Arabic Studies, Certificate




At a Glance: program details

Certificate Map

  • Location:
  • Additional Program Fee: No
  • Second Language Requirement: No
Earning a certificate in Arabic, the language of more than 22 countries, shows a commitment to understanding the cultures of a region with global impact. By learning the Arabic language and about Arabic literature and culture, you'll develop knowledge that is in demand in today's job market while broadening your perspective on global issues.

Program Description

The certificate program in Arabic studies provides students with skills that enable them to communicate effectively in Arabic in the four areas of language acquisition: listening, reading, speaking and writing.

Simultaneously, students gain broad knowledge and understanding of the culture, literature and traditions of the vast Arabic-speaking world. The program provides critically needed educational and cultural diversity that enriches students' undergraduate experiences and prepares them for life as employees and employers.

Graduate students in the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences who are seeking academic or professional careers also benefit from the program, given the demonstrably high need for graduates with knowledge of the Arabic language.


Program Requirements

The Arabic studies certificate requires students to complete 18 credit hours of upper-division coursework. A grade of "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or better is required for each course.
Arabic Core (choose three) -- 9 credit hours
Elective Courses (choose three) -- 9 credit hours
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.

Enrollment Requirements

Any student accepted into an appropriate degree program at ASU can declare the certificate in Arabic studies. Requests to declare this certificate are reviewed by the academic advisor in the academic unit offering the certificate. The student may be contacted to discuss the certificate before it is added to their record.

A student pursuing an undergraduate certificate must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at ASU. Undergraduate certificates are not awarded prior to the award of an undergraduate degree. A student already holding an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.


Career Outlook

Graduates who combine the certificate in Arabic studies with their major program of study may be more marketable to employers. Many decide to pursue employment in education, political analysis, the military, tourism and hospitality, or marketing.

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.

Community Health Workers


  • Growth: 14.1%
  • Median Salary*: 46190
  Bright Outlook

Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.9%
  • Median Salary*: 80910

Customs Brokers


  • Growth: 4.6%
  • Median Salary*: 71690
  Bright Outlook

Lawyers


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

Political Scientists


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

Social and Community Service Managers


  • Growth: 9.1%
  • Median Salary*: 74240
  Bright Outlook

Sociologists


  • Growth: 4.5%
  • Median Salary*: 98590
  Bright Outlook

Supply Chain Managers


  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: 98560
  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).




Program Contact Information

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