In a nutshell: The USA offers a wealth of opportunities to learn Arabic, from university programs like those at Portland State and DePaul to vibrant community centers in cities like Dallas and New York. Whether through immersive classes or flexible online platforms like Kalimah Center, learners can tailor their experience to fit their needs, making mastering Arabic both accessible and engaging.
In the United States, you can find many official and private centers that offer Arabic programs tailored for all levels. You can learn Arabic in a way that suits your needs and schedule, whether you live in a big city like Dallas or a quieter place like Denver.
This guide will take you through some of the university programs and the top options in some states in the USA where you can learn Arabic. I will share with you the best centers, both official and private, to help you find the right place to start or continue your journey in learning Arabic.
Some of the Top Advanced University Programs to Learn Arabic in the USA
If you are in the USA and want to learn Arabic, you have many options. Some of the best universities offer programs that help you become fluent in Arabic, and they teach you a lot about the cultures and histories of Arabic-speaking countries.
Let me tell you about a few good ones that can help you choose the right path.
1. BA in Arabic at Portland State University
Portland State University (PSU) in Oregon has a special program if you want a deep dive into Arabic. This university is one of the best places to learn Arabic in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.
You’ll study modern literary Arabic, learn to read and write, and understand both old and new literature. You’ll also learn about Arabic cinema, media, folklore, and even how to write in Arabic calligraphy.
The program at PSU is very interactive, and the small classes mean your teachers will get to know you well, so you will have personal guidance and continuous feedback.
What’s really interesting is that PSU offers a lot of career choices after you finish your degree. You can work in fields like international development, business, translation, social work, politics, and more. They even provide special tutors for the Arabic language, so if you feel stuck, someone is always there to help. If you want to learn Arabic and get a job anywhere in the world, PSU is a great place to start.
2. MA in Arabic at DePaul University
If you already have a basic understanding of Arabic and want to go further, DePaul University in Chicago offers a Master’s degree in Arabic.
This program is very flexible, and you can choose what you want to study based on your career goals. Whether you are a social worker, government employee, or teacher, this program can help you improve your skills in the Arabic language to use in your professional life.
You can also combine this degree with other graduate certificate programs to learn even more. This program is great for adults who need to study while working or professionals looking to get better at what they do.
3. BA in Arabic Studies at American University – Shorelight
American University in Washington, D.C., is another good option. They have a program where you learn both Modern Standard Arabic and local dialects, so you are prepared for any Arabic-speaking country you want to visit or work in.
Their teachers use fun activities and methods to make learning Arabic enjoyable. And you can even study abroad in Jordan or Morocco as part of the program. Imagine practicing your Arabic in a real Arabic-speaking country!
If you love history, culture, and language, you can learn much about the Arabic-Islamic civilization here too. You will also need to study some advanced Arabic courses and pick one with a strong classical Arabic component. If you want to combine your Arabic skills with another major, like political science or international relations, you can do that too.
Learn Arabic in Dallas
Dallas, Texas, is a great city to learn Arabic. It has a rich cultural mix and a few options that can make your learning experience enjoyable and efficient.
1. The Arabic Immersion Magnet School (AIMS) in Dallas
If you are looking for an official place to learn Arabic, the Arabic Immersion Magnet School is a fantastic option. This school provides an immersive experience where you learn Arabic through daily classes and cultural activities.
2. Islamic Association of North Texas (IANT) Quranic Academy
This is a private institution that focuses on teaching Arabic for understanding the Quran. It offers classes for all age groups, from children to adults, and focuses on classical Arabic.
3. University of Texas at Dallas – Arabic Studies Program
The University of Texas at Dallas offers an Arabic Studies Program, which is great if you want to take Arabic seriously. The courses are part of their Middle Eastern Studies curriculum, which includes not only language classes but also cultural and historical context.
Learn Arabic in Denver
Denver, Colorado, may not be the first place you think of for learning Arabic, but it actually has some hidden gems for Arabic learners.
1. University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder)
University of Colorado Boulder offers Arabic courses that are part of their Middle Eastern Studies program. They also provide language exchange programs where you can practice Arabic with native speakers.
2. Denver Islamic Society – Arabic for Children and Adults
The Denver Islamic Society offers Arabic classes mainly for those who want to learn the language in a religious context. They provide a relaxed environment and focus on both Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Quranic Arabic.
Learn Arabic in New York City
New York is a melting pot of cultures, and Arabic is no exception. You will find many places to learn Arabic here.
1. New York University – NYU Language Center
The NYU Language Center offers Arabic courses at different levels, from beginner to advanced. It’s one of the best options if you are looking for a structured and academic approach to learning Arabic.
2. Arab-American Family Support Center
This center is a community-based organization that offers free or low-cost Arabic classes. It is ideal if you want to learn Arabic in a friendly and supportive environment.
When you’re in New York, try to visit “Little Egypt” in Astoria, Queens. You can practice ordering Arabic food and say “أريد…” (Ureed), which means “I want…”.
Learn Arabic in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California, has a significant Arab-American population, which means there are plenty of options for learning Arabic.
1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Arabic Language and Cultures Program
UCLA offers a comprehensive Arabic Language and Cultures program. This program is suitable if you are looking for an academic environment with a strong focus on both language and culture.
2. Arabic Language Center (ALC) Los Angeles
A private center that focuses on teaching Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and different Arabic dialects. They offer group classes, private lessons, and online classes.
3. Islamic Center of Southern California
The Islamic Center offers Arabic classes for all levels, focusing mainly on classical and Quranic Arabic. They have programs for both adults and children.
Learn Arabic in Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, is another vibrant city with many opportunities to learn Arabic.
1. The University of Chicago – Arabic Language and Literatures Department
The University of Chicago offers an in-depth program in Arabic Language and Literatures, focusing on both Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and classical Arabic.
2. Arab American Action Network (AAAN)
This community organization offers Arabic classes for beginners and intermediates, with a focus on conversational skills.
When in Chicago, visit “Little Arabia” on Kedzie Avenue. You can practice Arabic greetings and say “من فضلك” (Min Fadlik), which means “Please.”
Learn Arabic in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is rich in resources for learning Arabic, especially due to its political and cultural connections to the Arab world.
1. Georgetown University – Arabic and Islamic Studies Department
Georgetown University is known for its Arabic and Islamic Studies program, one of the most comprehensive in the USA. They offer a variety of courses in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and dialects.
2. Middle East Institute (MEI) Language School
The MEI Language School offers Arabic classes for professionals and government employees, focusing on practical use and cultural understanding.
3. The Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center (SQCC)
This center offers free Arabic language classes to promote Arabic culture and language learning in the United States.
D.C. is also home to many embassies and cultural events where you can immerse yourself in Arabic culture. Practice saying “كيف يمكنني أن أذهب إلى…؟” (Kayfa Yumkinuni An Adhahab Ila…?), meaning “How can I go to…?”
Learn Arabic in Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia, has a growing demand for Arabic, and several institutions cater to this need.
1. Georgia State University – Arabic Language Program
The Arabic Language Program at Georgia State University offers classes for different levels, from beginners to advanced students.
2. Alif Institute
A private cultural and educational center that provides Arabic classes for both children and adults. They focus on the cultural aspects of the Arabic language.
3. Atlanta Arabic School
An excellent choice for those who want to learn Arabic in a community setting. They offer classes during weekends for all levels.
Learn Arabic in Boston
Boston, Massachusetts, has several prestigious institutions offering Arabic courses.
1. Harvard University – Arabic Language Program
Harvard offers one of the most prestigious Arabic programs in the USA, focusing on both Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and classical Arabic.
2. Boston Language Institute
A private language school offering flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes for all levels.
3. Islamic Society of Boston – Arabic Classes
Offers weekend Arabic classes for both children and adults. Focuses on conversational and Quranic Arabic.
Learn Arabic From Your USA Home with an Experienced Native Teacher!
Are you looking to learn Arabic but unsure where to start? At Kalimah Center, we make learning Arabic easy and accessible for everyone, no matter where you are in the USA.
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- Personalized and focused on helping you develop all the key language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- You will practice speaking Arabic in real-life situations, learn to read Arabic texts with confidence, and even master Arabic grammar with the help of our expert teachers.
- And don’t worry, we offer a placement test to ensure you start at the right level, and you can earn a certificate of completion once you pass.
With Kalimah Center, you can study Arabic from the comfort of your home and at your own pace.
Our courses are interactive, using PowerPoint presentations and direct dialogue training to keep you engaged.
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Conclusion:
In the USA, learning Arabic is highly accessible through various university programs and private institutions across cities like Dallas, Denver, New York, and Los Angeles.
Universities such as Portland State University and DePaul University offer comprehensive degree programs that integrate language skills with cultural studies, while community organizations and language schools provide tailored courses for all ages and proficiency levels.
Major cities boast resources like immersion schools and cultural centers, ensuring a rich learning experience.
For those unable to attend in-person classes, online platforms like Kalimah Center offer flexible and personalized Arabic courses that cater to all levels. These programs focus on essential language skills and real-life applications, allowing students to learn at their own pace from home. With options ranging from formal university education to community-driven initiatives, aspiring Arabic learners can find the perfect fit for their goals and lifestyles.
