Certificate in Persian

Program Overview

---

The Certificate in Persian at SOAS University of London is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) program designed for students with no prior knowledge of Persian. It provides a solid foundation in written and spoken modern Iranian Persian, explores the historical and cultural framework of the Middle East, and prepares students for further study in Persian language and literature. The program emphasizes both language acquisition and cultural understanding, and can lead to a variety of careers related to translation, teaching, journalism, research, diplomatic service, and business.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

---

The Certificate in Persian is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) program at SOAS University of London.

It serves as an introductory qualification in the Persian language.

---

Objectives:

• Develop a solid foundation in written and spoken modern Iranian Persian.
• Prepare students for further study in Persian language and literature.

---

Description:

• The program is designed for students with no prior knowledge of Persian.
• Full-time students complete the equivalent of the first year of a BA program in Persian.
• Part-time students can choose a more gradual learning pace.
• The program emphasizes both language acquisition and cultural understanding.

---

Outline:

---

Full-time (One Year):

• Persian Language I (2 units): intensive introductory course focusing on developing fundamental language skills.
• Literatures of the Near and Middle East: explores literary traditions of the region.
• An approved non-language unit: relevant subjects such as history of the Middle East or Islamic studies.

---

Part-time (Two Years):

• Persian Language I (2 units)
• Year 2:
• Persian Language II:
builds upon skills acquired in Year 1.
• Choice of either:
• Classical Persian Prose Texts:
focuses on reading and analyzing classical Persian prose.
• Persian Poetry 1: introduces students to the rich tradition of Persian poetry.

---

Alternative Part-time (Two Years):

• Year 1:
• Elementary written Persian:
gradual introduction to the Persian writing system.
• One other approved non-language unit.

• Year 2:
• Elementary Persian texts:
builds upon skills acquired in Year 1.
• One other approved non-language unit.

---

Teaching:

• Courses are taught during the day, typically beginning in September.
• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, and tutorials.
• The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in Persian language and culture.

---

Assessment:

• Formative assessment: Regular assignments and tests to monitor student progress.
• Summative assessment: Exams held in May-June to assess overall understanding and knowledge.

---

Other:

• The program is offered at the Russell Square campus in the College Buildings.
• Students have access to SOAS' extensive library resources and research facilities.

---

Careers:

• The Certificate in Persian can lead to a variety of careers related to:
• Translation and interpreting
• Teaching
• Journalism and media
• Research
• Diplomatic service
• Business and commerce
It is designed for both full-time and part-time students, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.

---

Home student fees: £9,250 Overseas student fees: £21,990 Please note that fees go up each year.