The School of Middle East and North African Studies offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the Middle East and North Africa. In addition to instruction in the principal languages of the area (Arabic, Persian, Turkish and Hebrew), relevant courses are available in religion, political science, history, literature, geography, sociology, archeology, linguistics and architecture -- often in cooperation with the respective discipline department.

The knowledge gained from a major in Near Eastern Studies of Middle Eastern history, culture, religions, politics, economics, and geography, as well as foreign language study in Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish, provides a strong foundation for careers or further studies. Graduates might work in the United States or abroad as translators, educators, or international aid distributors, or in business, politics, or the tourism industry. This major is also excellent preparation for graduate programs in Near Eastern studies, geography, public health, anthropology, business administration, or education, among other disciplines.