Proposal to Establish a Middle East Studies Minor

REPORT FOR THE UNIVERSITY SENATE

University Senate Academic Policies Committee

Brief History of the Issue

The Middle East Studies Minor is a collaborative proposal involving the Department of Foreign Languages (administrative home), Geography and Anthropology, History, Philosophy and Religious Studies, and Political Science.  The proposed minor is consistent with the global education initiatives of the UWEC strategic plan.  It responds to students’ interest in expanded opportunities for Middle East studies, and to community and regional interest and support for focused studies of the Middle East.  The proposed minor is constructed with existing courses and faculty and is supported by the local Arab American community and the L.E. Phillips Foundation.  Additional budgetary support is planned through participation in the Fulbright FLTA program.  Support for instruction in Arabic Language will be augmented if necessary through the online program offered by Montana State University. 

Points Discussed by Committee:

• Impact on course accessibility for other majors and minors
• Ability to provide sufficient support for Arabic Language Instruction
• Access to U.W. System collaborative language program
• Impact on the Department of Foreign Languages ability to offer related courses as demand for the minor increases

Pros:

• Responsive to globalization efforts and to student needs
• Makes efficient use of existing courses and other resources
• Strengthens opportunities for international experiences in the Middle East

 Cons:

• Will require reallocation of resources to ensure long-term access to language courses
• Consistent access to First Year Arabic Language instruction

MOTION FOR THE UNIVERSITY SENATE

The University Academic Policies Committee by a vote of 7 votes for and 0 votes against, recommends to the University Senate that a Middle East Studies Minor be established.

Implementation Date: On approval

Dr. Robert E. Hollon, chair, on behalf of the

University Senate Academic Policies Committee