Persian and Iranian Studies Program

The Persian and Iranian Studies Minor Program offers courses on Greater Iranian cultures and civilizations, as well as Proper Iran, a multidisciplinary program for students seeking a deeper understanding of related peoples from ancient times to the present.

Established in 2007 at San Francisco State University, it remains the only minor of its kind in the California State University system. It serves as an academic resource for exploring and understanding the cultural heritage of various ethnic groups, including Afghans, Armenians, Assyrians, Azeris, Baluchis, Gilakis, Kurds, Lurs, Mazandarani, Persians, Tajiks, Turks, and others. The program enables students to explore related historical and cultural expressions, offering a comprehensive perspective on historic and modern Persianate societies and their diasporas. It provides both lower- and upper-division courses and collaborates with other programs on campus. Its goal is to prepare graduates for careers that value knowledge of major Persian-speaking societies, such as Afghanistan, Iran, and Tajikistan, as well as other related communities in Asia.

 

Important Information

To declare a minor, submit online request Declaration/Change of Major/Minor, then make an appointment to see the program advisor. Bring a copy of your most recent university transcript to the meeting.

  1. Articulate how history, language, geography, culture and/or religions in the Greater Iranian territories influenced contemporary Persianate societies.
  2. Identify themes of Iranian culture and artistic expressions through literature, cinema and media.
  3. Evaluate the contributions and influence of Iranian and Persian history and culture on western civilization.
  4. Articulate the way that religious traditions grow, change and influence one another through the spectrum of Greater Iranian history.

The Persian and Iranian Studies student lounge, located in Room 413 of the Humanities Building, serves as the main hub for students' activities, tutorials, and student organization offices. The room provides access to reference materials, textbooks, journals, maps, online learning resources, TV, DVD players, computers, printers, and often refreshments. As the central part of our program's community, it hosts academic and cultural events, including film screenings, book signings, poetry readings, and annual festivals, all open to everyone on our campus.

Office of Student Organizations:

  • ISA (Iranian Student Association)
  • ASA (Afghan Student Association)

Telephone: (415) 338-3110
Email the Persian Studies program

Mission Statement

The Iranian Student Association (ISA) at San Francisco State University is a dynamic student organization and an educational program founded by Persian & Iranian Studies in 2007 to support and promote linguistic, cultural, and artistic activities. We aim to encourage a peaceful environment and strengthen links with other cultural and educational programs and departments at San Francisco State University and beyond.

We aim to enable student organizations to interact and foster intercultural respect, friendship, and leadership among individuals from all nations and backgrounds. At ISA, individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds, including international students and faculty can exhibit their heritage in a non-intimidating and culturally infused environment, learning about peoples, languages, and nuances of cultures.

 

Contact Information

  • Advising Professor: Dr. Mitra Ara
  • Office of Iranian Student Association (ISA) & Afghan Student Association (ASA):
    • Persian & Iranian Studies Student Centre: Humanities Building, Room 413
  • Telephone: (415) 338-3110 
  • Email the Iranian Student Association 

Undergraduate Programs

Minor in Persian Studies

The Persian Studies Minor program consists of 12 units. It offers a diverse range of multidisciplinary lower- and upper-division undergraduate courses in history, culture, philosophy, religion, literature, language, cinema, and media.

Program Contact