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B-A-HONS in Arabic at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Arabic at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This B.A. (Hons.) Arabic program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of Arabic language, literature, culture, and history. It equips students with advanced linguistic proficiency and deep cultural insights, fostering expertise highly valued in India''''s growing diplomatic, cultural exchange, and business ties with the Middle East and North Africa. The program stands out for its rigorous academic approach and emphasis on both classical and modern Arabic.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 seeking entry into international relations, cultural studies, or translation fields. It also appeals to individuals passionate about linguistic diversity and those aiming for careers in diplomacy, journalism, or academic research concerning the Arab world. A strong inclination towards language learning and cultural exploration is a key prerequisite, though prior Arabic knowledge is not strictly necessary due to the foundational learning provided.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as interpreters, translators, foreign service officers, cultural attachés, researchers, journalists, and educators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-15 lakhs. Growth trajectories often lead to senior diplomatic positions, academic leadership, or specialized roles in international organizations, leveraging India''''s increasing global engagement.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Grammatical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Consistently practice basic Arabic grammar rules, verb conjugations, and noun declensions daily. Focus on understanding the structure of simple nominal and verbal sentences, which are crucial for advanced learning.
Tools & Resources
Al-Kitab fi Ta''''allum al-''''Arabiyyah textbook series, Anki flashcards for vocabulary, Online grammar exercises from sites like Madinah Arabic
Career Connection
A robust grammatical foundation is indispensable for accurate translation and effective communication, essential skills for future roles in diplomacy, academia, and business.
Immerse in Arabic Culture and Media- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement classroom learning by actively engaging with simple Arabic cultural content. Watch subtitled Arabic movies/series, listen to Arabic music, and follow simple news channels (e.g., Al Jazeera Arabic''''s simpler news segments for beginners).
Tools & Resources
Netflix (with Arabic content), YouTube channels for Arabic learners, BBC Arabic/Al Jazeera websites
Career Connection
Develops cultural intelligence and contextual understanding, critical for effective cross-cultural communication in diplomatic and international business roles.
Establish a Study Group and Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Form small study groups with classmates to review lessons, practice conversation, and clarify doubts. Peer teaching can solidify understanding of complex grammatical concepts and improve spoken fluency.
Tools & Resources
WhatsApp groups, Google Meet for online sessions, JNU library study spaces
Career Connection
Fosters teamwork and communication skills, vital for collaborative environments in any professional setting, and builds a supportive academic network.
Intermediate Stage
Focus on Intensive Reading and Translation Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Regularly read intermediate-level Arabic texts (short stories, simplified news articles) and practice translating passages from Arabic to English and vice-versa. Pay attention to vocabulary in context and sentence structure nuances.
Tools & Resources
Online Arabic news portals (Al-Arabiya, RT Arabic), Short story collections, Specialized translation practice books
Career Connection
Directly enhances proficiency for roles in translation, content writing, and analytical positions requiring nuanced understanding of Arabic sources.
Engage in Conversational Practice with Native Speakers- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to converse with native Arabic speakers, if available, or participate in university language exchange programs. Practice expressing opinions, debating topics, and engaging in more complex discussions beyond basic greetings.
Tools & Resources
Tandem or HelloTalk apps (if safe and appropriate), JNU''''s international student community, Cultural events at embassies
Career Connection
Builds fluency and confidence in spoken Arabic, crucial for diplomatic, liaison, and international communication roles.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
For each literature or history course, go beyond required readings by conducting small research projects on specific authors, literary movements, or historical events, using Arabic sources where possible.
Tools & Resources
JNU library''''s Arabic section, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Academia.edu), Official archives
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, research skills, and academic writing abilities, foundational for higher studies and roles in intelligence, policy analysis, and academia.
Advanced Stage
Specialize and Develop Professional Vocabulary- (Semester 6-8)
Identify a specific area of interest (e.g., media, business, diplomacy, classical literature) and actively acquire specialized vocabulary and rhetorical devices pertinent to that field. Focus on reading advanced texts and current affairs.
Tools & Resources
Specialized Arabic dictionaries (e.g., economic, legal), UN Arabic documents, Official statements from Arab governments
Career Connection
Prepares students for highly specialized roles in fields like economic reporting, diplomatic correspondence, or academic research, providing a competitive edge in job markets.
Prepare for the Dissertation/Project with Rigor- (Semester 7-8)
Begin planning the dissertation/project topic early, conduct extensive literature reviews, and consistently work on research methodology and drafting. Seek regular feedback from supervisors and refine arguments based on critical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Academic writing workshops, JNU research methodology resources
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases independent research capability and analytical prowess, vital for postgraduate studies, research positions, and high-level policy analysis roles.
Network and Strategize for Placements/Higher Education- (Semester 6-8)
Attend career fairs, workshops, and seminars related to international relations, foreign languages, and cultural studies. Network with alumni, faculty, and industry professionals to explore internship and job opportunities in relevant Indian and international organizations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, JNU placement cell, Career counseling services, Alumni network
Career Connection
Proactive networking and strategic career planning are crucial for securing internships, coveted job placements, or admissions to prestigious Master''''s/Ph.D. programs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Senior School Certificate (10+2) or an equivalent examination with a minimum of 45% marks. Candidates with a B.A./B.Sc./B.Com. degree (10+2+3 pattern) with a minimum of 45% marks are also eligible. Appearing candidates must produce proof of passing at the time of admission.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 128 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 101 | Basic Arabic Grammar-I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Arabic Alphabet, Pronunciation Rules, Nouns: Masculine/Feminine, Singular/Dual/Plural, Pronouns: Detached and Attached, Simple Nominal Sentences |
| AAR 102 | Arabic Reading and Writing-I | Core | 4 | Reading Short Simple Texts, Basic Arabic Vocabulary, Writing Simple Sentences, Introduction to Arabic Calligraphy, Dictation Practice |
| AAR 103 | History of Arabic Literature (Pre-Islamic Period) | Core | 4 | Pre-Islamic Arabian Society and Culture, Characteristics of Pre-Islamic Poetry, The Mu''''allaqat and its significance, Major Pre-Islamic Poets: Imru'''' al-Qays, Tarafa, Themes and Genres of Early Arabic Poetry |
| AAR 104 | Communicative Arabic-I | Core | 4 | Everyday Greetings and Introductions, Self-description and Personal Information, Asking and Answering Basic Questions, Simple Conversational Phrases, Basic Tourist Arabic |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 201 | Basic Arabic Grammar-II | Core | 4 | Verbal Sentences: Past and Present Tenses, Prepositions and Adverbs, Adjectives and Noun-Adjective Agreement, Introduction to Diptotes (al-Mamnu'''' min al-Sarf), Numbers and Counting |
| AAR 202 | Arabic Reading and Writing-II | Core | 4 | Reading Short Narratives and Simple Articles, Expanding Active Vocabulary, Paragraph Writing Techniques, Comprehension Exercises, Advanced Dictation |
| AAR 203 | History of Arabic Literature (Early Islamic Period) | Core | 4 | The Rise of Islam and its Literary Impact, The Holy Qur''''an: Literary Features, Hadith Literature, Early Islamic Poetry: Hassan ibn Thabit, Prose Forms in Early Islam |
| AAR 204 | Communicative Arabic-II | Core | 4 | Expressing Preferences and Opinions, Giving and Understanding Directions, Describing People, Places, and Objects, Ordering Food and Shopping, Role-playing Everyday Situations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 301 | Intermediate Arabic Grammar-I | Core | 4 | Derived Forms of Verbs (Form II, III, IV), Verbal Nouns (Masdar) and their Usage, Active and Passive Participles, Conditional Sentences, Construct State (Idafa) |
| AAR 302 | Arabic Reading and Comprehension-I | Core | 4 | Reading Intermediate Literary Texts, Understanding News Articles, Comprehending Short Stories, Identifying Main Ideas and Supporting Details, Summarization Techniques |
| AAR 303 | History of Arabic Literature (Umayyad Period) | Core | 4 | The Umayyad Dynasty: Political and Social Context, Literary Patronage and Development, Major Poetic Genres: Ghazal, Naqa''''id, Prominent Umayyad Poets: Jarir, Farazdaq, Akhtal, Prose Development in the Umayyad Era |
| AAR 304 | Communicative Arabic-III | Core | 4 | Discussing Daily Routines and Hobbies, Talking About Travel and Future Plans, Making Appointments and Reservations, Expressing Emotions and Feelings, Participating in Group Discussions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 401 | Intermediate Arabic Grammar-II | Core | 4 | Derived Forms of Verbs (Form V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X), Verbs with Weak Radicals (Ajwaf, Naqis, Mithal), Hamzated and Doubled Verbs, Moods of the Imperfect Verb (Indicative, Subjunctive, Jussive), Adverbial Nouns (Maf''''ul Mutlaq, Maf''''ul Fih) |
| AAR 402 | Arabic Reading and Comprehension-II | Core | 4 | Reading Longer Literary and Academic Texts, Analyzing Cultural and Historical Texts, Critical Evaluation of Content, Answering In-depth Comprehension Questions, Identifying Rhetorical Devices |
| AAR 403 | History of Arabic Literature (Abbasid Period-I) | Core | 4 | The Abbasid Revolution and its Impact, The Golden Age of Islamic Civilization, Development of Prose: Adab Literature, Kalila wa Dimna, Major Prose Writers and Scholars, Early Abbasid Poetic Innovations |
| AAR 404 | Communicative Arabic-IV | Core | 4 | Debating and Arguing on Simple Topics, Expressing Agreement and Disagreement, Delivering Short Presentations, Interview Practice in Arabic, Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 501 | Advanced Arabic Grammar-I | Core | 4 | Ism al-Fa''''il (Active Participle) and Ism al-Maf''''ul (Passive Participle), Ism al-Tafdil (Comparative and Superlative), Numbers and their Concordance with Nouns, The Vocative Case (Nida''''), Advanced Particles and Conjunctions |
| AAR 502 | Advanced Arabic Reading and Translation-I | Core | 4 | Translation of Literary Passages (Arabic to English), Translating News Reports and Editorials, Identifying Nuances and Subtleties in Meaning, Principles of Effective Translation, Practicing Textual Analysis for Translation |
| AAR 503 | History of Arabic Literature (Abbasid Period-II) | Core | 4 | Later Abbasid Period: Political Fragmentation, Rise of Regional Literary Centers, Major Poets: Al-Mutanabbi, Abu al-Ala al-Ma''''arri, Development of Philosophical and Scientific Prose, Literary Criticism in the Abbasid Era |
| AAR 504 | Introduction to Classical Arabic Texts | Core | 4 | Selections from Classical Arabic Prose (e.g., Al-Jahiz), Selections from Classical Arabic Poetry, Introduction to Tafsir (Qur''''anic Exegesis), Introduction to Hadith Studies, Literary Analysis of Classical Works |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 601 | Advanced Arabic Grammar-II | Core | 4 | Juridical and Journalistic Arabic Structures, Advanced Syntax and Sentence Analysis, Rhetorical Devices (Balagha): Metaphor, Simile, Kinaya, Introduction to Arabic Prosody (Arud), Figurative Language in Arabic |
| AAR 602 | Advanced Arabic Reading and Translation-II | Core | 4 | Translation of Official Documents and Reports, Translating Technical and Scientific Texts, Literary Criticism and Poetic Translation, Interpreting Cultural Contexts in Translation, Use of Translation Tools and Resources |
| AAR 603 | History of Arabic Literature (Andalusia and Post-Abbasid Period) | Core | 4 | Arabic Literature in Al-Andalus (Spain), Mamluk and Ottoman Periods: Literary Trends, Impact of Foreign Rule on Arabic Literature, Development of Muwashshah and Zajal (Poetic Forms), Prominent Writers of these Periods |
| AAR 604 | Modern Arabic Prose | Core | 4 | Development of Modern Arabic Novel, Modern Arabic Short Stories, Essays and Critical Writings by Modern Authors, Literary Movements of the 20th Century, Analysis of Selected Modern Prose Works |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 701 | Modern Arabic Poetry | Core | 4 | Revival of Arabic Poetry and Neoclassical Movement, Free Verse Movement and its Pioneers, Major Modern Poets: Mahmoud Darwish, Nizar Qabbani, Adonis, Themes in Modern Arabic Poetry: Nationalism, Identity, Exile, Impact of Western Literature on Modern Arabic Poetry |
| AAR 702 | Introduction to Arabic Linguistics | Core | 4 | Phonetics and Phonology of Arabic, Arabic Morphology and Word Formation, Syntax: Sentence Structure and Constituents, Semantics: Meaning and Interpretation, Introduction to Arabic Dialectology and Sociolinguistics |
| AAR 703 | Introduction to Media Arabic | Core | 4 | Vocabulary and Style of Arabic News Reports, Broadcast Journalism in Arabic, Analyzing Political Discourse in Arabic Media, Reading and Listening to Arabic News, Understanding Media Bias and Perspectives |
| AAR 704 | Dissertation/Project (Research Methodology) | Core | 4 | Formulating Research Questions and Hypotheses, Conducting Literature Reviews, Data Collection Methods in Humanities, Academic Writing and Citation Styles, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAR 801 | Introduction to Literary Criticism in Arabic | Core | 4 | Classical Theories of Arabic Literary Criticism, Modern Approaches to Arabic Text Analysis, Schools of Thought in Arabic Criticism, Analyzing Poetry and Prose through Critical Lenses, Impact of Western Criticism on Arabic Literary Studies |
| AAR 802 | Arabic for Specific Purposes (Business/Diplomatic) | Core | 4 | Business Correspondence and Report Writing, Diplomatic Communication and Protocol, Negotiation Skills in Arabic, Delivering Formal Speeches and Presentations, Specialized Vocabulary for Business and Diplomacy |
| AAR 803 | Dissertation/Project | Core | 4 | In-depth Research on a Chosen Topic, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Writing a Comprehensive Thesis/Project Report, Presenting Research Findings, Defense of Dissertation/Project |
| AAR 804 | Internship/Viva-Voce | Core | 4 | Practical Experience in Translation, Research, or Education, Application of Academic Knowledge in Real-world Settings, Oral Examination on Core Program Content, Assessment of Language Proficiency and Subject Matter Expertise, Professional Development and Networking |
