Arabic
The Arabic language program at the University of Washington (UW) employs a communicative and proficiency-based methodology, focusing on real-world language use and cultural context. Courses are structured to develop linguistic skills alongside cultural insights, ensuring students can navigate both formal and informal Arabic settings. Instruction primarily utilizes Modern Standard Arabic, with exposure to Egyptian and Levant Colloquial Arabic to enhance conversational abilities.
Degree availability: Minor / B.A / M.A.
Years offered: 3
Contact: Khalid Ahmed (khalid4@uw.edu)
Photo by Ondrej Bocek on Unsplash
A brief video introduction to the UW Arabic Program
"I loved every moment of my first-year Arabic language classes at UW. As a language instructor myself, I found the curriculum very strong and I felt supported and encouraged at every step of the language learning process. Most of all, though, I am grateful for the sense of community and joy I always felt in class! My Arabic language learning experience has positively impacted so many other aspects of my personal and professional life.“
Learning Arabic unlocks a wealth of opportunities—cultural, professional, intellectual, and even spiritual. Here are some reasons why it’s a smart and rewarding choice.
Cultural & Global Significance
Globally spoken
Arabic ranks as the 5th most spoken language worldwide, with more than 400 million speakers across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.
Deep historical roots
Learning Arabic opens doors to centuries of literature, philosophy, science, and art—essentially, it’s a gateway to a vast treasure trove of human knowledge.
Culturally diverse
The Arabic-speaking world is stretching across numerous countries with a wide array of dialects, each offering its own unique customs and traditions.
Career Opportunities
Growing demand
Arabic speakers are sought after in fields such as diplomacy, business, journalism, intelligence, international development, and academia.
Strategic language
Arabic is considered a critical language for national security by several governments (including the U.S. and EU), with scholarships and job incentives available for learners.
Business & trade
Arabic plays a key role in global markets, particularly in industries like energy, construction, technology, and finance.
Religion & Philosophy
Islamic Studies
Arabic is the language of the Qur’an. For Muslims or anyone exploring Islamic theology, philosophy, or history, learning Arabic provides a richer and deeper understanding.
Interfaith Dialogue
Arabic is also beneficial for those interested in the connections between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Cognitive and Linguistic Advantages
Challenge leads to growth
Arabic features a unique script, a root-based word structure, and a distinct grammatical system, offering a mental workout that European languages may not provide.
New perspective
Mastering Arabic transforms your understanding of language. Some ideas don’t have direct English equivalents, and that’s something truly fascinating.
Travel & Connection
Rich experiences
Exploring Arabic-speaking countries becomes a much more immersive experience when you’re able to communicate with locals or understand signs, menus, and stories in their native language.
Building friendships & community
Arabic speakers are found all over the world, and knowing the language helps you connect with them quickly and easily.
Arabic is the most widely spoken Semitic language.
It has numerous dialects. It is the liturgical language of about 1.8 billion Muslims around the world. It is the official language of 22 countries. It is one of the 6 official languages of the United Nations. It is the 5th most widely spoken language in the world, with over 300 million native speakers and around 200 million nonnative speakers.
Arabic Script is used in:
Persian (Iran) | Dari (Afghanistan) | Pashto (Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan) | Urdu (Pakistan and parts of India) | Tajik (Tajikistan) | Kurdish (parts of Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey). Turkish Language used the Arabic script until 1928 and then switched to Latin script.
Did you know?
Arabic language instruction began at UW in 1909, making it one of the oldest Middle Eastern languages taught in the United States.
What kinds of things are students learning each year?
4-Skills
The Arabic language program at the University of Washington (UW) offers a comprehensive and immersive approach to language instruction, emphasizing proficiency in all four communicative skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—while integrating cultural understanding.
Real-World Use
The Arabic program employs a communicative and proficiency-based methodology, focusing on real-world language use and cultural context. Courses are structured to develop linguistic skills alongside cultural insights, ensuring students can navigate both formal and informal Arabic settings. Instruction primarily utilizes Modern Standard Arabic, with exposure to Egyptian and Levant Colloquial Arabic to enhance conversational abilities.
“When I started the Arabic 101 course at UW, I came in with very little knowledge of Arabic. By the end of the series, I was able to speak in full sentences and even follow along with Arabic news broadcasts. The MELC Arabic program gave me a rigorous foundation in the language and a love for Arab culture and history.”
Approach to Vocabulary Teaching
1. Contextual Learning
• Vocabulary is introduced thematically in context, meaning that it’s tied to the specific situations and topics that students are learning about.
2. Repetition and Reinforcement
• New vocabulary words are reinforced through repetition in different contexts—students will encounter the same words in various exercises, readings, and class activities. This spaced repetition helps to ensure that vocabulary is not only memorized but also internalized.
3. Active Practice
• Students are encouraged to actively use the vocabulary during class discussions and role-plays. For instance, students may practice a dialogue where they introduce themselves and ask about each other’s family, using new vocabulary they’ve learned.
4. Integration with Grammar and Syntax
• Vocabulary is not taught in isolation but integrated with grammar and sentence structure. As students learn new words, they also practice how to use them in simple sentences. This helps to build both their vocabulary and their understanding of Arabic grammar.
5. Cultural Relevance
• Vocabulary is also connected to cultural learning, helping students understand not only what the words mean but also their cultural significance. For example, they might learn words related to religion, customs, or food that are culturally important in the Arabic-speaking world.
Learn more about a recent Arabic study abroad program!
First Steps
Those with no prior knowledge of Arabic should join ARAB 101 A (Elementary Arabic) or 105 A (Intensive Elementary Arabic). ARAB 101 A is typically offered in Autumn Quarter, while ARAB 105 A is an intensive language course offered in Summer Quarter which covers all of the content of ARAB 101, 102 and 103 in one quarter.
For students with prior Arabic knowledge, the program offers placement exams to ensure appropriate course placement. These exams assess reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar skills, allowing students to enter advanced courses that match their proficiency levels.
Who is the best contact person (and email) for interested students?
Visit the Arabic Program webpage to learn more
“My Arabic learning experience was phenomenal this year, and my teacher was one of the best teachers I have ever had not only in language learning, but also his teaching style and prowess. I have nothing but good things to say about the MELC's Arabic program.“