M.A. in Persian and Iranian Studies

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 79 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 60 or higher is required.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

The M.A. in Persian and Iranian Studies from the University of Arizona opens up a wide range of rewarding career opportunities for graduates. The program equips students with a deep understanding of the Persian-speaking world's language, culture, history, and contemporary issues, making them valuable assets in various professional fields. 

1. Academia: Many graduates of the M.A. in Persian and Iranian Studies pursue careers in academia. They may choose to continue their studies and pursue a Ph.D. in Persian and Iranian Studies or related fields. With their expertise in the region's language and culture, they can become professors, researchers, or scholars in universities and research institutions.

2. Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs: Graduates can find rewarding careers in diplomacy and foreign affairs, especially in roles related to Middle Eastern affairs. They can work as cultural diplomats, language specialists, or policy analysts for government agencies, international organizations, or think tanks.

3. Intelligence and Security: The language proficiency and cultural expertise gained in the program can be valuable for intelligence and security agencies. Graduates can work in roles analyzing geopolitical developments, regional politics, and cultural dynamics in the Persian-speaking world.

4. International Business: Businesses with interests in the Middle East and Persian-speaking regions seek professionals with cultural awareness and language skills. Graduates can work as international business consultants, market analysts, or liaison officers for companies engaging in trade, investment, or cultural exchange with the region.

5. Non-profit and Humanitarian Organizations: Graduates can make a positive impact by working with non-profit organizations focused on humanitarian efforts, cultural preservation, education, and community development in the Persian-speaking world.

6. Journalism and Media: With their language proficiency and cultural understanding, graduates can work as journalists, reporters, or media analysts covering news and developments in the Middle East and Persian-speaking regions.

7. Cultural Institutions: Graduates can find opportunities in cultural institutions such as museums, art galleries, and cultural centers that focus on Persian and Iranian heritage, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

8. Public Policy and Advocacy: Graduates can use their expertise to work in public policy and advocacy organizations that address social, political, and human rights issues in the Persian-speaking world.

9. Translation and Interpretation: Language proficiency in Persian opens up opportunities for graduates to work as translators or interpreters in various sectors, including government, business, and international events.

10. Education and Language Instruction: Graduates with a passion for teaching can pursue careers as language instructors, developing language programs or teaching Persian in educational institutions.

The M.A. in Persian and Iranian Studies from the University of Arizona offers graduates a diverse range of career prospects. Whether in academia, diplomacy, international business, journalism, or non-profit organizations, graduates are well-equipped with language proficiency and cultural understanding to contribute to global discussions and collaborations related to the Persian-speaking world. Their expertise in the region's history, culture, and contemporary issues makes them valuable assets in various professional fields, fostering cross-cultural understanding and cooperation on an international scale. The program's interdisciplinary approach and language immersion provide graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in their chosen career paths, making a positive impact in their fields of expertise.