Area studies typically examine the development of a particular population or region. While other, similar interdisciplinary studies, such as gender, disability, and ethnic, may have some part in course discussions, these are not considered area studies.

Very few private schools exist in Iraq. As such, there are not many who travel to this country for higher education purposes. There are, however, several renowned institutions in Iraq including the University of Baghdad and University of Dohuk.

Online summer courses are offered by the overwhelming majority of post-secondary institutions. Online learning allows students to take courses from virtually anywhere in the world. Students looking for a nontraditional classroom experience should consider taking online summer courses.