MA in Islamic Studies

A group of students outside a huge white stone building with tiled floors

The Master of Arts in Islamic Studies offers an insider’s perspective on Islamic tradition as a religion, a civilization, a culture and a political force.

All graduate courses draw on the expertise of internationally published faculty as well as guest lecturers, including diplomats and spiritual leaders.


Curriculum Details

 

Historical Component

Unlike other Islam programs, GW’s MA in Islamic Studies curriculum incorporates a historical component, focusing on both classical texts and modern Islam.

 

Diversity of Material

Outside of core material, students are exposed to courses in history, political science and international affairs to gain insight into current politics, society and cultures of the Islamic world.

 

Thesis and Language Requirements

All MA students must complete a graduate thesis and a language requirement in Arabic, Hindi, Persian, Sanskrit or another language relevant to their research.

 


“The Middle East, which receives so much attention, is only a small part of the vast world of Islam. The majority of Muslims live outside that region but don’t receive nearly as much attention, which is why we developed this program using a broad perspective on the complexities and historic roots of the Islamic world.”

Mohammad Faghfoory
Director, MA in Islamic Studies Program


Course Requirements

Year: Semester MA Islamic Studies  
Year 1: Fall REL 6401 Islamic Historiographies  
REL 6402 Qur’an & Hadith
Year 1: Spring REL 6419 Islam & The West  
REL 6441 Islamic Law
Year 2: Fall REL 6401 Islamic Historiographies  
REL 6402 Qur’an & Hadith
REL 6998 Thesis Research
Year 2: Spring REL 6419 Islam & The West  
REL 6441 Islamic Law
REL 6999 Thesis Research