Islamic Studies

The Department of Islamic Studies is dedicated to the comprehensive and critical study of Islam as a religion, a civilization, and a way of life. We offer a deep dive into the foundational texts of Islam—the Qur’an and the Hadith—and explore the rich intellectual and cultural heritage of the Islamic world. Our programs are designed to provide students with a nuanced understanding of Islamic theology, law, history, philosophy, and art.

The department’s curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, allowing students to specialize in their areas of interest. Our core areas of focus include:

• Qur’anic Studies: Textual analysis, exegesis (Tafsir), and the historical context of the Qur’an.

• Hadith Sciences: The study of the prophetic traditions, including their authenticity and methodology of compilation.

• Islamic Law (Shari’a): Jurisprudence (Fiqh), legal theory (Usul al-Fiqh), and the application of Islamic law in contemporary society.

• Islamic History and Civilization: From the early Islamic period to modern times, including the history of Islamic empires, intellectual movements, and cultural achievements.

• Islamic Philosophy and Theology (Kalam): The intellectual history of Islam, exploring the works of major thinkers and schools of thought.

• Comparative Religion: A comparative study of Islam with other major world religions.

Studying Islamic Studies offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most influential and dynamic civilizations. A degree in this field opens up diverse career paths in academia, diplomacy, journalism, non-profit organizations, and community leadership. It provides invaluable insights for anyone seeking to understand global affairs, interfaith relations, and the cultural landscape of a significant portion of the world’s population.