The growing importance of the Middle East in international affairs has led to a shortage of Arabic language speakers in the U.S. Our program helps you meet this need by developing your understanding of Arabic language and culture, as well as the language's increasingly significant role in a global economy. The fifth most common native language in the world, Arabic is spoken by 280 million people as a first language and 250 million more people as a second language. Our program deeply explores the language and the culture of its native speakers, primarily in the Middle East and North Africa. Studying Arabic allows you to learn a foreign language similar to the native language of Christ and offers a window to the world's oldest civilization. Arab nations are a fast-growing market for international trade. Knowledge of Arabic language and culture can lead to careers in business, government and international agencies. The program also opens doors for opportunities in journalism, education and other fields.