UMD Launches Master of Professional Studies in Persian
February 11, 2026
During this new yearlong program, students will become Persian language experts through immersive coursework and hands-on learning.
The University of Maryland School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures (SLLC) is launching a new Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Persian starting in Fall 2026. The one-year, 30-credit program, designed for those with prior study of Persian, builds advanced Persian language skills alongside cultural and regional knowledge of the Middle East and Persian-speaking world.
Over the course of the program year, students will engage in immersive language courses in Iranian history, society, politics, literature and the arts, led by Persian-speaking faculty with expertise in language teaching, international relations, architecture, theater and more. They will also have access to conversation partner sessions, individualized tutoring, cultural workshops and research projects tailored to professional domains. As part of the program, students will participate in an internship that uses Persian and aligns with their career goals.
“Students will take their Persian language skills to a professional level, preparing them for global careers, public service and academic research,” said Assistant Professor Nahal Akbari, director of Persian language programs.
Applicants are also encouraged to apply for a Boren Fellowship, which funds U.S. graduate students studying critical languages and world regions for careers in public service. The M.P.S. in Persian will be the only program nationally that allows Boren Fellowship recipients to use this funding for domestic Persian language study while earning a professional graduate degree and advancing their language skills to a superior level.
The new degree builds on UMD’s Persian Flagship Program, a nationally recognized, federally-funded pathway for advanced language study open to students of all majors, and allows Flagship students to complete the M.P.S. as an optional, final capstone year.
“We’re excited to continue to grow our Persian offerings,” said Mel Scullen, director of SLLC. “With immersive language training, cultural expertise and professional experience, graduates will leave the program ready to make a global impact.”
Photo of Persian Flagship students and faculty at an Iranian cultural even provided by Anita Priya Tharmarajah.