Dates
May 11 – May 25, 2026Subjects
History, Anthropology, Middle Eastern StudiesDeadlines
Dec. 1: Apply Early & Save $100Feb. 5: Regular Deadline
Program Overview
This program is designed to give students an introduction to the rich diversity and complexities of the region through an interdisciplinary course that includes the study of history, art, culture, economics, music, politics, and religion. Students get to know locals through interactive assignments. On-site learning, coupled with guest lectures by local experts, makes historical sights in Cairo and Egypt come alive. The location/s of this program may change if needed. Students should be aware that the program is physically strenuous and involves walking several miles at a time on most days, as well as hiking and swimming.
Note: Studying abroad likely is more physically strenuous than you are used to at home. KIIS study abroad programs typically involve approx. 5-10 miles of walking (approx. 10,000-20,000 steps) or the like in a day, including the possibility of walking, hiking, and climbing stairs in heat and humidity, over elevations at higher altitudes, and over rocky terrain. See Health & Wellness for more information.
Program Directors
I have taught and led study tours to the Middle East since 1993. I lived in Cairo, Egypt for six years, where I directed a semester-long academic program for students from the USA. I speak fluent Egyptian-Dialect Arabic. I am excited to provide KIIS students with an opportunity to study in Egypt.Dr. Richard Cahill
I’ve taught Middle Eastern Dance for over 20 years. I was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt, and have performed and taught in Japan, Europe, the USA, and the Middle East. I’ve co-led several study tours in the region, and enjoys guiding students through rich cross-cultural learning experiences.Prof. Nashwa Cahill
Photo Gallery
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Courses
The courses are taught in English and are 3 credit hours. You must enroll in 1 course.
Using the study of history, religion and politics, this interdisciplinary course focuses on Egypt, and the three Abrahamic traditions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Special attention will be given to the historical development of religious traditions that are still alive today in the places that we will visit. The rich remains of religious architecture and art will be studied, from the ancient Coptic churches to Al-Azhar Mosque.
This course examines the rich and diverse anthropological literature on Egypt while students also conduct small ethnographic assignments in Egypt to identify, probe, and analyze socio-cultural patterns and processes. Students will examine how food, family life, religion, politics, gender roles, migration, and globalization affect everyday life for Egyptians.
All KIIS course credit is awarded by Western Kentucky University. Prior to your KIIS program, please speak with your home campus academic advisor and/or study abroad office to determine course equivalencies. Grades will be transferred to your home institution in mid-August after the completion of the program. Course offerings are subject to change according to enrollment. For more information, visit Transcripts & Grades.
Group Flight
ESTIMATED COST $1,850 - $1,950
The group flight is required for Egypt program participants. We fly together overnight from the USA to Cairo, Egypt. At the end of the program, we fly back from Egypt as a group. KIIS will purchase the flight tickets for you. The flight cost will be added to your final program fee on April 1.
The flight to Egypt is overnight, arriving the following day. On the return, the flight from Egypt to the USA departs and arrives on the same day. Visit Flights and Passports & Visas for more information.