ObjectivesThis programme provides a comprehensive study of Islam. It leads students to explore the beliefs and practices of Muslims, its plurality, discuss theological, juridical and philisophical approaches; learn about the history of Islamic scholarship and science and debate contemporary social and political issues. As a student, you will gain a deep understanding of the diversity of Muslim thought and of the interaction of Muslims with their surroundings. You will also engage with central issues confronting Muslims today and deliberate on future directions. A feature of the programme is that it encourages creative interaction between the historical Islamic scholarship, trends in contemporary Islamic studies and modern Western academic approaches. For example, options involve exploring the central traditional Islamic sciences alongside the study of contemporary academic developments. This programme will be of interest to you if your work involves an appreciation of Islamic culture and beliefs. It will also appeal to anyone with a personal or professional interest in Islam.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Minimum of second-class honours degree from a UK university. An overseas qualification of an equivalent standard after a course of study extending over at least three years in a university (or an educational institution of university rank). A professional or other qualification approved by the College. For those with a first degree in an unrelated subject or non-standard applicants, we will be offering a Graduate Diploma that can be used as a conversion award – please contact us for information.
Academic titleIslamic Studies (MA / Postgraduate Diploma)
Course descriptionA core course examines the historical development of Islamic scholarship, different approaches to Islamic studies and Qur’anic hermeneutics, i.e. methodologies of interpretation, classical and modern.
Options cover central topics of religious importance, as well as social and political issues, and artistic and cultural aspects of Islam. Options include:
-The Concept of God in Islam
-The Qur’an – Orality and Textuality
-Hadith – Tradition in Formation
-State and Society in Islamic History
-Islam and the Media
-Interpersonal Ethics
-Islamic Art and Architecture
-Sufism
-Islamic Law and the Postmodern World
-Islam, Politics and Identity
-Muslims in Contemporary Britain
-Authority in Shi'a Islam
-Research Methods.
Dissertation.
Teaching
Lectures and seminars.
Assessment
Essays and other projects submitted for each course, and a dissertation of 10,000–12,000 words.