The master's degree program in Middle East Studies is an interdisciplinary degree program. Prerequisites are often assigned depending on the individual student's academic background. The program is designed to meet the needs of professionals who need in-depth knowledge of the modern Middle East. A thesis is optional. Students should take the six concentration courses and either four additional courses and sit for the comprehensive exam or two additional courses and submit a thesis.
Proficiency is tested by examination.
Students who have no background in Arabic should enroll first in the Arabic Language Institute's full-time intensive Arabic program until they reach low intermediate proficiency. Arabic language training is offered by AUC's Arabic Language Institute, which also administers proficiency tests. Students whose proficiency is between low intermediate and advanced are encouraged to take Arabic language courses in addition to their academic courses until they fulfill the proficiency requirement. They are also encouraged to enroll in intensive Arabic language summer programs. Those whose proficiency is below ALNG 311 may register for up to 6 credits of Arabic language as part of their tuition but these credits will not count as part of the required ten courses for the degree.