Arabic Master of Arts in Professional Language

The College of Humanities offers an interdisciplinary Master of Arts in Professional Language (MAPL) designed to help students reach the ACTFL Superior level in Arabic. The program prepares students for careers in government, translation, business, and other professional fields where advanced language and cultural proficiency are essential.

Students earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees concurrently and typically apply during their junior year.

Program Structure

• First Year: Students refine their presentation, project management, and domain-specific Arabic language skills.
• Second Year: Students participate in an immersive in-country experience, which typically includes both fully funded language study and a professional internship.

Example: Our first MAPL student, an electrical engineering major, completed a summer internship in Tangier with a multinational company specializing in wiring systems for cars, submarines, and airplanes. He is now continuing his studies in the prestigious CASA program.

Application Requirements

Interested students may apply online at MAPL Application Portal, where further program details are provided. Applications include:

• Language test scores: OPI (speaking), WPT (writing), ALT (listening), ART (reading).
  Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in speaking and at least one other skill at the Advanced-Mid level.
• Personal statement: How MAPL will support your professional goals
• Summary of previous immersion experience
• Timeline for completing the MAPL in addition to your primary major
• References:
  One from your highest-level Arabic instructor
  One from a faculty member in your primary major
• Interview with the MAPL Faculty Coordinator and the Center for Language Studies (CLS) Assistant Director

Contact

For more information about the Arabic MAPL, please contact:
Professor Belnap
3064B JFSB
belnap@byu.edu