This course offers an introduction to the theories and methods of studying culture and deals with the history and development of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) culture from the classical period to the present. It examines the major cultural patterns and institutions of the MENA region.The course is taught through a study of some lively topics such as religious and ethnic diversity, impact of the West, stereotyping, the role of tradition, education (traditional and modern), family structure and value, gender politics, media, life in city, town and village, labour and labour migration, the Palestinian refugee problem and exile communities, culinary cultures, music and media, etc.The course is normally offered in conjunction with Beginners Arabic (Level 1 or 2).Beginners Arabic (Level 1)This is an introductory course in Modern Standard Arabic. It teaches students the Arabic script and provides basic grounding in Arabic grammar and syntax. On completing the course, students should be able to read, write, listen to, and understand simple Arabic sentences and passages. This course is for complete beginners and does not require any prior knowledge of Arabic.Beginners Arabic (Level 2)This course is a continuation of Beginners Arabic Level 1. It completes the coverage of the grammar and syntax of Modern Standard Arabic and trains students in reading, comprehending and writing with the help of a dictionary more complex Arabic sentences and passages.To qualify for entry into this course, students should have completed at least one prior introductory course in Arabic.

Target group
Current students, professionals + leisure learners

Credits info
7.5 ECTS Please note that summer courses are not accredited by SOAS and please be aware that the decision to award credits rests with your home institution.Assessment will vary for each course. Participants will be provided with a certificate of attendance and transcripts will be available on request.

Fee info
GBP 1400: Tuition fee2,500 (both courses) 1,250 (one course)An early bird discount of 10% is available if fees are paid by 31 March 2015.20% discount for current SOAS students and alumni.Other discounts are available for partner institutions and groups, please contact us for further information.SOAS Summer School Terms and ConditionsApplication FeeA one-off, non-refundable application fee of 60 payable through the SOAS Online Store will be charged to cover administration costs.Accommodation feefrom 300/weekRooms can be booked at the Intercollegiate Halls which are located in the heart of Bloomsbury: www.halls.london.ac.uk

Scholarships
SOAS, University of London offers a limited number of scholarships for participation in academic courses which are part of sessions 2 and 3 of the SOAS Academic Summer School 2015 programme. These scholarships are in the form of partial fee waivers to cur

SOAS, University of London
Address: SOAS, University of London Thornhaugh Street
Postal code: WC1H 0XG
City: London
Country: United Kingdom
Website: http://www.soas.ac.uk/summerschool/subjects/
E-mail: summerschool@soas.ac.uk
Phone: +44 2078984205