FIU establishes exchange agreement with American University in Dubai


By Pedro Botta

FIU and the American University in Dubai (AUD), United Arab Emirates, have established an academic exchange agreement where both institutions can offer their undergraduate students an opportunity to do part of their studies at each other’s campuses with the possibility of obtaining dual certificates in Middle East studies. Eligible students from each university will be able to complete up to 50 percent of the requirements for the certificates during a semester in residence at the other university, based on the mutual recognition of course credits between the certificate programs. Upon their successful conclusion of the program, students are eligible to receive two certificates: the Certificate in Middle Eastern Studies from AUD and the Certificate in Middle East and Central Asian Studies from FIU.

FIU’s Middle East and Central Asian Certificate, which is offered through the Middle East Studies Program in the School of International and Public Affairs, provides students with the opportunity for a rich multidisciplinary learning experience, with a choice of courses in the fields of international relations, geography, history, political science, religious studies, sociology/anthropology and modern languages, among others. The program defines the “Middle East” broadly, encompassing the study of adjacent regions including Central Asia and the larger Muslim world. Two semesters of Arabic or another regional language are required. The exchange agreement with AUD gives FIU students the opportunity to experience living and studying in the Middle East. All AUD classes are taught in English; students participating in the program do not need to have Arabic language proficiency.

“The Middle East is one of the most significant and consequential world regions shaping contemporary global politics and dynamics,” says John Stack, director of the FIU School of International and Public Affairs. “Strong knowledge of the Middle East is a major asset to graduates seeking employment in governmental institutions and the private sector, or going on to graduate school and into academia. The agreement with AUD provides our students with a singular opportunity.”

For more information about the FIU/AUD Exchange Agreement, please contact the Middle East Studies Program at 305-348-1792 or the Office of Education Abroad at 305-348-1913.

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