Persian (MPPE)

Graduate Degree Program
College: Arts and Humanities

ABSTRACT

Launched in Fall 2026, the Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Persian is an immersive one-year, 30-credit graduate degree that builds advanced Persian language skills along with cultural and regional knowledge of the Persian-speaking world. Graduates will be prepared for careers in industries including government service, education and the private sector.

The M.P.S. in Persian is open to graduating college seniors and interested bachelor’s degree holders from institutions across the United States who have prior study of Persian and can demonstrate advanced-level proficiency (ILR 2) or who can reach that level through the UMD Persian Summer Language Institute. For additional information, visit the Interagency Language Roundtable definitions of ILR 2 and the ACTFL proficiency definitions for advanced low.

M.P.S. course offerings cover a range of topics, including social issues in contemporary Iran, modern history, art, culture and literature, and Persian media. Innovative special-topics modular courses will be taught by Persian-speaking faculty with expertise in areas such as architecture, international relations, and theater and performance, allowing students to learn vocabulary and concepts specific to each field while strengthening their overall fluency.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

The Persian M.P.S. is an eligible program for the Boren Fellowship, which provides substantial funding towards the cost of this one-year graduate degree. The Boren Awards are sponsored by the Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO), U.S. Department of Defense. Boren Fellowships are awarded to U.S. graduate students who develop independent projects that combine overseas language and culture study in areas critical to national security. 

Boren Fellowship alumni are dedicated to public service, committing to at least one year of service, and working in key positions throughout the Federal Government. Examples of where Boren awardees fulfill government service include the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Department of State, and the Intelligence Community. Boren Fellows receive additional advantages including special hiring authorities and significant support in seeking federal employment upon successful completion of their Boren-funded program. 

Students who hold a B.A. or B.S. degree are eligible to apply for a Boren Fellowship to support their participation in the Persian M.P.S. Learn more about the Boren Awards and find out specific program details under Applicants > Award Types.

CONTACT

You can learn more about the Master of Professional Studies in Persian at our website, and on the website of the Office of Extended Studies. For any questions, reach out to persian@umd.edu and a member of the MPS in Persian will get back to you as soon as possible.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Statement of Purpose
• Transcript(s)
• TOEFL/IELTS/PTE (international graduate students)

PROGRAM-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Letters of Recommendation (2); 1 more letter optional
• CV/Resume
• Supplementary Application

In addition to the general requirements for admission established by the Graduate School (see "General Information" section in this catalog), applicants must demonstrate a proficiency in translating the ancient language(s) at the advanced undergraduate level.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

RESOURCES AND LINKS:

Program Website: 
Application Process: gradschool.umd.edu/admissions/application-process/step-step-guide-applying