MA Islamic Studies

Overview

The MA Islamic Studies programme employs a critical and analytical approach to the study of Islam and contemporary Muslim society. The course examines the sources and origins of Islamic thought and practice, in particular the Qur’an and Sunnah, together with a knowledge and understanding of the life of the Prophet Muhammad and its contemporary significance. In addition, it offers a wide range of optional modules that will prepare students to contextualise Islamic Studies and be able to critically analyse contemporary debates and issues concerning Islam and Muslims.

The MA in Islamic Studies is offered on both a full-time (12 months, over three semesters) and part-time (24 months, over six semesters) basis.

The taught modules are delivered through a mode of blended learning, which combines traditional class-based methods and guided independent study with online learning. Lectures, tutorials, seminars, occasional workshops, peer group learning (such as delivering presentations to the class), study visits and independent study are incorporated into the programme. The dissertation allows students to choose their own area of interest as a focus for research.

Course structure

Postgraduate Certificate: Awarded on the basis of 60 credits which must include 45 credits from core modules.

Postgraduate Diploma: Awarded on the basis of 120 credits.

MA Degree: 180 credits (including the dissertation)

Career paths

Graduates of the Masters of Islamic Studies Programme may proceed onto PhD Research. They can also seek employment opportunities in organisations in the private, public, and non-profit sectors in a broad range of positions and roles. The MA course opens up opportunities for careers that demand postgraduate skills in Islamic Studies such as in research, community leadership, policy analysis and consultancy, NGOs, Media international development, and which require multi-disciplinary understanding to address challenges in their community, workplace and in the world, as well as for becoming researchers in the field.

Career choices also include a wide range of areas such as policy-making roles at local and national governmental level, and advisory/consultative positions in Civil services or NGOs; or working with Muslim specialised journalism and media; Islamic education; chaplaincy (pastoral care); charitable sectors; community service; international corporation, interfaith relations, Shariah advisors; the public sector – including the civil service; banking/finance; legal studies and post-graduate studies and research.

A Master’s degree in Islamic Studies may be beneficial for policymakers, imams/religious ministers, chaplains, plus lecturers/teachers who are aspiring to further advance their careers.

Candidates will normally need to have achieved an honours degree from a UK university or an overseas university agreed by NARIC as equivalent. Students may also enter with up to 80 Level 7 credits via the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).