Columbia University Launches New Minor in Armenian Studies

Columbia University has established a minor in Armenian Studies through its Department of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies, expanding academic offerings in the field. The five-course program covers Armenian history, language, literature, art and culture from ancient times to the present, including the diaspora experience.

Students begin with an introductory survey course and pursue elementary Armenian language study, then select two electives. Those with proficiency beyond elementary level may pursue advanced language courses or additional subject-area electives. The minor builds on Columbia's 50-year legacy in Armenian Studies, which began with the Armenian Center's founding in 1976 and the establishment of the Gevork M. Avedissian Chair in Armenian History in 1979.

The university also offers related courses examining Ottoman history, genocide and conflict in the Middle East, and historical relations among Armenians, Kurds and Turks. The program is supported by faculty lectures, conferences, and the student-led Armenian Society.