Iranian Languages and Linguistics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Explore the rich linguistic heritage of Iran and its surrounding regions through a rigorous academic program dedicated to the study of Persian and related languages across historical epochs. This interdisciplinary curriculum investigates the evolution, structure, and cultural significance of languages from ancient Avestan and Old Persian to contemporary Persian and lesser-known regional dialects, while also examining their practical applications in modern professional contexts.
- Avestan and Old Persian: Examine the earliest recorded forms of Iranian languages, including the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism written in Avestan and the inscriptions of ancient Persian empires, focusing on linguistic reconstruction and historical context.
- Modern Persian (Farsi): Develop advanced proficiency in contemporary Persian, with emphasis on grammar, syntax, literary traditions, and sociolinguistic variation across Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.
- Historical Linguistics of Iranian Languages: Analyze the development and transformation of Iranian language families over time, including sound changes, morphological evolution, and comparative reconstruction techniques.
- Endangered and Extinct Iranian Languages: Study lesser-known and historically significant languages such as Sogdian, Parthian, and various Baluchi and Kurdish dialects, with attention to preservation and documentation efforts.
- Linguistic Applications in Professional Domains: Apply linguistic knowledge in real-world settings, including translation, international business communication, scientific research, and digital language technologies.
Iranian Languages and Linguistics Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Iranian Languages and Linguistics Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Iranian Languages and Linguistics degrees, including Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary and Interpreters and Translators. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 74,530 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1124 | $77,010 | $47,090 - $134,960 | 21,170 | N/A |
| Interpreters and Translators 27-3091 | $59,440 | $35,630 - $99,830 | 53,360 | $28.58 |
Iranian Languages and Linguistics Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $45,060 in Louisiana to $89,920 in California—a 100% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New York, and Rhode Island. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 74,530 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Iranian Languages and Linguistics by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 2 institutions offering Iranian Languages and Linguistics programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Iranian Languages and Linguistics is found at United States Military Academy (USMA) (2 graduates), and University of Maryland (UMCP), College Park (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 3 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States Military Academy (USMA) |
Bachelor's
|
2 | West Point, New York | Public | westpoint.edu |
| University of Maryland (UMCP) |
Bachelor's
|
1 | College Park, Maryland | Public | umd.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Iranian Languages and Linguistics programs
How much can I earn with a Iranian Languages and Linguistics degree?
Salaries for Iranian Languages and Linguistics graduates vary by role and location. Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $77,010 annually, while Interpreters and Translators earn around $59,440. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $89,920 compared to $45,060 in Louisiana. Approximately 74,530 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Iranian Languages and Linguistics programs?
Currently 2 accredited institutions offer Iranian Languages and Linguistics degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include United States Military Academy (USMA) (2 graduates), University of Maryland (UMCP), College Park (1 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Iranian Languages and Linguistics growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 7 in 2010 to a peak of 4 in 2020, before declining slightly to 3 in 2023-24. This represents a 57% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Iranian Languages and Linguistics degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary, Interpreters and Translators, . Related occupations employ approximately 74,530 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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