Program Overview Modern Languages and Linguistics B.A.

Minors+

Certificates+

Concentrations+

Why Earn Your Certificate in Arabic Studies?

A competence in intercultural communication is indispensable for functioning effectively in an era of economic, social, and cultural globalization.

The Upper-Division Certificate in Language Studies program (17 credits) is intended for those students who want to explore another part of the world as part of their overall education but who do not have the time to complete a traditional minor.

At a Glance

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FINANCIAL AID ↓HOW TO APPLY ↓CONTACT US ↓

What Are My Career Options Studying Arabic Studies?

This certificate will give students a cultural and linguistic understanding of Arab culture and civilization through readings and writing from the Arab world. Students will work on developing advanced listening comprehension and increasing conversational fluency in the language. The goal is to support students as they strengthen their Arabic reading-comprehension skills, expand their vocabulary repertoire in media and poetry, enhance their translation skills from Arabic to English and vice versa, refine and rebuild their knowledge of sentence construction, and finally broaden their knowledge about the history of the Arabic poetry and literature, and more.

Whether you are interested in launching a career in the global market or preparing to explore graduate school options, an Undergraduate Certificate in Arabic studies will serve as the foundation for jobs in education, business, government, and other organizations serving Arab-speaking communities worldwide.

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC is committed to making a world-class education accessible to every student. We offer a range of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans to help you manage the cost of your education. New and current degree-seeking undergraduates can explore institutional and departmental scholarships using our Scholarship Retriever tool, along with additional opportunities from external partners. Scholarships and financial aid can help cover tuition, fees, textbooks, and even housing and meals, ensuring you can focus on your studies and your future at UMBC.

2025–2026 Undergraduate Cost Calculator Financial Aid Scholarships

Ready to Apply?

Complete the Common App

Your first stop is the Common App. You can learn more about how to apply with the Common App here.

Request Supporting Documents

You’ll be required to submit your official transcript and international transcript (if applicable). You may also choose to submit standardized test scores and/or letters of recommendation.

Complete Scholars Programs and Visual and Performing Arts Majors Requirements (optional)

Applying to a Scholars Program or as a Visual or Performing Arts major? Be sure to research additional requirements and deadlines specific to the programs of interest to you.

Application Deadlines

GO TO THE COMMON APP VISIT UMBC ADMISSION TRANSFER CENTRAL

Contact Information

UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation Contact Information

Mailing Address

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
and Orientation
1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, MD 21250

OFFICE LOCATION

Albin O. Kuhn Library
on the lower level next to Library Pond

Admissions Staff

410-455-2292

Available Monday through Friday, from
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

admissions@umbc.edu

Request Help

Email Undergraduate Admissions at Request Help.

Arabic Studies Upper-Division Certificate