Arabic and Islamic Studies focuses on the Arab world, Islam and the Middle East, including its history, religion, society, thought, culture and politics, as well as Arabic language (for beginners and native speakers), literature and media. The Department's research strengths include Islamic political thought, Islamic-Christian relations, fundamentalism, women's issues, Arab political culture, Arabic literature, and Arab and Muslim Australian community and youth issues.

The postgraduate coursework program in Arabic and Islamic Studies provides students with an understanding of Islam and its place in the modern world. The department has introduced new units in Arabic language for advanced study (for both native and non-native speakers) as well as translations units.