Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

The Asian and Middle Eastern Studies program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that explores the rich histories, cultures, languages, and societies of Asia and the Middle East. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the complex political, social, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped these dynamic regions throughout history and continue to influence the modern world. Through a combination of coursework, research opportunities, and language study, students are encouraged to develop critical analytical skills and intercultural competence, positioning them for careers in academia, government, international organizations, journalism, and beyond.

The curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including ancient civilizations, religious and philosophical traditions, contemporary political issues, economic developments, literature, and arts. Students can choose from a diverse set of courses that span different academic disciplines such as history, political science, anthropology, art history, and literature, allowing for a well-rounded and multidisciplinary perspective. Language proficiency is a key component of the program, with extensive coursework available in various languages including Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Persian, Turkish, and more. These language training courses enable students to engage more deeply with primary texts, conduct field research, and communicate effectively within the region.

Research and experiential learning are integral parts of the program. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad programs, field trips, and independent research projects that enhance their understanding of Asian and Middle Eastern cultures and issues. Dartmouth’s faculty in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies are renowned scholars committed to mentorship and guiding students through their academic and professional development.

Graduates of the program are equipped with critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and language skills that prepare them for advanced graduate study or diverse career paths. They gain a nuanced perspective on the complexities of these regions, enabling them to contribute thoughtfully to global dialogues and policies. Overall, Dartmouth’s Asian and Middle Eastern Studies program offers an enriching academic journey that fosters intellectual curiosity and prepares students to become informed global citizens with expertise in some of the world’s most historically significant regions.

Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to engage students with the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societies of Asia and the Middle East. The program provides a broad curriculum that covers regions including East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Southwest Asia, and North Africa, fostering a deep understanding of the complex social, political, and cultural dynamics that shape these regions today and in the past. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics such as history, politics, religion, literature, art, and economic development through both language study and area-focused courses.

The program encourages students to develop critical thinking and research skills by engaging with primary sources, scholarly debates, and fieldwork. Core courses introduce students to the major themes and issues pertinent to Asian and Middle Eastern societies, including colonialism, modernization, globalization, identity, and resistance. Language study is strongly emphasized, with courses available in Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Persian, and other regional languages, allowing students to attain proficiency that enriches their understanding of original texts and primary sources.

Students can tailor their academic experience by choosing from a variety of electives that complement their interests, including courses in anthropology, economics, history, political science, religious studies, and literature. The program also promotes experiential learning through study abroad opportunities, internships, and research projects that offer immersive experiences in the regions studied. Collaborations with faculty members who are regional experts and field specialists provide mentorship and opportunities for independent research.

Graduates of the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies program at Dartmouth are well-equipped for careers in international relations, diplomacy, NGOs, journalism, business, academia, and cultural institutions. The program emphasizes intercultural understanding, linguistic competence, and analytical skills, preparing students to engage thoughtfully and effectively with complex global issues related to Asia and the Middle East. Through rigorous coursework and experiential learning, students emerge with a nuanced perspective and a solid foundation in the history, politics, and cultures of these dynamic regions.

The Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the cultures, histories, languages, and socio-political dynamics of Asian and Middle Eastern regions. To earn a Bachelor's degree in this program, students must complete a set of core requirements, including language proficiency, coursework, and a senior thesis or comprehensive exam.

Language Proficiency: Students are required to attain proficiency in at least one Asian or Middle Eastern language offered by the program, such as Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Persian, or Turkish. Proficiency can be demonstrated through coursework, examinations, or other assessments as specified by the department.

Coursework Requirements: The program mandates the completion of a minimum of ten courses (or their equivalent), including introductory courses, advanced topical seminars, and area-specific courses focusing on history, politics, literature, and culture. At least four of these courses must be at the 30-level or above, emphasizing advanced knowledge and critical analysis.

Area Specialization: Students must select an area of focus within Asian or Middle Eastern Studies, such as East Asian studies, Middle Eastern studies, South Asian studies, or Southeast Asian studies. They are encouraged to take multiple courses within this specialization to achieve thematic depth.

Capstone Requirement: During their senior year, students typically undertake a significant research project, culminating in a senior thesis or a comprehensive examination. The thesis must demonstrate analytical rigor, familiarity with relevant scholarship, and original research.

Electives: Beyond the core requirements, students are encouraged to choose electives that complement their area of concentration, including courses in history, political science, literature, religion, and anthropology related to Asian and Middle Eastern regions.

Academic Advising: Students are advised by faculty members specializing in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies to aid in course selection and to develop a coherent academic plan aligned with their interests and career goals.

Additional Opportunities: The program promotes participation in study abroad programs, internships, and research initiatives that enhance experiential learning and cultural immersion.

Overall, the program's requirements are designed to ensure students develop linguistic proficiency, comprehensive regional knowledge, and critical research skills necessary for careers in academia, government, journalism, international organizations, or further graduate study.

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.

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The Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive approach to understanding the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and political developments of Asian and Middle Eastern regions. Funding options for students enrolled in this program typically include a combination of institutional scholarships, financial aid packages, work-study opportunities, and external fellowships aimed at supporting students with academic merit or need. Dartmouth College's financial aid policies emphasize need-based assistance, ensuring that qualified students from various backgrounds can pursue studies in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies without undue financial burden.

Students are encouraged to explore multiple sources of funding, including the college's general financial aid program, which can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses based on demonstrated financial need. Additionally, the college offers merit-based scholarships which recognize academic achievement and potential in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. Some students may also qualify for external fellowships, grants, or scholarships provided by government agencies, private foundations, or cultural organizations dedicated to fostering academic exchange and scholarly research in Asian and Middle Eastern disciplines.

Work opportunities, such as research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or campus employment, are also available and can help offset costs while providing valuable experience related to their field of study. The college's Office of Financial Aid provides personalized counseling and resources to help students identify the most suitable funding options based on their individual circumstances. Prospective and current students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and to consult Dartmouth’s financial aid office to determine eligibility and plan their finances accordingly.

Furthermore, students enrolled in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies often benefit from specialized funding opportunities tied to language proficiency or regional research projects, which can enhance both their financial support and academic experience. Overall, Dartmouth College strives to provide accessible financial aid options to ensure that students are able to fully engage with their studies in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies without financial barriers.

Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Dartmouth College offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societies across Asia and the Middle East. This program is designed to provide a broad yet rigorous foundation in understanding the complex geopolitical, social, and cultural issues faced by countries in these regions. Students are encouraged to develop proficiency in relevant languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Persian, and others, enabling them to engage more directly with primary sources and local communities.

The curriculum combines coursework in history, politics, literature, and language studies, fostering interdisciplinary understanding. Students have access to a wide array of courses that cover topics like modern political developments, ancient civilizations, religious traditions, arts, and social movements across Asia and the Middle East. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and comparative analysis, preparing students for careers in international relations, government, journalism, academia, or global NGOs.

Dartmouth's recent emphasis on experiential learning means students can participate in internships, study abroad programs, and research projects that immerse them in regional contexts. The college offers extensive language resources, including language tables, conversation groups, and tutoring, to support linguistic proficiency. Faculty members are renowned scholars in their fields, providing mentorship and guiding research interest areas.

Graduates of the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Program often pursue graduate studies or enter careers that require deep regional expertise. The program fosters a global perspective, cultural empathy, and regional literacy, making Dartmouth students competitive candidates in an increasingly interconnected world. The university's strong network of alumni and partnerships with organizations focused on Asia and the Middle East further enhance employment and professional development opportunities for graduates.