Arabic Studies in Ifrane, Morocco
- Spend eight weeks in Morocco studying Arabic language and culture.
- Take classes from Moroccan instructors.
- Program includes weekend excursions and cultural activities.
- This program is not currently offered as a Faculty-led program. Students can attend this as a Student Initiated Program.
From the Sahara desert oasis of Marrakesh to the teeming metropolis of Casablanca and the elegant royal cities of Rabat and Fez, Morocco has long been a major political, commercial and cultural crossroad in the history of North Africa and the Mediterranean region. A truly diverse society, Morocco is a point of convergence for African, Arab and Mediterranean cultures. Today, this rich and diverse history is evident in the peaceful mingling of different ethnicities, faiths, dialects and cuisine. Situated in the heart of a region known for its beautiful forests, mountains, lakes and waterfalls, Ifrane is located just 60 kilometers from the historically rich imperial city of Fez, one of the most prestigious cities of the Muslim world and the capital of the first Arab dynasty of Morocco.
Al-Akhawayn University is a young, modern institution inaugurated by His Majesty King Hassan II of Morocco in 1995. Morocco’s first English-language university, Al-Akhawayn takes an innovative approach to education, combining the humanistic tradition of Arab and Mediterranean cultures with the structure of the American university system. Visiting American students experience a new and different academic culture combined with the comforting familiarity of their home university. The University also offers intense faculty-student interaction, with small classes and a curriculum characterized by an interdisciplinary spirit.
Academic facilities at Al-Akhawayn include the largest computer network in all of Africa, one of the finest libraries in Morocco, several research centers and a state-of-the-art language laboratory. Student service facilities are just as modern and well-appointed, with pleasant student housing in 16 residence halls, a student center, health services center, counseling services, career services, and an excellent sports center. Student life is interesting and dynamic, with international students comprising nearly 10% of the student body and increasing each year.
The Arabic Language and North African Studies (ARANAS) summer program at Al-Akhawayn University is designed for students who wish to experience living and studying in an Arab country as part of their education for a relatively short period of time. It provides beginning to advanced Arabic language students the opportunity to study the Arabic language in context. There are also opportunities to take Arabic language in the context of specific professions or to take courses focused on the history and culture of North Africa and the Middle East. Details about these options can be found on the ARANAS program webpage.
Student housing at Al-Akhawayn University is included in the cost of the program. Men’s and women’s dormitories are located on the university campus.
Weekend Trips
The program includes weekend trips. Typically these trips are to the Sahara Desert, Marrakesh, Fez, and Meknes. Students are required to use the vocabulary learned in the classroom when interacting with native speakers. Transportation, hotel, and all meals during the trips are included in the program cost. Optional group trips can be arranged to explore other areas of Morocco and Southern Spain.
Clubs
The clubs are an opportunity for students to practice and learn new vocabulary specific to the goals of each club. Clubs include Music, Calligraphy, Cooking, and Debate.
Food
Meals at the university’s cafeteria are included in the program fee. Couscous, tagine stew, and many other culinary delights will make you yearn for a Moroccan restaurant when you return to Lawrence.
SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.
Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.
Open to students in good academic standing from any accredited U.S. college or university. At least one semester of college-level Arabic language or the equivalent is recommended. Minimum 2.50 GPA required. (Exceptions considered only after submission of a petition.)
Visit the Arabic and North African Studies (ARANAS) page for more information about the program.
FLAS Summer Fellowships
Since this program meets all Department of Education requirements for intensive summer language programs, eligible students may use FLAS Summer Fellowships.