• The Near Eastern studies major can be the focal point of a broad liberal arts education, as well as a basis for graduate study. As an undergraduate major, you can study the civilizations of the ancient Near East in general, or specialize in one of the four main areas: Northwest Semitic languages and literatures (including Biblical studies), Egyptology, Assyriology, and Near Eastern archaeology. Students can also major in ancient history, in conjunction with courses in other departments.