• Description

  If you are interested in improving your Arabic language skills, developing an understanding of the Gulf region and its role in the Arab World and global economy, and learning firsthand about the daily intersection of traditional values and modern realities in the United Arab Emirates, then the Business, Engineering, Arts and Sciences study abroad program in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates is right for you. The program is geared towards students who want to enroll directly in business, engineering, science, social science, and humanities courses taught in English alongside local students and for those who want to improve their Arabic language skills while becoming fully integrated into local student culture at a university that provides a valuable combination of U.S. quality academics, modern facilities, and a true Gulf immersion experience.

  Academic Program
  The Business, Engineering, Arts and Sciences program is designed to combine Arabic language and Middle Eastern and Gulf studies courses with electives in the social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, business, engineering, and other direct enrollment courses at the American University of Sharjah (AUS). Studying alongside students from various corners of the Arab World provides students with the opportunity to experience different perspectives and ideas within an academic environment and structure based on a U.S. university system. The AUS business, engineering, and architecture programs have U.S. accreditation. Most of the Arabic language courses are designed for non-native speakers and focus on Modern Standard Arabic.

  Academic Culture
  AUS offers students a U.S.-style education within a traditional Gulf environment. Courses include a combination of lecture, discussion, independent and group projects, and laboratory work. The average class size at AUS is approximately 24 students. Although many of the faculty have U.S. or Canadian citizenship and the University is designed to encourage lively discussion and scholarly debate, faculty and students are expected to demonstrate respect for traditional beliefs and religious values at all times.

  Arabic language courses are offered at various levels, including a special set of courses for heritage speakers. With the exception of the language courses, almost all courses at the American University of Sharjah are taught in English.

• Highlights

• Study alongside students from 80 nations at a cutting-edge university that combines traditional Gulf culture with a U.S. style education
  
• Improve your Arabic language skills while exploring UAE's role as a global hub for trade, business, and cultural exchange
  
• Take innovative courses in social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, business, engineering, architecture, and Middle Eastern Studies
  
• Explore the UAE through CIEE excursions to Dubai, Al-Ain, and Abu Dhabi and participate in various student clubs and organizations at the University

Cultural Activities
The program includes a series of field trips, site visits, and cultural events. The aim of each trip, visit, and event is to enhance the students' understanding and appreciation of life and society in the United Arab Emirates. Possible excursions include day trips to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, an overnight excursion to Al-Ain, and activities such as desert safaris, guest lectures, and visits to local museums, galleries, and traditional souks.

Community Engagement
This program does not offer formal volunteer or internship opportunities for credit. However, community engagement is readily available through participation in one of the many AUS student clubs and organizations. In addition, CIEE organizes activities throughout the semester that offer students an opportunity to interact with members of the local community and learn firsthand about Emirati culture. Some of the AUS courses offer internship activities with local organizations and companies.