Middle Eastern Studies

Middle Eastern Studies at Hampshire College offers an interdisciplinary and student-centered approach to understanding the complex histories, cultures, politics, and societies of the Middle East region. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, cross-cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of the social and political dynamics that shape the Middle East today. Students engage with a diverse array of subjects including history, literature, anthropology, political science, and contemporary issues, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the region from multiple perspectives.

At Hampshire College, the curriculum emphasizes individualized learning, enabling students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Through a combination of coursework, independent projects, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop analytical skills, cultural literacy, and a nuanced understanding of regional ins and outs. The program encourages active engagement with current events, fostering a global perspective rooted in historical context.

Faculty members specializing in Middle Eastern history, politics, and culture mentor students through collaborative research, discussion seminars, and community engagement. The college’s liberal arts philosophy promotes critical inquiry and social responsibility, guiding students to consider issues such as conflict resolution, social justice, human rights, and development in the Middle East. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in study abroad programs, internships, and language courses to deepen their practical understanding and intercultural competence.

Graduates of the Middle Eastern Studies program at Hampshire College are well-equipped to pursue careers in international relations, journalism, public policy, non-governmental organizations, education, or further academic study. The program’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, critical analysis, and experiential education prepares students to be thoughtful, informed stakeholders and leaders in global affairs. With a strong foundation in regional knowledge and transferable skills, alumni are positioned to contribute meaningfully to issues related to the Middle East and broader international contexts.

• The Middle Eastern Economies
• Affinities and Discontents in the Middle East: The Chemistry of Islamic Challenge
• Colonial Encounters
• Comparative Middle East Politics: Islam-State Interaction
• Islam and Democracy
• Islamic Modernities
• Israel and Palestine: The Clash of Nationalisms
• Nationalism in the Middle East
• Politics of Gender and Identities in Muslim Countries and Communities
• Societies and Cultures in the Middle East
• Sociology of Islam
• The American Encounter with Arab Nationalism
• Theories of Social Change and Middle Eastern Societies
• Unpacking the Myth of 9/11: Muslim Diaspora in the United States
• Critical Perspectives on the Modern Middle East (UMass)
• Egypt in the 19th Century (SC)
• History of the Oriental Carpet (UMass)
• Introduction to Islam (MHC)
• Just War and Jihad: Comparative Ethics of War and Peace (MHC)
• The Modern Middle East (UMass)
• Muhammad and the Qur'an (AC)
• Near Eastern Civilization I and II (UMass)
• Sources of Islamic Political Philosophy (SC)
• Women and Gender in Islam (MHC)

Requirements

• Common Application
• An academic paper in English
• Supplemental essay responses
• Current transcripts
• School report, including guidance counselor recommendation
• At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher
• Certification of Finances form
• TOEFL or IELTS score (Minimum TOEFL score of 91 or a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Predicted grades for IB English A1 or A2, or for A-level English, will also be considered.
• Additional letters of recommendation, up to three

Scholarships

• MacArthur Foundation Grant Making Programs
• American Association of University Women
• Fulbright International Scholarship Program for non-US students

Middle Eastern Studies at Hampshire College offers an interdisciplinary and student-centered approach to understanding the diverse cultures, histories, politics, and societies of the Middle East. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and analytical skills, enabling students to explore the region's complexities and their global significance. Students have the opportunity to design personalized curricula tailored to their interests, integrating coursework in history, literature, politics, art, and anthropology, among other fields. The program encourages experiential learning through study abroad programs, internships, and community engagement, providing practical insights and real-world perspectives. Faculty members are dedicated scholars and practitioners who mentor students closely, fostering an environment of collaborative research and intellectual discovery. The program also promotes understanding of contemporary issues such as migration, conflict, economic development, and identity formation within Middle Eastern societies. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in international relations, journalism, government service, NGOs, academia, and cultural institutions. The relatively small, diverse student body at Hampshire College facilitates personalized advisement and fosters an inclusive learning environment. Additionally, the program's emphasis on social justice, activism, and global responsibility prepares students to engage thoughtfully with pressing issues affecting the Middle East and the wider world. Overall, Middle Eastern Studies at Hampshire College provides a rigorous, dynamic, and immersive educational experience that combines theoretical study with practical application, cultivating knowledgeable and culturally competent graduates ready to contribute meaningfully to intercultural understanding and global dialogue.