Purpose and Objectives
The purpose of the Middle Eastern Studies program is to prepare students for international ministry opportunities, particularly in the Middle East. The program includes a year of study in Israel at Jerusalem University College (JUC), an evangelical institution with which Columbia International University has a consortial relationship. While in Israel, students will be placed in Jewish or Arab ministry contexts to develop their ministry skills according to their vocational goals.
In addition to the mission statement, general objectives, and requirements of the college, the objectives of the Middle Eastern Studies program are to develop in students the skills and knowledge necessary to:
- Gain experience in Middle Eastern life and culture.
- Develop cross-cultural communication and ministry skills.
- Understand more clearly the beliefs and practices of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
- Acquire a firsthand knowledge of the geography of Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.
See Undergraduate Core for graduation requirements.
Note: There may be times when the political unrest in the Middle East forces JUC to discontinue classes for a semester or longer. Consult the program director for the current status of studies at Jerusalem University College. Study at JUC requires a separate application process, and acceptance into CIU does not imply or guarantee acceptance into JUC. Please consult the program director for details.
