Programs in Arabic language and literature teach people the spoken and written traditions of Arab countries. Students learn how words begin and languages develop. They study classical and modern dialects. They learn to apply the knowledge to business and technology.

Arabic is spoken in more than 20 countries, from Morocco to Egypt and throughout the Arabian Peninsula. It is the first language of more than 195 million people, and the second language of about 35 million more. For the billion people who practice Islam as a religion, Arabic is the language of their faith.

Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, there is an increased interest in Arabic as a second language. While knowing Arabic will come in handy for future careers in the military or defense, you can also work as a diplomat, translator, or interpreter. Or, you can work as a policy analyst, journalist, or businessperson. Many programs in Arabic language and literature are designed to educate you about Arab culture and the Islam religion, with a focus on promoting peace.

In Arabic language and literature programs, you study just what the name implies – language and literature. Arabic is a difficult language to learn because it is very complex. In addition, spoken Arabic is different from written Arabic. There are also different dialects of the language, including Egyptian and Syrian Arabic. Therefore, much of your course work will focus solely on mastering speaking and reading the language.

You also learn about Arabic culture and history, from the birth of Islam to modern times. This also includes reading important texts written in Arabic, from sacred religious texts such as the Qur'an and the Hadith, to famous works of literature such as "One Thousand and One Nights." In addition, you can study topics such as the role of women in Arab culture and the effect of colonialism on Arab and non-Arab countries. For example, you can study how southern Spain was affected by centuries of Moorish rule.

About 15 colleges and universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in Arabic languages and literature. Most two-year colleges offer the first two years of study. Students can often transfer these credits to a four-year school. Master's degrees typically take five or six years of full-time study after high school. Doctoral degree programs typically take three to five years after the master's degree.

Students who major in Arabic language and literature may be able to choose concentrations such as:

• Conversation
• Dialects
• Folklore
• Interpreting
• Linguistics
• Literature
• Specific Language Groups
• Teaching
• Translation