Graduate
We are currently not accepting applications for new students as the Master of Arts in Islamic Studies program is temporarily suspended.
The GW Department of Religion offers a graduate certificate and a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies. The graduate program focuses on the study of Islam in its early and contemporary formations, with an emphasis on developing competence in Islamic intellectual traditions. Graduate students have the opportunity to work with a variety of faculty members who are knowledgeable about the classical formulations of Islam and have on-the-ground experience in Muslim-majority countries and communities.
Centrally located in Washington, D.C., students can interact with government agencies, think tanks, nongovernmental institutions and the large Muslim community residing and working in the Metro area.
Programs
Graduate Program Highlights
Flexibility for Nontraditional Students
The curriculum can be tailored to suit the needs of students who are civil servants and employees of international agencies. Evening classes also accommodate working professionals.
Preparation for Doctoral Programs
Graduates have been accepted to PhD programs at top institutions including Princeton University, Emory University, Harvard Divinity School, the University of Pennsylvania and King's College London.
Diverse Student Body
The graduate program attracts a diverse group of students, with past applicants coming from the United States as well as Iberia, Turkey, Iran, Albania, Indonesia, Morocco, Bosnia, China, Pakistan and beyond.
“One of the benefits of the MA program is its interdisciplinary character. The requirements provide you with a solid basis in traditional Islamic Studies, but other classes are incredibly diverse. This was a great way to gain a larger understanding of Islam in relation to other faiths.”
Carolina Mendoza
MA ‘15