In conjunction with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, George Fox students can participate in the Middle East Studies Program (MESP), based in Cairo, Egypt. This program helps students understand the history, religions, peoples, and cultures of this fascinating and complex region. Students also gain an appreciation of the Middle Eastern church and an understanding of the economic and political realities which influence the quest for peace in the Middle East. A trip to other parts of the Middle East is included in the study experience.
Course content
Three interdisciplinary seminars are offered: "Peoples and Cultures of the Middle East," "Islam in the Modern World," and "Conflict and Change in the Middle East Today." MESP students also study the Arabic language with a certified instructor for 100 hours.
Service Opportunity/Internship
MESP students participate each week in a service opportunity in cooperation with one of many organizations in Cairo.
Application Deadlines
The student must fill out two applications: a George Fox off-campus application form (available from the registrar's office) and a Middle East Studies Program application (to be completed online at https://bestsemester.com/applications/students). An application fee must accompany your application. (Note: Actual program deadlines will differ.)
Eligibility
MESP students generally are CCCU member college juniors or seniors with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Credits
Because students remain enrolled in their home institutions while participating in the MESP, academic credit is awarded by the student's home institution. Recommended credits: Arabic language 1; Seminars 12
Housing
Students live in furnished apartments close to the MESP center, just minutes from downtown Cairo and within walking distance of local shopping centers. For more information about MESP housing and student life, visit http://mesp.bestsemester.com/studentlife.asp
Costs
The student pays George Fox's standard tuition and room and board rates and continues to receive financial aid. Costs typically cover travel from the point of departure from the U.S. to Cairo, your tuition, and room and board expenses. The student will cover the cost of textbooks and other educational materials, miscellaneous expenses, travel to and from the U.S. departure city, and personal travel while in Egypt.
