Diploma
in Islamic Studies: 48 Credits (Duration: 18 months)
(After Certificate one year)
Required Courses
** Required courses of the Certificate program plus the following:
1. Arabic Language: Introductory I
Students are introduced to the basic components of the classical Arabic
language; with emphasis on the triliteral verb and recognition of basic
parts of speech.
2. Arabic Language: Introductory II
Students are acquainted with elementary Arabic syntax and the rules of grammar.
In addition, emphasis is placed on further study of Arabic verb forms including
the irregular and quadrilateral forms.
3. Tilawah and Tajwid of the Qur'an
Correct recitation of the Qur'an is a requirement of any practicing
Muslim. The major objective of this course is to train Muslim students in
the necessary phonological rules and the various styles of recitation with
particular emphasis on the Hafs style. This course goes beyond a mere mechanical
reading of the Qur'an to a more competent reading implying awareness
of the meaning of the content.
4. The Qur'an and Sunnah as Sources
of Knowledge
(al-Qur'an wa as-Sunnah ka Masdarayn li al-Ma'rifah)
The Qur'an and the Sunnah as source of knowledge particularly
in the field of human/social sciences and law. Significance and role of
knowledge in the revelational criterion. Characteristics of the Qur'an
such as: its preservation, comprehensiveness, validity for all places and
times, wholeness and interrelatedness. Finality of Prophethood and its importance
for mankind especially as a source of knowledge and guidance. A study of
some key issues dealt with in the Qur'an and Sunnah such as:
Tawhid, Iman, Islam, Ihsan, Resurrection, Angels,
Scriptures, Oneness of Truth and the Reality, Oneness of mankind, What God
wants from man and Issues of Knowledge, science and society.
5. Fiqh Relating to Acts of Worship
This course covers the concept of ibadah (worship) with its various
aspects and its impact on man's behaviour in society. It also deals with
the issues of tahara (cleanliness), salat (prayer), zakat
(regular charity), hajj (pilgrimage) and jihad (struggle in
the Cause of Islam). Emphasises the aims of these acts of worship and their
relations to current real life situations.
6. Da'wah: Principles and Methods
This course covers: the Islamic view of da'wah and its universal
dimensions; principles of understanding Islamic theory of da'wah;
principles of implementing Islamic da'wah; methods and procedures
of da'wah; significance of methods and techniques of da'wah;
steps and implications in different situations; using human sciences in
developing new methods for Islamic da'wah.
7. The Islamic World View (al Tasawwur al-Islami)
The course seeks to present a comprehensive conception of the universe and
man's relation to it from the Islamic viewpoint. Discusses the theistic
and ethical worldview of Islam as opposed to the atheistic or secular perspective.
Topics include: God, Man, Nature and the Universe and the question of teleology;
Subservience of the Contents of the Universe to Man; The Environment and
Man's Responsibility; Balance and Harmony in life; Pluralism and Political
tolerance; Civilizations and their decline.
8. Creative Thinking and Problem Solving
Thinking in the light of the Qur'an and the Sunnah and early Muslim scholarship
and Islamic approaches to creative thinking and objective thinking. Creative
thinking. Critical thinking. Blocks and barriers to creativity. Logic, errors
in reasoning. Assessing evidence. Decision making.
9. Islah and Tajdid Movements
This course studies contemporary Islamic reassertion, and examines major
trends aimed at restructuring contemporary Muslim society on the basis of
Islamic principles and values. Topics include: the origin of the Islah
and Tajdid movements in recent past and contemporary times, continuity
and change in objectives and methods, similarities and variations in vision
and action. These movements in various regions of the world, political ideology
and strategy, leadership and political structure.
10. Islam in the West
This course focus on the early and recent history of Islam and Muslims in
Europe and North America; their gains and loses; Muslim population and its
growth; Muslim institutions; problems, issues and challenges and Islamic
solution and strategies.
11. Leadership in Islam
This course covers these topics: The concept of leadership in Islam; the
significance, qualities and characteristics of leadership in Islam at a
group and state level; the selection and election process; duties, responsibilities
and rights of a leader; accountability of a leader; Muslim women role in
leadership. This course also deals with how to deliver a Khutba and
a speech, conduct a meeting, and organize a seminar or a workshop.
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