Master of Arts in Near Eastern Languages: Arabic

The Metro Detroit area is home to the largest Arab American community in the United States. A deep knowledge of the Arabic language is vitally important in the local economy and also important globally. Wayne State's M.A. in Near Eastern Languages provides advanced training in Arabic language and linguistics, as well as Near Eastern and Islamic studies.

Applicants must demonstrate competency in Arabic. Students who complete the program are trained to use source texts in Arabic issued from a variety of contexts and gain specialized knowledge about Middle Eastern history and culture through coursework in history, philosophy, anthropology, linguistics, sociology and the politics of the Middle East.

Career insights

A degree in Arabic can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are just a few of the many opportunities available in this field.

Career Median salary
Area, ethnic and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary $90,000
Interpreters and translators $51,000
Historians $62,000
News analysts, reporters and journalists $45,000

This data provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skillsĀ or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.

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