
Jordan is an ideal destination for students interested in studying Arabic as well as a host of other subjects including archaeology, history, religion, political science, and more. Spoken Arabic in Jordan is one of the closest to the Standard Modern Arabic.
Jordan has a long history that stretches back to biblical times. Historical sites can still be seen in stunning locations such as Petra, an ancient city that is literary carved into mountain rocks (UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the world), an ancient Roman amphitheater in Jarash, to Ajloun – a Castle from crusaders’ era.
Today, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a moderate nation and a crossroads within the Middle East for trade and communications. It is also part of a region that has always served as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Jordan is a pro-American country where over 100,000 American citizens live and work.
One of Jordan's unique treasures is the Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth at more than 1,300 feet below sea level. In the Dead sea, you can easily float because of natural buoyancy.
Another expedition is to Wadi Rum which is famous for its desert scenery and towering rock formations. The film "Lawrence of Arabia," was filmed in Wadi Rum.
Amman is a unique city, built on a series of hills and valleys, nestled between ancient ruins and modern architecture. Amman is one of the most diverse cities in the region and enjoys a thriving arts scene, along with historical monuments, including a Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century B.C. and remains of a temple that was believed to have been built by Hercules himself.
The program will be hosted at the University of Jordan (UJ). The UJ is one of the major destinations for higher education centers in the Middle East. Its language center receives students from all over the world and has a staff of well qualified professors skilled in teaching Arabic language for non-Arabic speakers.
For U.S. citizens, visa can be obtained at the airport in Amman upon arrival.
Students interested in this program should attend an information session that will be scheduled during the fall semester.
Students will reside in apartments and hotels. Most group meals will be provided.
For the current projected costs for this program, please click on the following link to the Fees for JMU Study Abroad Programs page.
For more detailed instructions and to download the application, please click on the following link to the Applications and Forms section for JMU Short-Term Programs.
In addition to the Short-term Application, interested students should submit an essay and faculy recommendation. There will also be an interview. The essay that you will submit with your application materials must explain your interest in participating in this program.