Literature
    • Topics in Arabic Literature

    Up to one course in translation may be applied toward the minor if the student does the readings and assignments in Arabic:

    • Arabic Literature in English Translation
    • Arabic Culture and the News Media

  • A minor in Arabic will give you the language skills and cultural understanding to pursue a career in fields including:

    • Business
    • Mass media
    • Law
    • Governmental agencies
    • NGOs
    • Philanthropic organizations
    • Relief and aid agencies
    • Human rights groups
    • Graduate and professional schools

    Our career services tap Fordham’s ties with more than 3,500 companies. We offer:

    • Post-graduation career search
    • Resume development, interviewing practice
    • Networking skill development
    • Hands-on case-study sessions with industry executives
    • Field-specific advising/coaching

    You also get access to our powerful network of alumni, who want to see you succeed as they have.

Learn More About the Arabic Program

Visit the Arabic Program