Arabic Language and Culture

The Arabic Language and Culture undergraduate program at North Carolina State University offers students a comprehensive and immersive exploration of one of the world’s most influential languages and cultures. This program is designed to develop proficiency in Modern Standard Arabic, as well as spoken dialects, enabling students to communicate effectively across diverse contexts. Throughout the curriculum, students engage with a wide range of linguistic skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while gaining a deep understanding of Arabic grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Beyond language acquisition, the program emphasizes the rich cultural, historical, and social dimensions of the Arab world. Students explore topics such as Arab history, literature, art, religious practices, and contemporary issues, fostering a well-rounded perspective on Arab societies. The coursework includes engaging classes in Arabic linguistics, Middle Eastern history, and culture, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the Arab world’s significance in global affairs.

Students are encouraged to participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as study abroad programs, language immersion experiences, and cultural events, which enhance practical language skills and cultural awareness. The program also supports research projects and internships related to Middle Eastern studies, Arabic language teaching, diplomacy, and international business, preparing students for diverse careers in government, education, international organizations, journalism, and more.

Graduates of the Arabic Language and Culture program will possess advanced linguistic proficiency, cross-cultural competencies, and a broad understanding of Arab history and society, positioning them as valuable assets in today’s globally interconnected world. With a flexible curriculum tailored to individual interests and career goals, the program aims to cultivate knowledgeable, culturally sensitive, and communicative professionals ready to engage with the Arabic-speaking world in various sectors.

The first and second semesters of Arabic (FLA 101 and 102) will satisfy the NC State University foreign language requirement. The third semester of Arabic (FLA 201) will satisfy the language requirement of the College of Humanities and Social Science, the College of Management, and the First Year College.

• Beginning Arabic I (FLA 101) 
• Beginning Arabic II (FLA 102) 
• Beginning Arabic Conversation Labs (FLA 103, FLA 104)
• Intermediate Arabic I (FLA 201)
• Intermediate Arabic II (FLA 202)
• Intermediate Arabic Conversation Labs (FLA 203, FLA 204)
• Advanced Intermediate Arabic I (FLA 301)
• Media Arabic (FLA 330)
• Modern Arabic Short Story (FLA 440)
• Senior Seminar (FL 492)
• Special Topics in Arabic for Advanced Students (FL 495)

• application submitted through the Common Application or the Coalition Application
• a non-refundable $100 application fee.  International applicants do not qualify for fee waivers.
• proof of English proficiency
• official secondary school transcripts and external examination results (Records not issued in English must be accompanied by an English translation that is certified by an appropriate school official, official translator, or U.S. embassy or consulate official.)
• Certificate of Financial Responsibility (only required for students needing F-1 and J-1 visas)
• online portfolio and essay (required for studio-based major programs)

Letters of Recommendation are not required and not recommended. The College Report, Secondary School Final Report, and Mid-term Report on the Common Application are not required and not recommended.

Once you submit your application, keep up with your application status through your wolfPAW account.  Also remember to frequently check your email for updates throughout the application process.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The North Carolina State University offers a variety of financial aid options for students pursuing degrees in Arabic Language and Culture. Prospective and current students are encouraged to explore federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loan opportunities to support their academic pursuits. The university's Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid provides detailed information on available resources, including need-based grants such as the Federal Pell Grant, which assists students with demonstrated financial need, and federal work-study programs that enable students to earn money through part-time employment on campus or in community service jobs. Additionally, NCSU offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, which may include awards specific to language studies and cultural programs. Students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine their eligibility for various financial aid programs. Institutional scholarships, such as the NCSU Undergraduate Scholarships and Fellowships, are also available for students enrolled in humanities and language programs, including Arabic. Loan options, such as federal Direct Loans, provide further assistance for students who require additional funding to cover tuition, books, and other educational expenses. Furthermore, the university promotes alternative financing initiatives like payment plans and external scholarship opportunities from private organizations and cultural foundations dedicated to promoting Middle Eastern and Arab studies. It is strongly recommended that students actively consult with the university’s financial aid advisors early in their academic planning to create a personalized financing strategy that aligns with their financial situation, academic goals, and career aspirations. The availability and terms of financial aid can vary each academic year, so continuous engagement and timely application submissions are essential to maximize support. Overall, North Carolina State University is committed to making education accessible and affordable, providing comprehensive financial resources tailored to support students enrolled in the Arabic Language and Culture program.

Students in the Arabic Language & Culture major are strongly encouraged to study in an approved Arabic language program in the Middle East, either during the summer or regular academic year. Courses taken while abroad generally meet Arabic degree requirements.