Jordan: Modernization and Social Change

“My level of Arabic grew exponentially while I was in Jordan, particularly in terms of practical application. SIT language teachers were the best that I have come across in my 5 years of Arabic language learning. Regardless of prior experience, SIT tailors the program to make sure students learn at their level and achieve linguistically.”

-- Anna Chang, Tulane University

Examine crucial issues in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, a moderate Arab state coming to terms with political responsibility, social change, and the effects of regional conflict.

View Complete Photo Gallery

Visit us on Facebook!

Jordan has made enormous strides recently in health care, literacy, and democratic and economic reform. However, it remains challenged by a lack of natural resources, environmental concerns, economic and social issues, and the impact of Palestinian immigrants and refugees, who now make up more than half of the nation’s population. More recently, Iraqi refugees have been pouring into the country and changing the demographic and physical landscapes of the capital.

Based in the capital city of Amman, students conduct academic fieldwork within Jordan. A one-week visit to Egypt, conditions permitting, offers students additional regional insights.

In country resources and program partners generally include:

Browse this program's Independent Study Projects/Undergraduate Research

Students on the Jordan: Modernization and Social Change program had the opportunity to meet with the former prime minister of Jordan, His Excellency Mr. Abdur-Ra'uf Rawabdeh. Mr. Rawabdeh has held high-level ministerial positions, previously serving as Jordan’s minister of communications, health, public works and housing, education, and defense.

Shawn Harris, University of California, Santa Cruz, program alum

“Without the training I received through SIT Jordan, I would not be in the position I am today to pursue a career in economic development.”
With guidance from SIT faculty, Shawn recorded a large catalog of Bedouin agricultural practices for his Independent Study Project and assembled a plan for improving their practices in the region. The experience inspired him to continue working in the field of research and development, and he subsequently received an internship from the Jordan Badia Research and Development Center. He credits SIT Jordan for giving him a strong academic structure to further his Arabic, gain field research skills, and submit a successful graduate school application.