The Arabic Language Institute offers non-credit and credit university courses in the Arabic language at various levels for students whose mother tongue is not Arabic. The institute aims to meet the increasing demand to learn the Arabic language. Students will learn to speak and write Arabic, as well as improve their understanding of the Arabic-speaking culture. Classes are offered at the basic, intermediate, and advanced levels.
Arabic Language Instruction
As the major language of the Middle East and North Africa and spoken by 280 million people around the world, Arabic is the living medium of a vibrant contemporary literature and culture. Arabic is also the language of Islam, the faith of over a billion of the world’s people. Instruction in Arabic provides students with the necessary tools to better connect with the Islamic worldview and culture as well as develop a basic understanding of the Qur’an. Additionally, the study of the Arabic language Bible in relation to the Qur’an and Islamic piety enables one to become acquainted with the spiritual language of the Muslim soul from a biblical perspective.
Arabic language courses offered include MA in Islamic Studies prerequisites, the closer reading of the Qur’an and Islamic religious literature (in terms of syntax, grammar, vocabulary, and exegesis/interpretation) for MA in Islamic Studies requisites, and more general Arabic language non-degree courses in the broader reading, writing, speaking, and listening matrix of Arabic language skills needed for effective personal interaction and service among Arabic speaking people.
The Department’s Arabic language instruction is a non-degree program. Students who are not seeking a language degree but wishing to take MEU courses for academic credit may be admitted as non-degree students if they meet the minimum requirements for MEU admission. MEU is both an AAA accredited institution, and recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education in Lebanon. Therefore, degree-seeking students at other recognized institutions who wish to augment their education by enrolling for a period of time at MEU are welcome to take arabic language courses. The courses will fulfill their needs as semester-abroad and year-abroad students, along with their regular courses.
In addition to the Arabic Language courses, the department also offers a number of complementary courses in history, culture, and religion.
Arabic Language and Culture Program (ACA)
The Arabic Language and Culture Program runs during the academic year and is divided into two academic semesters: Fall and Spring. Students participating in the program receive instruction in the Arabic language with classes focused on conversation, grammar, vocabulary, and writing, as well as spiritual life and service in an Arabic context.
Along with the classes and service-oriented activities, students participate in cultural outings, traveling to various historic and iconic destinations within Lebanon like Baalbek, Tyre, Sidon, Tripoli, Harissa, Byblos, Jeita Grotto, and the famous Cedars of Lebanon. Three international trips are selected out of four possible countries: Egypt (Cairo), Jordan (Petra), Turkey (Istanbul), and United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi).
Through their participation, students gain a broader worldview as well as experience the various historical and archaeological sites visited within the context of the great controversy, the history of the church, and its continued mission today. The program provides a comprehensive orientation to the region’s unique spiritual/moral needs and the opportunity for personal development towards a life of service to people hailing from these Middle Eastern and North African countries.
The program is directly affiliated with Adventist Colleges Abroad (ACA), which is managed from the offices of the North American Division (NAD). Students at Seventh-day Adventist consortium schools in North America and Australia can participate in the program while remaining enrolled at their home institutions. Prospective students not attending one of the consortium schools have the choice to apply and register through a consortium institution or apply directly to MEU for admission.
Admission requirements for students applying through ACA can be found on their website. All other interested students should follow the normal admissions procedures of MEU when applying.