Program Overview
Program Overview
With agility and skilled diplomacy, Jordan has charted a course through some of modern history’s most infamous hornet’s nests. That achievement has made Jordan a stabling force in the region and makes it an ideal setting to improve your Arabic while taking focused look at diplomacy, policy studies, and international affairs in the Middle East.
Enroll in intensive Arabic language training; enjoy coursework taught by professors and professionals at the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy; and take part in an internships with local government ministries, agencies, and international organizations. Studying abroad in Amman offers you unparalleled insight into Middle Eastern diplomacy and a truly unique intercultural experience.
Study abroad in Jordan and you will:
- Learn about international relations, political science, and economics with a Middle Eastern and Jordanian focus
- Engage with local experts, government officials, and diplomats through special cooperation with the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy (JID)
- Improve your Arabic language skills through coursework in both Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Jordanian Arabic
- Partake in an optional internship at a local or international development organization
The CIEE Difference
The CIEE Difference
Coursework
In addition to required courses in Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Jordanian Arabic, and a seminar on the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, you can choose from a number of electives including international relations, domestic policies, gender and politics, regional conflict management, and economic and social development.
Internship
You'll have the option to partake in a for-credit, pre-screened internship with a government agency, or a local or international development organization. Drawing on your experience throughout the semester you will complete a final research paper that uses your experience at the organization to make inferences about issues in the region.
Culture
The academic program is supplemented with special guest lectures by government officials, diplomats, and local experts. In addition, CIEE coordinates a series of local field trips, cultural activities, and one overnight excursion to Petra. Resident staff will keep you up-to-date on local cultural events such as conferences, films, and concerts.
Dates, Deadlines & Fees
Dates, Deadlines & Fees
We want to make sure you get the most out of your experience when you study abroad with CIEE, which is why we offer the most inclusions in our fees.
- Tuition and housing
- Pre-departure advising and optional on-site airport meet and greet
- Full-time program leadership and support
- Field trips and cultural activities
- CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits
Please note, program dates are subject to change. Please contact your CIEE Study Abroad Advisor before purchasing airfare. Click the
button to view more detailed information about dates and fees.
Application Due
Start Date
End Date
Costs
Fall 2013 (17 wks)
Extended to: 04/15/2013
08/25/2013
12/19/2013
$15,850
Program Date Notes
Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Program Fees
In addition to the items outlined below, the CIEE program fee includes an optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local transportation stipend, immersion activities including language partners, a comprehensive sutdent handbook, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.
Participation Confirmation *
$300
Educational Costs **
$12,848
This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.
Students required to study on CIEE programs through a School of Record will be charged a $340 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed.
* non-refundable
** direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
Estimated Additional Costs
Meals not included in program fee
$1,650
International Airfare *
$1,675
The estimated additional costs indicated are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee. Actual expenses will vary according to student interests and spending habits.
* round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
Spring 2013 (17 wks)
11/01/2012
01/13/2013
05/10/2013
$15,850
Program Date Notes
Program Fees
In addition to the items outlined below, the CIEE program fee includes an optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local transportation stipend, immersion activities including language partners, a comprehensive sutdent handbook, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.
Participation Confirmation *
$300
Educational Costs **
$12,848
This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.
Students required to study on CIEE programs through a School of Record will be charged a $340 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed.
* non-refundable
** direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
Estimated Additional Costs
Meals not included in program fee
$1,650
International Airfare *
$1,675
The estimated additional costs indicated are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee. Actual expenses will vary according to student interests and spending habits.
* round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
Spring 2014
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to be announced
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Eligibility
Eligibility
- Overall GPA 3.3
- 3 or more semesters of college-level Arabic or equivalent
- Minimum of 2 courses beyond the introductory level (200 level and above) in international relations, government, political science, and/or Middle Eastern Studies. The required personal statement must demonstrate knowledge of the region and goals consistent with the program’s learning objectives.
Recommended Credit
Recommended Credit
Total recommended credit for the semester is 16 semester/24 quarter hours. This program may be combined with an additional semester on the Language and Culture or Arabic Language program for a full academic year in Jordan.
Course contact hours are 42 hours and recommended credit is 3 semester/4.5 quarter hours per course, unless otherwise indicated.
Program Requirements
Program Requirements
All study abroad students enroll in Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Jordanian Arabic courses at the appropriate level. They are also required to take the CIEE core course, Jordan: A Case Study in Diplomacy and Development. In addition to the required courses, all students choose two additional elective courses.
About the City
About The City
Amman has a history that reaches back at least 5,000 years. Despite the ancient ruins that dominate the downtown skyline, much of the city only dates back to the 1970s. Draped over several hills, Amman is a study in contrasts. A traditional downtown souk (marketplace) is a taxi ride away from massive, American-style shopping malls. It is a very accessible, cosmopolitan city with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and cinemas. With its reputation for security and hospitality, Amman is home to inhabitants from all over the Middle East. The city provides a safe and stable environment for students to learn about the region.
Meet The Staff
Meet The Staff
Najeh Abu Orabi
Dr. Najeh Abu-Orabi, a native of Jordan, has been challenging American students to master the Arabic language for over a decade. In addition to leading the Arabic Langauge program, Dr. Abu Orabi manages the Arabic language curriculum for CIEE in Jordan. He has a Ph.D. in Arabic Language Curricula and Education Methods and an M.A. in Arabic Language. Dr. Abu-Orabi has also taught Arabic at the University of Virginia and is a certified ACTFL OPI tester. For the Arabic Language program, Dr, AbuOrabi works with a special team of instructors all with advanced degrees in Arabic language and literature and extensive experience teaching Arabic as a foreign language to international students and are trained in ACTFL standards.
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Rana Al-Masri
Rana Masri is a ten year veteran of international education in Amman. She manages all aspects of the housing program in Jordan, in addition to advising students on intercultural adjustment and cultural activities in Amman and recruiting Arabic speaking host families for CIEE students in Jordan.
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Stephen Bush
Stephen Bush, Student Services Director, received his M.A. in Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Texas at Austin, where he also worked as an Arabic teaching assistant. Stephen completed his undergraduate studies at Westmont College, during which he studied abroad in Egypt and travelled to Syria, Lebanon, Tunisia, and Morocco. His study abroad experience inspired him to return to Egypt and the Palestinian Territories where he worked for several years as a volunteer and teacher. Stephen developed advanced Arabic proficiency while living in the region and in 2010 he completed a summer fellowship with the Center for Arabic Study Abroad (CASA) at the American University in Cairo.
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Elena Corbett
Dr. Elena Corbett joined CIEE in August 2012 as the new CIEE Amman Resident Director. She holds a Ph.D. from the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations at the University of Chicago. She has taught a range of courses in Middle East History, Islamic Civilization, and Arabic, most recently at Penn State University Erie and the U.S. Naval Academy, where she was also the Academic Programs Coordinator for the Center for Middle East and Islamic Studies.
Elena has designed and administered several study abroad opportunities for American students in Jordan, including the inaugural year of the Critical Language Scholarship program in 2006. A specialist in the history of the modern Middle East with a background in Islamic archaeology, Elena’s research focuses on 19th-20th century intellectual history, and notions of communal identity in Jordan as based on engagement with archaeology and cultural heritage.
She has published her work in Studies in Ethnicity and Nationalism, Middle Eastern Studies, and is completing a book manuscript. Elena has spent many years living and working in Jordan, where the chance to participate on an archaeological dig brought her on her first study abroad experience as an undergraduate student.
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Taghreed Odeh
Tagreed Odeh joined CIEE as a new Resident Coordinator for the Diplomacy and Policy Studies Program in fall 2012. She worked with Royal Jordanian Airlines before joining the staff at the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy in 2009.Tagreed is an expert in protocol and enjoys sharing her favorite cultural experiences and sites with visitors to the Kingdom.
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Where You'll Study
Where You'll Study
Since its creation in 2002, the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy (JID) has been an administratively and financially independent legal identity with a mandate to “build the capacity of human resources through training and research in diplomacy, strategy, and international studies, and highlight the role of Arab Islamic civilization in international relations.” A main component of the JID’s mission is to contribute to the creation of a highly trained corps of diplomats capable of representing Jordan and serving its interests abroad effectively.
Housing & Meals
Housing & Meals
Housing is included in the study abroad program fee. All students live in CIEE-managed apartments in Amman. Apartments are furnished and have basic amenities. Students are required to abide by local cultural norms and follow CIEE policies regarding behavior.
Meals are not included in the program fee and are the responsibility of the individual student. Students may prepare meals in their apartments or eat at local restaurants and cafes. Some group meals will be provided during orientation and on CIEE-sponsored excursions.
Orientations
Orientations
You'll begin your study abroad experience in Amman even before leaving home by participating in a CIEE online pre-departure orientation. Meeting with students online, the resident director shares information about the program and site, highlighting issues that alumni have said are important, and giving you time to ask questions before leaving home. The online orientation allows you to connect with others in the group, reflect on what you want to get out of the program, and learn what others in the group would like to accomplish. The CIEE goal for the pre-departure orientation is simple—to help you understand more about the program and site, and your goals for the program so that you arrive at the program well-informed and return home having made significant progress towards those goals.
The program begins with a mandatory three-day orientation, which introduces you to the academic program, fundamentals of intercultural communication, and practical information about living in Jordan. During orientation, you'll also take a mandatory Arabic pre-test to determine your appropriate level. You'll be retested at the end of the term and receive a copy of your results while on site. Orientation also includes a health and safety component conducted in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Amman. Ongoing support is provided on an individual and group basis throughout the program.
Internet
Internet
You are encouraged to bring a wireless-enabled laptop, but will have access to computers at the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy and at the University of Jordan Library. Internet cafés are also a convenient and inexpensive option. On site, and during orientation, you will be advised on how to purchase your own internet access.
Culture
Culture
The academic program is supplemented with special guest lectures by government officials, diplomats, and local experts. In addition, CIEE coordinates a series of local field trips, cultural activities, and one overnight excursion to Petra and Wadi Rum. Resident staff will keep you up-to-date on local cultural events such as conferences, films, and concerts.
Independent Travel
You are encouraged to travel independently in Jordan during weekends and scheduled breaks. Any travel outside of Jordan requires the completion of the CIEE Amman Independent Travel Form and review of potential security or safety concerns by the CIEE resident director. You must also sign an independent travel waiver and are expected to inform your home institution and emergency contacts on all independent travel outside of Jordan.
Immersion
Internship
You may choose to enroll in a CIEE Internship as part of your academic study abroad program. Details may be found under the Elective Course information below.
Language
As you gain proficiency in Arabic, resident staff encourage you to use your language skills in everyday settings. This fosters a learning community that contributes to both Arabic language proficiency and understanding of Jordanian society.
Academics
Academics
The CIEE Diplomacy and Policy Studies study abroad program combines focused coursework in regional politics, diplomacy, and government with training in Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Jordanian Arabic. All students are required to enroll in Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Jordanian Arabic at the appropriate level. They are also required to take the CIEE core course, Jordan: A Case Study in Diplomacy and Development. In addition, students choose two elective courses. One of these electives is a semester-length internship at a local government agency, ministry, or international organization.
Academic Culture
The Jordan Institute of Diplomacy is a specialized academic institution and training facility for diplomats and government officials. Unlike a regular university campus, JID is designed as more of a research and training institute. As most of the students at JID are working government officials and diplomats in training, CIEE study abroad students are expected to act in a professional manner at all times while at the JID. CIEE courses are typically seminar style, allowing for dialogue and discussion between the professor and students. Many of the professors that teach CIEE courses have either received degrees in the U.S. or United Kingdom, or have participated in fellowships abroad, and are thus familiar with Western methods of teaching.
CIEE draws its language faculty from the University of Jordan to provide students a comprehensive curriculum focusing on four skill areas: reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension. Grammar is taught within these four skills. CIEE students have access to special Arabic tutoring sessions and weekly colloquial practice sessions.
Students also have regular instruction in colloquial Jordanian Arabic in order to enhance their communication skills. The Modern Standard Arabic courses utilize the standard curriculum and text books used by most U.S. universities and colleges. Students with more than five semesters of Arabic may find some of the language course material repetitive and should review course syllabi with their advisors in advance.
Nature of Classes
Participants take classes with other CIEE study abroad students only. Special activities and guest lectures at the JID allow CIEE students to interact with local students, government officials, and diplomats in training.
CIEE Community Language Commitment
As students gain proficiency in Arabic, resident staff encourage them to use their language skills in everyday settings. This fosters a learning community that contributes to both Arabic language proficiency and understanding of Jordanian society.
Grading System
Grades (A–F with pluses and minuses, based on a 100 point scale) are assigned based on mid-term and final exams, and depending on the course, additional assignments such as a research paper or class presentation. Attendance and class participation are also incorporated into the final grade for the program courses. Class attendance is mandatory for all CIEE classes.
Language of Instruction
Arabic
English
Faculty
Arabic language courses are taught by the CIEE Director of Arabic Instruction and CIEE language instructors from the University of Jordan. The required core course and area studies elective courses are taught by faculty and practitioners associated with the Jordan Institute of Diplomacy.
Course Description
Course Description
All Courses
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 cancelled due to insufficient enrollment.
CIEE Study Center Syllabi
To view the most recent syllabi for courses taught by CIEE at our Study Centers, visit our syllabi site.
Required CIEE Arabic Language Courses
ARAB 2002 ADPS Modern Standard Arabic Language, Intermediate II
ARAB 3001 ADPS Modern Standard Arabic Language, Advanced I
ARAB 3002 ADPS Modern Standard Arabic Language, Advanced II
These courses feature the standard curriculum and textbooks used in most U.S. universities. Students cover a semesters worth of material during their time in Jordan. Contact hours: 80. Recommended credit: 4 semester/6 quarter hours.
ARAB 1003 ADPS Colloquial Jordanian Arabic, Beginning I
ARAB 2003 ADPS Colloquial Jordanian Arabic, Intermediate I
ARAB 3003 ADPS Continued Conversations in Colloquial Jordanian Arabic (for heritage students or students with demonstrated proficiency in dialect)
Taught under the direction of Dr. Najeh Abu-Orabi and using locally prepared materials, these courses introduce students to the spoken language of Jordan and the Levant in order to develop their communicative abilities with the general public.
Required CIEE Core Course
MEST 3001 ADPS
Jordan: A Case Study in Diplomacy and Development
This course is organized as a thematic seminar on the international relations, domestic policies, and economic and social development of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Beginning with an intensive overview of the country’s founding as the Emirate of Transjordan after the Great Arab Revolt, the course consists of four congruent modules on Jordan’s history—foreign policy, governance and economy, and human development. Each module consists of a carefully selected set of readings, introductory lecture, presentations by notable guest speakers with direct, often high level experience in the issue being addressed, and interactive site visits. In addition to the introductory lectures, the faculty leader also facilitates weekly discussion sessions to ensure the students think critically about the issues, actors, and relationships impacting Jordan and the Middle East today. Course evaluation consists of a series of reflection essays and final paper on one of the core human security challenges facing Jordan in the 21st century.
CIEE Diplomacy and Policy Studies Elective Courses
Students must choose two courses from the list below. Each course below includes 42 contact hours for a recommended credit of 3 semester/4.5 quarter hours. This is a sample list of elective courses. A final course list, based on student enrollments and a pre-registration form, will be distributed to students during the on-site orientation.
INSH 3001 ADPS
Internship
Students are placed in pre-screened internships with a local or international development organization. Students record their experiences in a journal, which is evaluated monthly during the internship, and complete a final research paper that uses their experience at the organization to make inferences about issues in the region. In addition, students meet for weekly seminars and complete an assigned reading list. Students submit their resumes and home institution approval during the program application process. Contact hours: 45 (Total course hours= 135). This course includes 20 classroom contact hours, 15 individual advising hours, and approximately 100 internship hours.
ECON 3001 ADPS
Development Economics in the Middle East
This course provides an overview of development economics in the Middle East that analyzes opportunities and challenges. Issues like foreign aid, foreign investment, adjustment programs, oil and water politics, and hindrance to growth are of major concern. Challenges of foreign debt, size of public sector, unemployment, poverty, and population growth are also addressed.
GEND 3001 ADPS
Gender and Politics in the Arab World
This course addresses the lack of women’s rights and role in politics as an outstanding phenomenon in the Middle East. Causes, consequences, and cures of this regional shortcoming are analyzed. A historic and contemporary cultural framework of this phenomenon is identified and debated.
INRE 3001 ADPS
Political Structure and Dynamics of the Middle East Regional System
This course examines the international politics of the Middle East since World War II, including inter-Arab and Arab-Israeli relationships. The impact on superpower political patterns on policies are emphasized. This course identifies the major threats to regional peace and security. It tackles issues of proliferations of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, the phenomenon of non-state actors, and failed states. It also addresses the regional mechanisms that deal with these threats. The role of key international actors is also analyzed.
INRE 3002 ADPS
Arab Diplomacy
This course identifies the major issues Arab diplomacy is concerned with, and the manner by which they are debated among Arab states. It examines regional organizations and institutions as a platform used to address regional concerns. The course also describes the various diplomatic tools Arab states utilize in their regional interactions.
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