Persian and Iranian Studies Program (UW)

The Persian and Iranian Studies Program at the University of Washington, Seattle, is an academic initiative dedicated to the study of Persian language, literature, and the diverse histories and cultures of Iran and the broader Persian-speaking world. Housed within the Department of Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures (MELC), the program is directed by Dr. Aria Fani, assistant professor of Persian. Its scope includes the study of Persianate cultures across the Middle East, Central Asia, and the global diaspora.

Students enrolled in the program may pursue up to four years of Persian language instruction, ranging from introductory courses to advanced classes taught entirely in Persian. The curriculum also includes courses in English that explore Persian literature, Iranian cultural history, and contemporary issues related to Iran and Persian-speaking societies.

The program offers both undergraduate and graduate degree pathways through MELC, enabling students to focus on Persian literature, Iranian studies, and related fields. It also collaborates closely with other departments and interdisciplinary units across campus, including the Ph.D. program in Near and Middle Eastern Studies, fostering broad scholarly engagement.

As part of a major research university, the Persian and Iranian Studies Program contributes to the intellectual life of the region by supporting public lectures, cultural events, and community engagement efforts that highlight the richness and complexity of Persian-speaking cultures.