Doctorate in Islamic Studies
School of Social and Human Studies
Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose
Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University
The Doctorate in Islamic Studies is an advanced study program created for dedicated scholars studying all aspects of Islam including its development through time and place both historically and presently from all perspectives (i.e., History, Philosophy and Theological, Law, and Culture) to create a comprehensive view of Islam as it existed in its classical forms and as it practices today, and its relevance today. Through the use of classical texts such as the Qur’an and the Hadith, rigorous PhD in islamic studies research is conducted regarding historical and contemporary challenges facing the Muslim world and societies as a whole. Students of online phd in islamic studies are actively involved in engaging with different perspectives through Historical Analysis, Comparative Religion, and Socio-Political Analysis in order to allow them to contribute and further develop the Academic conversation and Global understanding of Islam. Graduates of islamic studies doctorate degree will be qualified to pursue islamic theology phd leadership roles in Academia, Research, Policy, and Community Development thereby enhancing the level of meaningful interaction and improving the level of islamic theology phd Intellectual development.
What are the Core Courses & Topics for Doctorate in Islamic Studies ?
Important: Below you’ll find a summary of the subjects and fields you can delve into and engage with throughout the course of your academic journey. It’s important to note that this list is neither exhaustive nor mandatory, as the graduate school programs at AIU might differ from conventional curriculum. Its main purpose is to serve as a guiding and visual aid. Are you interested in diving deeper into the curriculum framework at AIU?
A doctorate in Islamic studies will consist of core courses and topics that provide the student with a broad foundation of knowledge bases but also an advanced level of specialization. These programs usually provide an in-depth study of the Qur’an (Tafsir), hadith sciences, Fiqh (Islamic law) along with Usul al-Fiqh (the principles of Islamic law), ‘Aqidah (understanding of Islam), and an overview of Islamic civilization history (Islamic history). In addition to these immediate areas of specialty, every student will also engage with classical Arabic as a language of quran studies’ scholarly knowledge, Islamic philosophy, Tasawwuf (Sufism), and comparative religion.
Also some of the more modern disciplines (such asIslamic finance; ethics; governance;… studies on women, gender, etc.; Islam in relation to globalising Muslim societies) are often included in these programs to ensure that the courses are applicable to current times. As each doctoral student completes these courses, various components of the curriculum will be used to develop research methodology, critical thinking, and dissertation writing skills to allow LLM scholars to provide original ideas within the area of study.
- Advanced Qur’anic Studies
- Hadith Sciences and Methodology
- Islamic Jurisprudence
- Principles of Islamic Law
- Classical Arabic for Research
- History of Islamic Civilization
- Islamic Philosophy
- Sufism
Orientation Courses : Doctorate in Islamic Studies
The purpose of orientation courses in a Doctorate program focused on the study of Islam is to provide scholars with a solid basis for advanced scholarly research and academic inquiry by providing them with a strong intellectual and methodological foundation upon which to build their own research and inquiries into Islam as a discipline and provide a general understanding of the field through understanding the evolution of the academic discipline of Islamic Studies, use of various research methodologies, and use of analytical approaches.
Students will be given guidance in developing a detailed understanding of the primary sources of Islam (i.e., Qur’ân, Hadith) within their respective historical and linguistic contexts, as well as contemporary and classical scholarship, through an introduction to the historical development of Islam as a discipline. Orientation modules typically address doctoral degree in islamic studies’ academic writing techniques, as well as ethical research methodology, and combine various hadith studies academic perspectives so that students will receive adequate preparation to undertake scholarly research independently and contribute to developing the scholarship of islamic law and Islamic Studies.
- Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
- Organization Theory (Portfolio)
- Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
- Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
- Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
- Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
- Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
- Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)
Research Projects for Doctorate in Islamic Studies
Doctorate programs in Islamic Studies produce research that promotes new knowledge and in-depth analysis of various aspects of classical and modern issues in Islamic studies. Projects include but are not limited to: the critical analysis of Qur’anic exegesis (Tafsir); online islamic studies doctorate at AIU studies on the verification and interpretation of Hadith; comparing Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) from different Islamic schools of thought; and exploring philosophical and theological arguments of various Islamic traditions. Also, some projects examine the Islamic Finance System, Islamic governance and political thought, gender issues in terms of Islam, and the effects of study islamic studies phd on contemporary global communities. All of these islamic studies research degree projects promote independent AIU islamic theology program research; encourage interdisciplinary research; and develop a doctoral dissertation to further knowledge within the academic and global communities.
- Doctoral Dissertation Project
- MBM900 Doctoral Proposal
- MBM902 Doctoral Dissertation (15,000 words)
Publication – Within a Doctoral Program in Islamic Studies, student published works represent an important contribution to the scholarly growth of the students and the overall academic community. Therefore, students pursuing a Doctoral degree must submit their research, writing, and critical reviews for publication in peer-reviewed journals; present or publish papers at academic conferences; and/or submit publications to the institution’s published works.
Some of the research, writing, and critical reviews submitted for publication may include topics such as Qur’anic Interpretation; Hadith Studies; Islamic Jurisprudence; Theology; contemporary issues impacting Islamic societies, etc. In the process of publishing their research, writing, and critical reviews, students also have the opportunity to refine their research, writing, and analytical skills through engagement with an expanded and diverse community of global scholars and debates.
Are You Ready to Apply for a Doctorate in Islamic Studies ?
Click Here
Doctorate in Islamic Studies Student Experience
Doctorate studies in Islamic Studies are intellectually stimulating and rewarding degrees that impact the lives of students personally for a long time. While students will do their own research, they will have additional support from mentoring, conversations with faculty members, and access to a variety of university distance learning islamic studies PhD research resources. Students will also engage with ancient manuscripts and current issues in the field providing an analytical understanding of the material and cultural diversity from around the world. Students can learn through community activities or participate in group discussions, seminars, and/or designer research creating multiple perspectives and improving cross-cultural understanding through exposure to similar issues and ideas across cultures. In a flexible and dynamic way, doctoral students can customize their accredited phd in islamic studies degree program to meet their own needs and interests as well as their professional goals providing a high-quality academic experience to help them use their education as a tool to make an impact on society.
Community & Social
A doctoral program in Islamic studies promotes respect and collaboration through its community and social dynamics, which allow for successful engagement with others as well as the opportunity to impact the world positively. Students will join a global community of scholars, educators, and practitioners which creates opportunities for cultural dialogue and intellectual exchange through community-based research, interfaith outreach and social action research by applying their knowledge of the field to current issues in today’s society via positive outreach efforts toward all communities within society. This process builds on islamic studies graduate program doctoral candidates’ academic peering, but it also establishes the skills of leadership, empathy, and an overall sense of being responsible so that these scholars feel empowered to make a positive contribution to society and promote a more inclusive and informed view of Islam within society.
Contact Us Today!
Begin Your Journey!
AIU’s Summer of Innovation and Growth gives you the ability to earn up to $5000 in tuition credit by completing free lessons and courses.
Whether you’re looking to acquire new skills, advance your career, or simply explore new interests, AIU is your gateway to a world of opportunities. With free access to 3400 lessons and hundreds of courses the ability to earn credits and earn certificates there’s no better time to start learning.
Join us today as a Guest Student and take the first step towards a brighter, more empowered future.
Explore. Learn. Achieve.
Academic Resources
Doctorate in Islamic Studies Program study offers you all the tools needed to conduct an independent and scholarly research. This is accomplished through having many options for obtaining primary sources such as classical manuscripts, Qur’anic exegesis, hadith collections, and a wide selection of scholarly literature ranging from contemporary publications to journal articles through both physical and digital libraries. Additional support is provided through access to extensive islamic theology research databases (e.g., online library databases) as well as through dummy zip file language tools for classical Arabic and through access to interdisciplinary materials via an electronic library system that provides access to virtual reference libraries and guides for researchers on how to do research and get support for performing scholarly work, and help to ensure that all students can get access to high-quality materials to enable them to engage confidently in global academic discourse and to contribute original insight into their area of expertise.
Virtual Campus
Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device.
My AIU Elements
MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.
AIU TV & Radio
The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.
AIU Campus Mundi
AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.
Graduation Ceremony
Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.
Symposiums & Webinars
Doctorate programs focusing on Islamic Studies have international symposiums that provide a global platform to allow scholars to exchange ideas, collaborate, and experience intellectual growth. These symposiums occur worldwide and draw participants from a wide range of cultures and disciplines, which allows participants to engage in discussion of major themes including Islamic religion, law, history.
Live Classes
The program delivers 2 live classes per day where scholars who study Islam collaborate with each other, their professors and other award-winning scholars. Students have the chance to engage with professors and their peers in person so they can discuss topics that are complex (like How do you interpret the Qur’an? How do we analyze the Hadith? etc.) The daily live classes provide participants with some level of academic engagement so that they may continuously develop critical thinking skills.
The daily live classes also create a sense of community among the participants despite their diverse backgrounds. The overall design of the program’s structure allows participants to remain connected to their cohort and the instructor, provides immediate clarification, helps students to develop their research and scholars to improve their research by having continuous dialogue and collaboration.
Special Projects, Research Publications, & Co-Authoring
Special Projects, Research Publications and Opportunities to Co-Author with Doctorate Candidates in Islamic Studies are intended to enhance the scholarly impact of Islamic Studies students through collaborative learning and to develop specialized areas of interest in the student’s area of practice. Students are engaged in Special Projects as a means of conducting a detailed research initiative that corresponds to their area of study through their own independent research or in collaboration with faculty mentors or other researchers on an interdisciplinary basis.
As part of this process the students will have the opportunity to co-author work that may lead to joint publishing in academic journals, edited collections or conference proceedings giving students valuable experience with peer reviewed research and co-authoring of major works. Doctoral candidates develop their research, writing and analytical skills by completing original research and providing originally developed ideas in the field and by developing an academic portfolio attached to all of their research, and by establishing themselves as recognized members of the global scholarly community.
Explore AIU Mundi Magazine to Stay Updated on Latest University News
Read Now
Career Center for Doctorate in Islamic Studies
A Career Center at Islamic Studies provides the necessary support for graduates to convert their academic knowledge into viable career options by offering guidance in selecting a profession as well as assistance with developing CVs and portfolios. The Career Center assists in preparing for academic and non-academic careers, including volunteering in community service organizations, NGOs and advising or interfaith dialogues with communities and building capacities within cultural organizations worldwide; therefore, this center helps prepare graduates with the tools required to create meaningful careers that connote their scholarship with applicable work.
Job Description
Doctorate holders in Islamic Studies can find diverse career opportunities that make a positive difference and provide them with intellectually stimulating and meaningful work in a broad variety of sectors such as education, research, and community service. Job titles for graduates include but are not limited to: a professor or academic lecturer at a university; researcher at an institution of higher learning; Islamic scholar or theologian; or Sharia adviser.
Other options for employment include working as an analyst/policy analyst, international relations officer, interfaith dialogue participant, or cultural adviser with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or multilateral organizations (e.g., United Nations, World Bank). Furthermore, many graduates may choose to develop a career within media and publishing by being an author, editor, or consultant; support Islamic financial institutions; and/or lead educational/community development projects utilizing their expertise to create better solutions and better inform others’ decisions in various fields of endeavor (including business, law, etc.).
- University Professor (Islamic Studies)
- Lecturer / Assistant Professor
- Academic Researcher
- Islamic Scholar / Theologian
- Shariah Advisor / Consultant
- Mufti (Islamic Legal Expert)
- Imam / Religious Leader
- Curriculum Developer (Religious Studies)
- Author / Academic Writer
- Editor (Religious or Academic Publications)
Tools for Doctorate in Islamic Studies
Doctorate programs in Islamic Studies provide students with many different tools to complete their doctoral studies: these tools vary greatly and all contribute to the in-depth nature of students’ scholarly work and collaborative research. Some of the tools provided include: digital libraries and historical manuscript archives; academic subject-research database systems; classical language tools; computer-assisted tools for text analysis and translation; bibliographic and reference management software; academic writing and editing applications; plagiarism checkers; e-learning systems; online discussion/collaboration platforms; and presentation and knowledge-sharing resources. All of these various tools help facilitate rigorous academic research, maintain organization of research findings, and enable researchers to participate in a global/academic dialogue.
- Zotero – https://www.zotero.org/
- Mendeley – https://www.mendeley.com/
- EndNote – https://endnote.com/
- Google Scholar – https://scholar.google.com/
- JSTOR – https://www.jstor.org/
- Project MUSE – https://muse.jhu.edu/
- Al-Maktaba Al-Shamela – https://shamela.ws/
- Quran.com – https://quran.com/
- Sunnah.com – https://sunnah.com/
- Grammarly – https://www.grammarly.com/
- Turnitin – https://www.turnitin.com/
- Microsoft Teams – https://www.microsoft.com/teams
- Zoom – https://zoom.us/
- Overleaf – https://www.overleaf.com/
Associations for Doctorate in Islamic Studies Professionals
Doctoral studies in Islamic studies connect students through leading academic and professional associations supporting quality research, collaboration and global engagement. Access to conferences, journals, funding opportunities for researchers and opportunities to work with others in their field helps doctoral applicants remain informed about new scholarship and contribute to discussions about Islamic studies (or related fields).
- Middle East Studies Association – https://mesana.org/
- American Academy of Religion – https://www.aarweb.org/
- British Society for Middle Eastern Studies – https://www.brismes.ac.uk/
- International Institute of Islamic Thought – https://iiit.org/
- Royal Aal al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought – https://aalalbayt.org/
- Islamic Research and Training Institute – https://irti.org/
Dive into AIU’s Innovative Research Studies
Get Started
Doctorate in Islamic Studies Admission Requirements
The Doctorate in Islamic Studies at Atlantic International University has an admission process that identifies motivated students with a history of strong academic performance (i.e., Master’s degree or equivalent). The application includes an online submission and a curriculum vitae. It is necessary to have evidence (i.e., samples) of previous academic/professional documents to prove your capability to do independent doctoral level research. Your ability to conduct independent research is part of AIU’s flexible, self-directed learning environment; as well as continuing to create avenues for academic freedom.
How Can You Apply?
The following are the steps to apply for the Doctorate in Islamic Studies programme provided by Atlantic International University (AIU):
- Complete the Application Form Online inputting your personal details, academic details, and professional qualifications.
- Submit your CV, which should include your educational background, work experience, any research publications that are relevant.
- Provide documentation of your qualifications that include suggested evidence of a Master’s degree or equivalent degree.
- If required, submit any other documentation required to support your application, such as references, samples of your writings, or previous research.
- Your application will be reviewed and assessed to see if you have the appropriate skills to succeed at the level expected within doctoral level studies.
- After acceptance into the programme you will be able to collaborate with your academic advisor to create a unique study programme that is designed to suit your individual research interests.
- Complete the enrolment process for AIU, one of the best universities for islamic studies phd and start your individual self-directed doctoral degree programme at AIU upon completion of registration.
Financial Support & Scholarships
All students are entitled to access higher education on an equal basis according to AIU’s philosophy. To achieve our goal of providing students with a variety of financial options to fund their PhD in Islamic Studies experience, we offer students merit-based, experience-based, community service-based, and need-based scholarships that will assist them in scheduling payments to attend school.
Additionally, we offer students flexibility in how they pay as well as sharia studies’ individualized assistance that will enable students to fund their education while achieving their academic objectives of islamic philosophy.
AIU believes that education is a basic human right. AIU has pledged to continue to support global, working learners in achieving Doctorate degrees while struggling with family and work commitments.
How Much Per Year to Get Your Doctorate in Islamic Studies ?
Atlantic International University (AIU) wants to provide a more flexible and affordable option for earning Doctoral Degrees in Islamic Studies than most traditional schools. Therefore, we have created several low cost educational programs which can also be paid for over time with our Flexible Payment Plan Option. Your total tuition amount will depend on the way you choose to study and how quickly you complete your degree; however, we will continue to provide religious studies options that will allow muslim history working professionals or students from around the world to obtain a doctorate degree. You may have to pay an application fee and some additional academic service fees, but there are many financial assistance programs to help cover the overall cost to complete your Doctorate Degree.
FAQs
What can I do with a PhD in Islamic Studies?
You will be prepared for a number of different jobs with a PhD in Islamic Studies. You can work as an academic professor, a researcher in the field of Islamic Studies, an Islamic scholar, or a curriculum maker or developer. In addition to working in those areas of academia and research, you may also find productive careers in the field of policy analysis, interfaith dialogue, or serving as a cultural advisor or consultant. Another area in which graduates of an Islamic Studies doctoral degree will have access to job opportunities is Islamic banking/finance, publishing, media production, and community leadership—many of these careers will provide opportunities to contribute to education, international understanding and social development.
How long does it take to complete a doctorate in Islamic Studies?
Minimum 3 years.
Can I study Islamic Studies online at the doctoral level?
Yes, AIU offers Islamic studies online at the doctoral level.
What subjects are included in Islamic Studies?
It includes a number of disciplines such as Qur’an (Tafsir) … Hadith, fiqh studies with their principles, aqeedah, Islamic history, classical Arabic, Islamic philosophy … Sufism, Comparative Religions, contemporary topics (Islamic finance, Islamic ethics, Islamic governance) … New issues in today’s growing Muslim communities.
