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BA in Islamic Studies English Medium at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Islamic Studies (English Medium) at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This BA Islamic Studies (English Medium) program at B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of Islamic sciences, history, culture, and contemporary issues. It integrates traditional Islamic scholarship with modern academic approaches, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s multicultural and increasingly globalized society. The program is designed to foster critical thinking and research skills in the context of Islamic knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in Islamic thought, history, and culture, aspiring to build careers in academia, religious guidance, interfaith dialogue, and community development. It also suits individuals seeking to deepen their personal understanding of Islam or professionals looking to transition into roles requiring expertise in Islamic principles, such as in Islamic finance or ethical consulting.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths in India as researchers, academicians, interfaith dialogue facilitators, Islamic finance professionals, community leaders, or content creators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in educational institutions, NGOs, media, and Sharia-compliant financial institutions, with strong growth trajectories in roles promoting cultural understanding and ethical leadership.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Islamic Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the foundational texts of Islam, including the Quran, Hadith, and early Islamic history. Utilize study groups for collaborative learning and discussion. Actively participate in Arabic language classes to build a strong linguistic base for primary sources.
Tools & Resources
Official Arabic language textbooks, Online Quran and Hadith resources (e.g., Quran.com, Sunnah.com), Peer study groups, Departmental workshops
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures academic excellence and provides the necessary depth for advanced studies and credible contributions in any Islamic Studies related profession.
Develop Academic Reading & Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving critical reading of academic texts and developing clear, concise academic writing. Practice essay writing, summarizing scholarly articles, and proper citation techniques. Seek feedback from professors on early assignments to refine your academic style.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Online academic writing guides (e.g., Purdue OWL), Library databases for scholarly articles, Grammarly
Career Connection
Essential for research, report writing, and communication in academic, journalistic, or policy-related roles, enhancing your ability to articulate complex Islamic concepts.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond core Islamic subjects, explore connections with other disciplines like sociology, philosophy, and history. Read broadly on contemporary issues affecting Muslim communities. This broadens perspective and prepares for roles requiring interfaith or cross-cultural understanding.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s interdisciplinary journals, Lectures and seminars by other departments, Documentaries on global issues, Reputable news analyses
Career Connection
Cultivates a holistic understanding, making you adaptable for roles in NGOs, international relations, or media where a nuanced understanding of Islamic civilization in a global context is valued.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in a Niche Area- (Semester 3-5)
Identify an area of particular interest within Islamic Studies, such as Islamic law, philosophy, economics, or history of specific regions. Dive deeper through elective choices, independent reading, and seeking mentorship from faculty specialized in that field. Attend relevant webinars and conferences.
Tools & Resources
Elective basket courses, Advanced academic journals, Faculty consultation, Online platforms for specialized lectures (e.g., Bayyinah TV, Yaqeen Institute)
Career Connection
Developing a specialization differentiates you in the job market, opening doors to advanced research, specialized consulting, or roles in Islamic finance and education sectors.
Participate in Research and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to assist professors with their research or initiate small-scale research projects. This builds practical research skills, data analysis capabilities, and academic presentation experience, crucial for higher studies or research roles.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research grants, University research labs (if applicable), Statistical software (e.g., SPSS for social sciences), Zotero/Mendeley for referencing
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience in academic inquiry, crucial for careers in academia, think tanks, or positions requiring analytical and evidence-based reporting.
Engage in Language Immersion- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond coursework, practice Arabic through consistent reading of newspapers, listening to lectures, and engaging in conversational practice if possible. Consider short-term language programs or exchange opportunities, if available, to enhance fluency for direct access to classical texts.
Tools & Resources
Duolingo/Memrise for daily practice, Arabic news channels (e.g., Al Jazeera Arabic), Language exchange partners, University language clubs
Career Connection
Proficiency in Arabic is highly valued in Islamic Studies, enabling access to original sources, facilitating advanced research, and opening opportunities in translation, diplomacy, and international organizations.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Significant Internship/Project- (Semester 6)
Leverage the Internship/Project course in Semester 6 by choosing a relevant organization or a challenging research topic. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, whether in an NGO, a religious institution, a media house, or a research center. Document experiences thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Departmental placement cell, Networking events, Professional associations for Islamic scholars/professionals, Project management tools
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, builds a professional network, and often leads directly to job offers or strong recommendations, significantly boosting employability in your chosen field.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 5-6)
Attend academic conferences, workshops, and seminars. Connect with faculty, guest speakers, and professionals in fields related to Islamic Studies. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to establish and maintain professional relationships, crucial for mentorship and future career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Conference websites, Alumni network, Departmental events
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering hidden job markets, gaining insights into industry trends, and securing mentorship or recommendations, which are key for career progression in India.
Prepare for Post-Graduation Pathways- (Semester 5-6)
Clarify post-graduation goals, whether it''''s higher education (MA/PhD), civil services, or specific job roles. Prepare applications, brush up on interview skills, and if considering civil services, start preparing concurrently for relevant examinations. Seek career counseling for tailored guidance.
Tools & Resources
University career services, GRE/UPSC/State PSC exam resources, Mock interviews, Personal statement workshops
Career Connection
Strategic planning and preparation ensure a smooth transition into your desired career path, be it advanced academic pursuits, government roles, or specialized professional positions in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary Examination) or an equivalent examination conducted by the State Board/CBSE/NIOS/Other Boards with a minimum aggregate of 45% marks.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UGA1101 | Communicative English | Core | 3 | Language skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading comprehension, Writing skills, Oral communication, Basic rhetoric |
| UGA1102 | Environmental Studies | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental pollution, Natural resources management, Climate change, Environmental ethics, Sustainable development |
| UAI1101 | Introduction to Arabic Language & Grammar I | Core | 4 | Arabic alphabet and pronunciation, Basic Arabic grammar, Sentence structure, Vocabulary building, Reading short texts, Simple writing practice |
| UAI1102 | Fundamentals of Islam | Core | 4 | Pillars of Islam (Shahadah, Salah, Zakah, Sawm, Hajj), Islamic belief system (Aqeedah), Sources of Islamic teachings (Quran, Sunnah), Major Islamic concepts, Understanding Islamic practices, Introduction to Islamic history |
| UAI1103 | Life of Prophet Muhammad | Core | 4 | Early life and Prophethood, Migration to Madinah (Hijra), Key battles and treaties, Establishment of the Islamic state, Moral and ethical teachings, Farewell sermon and legacy |
| UGA1181 | Interpersonal Skills | General Elective | 2 | Effective communication, Teamwork and collaboration, Conflict resolution, Emotional intelligence, Leadership fundamentals, Building rapport |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UGA1201 | Professional English | Core | 3 | Business communication principles, Report and proposal writing, Presentation skills, Email and professional correspondence, Interview techniques, Group discussions |
| UAI1201 | Introduction to Arabic Language & Grammar II | Core | 4 | Advanced Arabic grammar (Nahw), Arabic morphology (Sarf), Vocabulary expansion and usage, Reading comprehension of complex texts, Translation practice (Arabic-English, English-Arabic), Intermediate writing skills |
| UAI1202 | History of Islam I (The Rightly Guided Caliphs) | Core | 4 | Caliphate of Abu Bakr, Caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab, Caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, Caliphate of Ali ibn Abi Talib, Early Islamic conquests and expansion, Challenges and administration of the Rashidun Caliphs |
| UAI1203 | Principles of Jurisprudence (Usul al-Fiqh) | Core | 4 | Definition and scope of Usul al-Fiqh, Primary sources of Islamic law (Quran, Sunnah), Secondary sources (Ijma, Qiyas, Ijtihad), Schools of Islamic jurisprudence (Madhhabs), Concept of Maqasid al-Sharia, Interpretation of legal texts |
| UAI1204 | Introduction to Quranic Sciences | Core | 4 | Revelation and compilation of the Quran, Structure and arrangement of the Quran, Sciences of Tafsir (exegesis), Asbab al-Nuzul (occasions of revelation), Makki and Madani surahs, Naskh (abrogation) and Qira''''at (readings) |
| UGA1281 | Problem Solving Techniques | General Elective | 2 | Critical thinking and analysis, Decision-making processes, Creative problem-solving strategies, Logical reasoning and heuristics, Applying problem-solving frameworks, Case study analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UGA2101 | Indian Constitution | Core | 2 | Preamble and Salient Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Structure and functions of Union Government, Structure and functions of State Government, Indian Judiciary and Amendments |
| UAI2101 | Arabic Literature | Core | 4 | Pre-Islamic Arabic poetry (Jahiliyya), Early Islamic literature, Abbasid period literary achievements, Modern Arabic literature movements, Prominent poets and prose writers, Literary criticism in Arabic |
| UAI2102 | History of Islam II (Umayyads & Abbasids) | Core | 4 | Establishment and expansion of Umayyad Caliphate, Umayyad administration and culture, Rise of the Abbasid Caliphate, Golden Age of Islam and scientific contributions, Islamic art, architecture, and philosophy, Decline of Abbasid rule |
| UAI2103 | Hadith Sciences | Core | 4 | Introduction to Hadith and Sunnah, Classification of Hadith (Sahih, Hasan, Da''''if), Isnad (chain of narration) and Matn (text), Major Hadith collections (e.g., Sahih Bukhari, Muslim), Science of Rijal (narrator criticism), Authenticity and methodology of Hadith collection |
| UAI2104 | Muslim Philosophy | Core | 4 | Early Islamic philosophical schools (Kalam, Falsafa), Major Muslim philosophers (Al-Kindi, Al-Farabi), Ibn Sina (Avicenna) and Ibn Rushd (Averroes), Metaphysics and Epistemology in Islamic thought, Ethics and political philosophy, Influence on Western thought |
| UAI2121 | Islamic Art & Architecture | Programme Elective | 3 | Principles and aesthetics of Islamic art, Mosque architecture and design, Palaces, gardens, and urban planning, Calligraphy and ornamentation, Miniatures and textiles, Geometric and arabesque patterns |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAI2201 | Contemporary Muslim World | Core | 4 | Impact of colonialism on Muslim societies, Post-colonial nation-states and challenges, Arab nationalism and pan-Islamism, Islamic revivalist movements, Modern political and socio-economic issues, Muslims in a globalized world |
| UAI2202 | Islamic Ethics | Core | 4 | Foundations of Islamic moral philosophy (Akhlaq), Concepts of good and evil, Ethical principles in daily life, Human rights and social justice in Islam, Environmental ethics, Business and medical ethics from an Islamic perspective |
| UAI2203 | Comparative Religion | Core | 4 | Introduction to major world religions (Hinduism, Buddhism), Judaism and Christianity: key beliefs and practices, Sikhism and Jainism, Similarities and differences between religions, Interfaith dialogue and understanding, Contemporary religious trends |
| UAI2204 | Islamic Education System | Core | 4 | History and evolution of Islamic education, Traditional Madrasah system, Aims and objectives of Islamic education, Curriculum development in Islamic institutions, Role of teachers and students, Modern reforms and challenges |
| UAI2221 | Islamic Banking & Finance | Programme Elective | 3 | Principles of Sharia-compliant finance, Prohibition of Riba (interest), Islamic financial instruments (Murabaha, Mudaraba, Musharaka), Sukuk (Islamic bonds) and Takaful (Islamic insurance), Islamic banking products and services, Regulatory framework and global trends |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAI3101 | Sufism and Mysticism | Core | 4 | Origins and development of Sufism, Major Sufi orders and their practices, Sufi philosophy and cosmology, Prominent Sufi saints and poets, Dhikr (remembrance of God) and spiritual journeys, Critiques and modern relevance of Sufism |
| UAI3102 | Islam and Science | Core | 4 | Historical contributions of Islamic civilization to science, Islamic cosmology and astronomy, Medical sciences and optics in the Islamic world, Mathematics and alchemy, Compatibility of Islam and modern science, Contemporary debates on science and religion |
| UAI3103 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to research methods, Qualitative and quantitative research designs, Data collection techniques (surveys, interviews, observation), Data analysis and interpretation, Academic writing and citation styles, Ethical considerations in research |
| UAI3104 | Women in Islam | Core | 4 | Status of women in pre-Islamic Arabia, Rights and roles of women in the Quran and Sunnah, Marriage, divorce, and family law in Islam, Women''''s education and leadership roles, Feminist interpretations of Islam, Challenges and opportunities for Muslim women today |
| UAI3121 | Quranic Exegesis (Tafsir) | Programme Elective | 3 | Principles and methodologies of Quranic exegesis, Different schools of Tafsir, Classical exegetes (e.g., Tabari, Razi), Modern approaches to Tafsir, Hermeneutics and contextual interpretation, Challenges in contemporary Quranic understanding |
