Experiencing the Middle East: Challenges and Opportunities
Experiencing culture firsthand is perhaps the best way to learn about the Middle East. Yet, research in the Middle East is marked by significant challenges, due to political instability. The U.S. State department issues travel warnings that often recommend avoiding Middle Eastern countries. Rapid changes in our needs for library resources due to technology are also impacting demand and therefore supply of services. Organizations like the Council for American Overseas Research Centers (CAORC) remain crucial in enabling research under these complex conditions.
Initially, this can seem daunting, but it does not need to be. Many students and scholars continue to travel from all over the world to conduct fieldwork, research and learn the languages of the Middle East. The Middle East Studies Center maintains our university’s memberships in organizations such as the American Research Institute in Turkey (ARIT), and the American Institute for Yemeni Studies, to support programs and resources that are critical for access to fieldwork and research materials. We partner with NESA to support the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA) to ensure they continue their excellent Arabic immersion programs. So, what opportunities are there for students?
There are several countries in the Middle East where students continue to study. Some of the most prominent are Jordan, Oman, and Turkey. Each of these countries offers premier universities in the Middle East that offer robust global education programs. For example, Sultan Qaboos in Oman and Boğaziçi University in Turkey are both universities that offer immersive student exchange programs.
Despite misconceptions that make it seem that it might be impossible to study in the Middle East, it’s possible to enroll in a variety of courses, provided you take precautions. The Ohio State University’s Global Education Office carefully vets programs and provides safety guidelines and resources that enable students to continue experiencing the Middle East firsthand. Here is a selection of programs abroad that ensure safety through well-established universities while also offering incredible opportunities to learn and study. You can also gain experience through authentic encounters online through our COIL programs. The following examples might inspire you to look into the possibilities:
Jordan:
The Ohio State University offers three programs that travel to Jordan:
- Amideast in Jordan: In this program, students will have the opportunity to study Arabic and Middle Eastern culture while living in Amman, Jordan. This program is run by Amideast, as they are the ones who place you with your host family. Click here to learn more
- CIEE Advanced Arabic Language Program: This program focuses on helping students progress from Arabic proficiency to fluency. It is located in Amman and is run by the Council on International Educational Exchange. Click here to learn more
- Conflict and the Struggle for Peace: This program travels through Ireland and the Middle East, exploring how war and peace intertwine with culture. The program starts in Dublin, Ireland, and then moves to Amman, Jordan, where students will explore historical sites in Jordan and the surrounding countries. Click here to learn more
Qasid Arabic Institute in Amman, Jordan
- This is an established exchange program run by the Arizona University Center for Arabic Study Abroad. Available for undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty, they can travel to study Arabic language and culture as well as conduct research. Click here to learn more
Critical Language Scholarship: Jordan Language Institute
- This program, located in Amman, Jordan, focuses on studying the Arabic language, specifically the Jordanian dialect, while exploring culture and modern-day events. Click here to learn more
Oman:
Sultan Qaboos University: International Exchange Program
- Sultan Qaboos University, located in Seeb, Oman, offers a vast student exchange program. Students are allowed to study a multitude of topics, including political science, economics, and much more. Click here to learn more
Critical Language Scholarship: Noor Majan Arabic Institute
- This program, located in Nizwa, Oman, focuses on studying the Arabic language, specifically the Omani dialect, while exploring Oman’s unique culture. Click here to learn more
Turkey:
Ottoman Studies Foundation Intensive Summer Program
- The Intensive Summer Program, located in Cunda, Turkey, explores historical Turkish texts. Students learn how to translate Ottoman Turkish and the cultural significance of these pieces. Click here to learn more
American Research Institute in Turkey
- The Koç University Research Center for Anatolian Civilizations (ANAMED) in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, offers an extensive library for students and faculty to research the history of Turkey and the Middle East. Click here to learn more
Critical Language Scholarship: Ankara University TÖMER Institute
- This program, located in Ankara, Turkey, focuses on studying the Turkish language through formal instruction as well as cultural excursions throughout the country. Click here to learn more
There are many opportunities to study in the Middle East. Programs that discuss culture, language, politics, and so much more are available and accessible through The Ohio State University. So, do not shy away from studying in the Middle East in the future. It is a great way to explore and grow as a global citizen.