Modern Middle East Studies Major

Why Major In Modern Middle East Studies?
The Middle East is growing in importance on the global stage, and as such is a valuable field of study for any number of future opportunities for Yale graduates. Students may begin with a general interest in the rich culture and history of the region and later pursue careers in government, international relations, journalism and peacemaking.

The major is strengthened by

  • Yale faculty who focus on the modern Middle East, in Yale College, as well as Yale’s professional schools (e.g. Architecture, Public Health and Law).
  • Language training in Arabic, Persian, Turkish, and Hebrew through the advanced level.
  • Vibrant extracurricular programming, including lectures, films, conferences, and cultural events.
  • Growing initiatives in Iranian Studies, Turkish Studies, Health, and Conflict Studies.

The Major

The major offers students the possibility to focus on the culture, history, religion, politics, and society of the Modern Middle East in its full geographical breadth using any one (or more) of its four major languages: Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish. It consists of twelve term courses:

Survey requirement 
2 intro survey courses on the Middle East, focusing on the modern period

Distribution requirement 
2 courses on Middle Eastern regions or countries; 2 courses from two different departments or programs; 2 courses with focus on pre-1750; and 2 adv seminars 

Language requirement 
1 course at L5 level or above in a Middle East language 

Substitution permitted 
With DUS approval, up to 2 language courses below L5 in Modern Middle East language may count toward distrib requirement

Senior requirement 
One term senior essay(MMES 491), two term senior essay (MMES 492493), or essay written in additional seminar

Study Abroad
Students are encouraged, but not required, to engage in serious study-abroad programs, including research and internship experiences in the region. Information on programs, as well as funding opportunities, is available through the director of undergraduate studies and CMES.

Questions? Contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies: Jonas Elbousty.

Spring 2021 Deadlines for Senior Essays

Seniors planning to write a one–semester essay in the spring semester must submit a Spring Senior Essay Prospectus form signed by the faculty member who has agreed to advise the essay. The student must fill out with their advising reader this form and copy MMES DUS Jonas Elbousty and the registrar Marwa khaboor. The due date for two–semester essays and one–semester essays written in the spring semester is 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 7, 2021.