Postgraduate Programmes

Transcription

1 Postgraduate Programmes

2 Table Of Contents Message from the Principal of the Islamic College Our Mission Postgraduate Programmes MA Islamic Studies MA Islam and the West: Comparative Studies MA / PG Dip in Islamic Law MSC Islamic Finance MProf / DProf in Muslim Culture: Promoting Muslim Contributions to Intellectual Knowledge General Information How to Apply Finance Offers Message from the Principal of the Islamic College The Islamic College is a unique, pioneering and dynamic institution, providing higher Islamic education in a comprehensive way. We aim to provide our students with an environment within which the pursuit of scholarly achievement can be carried out in a manner that is in harmony with the subjects of study. We see ourselves as a caring, friendly but disciplined institution committed to raising standards in the study of Islam. The College strives for excellence, fulfilment of potential and achievement of all our students regardless of their individual beliefs, ethnic origin or gender. Dr M. J. Elmi 2 3

3 Our Mission MA Islamic Studies In our programmes and research, we aim to provide more than just an academic understanding of Islam, as it is taught in most universities today. We want to present an insider s view of Islam and allow students to understand it as a living, breathing way of life, as well as a system of belief. This means they will not only study academic theories about Islam, but they will become acquainted with scholarly debates going on within Islam and what these mean for Islam s future. In this way, we bring together education and spirituality, the classical and the modern, the academic and the practical. Postgraduate Programmes All postgraduate programmes are taught in the evenings. Students on these programmes are invited to register on any of the undergraduate modules which suit their interest or will assist them in advancing their understanding of the postgraduate programme without any other costs being incurred by them. Islamic Studies is quickly becoming one of the most popular subjects to study. As Islam begins to play a more influential role in current events, both in the UK and abroad, a deep understanding of its core principles, its history and its future has never been more important. Our Islamic Studies programme is unique because it offers an insider s-view of Islam. It is taught by a team made up of both academics and classicallytrained scholars. Unlike other courses of study, you will be encouraged to see Islam from both an internal and an external perspective, and it is hoped that this will enable you to relate what you learn in class to real world events and problems. As well as studying core subjects dealing with the texts, principles and history of Islam, you will have the opportunity to take modules dealing with the current discussions taking place within the Muslim world, such as the role of women, the relationship between Islam and government and the status of Muslims living in the West. This programme that will give you a comprehensive understanding of Islam as both a way of life and a system of belief. 4 5

4 Postgraduate Programmed Course Content Core Modules Students will complete all of these: MI401 Sources of Islamic Knowledge MI402 Islamic Theology MI403 Methods and Perspectives in Islamic Studies Designated Modules: Students will choose three of these: MI404 Islamic Law MI405 Islamic Mysticism MI406 Islamic Philosophy MI407 Authority in Shi a Islam MI408 Classical Islamic History MI409 Islam and Modern Politics MI410 Islam and Modernity MA Islamic Studies students must study three core modules, three designated modules and submit a dissertation. The core modules Islamic Sources, Islamic Theology and Methods and Perspectives in Islamic Studies deal with the fundamental elements of Islamic Studies: the Qur an, the Hadith, sects and divisions of Islamic thought and the critical approaches necessary to analyse these. The optional modules focus on a specific area within Islamic Studies, whether that is Islamic law, mysticism or philosophy. These are intended to give students the opportunity to focus on their field of interest. The dissertation (of approx. 15,000 words) will be on a subject of the students choosing (in consultation with his or her supervisor). What the Course Offers Our MA in Islamic Studies offers students the opportunity to acquaint themselves with both the core texts of Islam (the Qur an and the Hadith) and the Islamic sciences which have developed from them, such as jurisprudence, theology, philosophy and mysticism. Students will have the opportunity to take modules that deal with many of the recent developments in the Muslim world, such as the impact of modernity on Muslim societies and the relationship between Islam and politics. Learning Objectives A student who graduates from this programme will have acquired the following: A detailed understanding of the key issues in the classical Islamic sciences, such as theology and jurisprudence. A broad awareness of Islamic history and the issues currently facing Muslim societies and communities. A strong grasp of research methods, argumentation, essay writing and critical thinking. Assessment All modules will be assessed on the basis of written assignments. 6 7

5 MA Islam and the West: Comparative Studies What the Course Offers Owing to the development of inter-civilisational dialogue between the West and the Islamic world, there is an increasing necessity to improve mutual understanding between the two. As many of the differences do not pertain to issues of great conflict, comparative studies as a postgraduate course with its relative depth could be helpful in minimising them. Intense interest has developed during recent times for the understanding and evaluation of the two ways of thinking, Western (particularly Christian) and Islamic, both in the UK and abroad. The course is designed to assist students who are seeking an in-depth understanding of the similarities and differences between the approaches taken by great Western (particularly Christian) and Muslim scholars towards major issues. By critically examining the main topics, paradoxes and problems in different domains which have been regarded as significant and noteworthy, it develops intellectual skills and habits that are of great importance for life in the multicultural global society. Careers Graduates from this programme will have acquired a broad understanding of Islam and the Muslim world, not to mention skills in research, critical thinking and report writing. A variety of careers will be open to them, such as journalism, politics and social work. Entry Requirements Relevant undergraduate degree, non-native English speakers must have an IELTS score of 6.0 Duration 1 Year (Full-Time) 2 years (Part-Time) Fees Please check our website for details for information on fees tuition-fees. Accrediting Institution Middlesex University 8 9

6 Learning Objectives The program of study will help students develop: A broad awareness of two of the world s great intellectual traditions and how they have influenced one another. A detailed understanding of major issues in philosophy, theology and mysticism from an Islamic and Western (essentially Christian) perspective. Analytical and critical skills which are essential for anyone interested in understanding the key issues and forces that drive the modern, multicultural world. Course Content MA Islamic Studies students must study two core modules and four designated modules, and submit a dissertation. The core modules are Comparative Epistemology and Comparative Ethics; they give the student a broad understanding of the intellectual problems that both the Islamic and Western traditions continue to face. The optional modules focus on various theological, philosophical and mystical traditions and different disciplines from Islamic and Western (in particular Christian) angles. The dissertation (of 15,000 words) will be on a subject of the student s choosing (in consultation with his or her supervisor). Assessment All modules will be assessed on the basis of written assignments. Careers Graduates from this programme will have acquired a broad understanding of the Islamic and Western intellectual traditions, not to mention skills in research, critical thinking and report writing. These are transferable skills beneficial to many careers. This degree would be of interest to anyone considering undertaking further academic research in the fields of philosophy, comparative religion or Islamic Studies. Students will critically examine the main topics, paradoxes and problems posed in different philosophical domains. Entry Requirements Duration Fees Accrediting Institution Application Procedure Relevant undergraduate degree, non-native English speakers must have an IELTS score of Year (Full-Time), 2 years (Part-Time) For fees please check our website for details: Middlesex University UKPASS (

7 MA / PG Dip in Islamic Law Learning Objectives The programme aims to develop the student s knowledge and understanding of Islam. Specifically, it aims to develop: An in-depth knowledge of specialist areas of Islamic Law The use of an appropriate methodological approach to the study of Islam Critical thinking, analytical and practical skills in constructing wellreasoned arguments Constructive intellectual class interaction on issues related to Islam and Muslim societies across the world, and in particular in relation to today s Islam Proficiency in conducting research work and independent study Capability to pursue further postgraduate studies Specialised knowledge and skills that could be used in different career pursuits 12 13

8 Course Content Core Modules The core modules are designed to deepen the student s academic understanding of Islamic Law from an insider s point of view for both students with a BA in Islamic Studies and those with other backgrounds. In addition to exposing the student to an in-depth, systematic and sophisticated understanding of the major sources of Islamic knowledge, these modules will examine different methodological approaches and adopt the most appropriate of them for Islamic Law, embarking on a critical study of major schools of thought and main ideas that have helped in shaping Islamic knowledge as it is today. Students coming from fields other than Islamic Studies are encouraged to attend certain BA modules to support their MA studies. Designated Modules The designated modules will complement the core modules to take the students deeper in specialised areas. Students should choose from a combination of modules totalling 60 credits. The following topics are offered as designated modules but not all modules are offered every year. Islamic Commercial Law Islamic Jurisprudence Minorities, Rights and the Law Islam and Modern Politics Islam and Modernity Human Rights and Islam Comparative Law and Legal Systems Assessment All students registered for the MA course are required to submit coursework and deliver presentations. At the end of the course a dissertation of 15,000 words will need to be completed

9 MSC Islamic Finance Entry Requirements Careers The Islamic College established this program and structured it to meet the needs of those who are looking for employment in the field of Law and require an expertise in Islam and the various fields of Islamic study as well as those who seek to carry on their studies with a PhD degree and to become future lecturers or practitioners in the field. Relevant undergraduate degree, non-native English speakers must have an IELTS score of 6.0 The Islamic College is running a joint Masters Programme in Islamic Finance and Banking in partnership with Middlesex University Business School. The MA Islamic Finance programme provides indepth coverage of issues in contemporary finance and banking. It is also designed to cater for specialist needs within Islamic finance. This reflects the diverse needs of students looking for postgraduate qualifications in the domain of Islamic finance, allowing a choice from a wide range of modules designed to broaden awareness and knowledge of significant areas, and to deepen understanding of particular topics, methods and concepts such as insurance, taxation and governance. The programme is designed so that it can be completed in one year on a full time basis. Students can opt to study part time and complete the programme in two years. The programme is designed so that it can be delivered on campus or by distance learning. Full details of the programme and its structure are given in the student handbook. The MA/PG Dip Programme has two core and six designated modules as well as a 60 credit dissertation for the Masters. Duration Fees Accrediting Institution Application Procedure 1 Year (Full-Time), 2 years (Part-Time) For fees please check our website for details Middlesex University UKPASS (

10 Module Islamic Finance and Banking Corporate Finance Sources of Islamic Knowledge Islamic Commercial Law Islamic Insurance Islamic Capital markets Economic and Accounting Environment Corporate Governance and Corporate Accountability Dissertation Core Core Designated Designated Designated Designated Designated Designated Core Credits Category A B C C C C D D E Criteria for Admission to the Programme Applicants should hold a good honours degree from a UK University in the field of finance, economics, banking, accountancy, business studies or Islamic Studies, or the equivalent of the above from a recognised overseas University. Students whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English language proficiency in addition to the other entry requirements. A minimum score of 6.5 IELTS or a TOEFL score of 575 for the written test or 230 for the computer test or a recognised equivalent qualification must be obtained. Students are required to complete 180 credits for a Masters degree. This is made up of 60 credits for the two compulsory modules (Categories A and B) - Islamic Finance and Banking, and Corporate Finance. Students are also required to complete a 60 credit dissertation module (Category E). The balance of 60 credits is made up from a choice of several optional modules (Categories C and D) including Islamic Insurance, Economics and Accounting Environment, Sources of Islamic Knowledge, and Corporate Governance and Corporate Accountability. Students are required to select from each category

11 MProf / DProf in Muslim Culture: Promoting Muslim Contributions to Intellectual Knowledge This highly innovative Doctorate/Masters in Professional Studies joint programme with Middlesex University is for advanced practitioners making a significant contribution to their organisation, the community or professional area. This programme is planned to develop a unique multiinstitutional doctoral frame work that offers a diversity of routes for professionals from the private, public and voluntary sectors to exchange and advance community work, mentoring, understanding and contributions to the enhancement of life at the interface of difference. The Doctorate in Professional Studies (DProf) and the interim Masters in Professional Studies (MProf) allows individuals and groups to discuss and share their professional experience and experiential learning from practice regarding the needs of the various Muslim communities in our multicultural society, providing the opportunity for a deeper understanding of Islam in its right context and perspective

12 The Doctorate in Professional Studies (DProf), and interim Masters in Professional Studies (MProf) programme, is designed to develop a unique multi-institutional doctoral framework that offers a diversity of routes for professionals from the private, public and voluntary sectors to exchange, share and advance community work and mentoring at the interface of difference. The Programme facilitates individuals and groups to share their professional experience and experiential learning from practice regarding both the needs of the various Muslim communities in our multi-cultural society and the cultural knowledge which can be harnessed at the interface of encounters with those from other communities for the enhancement of the lives of us all. Assessment All assessment is of coursework only, with oral presentations additionally required for the proposal and the final project. Entry Requirement: For MProf: a degree or equivalent professional qualification; sufficient professional experience and opportunity to undertake workbased projects at postgraduate level; successful completion of a learning agreement in order to move from associate student status to the MProf award track. For DProf: Sufficient professional experience at a senior level and, normally a Masters Degree or potential for substantial level 7 RAL, successful completion of a learning agreement in order to move to the DProf award. Duration Flexible programme duration to accommodate candidates employment commitments Fees For fees please check our website for details: ac.uk/tuition-fees 22 23

13 How to Apply UKPASS Postgraduate applicants must apply through UKPASS (UCAS postgraduate service). For more details, visit: General Information Application Procedures Education Team Our Education Team processes all applications for undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. They are always happy to answer any questions you might have. You can reach them either by phone or by During termtime, the Education Team also manages the Student Helpdesk. There, students can submit their assignments, receive advice and generally ask for help with any of the day to day problems they might face in the course of their studies. If you are unsure about any details of the application process, you can always contact our Education Team via islamic-college.ac.uk) or via telephone ( ). Application Deadlines Postgraduate applications are accepted yearround for an October start. Equal Opportunities At the Islamic College, we believe our diversity is an essential part of our values. For this reason, we are committed to providing a working and learning environment that is free of unfair discrimination, and comply with all current and future legislation in this regard

14 Finance Studying at University requires a significant financial commitment on the part of the student. As well as tuition fees, students need to consider accommodation and other living expenses. If you have any questions about fees, finance or funding that are not answered below, you can always contact the Education Department (study@islamiccollege.ac.uk). Postgraduate There are no student loans available for postgraduate study. You can arrange a career development loan from your bank (make sure you understand the terms of the loan and you can manage repayments) or apply for a grant from different organisations. Students personally responsible for their tuition fees may have an option to pay in installments, subject to compliance with the terms and conditions stipulated by the Finance Department. For fees information, please contact us on

15 Once the student has commenced the first term of study, if: The College s ability to deliver programmes or other services in accordance with the descriptions provided is compromised beyond the control of the College (e.g. third-party industrial action), the College will use all reasonable endeavours to minimise disruption as far as it is practical to do so; The programme is cancelled or substantially varied from that described in the prospectus for reasons other than circumstances beyond the College s control, the College will use reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable replacement programme. If the student does not wish to accept the replacement programme, the student shall be entitled to withdraw from the programme. In the event of such a withdrawal, the College shall make an appropriate refund of course fees

16 Offers If the College offers you a place, you must make sure that you are aware of any conditions on which the offer is based and that these conditions are met by the notified date, and that you are aware of the terms of the offer; for example the year in which you start your programme and the length of your programme. If you are uncertain, please contact the College for confirmation of the details before you accept the offer. Car Parking Car parking at the Islamic College is severely restricted. No provisions are currently made available by the College for student parking and students are encouraged to make use of public transport whenever possible. Regulations for students All students will be required to abide by the College s charter, statutes, ordinances and regulations as a condition of enrolment. These include, without prejudice to the generality of that statement, academic regulations, arrangements for appeals and grievances, disciplinary regulations, regulations covering the use of IT and Library Facilities, dress code and behavioural policy. A copy can be requested from the Education Department. 133 High Road Willesden, London NW10 2SW Tel: +44 (0) Fax +44 (0) info@islamic-college.ac.uk

17 The Islamic College 133 High Road Willesden, London NW10 2SW Tel: +44 (0) Fax +44 (0)