Academic Program

The MA Degree in Islamic studies is designed to give students a strong foundation in Islamic studies through the study of Arabic and courses on the Qur’an, Islamic philosophy, Islamic theology, and Islamic law. Graduates of this program will also be able to address issues concerning the relation of Islam to other religious traditions. The degree will provide excellent preparation for a PhD in Islamic Studies, for PhD studies in other areas of the study of religion (including philosophy, theology, and the history of religions), for PhD studies outside of religion (including economics, politics, art, creative writing, and numerous others), and for a wide range of work and service in Muslim communities.

Degree Requirements

Coursework. The program requires 48-units of course work. These include up to 16 units of Arabic (students may take an Arabic exam upon entrance to determine if they can receive advanced placement in Arabic language courses), no less than 20 units in the study of Islam, no less than 8 units in the study of non-Islamic religions, and 4 units in REL 363 , the required methods course.

Modern Language Requirement. All students must have a reading knowledge of one of the following: German, French, or Spanish. The modern language requirement is met by passing a two-hour exam given by the SOR at the beginning of each semester and at the beginning of the summer. The exam simulates a research situation: the student translates a selected passage from a previously known list of books with the aid of a dictionary. A nominal fee is charged at the time of the exam in order to pay for the first examiner. Language workshops in French and German are offered in the summer.

Thesis and Oral Defense. The Master’s thesis provides an opportunity for students to gain the skills for writing a publishable piece of work. The thesis must be 60-85 pages in length, prepared in conjunction with the student’s advisor. The thesis must also have at least one secondary reader in addition to the advisor. All theses must conform in format and style to the CGU guidelines for theses. Upon completion of these requirements, the student must submit a copy of the signed title page to the SOR Office. Two copies of the thesis, the original and one copy, are submitted to the registrar for deposit in Honnold Library.

Time Limit. The institutional time limit for completing the MA degree is five calendar years from initial registration, regardless of the student’s course load per semester. A student may petition for an extension of time. Extensions in the MA Program are normally for one year.

Program Outline/Final Approval/Fees. During the semester in which the student expects to have met all requirements for the degree, the “Master’s Program Outline and Final Approval of Master’s Degree” form must be completed. This is available in the SOR Office. Students should check the academic calendar for degree deadlines (including those for payment of fees and filing the Academic Calendar for degree deadlines (including those for payment of fees and filing the Intent to Receive a Degree Form () with the Office of Registration).