About Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Certificate at CSUSB
What It Is & Why It’s Beneficial
Open to anyone, CSUSB’s Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Certificate provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the histories, cultures, religions, politics, and contemporary issues of the Middle East and the broader Islamic world. Drawing from fields such as history, religious studies, political science, geography, anthropology, and world languages, the program offers a well-rounded exploration of a region that is central to global affairs.
Students study topics including Islamic thought and practice, Middle Eastern history, modern geopolitics, cultural and artistic traditions, regional conflicts, migration, and issues related to identity and society. Coursework encourages critical analysis, cultural awareness, and an informed understanding of the diversity within Islamic and Middle Eastern communities.
This certificate is ideal for students interested in international relations, global studies, education, business, government, nonprofit work, and careers that require cross-cultural competency and deep regional insight.
Why This Certificate Is Beneficial
✔ Develops strong cultural and regional literacy
Students gain nuanced understanding of the Middle East and Islamic civilizations, moving beyond stereotypes and simplistic narratives.
✔ Enhances preparation for globally oriented careers
Government agencies, international businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions value knowledge of Middle Eastern and Islamic societies.
✔ Builds analytical and cross-cultural communication skills
Learners develop the ability to interpret historical and contemporary issues through informed, culturally grounded perspectives.
✔ Complements a wide range of majors
An excellent addition to political science, international relations, history, anthropology, geography, business, and language studies.
✔ Supports pathways to graduate study
The certificate strengthens preparation for advanced programs in Middle Eastern studies, Islamic studies, political science, public policy, and related fields.
Careers in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Certificate
Potential Careers
Graduates of the Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Certificate often pursue roles such as:
- International Program or NGO Assistant
- Cultural or Community Outreach Coordinator
- Government or Diplomatic Support Staff
- Global Business or Trade Support Specialist
- Education or Cultural Enrichment Program Assistant
Sample Courses
Anthropology of the Middle East
Uses anthropological readings, documentary films, and literary accounts to thematically explore topics such as the effects of war and conflict across the region, Islam and secularism, colonialism and postcoloniality, gender and political mobilization, media and globalization, and the politics and ethics of nation building.
Classical Islamic Civilization
Introduction to the classical Islamic period in the Central and Western (North African and Ottoman) Islamic lands. Considers the development of Islam as a religion and civilization, the expansion of the Islamic world, and the rise of the Ottoman empire.
Government and Politics of the Middle East
Governmental and political structures of representative states in the Middle East, including Turkey, Israel, and the Arab States.
In Summary
CSUSB’s Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Certificate offers students a rich, interdisciplinary perspective on a region of global importance. Through culturally informed coursework and cross-disciplinary study, the program equips graduates to engage thoughtfully with Middle Eastern and Islamic communities and to pursue careers and academic pathways that require strong global literacy.
Similar to Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies Certificate
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