Idris

Hi,

I need advice. I am interested in applying to PhD programs in Near Eastern Languages and Civilization (emphasis Ottoman Turkish Studies and Ottoman History), but I need to know what will make me a competitive applicant. I have an undergraduate GPA of 3.82. I obtain a BA in Middle Eastern Studies/Arabic and obtained advanced proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking. I had the opportunity to learn the Jordanian dialect, as well. At this time I am reviewing to maintain my proficiency. Also, I am teaching myself Latin for my own benefit. I know that there are European Languages requirements for PhD programs, but will I be considered without them?

I am looking into various programs, but the University of Chicago is where I desire to go. Any wisdom that can be imparted on my behalf is appreciated.

BrowniesRule

I doubt you're going to find much help on this forum, seeing as everybody seems more concerned with Julius's Caesar's relationship with Cleopatra than with the Ottoman Empire.
It depends on what subject you are wanting to write about. Turkish is necessary to cruise the official surveys, defter's, registers and correspondance, while a second language could be useful depending on your subject (i.e. Arab to read the sijills and court registers in the arab provinces). You should talk to the middle-east specialist of your local university.