The Program in Iranian Studies at UATX
The Program in Iranian Studies at UATX is an undergraduate program dedicated to uncovering the richness and complexity of Iran’s cultural, intellectual, and historical heritage.
Bridging the past and present, our program takes an interdisciplinary approach—bringing together history, philosophy, politics, economics, and the arts—to explore both Iran’s ancient foundations and its evolving modern identity. By amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and shedding light on overlooked aspects of Iran’s past, we seek to foster a deeper, more inclusive understanding of Iranian society.
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Through innovative coursework and immersive learning experiences, undergraduate students engage directly with primary sources, critical debates, and contemporary global challenges.
Our curriculum is designed not just to impart knowledge but to sharpen analytical skills, equipping students to think critically about Iran’s historical and cultural narratives and apply their insights in real-world contexts.
Beyond the classroom, the program serves as a hub for pioneering research and community engagement. Through public events, cultural programming, and collaborations with the greater Austin community—especially the local Iranian community—we foster meaningful dialogue and cross-cultural exchange. Our events bring together scholars, artists, and policymakers to discuss Iran’s past, present, and future while also creating opportunities to connect with Middle Eastern programs and communities across the country.
In collaboration with the Institute of Near Eastern Civilizations and Cultures, we strive to advance scholarship in often-overlooked areas, ensuring that Iran’s rich and multifaceted heritage is recognized and studied on the global stage.
Who Should
Join?
This program is designed for curious and engaged undergraduate students who are eager to explore the complexities of history, culture, and global affairs. Whether you have a passion for Middle Eastern studies, international relations, political science, history, philosophy, or the arts, this program offers a rich intellectual foundation.
valuable for students
pursuing careers in:
Whether students aim for a career in scholarship, diplomacy, media, business, or the arts, this program equips them with the critical thinking skills, cultural literacy, and historical depth to make meaningful contributions to their fields.
Core Areas
of Study
Cultural & Historical Foundations of Iran
This area delves into the vast historical and cultural legacy of Iran, tracing its journey from ancient civilizations through medieval transformations. Undergraduate students engage with archival materials, primary sources, and interdisciplinary methodologies to uncover the forces that have shaped Iran across centuries.
By highlighting the contributions of marginalizedcommunities and exploring lesser-known narratives, this field of study fosters a more nuancedand inclusive understanding of Iran’s past.
Politics, Society & Global Engagement
How has Iran’s political thought, social structure, and global role evolved over time? This area explores governance, economic development, and cultural diplomacy, equipping undergraduate students with the analytical tools to examine historical case studies and contemporary policy debates.
By engaging with critical texts and real-world applications,students gain deeper insights into how Iran’s political and social transformations have influenced both regional and global affairs.
Art, Literature & Intellectual Traditions
From the mesmerizing verses of Persian poetry to groundbreaking philosophical thought and visual arts, Iran’s artistic and intellectual heritage has left an indelible mark on the world.
This area explores literature, philosophy, and the arts through textual analysis, comparative studies, and creative projects. Students engage deeply with classical and modern works,discovering how Iran’s artistic and intellectual traditions have shaped its identity and influenced global cultural movements.
Who we are
Azadeh Vatanpour
Director of the Program in Iranian Studies
Azadeh Vatanpour is the Director of the Iranian Studies Program at the University of Austin. She is a Ph.D. candidate (ABD) at Emory University and holds an M.A. in Ancient Iranian Culture and Languages from Shiraz University, as well as M.A. degrees in Folk Studies and Religious Studies from Western Kentucky University. As a scholar of religion and minority studies, her research focuses on ethno-religious minority groups in the Middle East, with a particular emphasis on the Yarsan community. She is an associate editor for the International Journal of Persian Literature and for the Iranian and Persian Studies book series published by Springer.
Vatanpour's edited volume, Essays on Gurani Literature (co-edited with Dr. Alireza Korangy), is currently under publication. This work explores the rich literary traditions written in the Gurani language by various ethno-religious groups residing in the Zagros region. She is also co-authoring a book manuscript with Dr. Korangy, titled Birds in Persian Poetics and Poetry: From Pūpak to the Dove (9th c.–21st c.), under contract with Springer. This study traces the symbolism and evolving meanings of avian imagery across a millennium of Persian poetic and literary tradition.
Support us
Get involved with the Iranian Studies Program at the University of Austin by joining our events, sharing our work, and supporting the growth of our academic and cultural initiatives. Your contribution helps fund student research, public programming, and innovative projects that not only preserve and celebrate Iran’s rich literary and artistic heritage but also foster meaningful cultural exchange between Iran and the United States. Together, we can build bridges of understanding through education, dialogue, and shared appreciation of the humanities. To learn more about how to support us, please email avatanpour@uaustin.org