AUC's Arabic Language Unit (ALU) -- one of the most respected Arabic language study programs in the world -- offers full-time intensive programs, both in the fall and spring semsters, as well as an eight-week intensive summer program. Its courses are taken by students, businessmen, diplomats, scholars and others who need to gain a broad command of contemporary Arabic as quickly and as effectively as possible.

The unit's world-class faculty teach classes in modern standard Arabic, classical Arabic and Egyptian colloquial Arabic at the elementary, intermediate and advanced levels. Language instruction is 18-20 hours per week with an equivalent amount of time spent on assignments. Successful completion of the institute's programs culminates in certificates of achievement recognized around the world.

ALU offers two study tracks:

Track 1 contains courses in Modern Standard Arabic and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic.
Track 2 contains courses in Modern Standard Arabic only.

Students in the fall and spring semesters register for a minimum of eleven credit hours, which are equivalent to twenty contact hours.  

Students who successfully complete 24 program credit hours receive certificates of
achievement stating their level of proficiency.