USJ-LEB-AFEE International Academy (ULAIA)
for Lebanese and Middle Eastern Studies
Fostering In-Depth Knowledge and Diplomatic Expertise on Lebanon and the Middle East
EXECUTIVE EDUCATION
AFEE in partnership with Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ)
USJ-LEB-AFEE
International Academy
(ULAIA)
for Lebanese and Middle Eastern Studies
Fostering In-Depth Knowledge and Diplomatic Expertise on Lebanon and the Middle East
Welcome to ULAIA!
At the USJ-LEB-AFEE International Academy (ULAIA), we are committed to providing unparalleled EXECUTIVE EDUCATION that bridges cultural divides and enhances global connectivity. In partnership with Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) and the American Foundation for Educational Excellence (AFEE), we offer meticulously designed online courses that equip professionals, academics, and enthusiasts with the skills and knowledge needed to engage effectively with the rich and diverse heritage of Lebanon and the Middle East.
Comprehensive and Interactive Courses
Our courses cover a wide range of topics, including cultural and historical studies, ethnic and racial dynamics, religious studies, artistic contributions, contemporary issues, Arabic language, and ancient languages and heritage. Each course is designed to be engaging, interactive, and insightful.
Expert Faculty from a World-Leading Institution in the Field
Learn from the foremost experts and scholars, primarily from Saint Joseph University of Beirut, recognized as the leading institution in this field in Lebanon, the Middle East, and globally. Our distinguished faculty members bring unparalleled knowledge and experience to the virtual classroom, ensuring high-quality education that deepens your understanding of the region.
Join us to benefit from the expertise of a university that sets the benchmark for excellence in Lebanese and Middle Eastern studies.
Flexible Learning &
Powerful Networking Opportunities
Our state-of-the-art online platform offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn from anywhere in the world. It is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Our platform provides the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals who share a deep interest in Lebanon and the Middle East. This networking fosters valuable connections, facilitates the exchange of ideas, and builds a supportive community of learners who can support each other’s educational and professional growth.
With interactive sessions, breakout rooms, and debriefings, we ensure a dynamic and enriching learning experience that not only imparts knowledge but also builds the confidence and skills needed to apply it in real-world scenarios.
- Interactive Sessions: Engage with expert instructors and fellow participants in real-time, ensuring an immersive and collaborative learning environment.
- Breakout Rooms: Participate in focused group discussions and activities, allowing for deeper exploration of course topics and enhanced networking opportunities.
- Debriefings: Benefit from thorough review sessions that consolidate your knowledge, address any questions, and provide practical insights to apply your learning effectively.
Engaging with peers in this collaborative environment enhances the learning experience and broadens your understanding through diverse perspectives.
Professional and Personal Growth
Whether you are a professional in the State Department, an academic researcher, or a cultural enthusiast, our courses are tailored to meet your needs. Gain cultural sensitivity, problem-solving skills, and diplomatic expertise to navigate and appreciate the complexities of the Middle East.
Certification
Earn a certificate for each course you complete and accumulate credits to achieve higher levels of recognition, demonstrating your expertise and commitment to understanding the Middle East:
* Regular Certificate: Awarded upon completion of each individual course.
* Executive Certificate: Granted after successfully completing three courses.
* Executive Expert Certificate: Conferred upon the completion of five courses.
* Executive Leadership Certificate: Bestowed after completing six or more courses.
Enrollment Information &
Course Logistics
- Timeline: Online courses begin in winter 2025
- Language of Instruction: English
- Age Requirement: Minimum 21 years old
- Participant Capacity: 30 participants per course (minimum 10)
- Cost: $2,000 per course
- Platform: Zoom (interactive sessions with breakout rooms and debriefings)
- Hours: 3 hours per week, from 10 AM to 1 PM NY Time; 5 to 8 PM Beirut Time
- Days: Saturdays and/or Sundays
- Course Duration: 36 hours over 12 weeks (3 months)
Embark on a journey of discovery and professional growth with ULAIA. Enhance your knowledge, expand your horizons, and become part of a global community dedicated to promoting understanding and appreciation of Lebanese and Middle Eastern cultures, histories, and contemporary issues.
ENROLL NOW and take the first step towards becoming a leader in Middle Eastern studies and diplomacy.
For more information, explore our Courses or Contact Us.
Program FAQs
What is the course format?
The course will feature interactive sessions with break-out rooms, debriefs, polls and feedback questionnaires.
What days/times will the sessions take place?
It depends on the course(s) you select.
What are the learning outcomes?
Main Outcome: Click on the details below for specific outcomes.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. The certificates will be issued by AFEE and USJ.
Types of Certificates:
- At the end of each course: Certificate in [Course Name]
- After taking 3 courses: Executive Certificate (specific to courses chosen)
- After taking 5 courses: Executive Expert Certificate (specific to courses chosen)
- After taking 6+ courses: Executive Leadership Certificate (specific to courses chosen)
Who teaches the courses?
Mainly professors from Saint Joseph University.
Who moderates and facilitates the courses?
The courses are moderated and facilitated by Nada M. Salem, President/CEO of AFEE and Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Academic Officer (CAO) of ULAIA.
Nada M. Salem is a passionate educator with extensive experience in leading academic institutions in the United States and abroad. Over more than twenty years, she has taught school students, college students, student teachers, teachers, and leaders. She co-created and co- taught a methods course for teachers at The George Washington University Graduate School of Education. Nada is the Co-Editor in Chief of “Teaching World Languages: A Practical Guide- Arabic Edition” (The National Capital Language Resource Center, Washington, DC).
Mrs. Salem holds a teaching diploma, two master's degrees, one in translation and another in education, and has successfully completed most courses (33 credits) towards a doctorate (Ed.D.) in Curriculum and Instruction & Educational Technology Leadership at The George Washington University Graduate School of Education. Additionally, she holds an Executive Certificate in Public Leadership from Harvard University. Mrs. Salem formerly served as Administrative Director and Assessment of Learning Coordinator for AACSB Accreditation at the GWU School of Business’s Master of Science in Finance Program. In September 2019, Mrs. Salem was selected as a WOMAN LEADER by the University of Maryland‘s Kahlil Gibran Chair for Values and Peace. She is a member of the Marquis WHO'S WHO® list of Prominent Business Professionals, and she was featured among Marquis Who's Who's Top Executives in Education and Leadership.
Mrs. Salem is the Founding President/CEO of the American Foundation for Educational Excellence (AFEE), an organization whose mission is to help, on a worldwide basis, influencers, leaders, HR professionals, and managers of educational institutions, profit and non-profit organizations and corporations, to pursue excellence by improving leadership skills, managerial competencies and educational programs, namely through face-to-face and online trainings. AFEE is an Approved Provider for both HRCI & SHRM.
Mrs. Salem is also the Founding President/CEO of AFEE’s subsidiaries, the Center for Excellence in Languages: Teaching, Editing, Translating, and Interpreting, and the International Foundation for Women's Empowerment (IFWE) which seeks to empower all women and help them thrive on the personal and professional levels, regardless of nationality and religion.
* Note: In Star Wars, ULAIA was a large continent on Aantooine planet, stretching from its equator to near the south pole. It was dominated by a large mountain chain. It had several cities located along the coast, including Afix and Ul'asi
TERMS OF SERVICE: We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to reject or remove anyone who has registered or gained access under false pretenses, provided false information, or for any other action or behavior that we deem inappropriate, before, during or after the webinars, with or without prior notice or explanation, and without liability.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: All rights reserved. The information on this page shall be considered proprietary information not to be used, copied or reproduced in any way. No part of our presentations / workshops / webinars may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods.
