About the Department

Established in the academic year 2025-2026, the Department of Sureth Language and Literature represents a pioneering scientific and cultural step toward preserving and developing a profound linguistic heritage. This department offers a rigorous four-year undergraduate program leading to a Bachelor’s degree. In a landmark collaboration, the program features a Double Degree system recognized by both the University of Duhok and the University of Salamanca in Spain. The curriculum is meticulously balanced between classical foundations and modern professional requirements, preparing students for diverse roles in governmental, educational, and media sectors.

Academic Description and Curriculum

The department is dedicated to guiding students through the evolutionary stages of the Sureth language, from its Semitic roots to contemporary dialects. The study system follows a comprehensive 240 ECTS credit structure over eight semesters, ensuring students master their specialty through in-depth academic and practical training.

Core Pillars of Study:

• Linguistic Mastery: Comprehensive courses in Sureth Grammar (Gushma), Linguistics, and Comparative Studies.

• Literary & Historical Depth: Exploration of Classical and Contemporary Literature, Mesopotamian Societies, Codicology, and the History of Eastern Churches.

• Multilingual Proficiency: Integration of English, Arabic, Kurdish, and Spanish to ensure graduates are competitive in a globalized market.

• Pedagogical Excellence: Training in Educational Psychology, Teaching Methods, and Measurement and Evaluation to prepare the next generation of educators.

Unique International Opportunities

The department offers an exclusive academic pathway that distinguishes it within the region:

• Salamanca Exchange: Twenty students are accepted annually into a specialized program requiring a residency of at least six months in Spain. This initiative covers travel, residency, and study expenses, fostering deep cultural and academic exchange.

• Strategic Support: The department serves as a direct strategic pillar for the 20 Syriac schools in the Duhok Governorate—the largest concentration in the region—ensuring the sustainability of Syriac education through highly qualified academic staff.

Objectives and Career Outcomes

The primary objective of the department is to produce versatile professionals capable of excelling in multiple fields:

• Education: Qualified teachers for primary and intermediate schools, equipped with the psychological and pedagogical tools to inspire students.

• Media and Journalism: Specialists trained in the history of Sureth Journalism and contemporary communication.

• Translation and Research: Experts in Classical Syriac and modern dialects capable of handling multi-disciplinary research projects.

• International Prospects: Graduates are uniquely positioned to pursue higher education in Spain or work within international cultural and diplomatic organizations.