Middle East Studies Program

Offered fall or spring semester by the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities

Open to all majors by application

See the CCS office for program costs, details and application process.

Curriculum

Take introductory Arabic and study Islamic thought and practice, and conflict and change in the Middle East. Local excursions and three weeks of travel around the Middle East as well as several days homestay with a local family are included. Up to 16 credits may be earned.

Accommodations

Students stay together in furnished apartments in a quiet residential neighborhood of Amman within walking distance of coffee shops. Receive a weekly stipend for groceries. Apartments have Wi-Fi, no-cost washing machines, and a dishwasher.

Sweeping view of Amman, Jordan with ancient Roman amphitheater in lower foreground

Travel Information

Health & Safety

This experience, like all CCS experiences, is subject to political and safety realities at the time of departure. CCS options can be physically and emotionally intense and stretching. Before enrolling, all participants should consult the disclosures on Physical Hardships of CCS.

Covid shots are not required by Jordan as of December 2022. For more details on required immunizations consult the immunizations chart.

Trip Costs

SAU institutional aid (such as academic scholarships) does not apply to the Middle East Studies semester. SAU students can apply for the SOCSOF grant or use their university discount (if eligible). The Gilman Scholarship may also help fund the experience for students who are US citizens and Pell grant recipients. Please see the CCS office for program cost details.

NOTE: Students who are Pell Grant recipients and U.S. citizens may apply for the Gilman Scholarship (up to $8,000).  Attend a Gilman workshop with the CCS Director to learn how to apply for the scholarship.

To learn your next steps toward participating in this program, get an application from the CCS office and attend an International Semester workshop for important details in your planning.

Passport and immunizations required (both at additional cost); visa required.

CCS program costs do not include: tuition, passport, immunizations, or the $150 study abroad fee.

CCS trips are not guaranteed and are subject to change.