sunset shot roman ruins jordan
Amman, Jordan

Summer Middle East Studies

Study Program

Dates

-

4 weeks

Costs

Credit

3-4 per session semester hours

4.5-6 per session quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Dates

-

4 weeks

Costs

Credit

3-4 per session semester hours

4.5-6 per session quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Dates

-

8 weeks

Costs

Credit

3-4 per session semester hours

4.5-6 per session quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Overview

Centrally located, Amman is the ideal place to unravel intriguing Middle Eastern and international issues like Arab-Israeli relations, regional conflicts, politics, international relations, environment, and more. Get a grasp of the region through studying and living in a cosmopolitan city that celebrates history and modern life. Courses are taught in English by CIEE faculty at CIEE Amman and complemented with immersive co-curricular activities designed to increase intercultural understanding.

Unique Experiences

LEARN CONVERSATIONAL ARABIC

to help you connect with Jordanian people.

EXPLORE WORLD-FAMOUS TREASURES

like Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, or the Dead Sea.

DISCOVER CULTURAL TRADITIONS

with introductions to traditional cooking, dance, henna, calligraphy, soccer, films, and plays.

6,000

SPECTATOR CAPACITY AT THE ROMAN THEATER

2M+

VISITORS PER YEAR

280K+

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Experience
  • students desert exploration amman study abroad
  • amman student in petra

Your Destination

Despite its famous ruins, the capital of Jordan has plenty of cosmopolitan character and modern sensibility. One minute you’re atop the highest of Amman’s seven foremost hills, where the ancient citadel offers spectacular views all around – and a fascinating look back to the Bronze Age. Later the same day, you’re window shopping on trendy Rainbow Street after a tasty meal at a restaurant with sidewalk tables. Wherever you are, you’ll see why Amman has a well-earned reputation for hospitality.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Amman.

The Culture

amman jordan students ampitheater

EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

  • Session 1 day trip: Explore Petra, an ancient city elaborately carved in stony cliffs. 
  • Session 2 day trip: Visit Petra or participate in a hiking trip that combines outdoor adventure and archeological heritage. 
  • Day trip possibilities: Biblical Jordan, including Madaba Plains (the biblical lands of Moab), Mt. Nebo, and the city of Madaba; and a Dead Sea trip. 
  • Visit iconic mosques, museums, and cafes. 
  • Guest speakers illuminate a range of issues, from the contemporary music scene to race and identity in Jordan. 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Unveiling Jordan's Hidden Treasures: 5 Must-Visit Gems

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Dorra Guermazi Jordan's landscape is a tapestry of awe-inspiring beauty and cultural heritage, where ancient wonders and natural marvels converge in harmony. While Petra and the Dead Sea are... keep reading

Have a Sweet Tooth? Jordan Has You Covered.

By Elysse G.

Jordanian cuisine is rich and diverse, and the country's desserts are no exception. From sweet and sticky pastries to delicate floral-infused cakes, Jordanian desserts are a must-try for any foodie... keep reading

How to Pack Like a Pro

By Elysse G.

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, but it can also be overwhelming to pack for an extended stay in a foreign country. Here's a packing list for studying abroad... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "All CIEE personnel I have interacted with have been incredibly helpful and kind. Everything from my application to arrival and coursework were as smooth and well-handled as I could have hoped for. I had excellent instructors and a great experience in my courses. The cultural activities were also amazing and added to my time in Jordan."

    Robert S., United States Naval Academy

Housing
Academics

Academics

This rigorous summer program is designed to help students learn about the history, culture, and politics of Jordan and the Middle East with content courses taught in English. From a study of foreign policies in the Middle East to an exploration of the Palestinian conflict, students gain insights into the history and culture of this complex region. Students can also opt to learn colloquial Jordanian Arabic, making it easier to connect with the people of Jordan and learn about their way of life. In-class work is augmented with co-curricular visits to the city’s rich variety of cultural institutions and organizations relevant to the course offerings. 

Content courses are taught by faculty from Jordanian universities, experts in their fields or visiting foreign faculty with expertise and extensive experience in Jordan. Language courses are taught by experienced CIEE Amman language instructors. 

CIEE Amman is located in a traditional neighborhood, which allows students plenty of opportunities to interact with local residents and get to know key institutions and sites with ease.

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

Students enroll in one content course per four-week session
 

Program Credit

Total credit: 3 – 4 per session U.S. semester/4.5 – 6 per session quarter credits
 

Course Credit

  • CIEE content course: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • CIEE Communicative Language course: 1 U.S. semester/1.5 quarter credits

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

Attendance is mandatory. Students should expect a more formal classroom environment and work more independently than they are used to in the United States.
 

Class Format

Students take classes only with CIEE students. The classroom environment tends to be more formal than in the United States.
 

Grading

Students are given grades from A-F on a 100-point scale, based on the results of a mid-term and final, and possibly a paper or class presentation. Participation and attendance also factor heavily into grades.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

English, Arabic

 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Courses

Course Information

Course Notes
Communicative Arabic Language elective may be taken during one session only. 

Summer Session I 2024

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Summer Session II 2024

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE Stem Scholarship

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Summer Session I 2024 4 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $4,750
Program Summer Session II 2024 4 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $4,750
Program Summer Session I and II 2024 8 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $8,550

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $3,353**

Housing = $900

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $4,750

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $100

International Airfare = $1,200

Local Transportation = $500

Books & Supplies = $75

Visa Fees = $60

Personal expenses = $150

Other = $100

Total Costs = $2,185

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in apartments, you should budget approx. $420 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $3,353**

Housing = $900

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $4,750

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $100

International Airfare = $1,200

Local Transportation = $500

Books & Supplies = $75

Visa Fees = $60

Personal expenses = $150

Other = $100

Total Costs = $2,185

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in apartments, you should budget approx. $420 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $6,253**

Housing = $1,800

Insurance = $197

Total Fees = $8,550

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $200

International Airfare = $1,200

Local Transportation = $1,000

Books & Supplies = $150

Visa Fees = $120

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $20

Personal expenses = $300

Other = $100

Total Costs = $3,090

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in apartments, you should budget approx. $420 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Zein Nsheiwat

DIRECTOR

Zein Nsheiwat has been working in the field of study abroad and cross-cultural education since 2007 and completed a MBA in 2022 at TAGUCI in Amman, Jordan. She has worked...

Jumana Tagqah

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE DIRECTOR

Jumana has been working with CIEE since 2010. She has a degree in Business Administration and Political Science from the University of Jordan. Jumana runs all the admin and finances...

Samir Issa

HOUSING AND LOGISTICS COORDINATOR

Samir started working with CIEE in 2019. Besides supporting the students’ cultural engagements. Samir manages all aspects of the housing program, and recruits Arabic-speaking host families for CIEE students in...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

START AN APPLICATION
You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

CONNECT WITH YOUR CAMPUS STUDY ABROAD OFFICE 
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

CONTACT US

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info