Middle East Studies, Certificate of Achievement
Program Overview
The Middle East Studies Program at Santa Barbara City College offers a comprehensive exploration of the region's history, politics, cultures, religions, and languages. Through a diverse curriculum and immersive study abroad opportunities, students gain a deep understanding of the Middle East's complexities and prepare for careers in diplomacy, international relations, education, and more. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, equipping graduates to navigate the region's challenges and contribute to global dialogue.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Middle East Studies Program at Santa Barbara City College delves into the intricate history, politics, cultures, religions, and languages of the Middle East, a region of paramount global significance. The program explores fundamental questions about the region, including the tenets of its major religions, the historical trajectory of its peoples, the nature of its political systems, its critical role in world politics, and the cultural nuances that distinguish it from other regions.
Objectives:
- Comprehend the core principles of the major religions prevalent in the Middle East.
- Analyze the similarities and differences among the political systems of Middle Eastern countries.
- Examine the interplay between religion, ideology, and culture in shaping the region's modernization and democratization processes.
Outline:
Program Content:
The Middle East Studies Program encompasses a comprehensive range of courses that provide a multifaceted understanding of the region. These courses cover topics such as:
- Islamic art and architecture
- Geography of the Middle East and North Africa
- History of the modern Middle East
- Middle Eastern government and politics
- Cultural anthropology
- Comparative world cultures
- Modern Standard Arabic
- Global studies
- Global problems
- Comparative world religions
- International politics
- Comparative politics
Structure:
The Certificate of Achievement in Middle East Studies requires the completion of 21-22 units, including:
- Core Courses (12 units):
- ART 216: Survey of Islamic Art and Architecture
- GEOG 107: Geography of the Middle East/North Africa and Southwest Asia
- HIST 138: History of the Modern Middle East
- POLS 136: Middle East Government and Politics
- Electives (9-10 units):
- Students can choose from a variety of elective courses to fulfill this requirement, including:
- ANTH 103: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
- ANTH 109: Comparative World Cultures
- ARBC 101: Beginning Modern Standard Arabic I
- ARBC 102: Beginning Modern Standard Arabic II
- GLST 101: Introduction to Global Studies
- GLST 102: Global Problems
- PHIL 102: Comparative World Religions
- POLS 121: International Politics
- POLS 121H: International Politics, Honors
- POLS 131: Comparative Politics
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students' progress in the Middle East Studies Program is assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Papers
- Presentations
- Class participation
Assessment Criteria:
Students are evaluated based on their:
- Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Ability to communicate their ideas effectively
- Research and writing abilities
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The Middle East Studies Program employs a range of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles. These methods include:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Group projects
- Simulations
- Guest speakers
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and knowledgeable faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
Unique Approaches:
The program incorporates a Study Abroad component, providing students with an immersive experience in the Middle East. This component allows students to witness firsthand the region's culture, traditions, and history.
Careers:
Career Paths:
The Middle East Studies Program prepares students for a wide range of careers in fields such as:
- Diplomacy
- International relations
- Journalism
- Education
- Business
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
Opportunities:
Graduates of the program are well-positioned for opportunities in:
- International organizations
- Embassies
- Consulates
- Multinational corporations
- Research institutions
- Educational institutions
Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Distinguish between the main tenets of the major religions of the Middle East.
- Explain the differences and similarities between the political systems of the Middle East.
- Correlate the role of religion, ideology, and culture to the notions of modernization and democratization in the Middle East.
