Arabic language and Islamic Studies: who studies Arabic and how can these skills be used at university and beyond?

Learning a modern foreign language in UK has declined, yet the learning of Arabic is rising. We hypothesise that there is more Arabic language competence among Islamic Studies students than is currently apparent in the university sector: this represents missed opportunities for Arabic as a career enhancing skill. A small mapping exercise will aim to sample relationships between students’ prior Arabic competence and Arabic language courses in Islamic Studies departments within UK universities. The study will also investigate Arabic language studies that students undertake in Muslim institutions such as Darul Ulooms, Madrassahs, and Muslim schools and colleges. There are possible correlations between classical Arabic (including that of the Qu'ran) and modern Arabic; ways to enhance the uptake of degree level Arabic courses amongst students who have prior knowledge of Arabic; and enhancing undergraduates’ career possibilities involving Arabic.