The knowledge gained from a major in Near Eastern Studies of Middle Eastern history, culture, religions, politics, economics, and geography, as well as foreign language study in Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish, provides a strong foundation for careers or further studies. Graduates might work in the United States or abroad as translators, educators, or international aid distributors, or in business, politics, or the tourism industry. This major is also excellent preparation for graduate programs in Near Eastern studies, geography, public health, anthropology, business administration, or education, among other disciplines. Some of the job titles listed below may require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Research
- Translation
- Education
- Politics
- Journalism
- International aid
- Business
- Cultural/historical preservation
Sample Employers:
- Government agencies
- U.S. Military
- Schools
- Colleges and universities
- News agencies
- Businesses
- Nonprofit organizations
- Museums
- Cultural centers
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Interpreter
|
$34,000 - $45,500
|
|
Translator
|
$37,500 - $47,500
|
|
Foreign Language Teacher
|
$40,500 - $54,000
|
|
Intelligence Officer
|
$33,979 - $60,274
|
|
Cryptographic Technician
|
$39,930 - $50,000
|
|
Peace Worker
|
$30,000 - $40,000
|
|
Grant Coordinator
|
$36,143 - $43,271
|
|
Museum Technician
|
$24,400 - $37,300
|
|
Political Consultant
|
$30,000 - $105,000
|
|
International Aid Worker
|
$25,000 - $50,000
|
|
International Election Observer
|
$300-$400/day
|
|
International Educator
|
$35,000 - $60,000
|
|
Import/Export Specialist
|
$19,000 - $50,000
|
|
Ethnoscientist
|
$33,950 - $55,000
|
|
Foreign Correspondent
|
$28,162 - $43,292
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).