Stanford University has a long-standing commitment to the study of Iranian culture, history, and society. The university's Iranian Studies program is one of the most comprehensive and renowned in the world, offering a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and cultural events. The program is housed within the Department of Religious Studies and is supported by the Hamid and Christina Moghadam Program in Iranian Studies, which was established in 2007.
Academic Programs
The Iranian Studies program at Stanford University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Iranian Studies, as well as a certificate program in Persian language and literature. The program’s curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including Iranian history, literature, art, architecture, and culture, as well as the study of the Persian language. Students can choose from a variety of courses, including Introduction to Iranian Civilization, Persian Language and Literature, and Iranian History from the Safavids to the Present. The program also offers a minor in Iranian Studies, which allows students to pursue a concentrated course of study in the field.
Research Opportunities
The Iranian Studies program at Stanford University is also home to a number of research centers and initiatives, including the Iranian Studies Research Initiative and the Persian Studies Research Group. These centers provide funding and support for research projects, conferences, and workshops, and offer opportunities for students and faculty to engage in collaborative research projects. The program also has a strong focus on digital humanities, with a number of initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Iranian cultural heritage through digital means.
| Research Center | Focus |
|---|---|
| Iranian Studies Research Initiative | Interdisciplinary research on Iranian culture, history, and society |
| Persian Studies Research Group | Research on Persian language and literature, as well as Iranian history and culture |
Cultural Events
The Iranian Studies program at Stanford University also hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and film screenings. The program has hosted a number of prominent Iranian artists, writers, and intellectuals, including Nobel laureate Shirin Ebadi and award-winning filmmaker Jafar Panahi. The program also partners with other cultural institutions in the Bay Area, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Asian Art Museum, to host exhibitions and events related to Iranian art and culture.
Community Engagement
The Iranian Studies program at Stanford University is also committed to community engagement and outreach, with a number of initiatives aimed at promoting Iranian culture and heritage in the local community. The program offers Persian language classes for non-students, as well as cultural workshops and lectures on topics related to Iranian culture and history. The program also partners with local Iranian community organizations, including the Northern California Iranian Community Center, to host events and promote cultural exchange.
- Persian language classes for non-students
- Cultural workshops and lectures on topics related to Iranian culture and history
- Partnerships with local Iranian community organizations
What are the requirements for the Iranian Studies minor at Stanford University?
+The Iranian Studies minor at Stanford University requires a minimum of 28 units of coursework, including at least 12 units of upper-division coursework. Students must also complete a capstone project or thesis on a topic related to Iranian Studies.
What research opportunities are available to students in the Iranian Studies program at Stanford University?
+Students in the Iranian Studies program at Stanford University have access to a number of research opportunities, including funding for research projects, conferences, and workshops. Students can also participate in collaborative research projects with faculty members and other students, and can apply for research grants and fellowships through the Iranian Studies Research Initiative and other programs.
