The Master of Arts in Islamic Studies is designed to give students a strong foundation in Islamic studies. Students receive broad training, with emphases in areas including Qur’anic studies, women in Islam, and Islamic literature.   The program equips students to address issues concerning the relation of Islam to other religious traditions, and to situate the study of Islam within the broader academic study of religion.  The degree provides excellent preparation for doctoral work in Islamic Studies or related disciplines, as well as for various positions of work and service in Muslim communities, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector.

Students admitted to the program are required to become familiar with the program’s Student Handbook for the year in which the student begins the program.

Degree Requirements

Coursework.  The program requires 48 units of coursework distributed as follows.

• Up to 16 units of Arabic. Students may take an Arabic exam upon entrance to determine eligibility for advanced placement in Arabic language courses.
• Minimum 20 units in the study of Islam.
• Minimum 8 units in the study of non-Islamic religions.
• REL 362 - Theories of Religion is a required course.

Modern Language Requirement. A reading knowledge of German, French, or Spanish is required.  The modern language requirement is met by passing a two-hour exam.  The exam simulates a research situation during which 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.  The Master’s thesis provides an opportunity for students to gain the skills necessary 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.  A copy of the signed title page must be submitted to the program upon completion and approval.

Theses are submitted to the registrar, following published dissertation submission guidelines and policies and procedures detailed in the Master’s Degrees  section of the Bulletin. 

University Policies.  University policies detailed in the Student Information  section of the Bulletin apply.