Description

The Language and Culture study abroad program in Amman, Jordan is designed for students who have an interest in Jordan and the Middle East. Courses are offered in the areas of Arabic language, anthropology, history, economics, literature, religion, archaeology, environment, political science, and the media. This program is very suitable for a student who would like to do volunteer work or an internship.

Academic Program
The CIEE Study Center at the University of Jordan in Amman offers students a series of specially designed area studies courses in such fields as archaeology, economics, history, international relations, literature, politics, and religion. Area studies courses provide an overview of issues relevant to Jordan and the broader Middle East region. Although there is no language prerequisite, all students are required to take both Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Jordanian Arabic while in Amman.

Academic Culture
The program is academically rigorous and offers focused students an opportunity to make great strides in their language and overall knowledge of the region. Students attend Arabic language courses five days per week, while area studies courses are held in the afternoon. Class attendance is required for all class meetings. Classes tend to be lecture style; however, instructors welcome questions and discussion. Many of the professors that teach CIEE courses have either received degrees in the United States or the United Kingdom, or have participated in fellowships abroad and are thus familiar with Western methods of teaching.

CIEE draws its language faculty from the University of Jordan to provide students a comprehensive curriculum focusing on four skill areas: reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension. Grammar is taught within these four skills. CIEE students have access to their instructors during regular office hours for individual attention and support. Students also have regular instruction in colloquial Jordanian Arabic in order to enhance their communication skills.

Highlights

* Improve your Arabic in intensive language courses in Modern Standard and Colloquial Jordanian Arabic
* Choose from a variety of area studies courses in English and learn about political and cultural issues from guest lecturers
* Interact with local university students and improve your Arabic through a peer tutor program and target language clubs
* Visit important archaeological and natural sites in Jordan, including Petra, Wadi Rum, or Jerash

Culture
Cultural Activities and Field Trips
The academic program is supplemented with excursions to Jordan's archaeological, historical, and natural wonders; a choice of day trips to archaeological sites across Jordan or hiking in some of the Kingdom's spectacular Nature Reserves; and overnight trips to Petra or Wadi Rum. Trips vary between the fall and spring semesters depending upon the weather. Resident Staff keep students up-to-date on local cultural events, including films, concerts, and conferences.

Independent Travel
Students are encouraged to travel independently in Jordan during weekends and scheduled breaks. Travel is not permitted when classes are in session. Any travel outside of Jordan requires the completion of the CIEE Amman Independent Travel Form and review of potential security or safety concerns by the CIEE Resident Director. Students must also sign an independent travel waiver and are expected to consult their home institution and emergency contacts on all independent travel outside of Jordan.

Immersion
Volunteering
A range of volunteer options are available to students, many involving helping others with their English language skills. Previously, students have volunteered with NGOs, a women's rights organization, educational institutions, and organizations in the for-profit sector. Volunteer service does not receive academic credit and is subject to availability.

Peer Language Tutors
CIEE recruits peer language tutors from the Department of Arabic at the University of Jordan. Students are encouraged to meet with their language partners for up to three hours per week to practice conversation, explore the University, and expand their understanding of the host culture.

Language Clubs
CIEE organizes a series of target language clubs that complement students' instruction in the language. The clubs cover conversation, calligraphy, music, and culture.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing.

Program Fees Include:

The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, most meals (homestay option), optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, comprehensive orientation program, local transportation stipend, cultural activities, a field trip, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities including language partners, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.

*Meals are not included for students in apartments.

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 2.75
• Demonstrated interest in the Middle East and Arabic language through coursework and statement of purpose.

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Home-stays
• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Scholarships are Available

We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Transcript
• Written Application

CIEE's Mission Statement

Since 1947, the Council on International Educational Exchange, known as CIEE, has been in pursuit of its mission, "to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge, and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. Our services to young people studying, working, teaching, and traveling abroad are more important than ever.

Year Founded

1947