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MA in Islamic Studies 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 at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This MA Islamic Studies program at B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of Islamic sciences, culture, history, and contemporary issues. It delves into the Quran, Hadith, Islamic law, economics, and philosophy, preparing students for scholarly and professional roles. The program is vital in India, catering to the growing need for experts in Islamic jurisprudence, finance, and community development. Its interdisciplinary approach ensures graduates are well-versed in both traditional and modern challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates from any discipline (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com., B.Tech., B.E.) seeking deep knowledge in Islamic studies. It attracts individuals passionate about religious scholarship, academic research, and community service. Fresh graduates aspiring to careers in Islamic education, research, or non-profit organizations, as well as working professionals looking to specialize in Islamic finance or cultural heritage management, will find this program beneficial for intellectual and professional growth.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including Islamic scholars, researchers, teachers in madrasas and universities, content developers for religious platforms, and consultants in Islamic finance institutions. Entry-level salaries could range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-12 LPA. The program also prepares individuals for higher research (M.Phil., PhD) and roles in interfaith dialogue, community leadership, and cultural preservation initiatives across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Foundational Arabic and Primary Sources- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time weekly to learn classical Arabic grammar and vocabulary using textbooks and online resources. Simultaneously, engage deeply with the primary sources of Islam – the Quran and Hadith – through authentic translations and commentaries, focusing on understanding context and core principles.
Tools & Resources
Madinah Arabic books, Al-Mawrid dictionary, Quranic Arabic Corpus, Hadith databases (e.g., Sunnah.com), reputable Tafsir (e.g., Tafsir Ibn Kathir)
Career Connection
Strong command of Arabic is crucial for authentic research and interpretation, opening doors to scholarly roles, translation, and Islamic education. Understanding primary sources is fundamental for any role requiring expertise in Islamic thought.
Developing Critical Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in methodology workshops and practice identifying research problems, conducting literature reviews, and learning academic writing standards. Start building a personal bibliography of key works and scholarly articles related to Islamic studies. Engage in analytical discussions to dissect complex Islamic concepts.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, academic journal articles
Career Connection
Essential for academic careers, policy analysis, and any role requiring structured investigation and clear communication of findings. This builds a foundation for the final dissertation.
Engaging in Peer Learning and Interdisciplinary Dialogue- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics in Islamic jurisprudence, history, and economics. Actively participate in departmental seminars or guest lectures to gain diverse perspectives. Seek opportunities for interfaith dialogue to broaden understanding and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Collaborative online platforms (Google Docs, WhatsApp groups), university common areas, faculty office hours for guidance, interfaith student clubs
Career Connection
Enhances communication, critical thinking, and respectful dialogue, vital for teaching, interfaith work, community leadership, and fostering understanding in multicultural settings.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection and Specialization- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose elective courses (e.g., Islamic Banking and Finance, Comparative Religions) that align with specific career aspirations or research interests. Deepen knowledge in these chosen areas through independent reading and exploring advanced texts beyond the prescribed syllabus.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty for advice, specialized journals (e.g., Journal of Islamic Studies), online courses or certifications relevant to the chosen specialization
Career Connection
Cultivates expertise in a niche, making graduates highly competitive for specialized roles in Islamic finance, academic research, or specific interfaith and community development sectors.
Hands-on Research and Dissertation Excellence- (Semester 3-4)
Begin the dissertation process early in Semester 3 by finalizing a research topic, conducting a thorough literature review, and developing a robust methodology. Engage regularly with your supervisor, meticulously gather and analyze data, and aim to produce a well-argued, original contribution.
Tools & Resources
University research support, statistical software (if applicable), academic databases, plagiarism checkers, regular one-on-one sessions with faculty mentor
Career Connection
The dissertation is the ultimate demonstration of independent scholarly capability, essential for academic roles, think tanks, policy analysis, and showcasing expertise to potential employers.
Networking and Professional Engagement- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities to attend and present at national or international conferences, workshops, and seminars related to Islamic studies. Network with scholars, professionals, and potential employers. Explore internships with NGOs, research centers, or relevant financial institutions to gain practical exposure.
Tools & Resources
Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), academic association memberships, university career services, faculty connections for internship leads
Career Connection
Builds a strong professional network, enhances communication and presentation skills, and provides invaluable industry exposure, significantly boosting placement prospects in academic, non-profit, or corporate sectors.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. / B.Sc. / B.Com. / B.Tech. / B.E. or equivalent degree from any recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 92 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISD5101 | Arabic Language | Core | 4 | Introduction to Arabic alphabet, Basic Arabic grammar and morphology, Sentence structure and syntax, Reading comprehension and vocabulary building, Basic translation exercises, Conversation practice |
| ISD5102 | Sources of Islam | Core | 4 | The Holy Quran: revelation, compilation, preservation, The Sunnah/Hadith: collection, authentication, authority, Ijma (Consensus) and Qiyas (Analogy), Ijtihad (Independent Reasoning) and Urf (Customs), Intellectual tools and methodologies in Islamic thought |
| ISD5103 | Early History of Islam | Core | 4 | Pre-Islamic Arabia: socio-political and religious landscape, Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the message of Islam, The Rashidun Caliphate: expansion and governance, Umayyad Dynasty: political and administrative developments, Abbasid Caliphate: intellectual and cultural flourishing, Early Islamic conquests and the spread of Islam |
| ISD5104 | Methodology of Islamic Research | Core | 4 | Introduction to research: definition, scope, types, Identifying a research problem and formulating hypotheses, Literature review and data collection methods, Research ethics and academic integrity, Referencing styles and bibliography preparation, Structure and writing of a research report/thesis |
| ISD5105 | Introduction to Islamic Jurisprudence | Core | 4 | Concepts of Fiqh, Sharia, and Usul al-Fiqh, Sources of Islamic law: Quran, Sunnah, Ijma, Qiyas, Major schools of Islamic law (Madhabs), Principles of Ijtihad and legal interpretation, Islamic legal maxims (Qawa''''id Fiqhiyyah), Application of Fiqh in contemporary issues |
| ISD5106 | Introduction to Hadith | Core | 4 | Definition and significance of Hadith in Islam, Components of Hadith: Isnad and Matn, Classification of Hadith (Sahih, Hasan, Da''''if), Famous Hadith collections and compilers (Muhaddithun), Methodologies for Hadith authentication and criticism, Role of Hadith in understanding the Quran and Islamic law |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISD5201 | Islamic Economic System | Core | 4 | Foundations and principles of Islamic economics, Prohibition of Riba (interest) and Gharar (uncertainty), Zakat, Sadaqa, and Waqf: social justice instruments, Islamic finance contracts: Murabaha, Mudaraba, Musharaka, Ijarah, Ethical consumption and production in Islam, Challenges and prospects of Islamic economic system |
| ISD5202 | Quranic Sciences | Core | 4 | Revelation and compilation of the Quran, Makki and Madani surahs: characteristics and context, Asbab al-Nuzul (occasions of revelation), Nasikh and Mansukh (abrogating and abrogated verses), Muhkam and Mutashabih (clear and allegorical verses), Introduction to Tafsir (exegesis) and its methodologies |
| ISD5203 | Political Systems in Islam | Core | 4 | Concept of Khilafah and Imamat, Principles of Shura (consultation) and justice, Role of the ruler and the ruled in Islamic governance, Historical Islamic political thought (Al-Farabi, Ibn Khaldun), Modern Muslim states and their political structures, Challenges of democracy and secularism in the Muslim world |
| ISD5204 | Modern Trends in Islamic Thought | Core | 4 | Responses to colonialism and modernity, Islamic modernism and reform movements, Islamist movements and political Islam, Revivalist and traditionalist currents, Feminist interpretations of Islam, Challenges of globalization and post-modernism |
| ISD5205 | Muslim Personal Law | Core | 4 | Marriage (Nikah) and its legal aspects, Divorce (Talaq, Khula, Faskh), Maintenance (Nafaqa) and Mahr (dower), Inheritance (Mawarith) and wills (Wasiyya), Guardianship and custody of children, Waqf (Islamic endowment) and its administration |
| ISD5206 | Islamic World in the Modern Period | Core | 4 | Decline of Ottoman and Mughal empires, European colonialism and its impact on Muslim societies, Rise of nationalism and nation-states, Struggle for independence and post-colonial challenges, Socio-political and economic developments in Muslim countries, Conflicts and reform movements in the contemporary Muslim world |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISD6101 | Quranic Exegesis | Core | 4 | Historical development of Tafsir literature, Classical methodologies of Mufassirun (e.g., Tabari, Razi), Modern approaches to Quranic interpretation, Interpretations of key Quranic themes and verses, Hermeneutics of the Quran and contextual understanding, Challenges in contemporary Quranic studies |
| ISD6102 | Hadith Sciences | Core | 4 | Critical analysis of Isnad (chain of narration) and Matn (text), Principles of Jarh wa Ta''''dil (discrediting and accrediting narrators), Authenticity and reliability of Hadith reports, Role of Hadith in Islamic legal reasoning and ethics, Famous Hadith classifications (e.g., Al-Bukhari, Muslim), Contemporary challenges and debates in Hadith studies |
| ISD6103 | History of Islamic Civilisation | Core | 4 | The Islamic Golden Age: intellectual and scientific achievements, Contributions to philosophy, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, Islamic art, architecture, and literature, Education system and major learning centers (e.g., Baghdad, Cordoba), Social and economic structures of Islamic societies, Interactions with other civilizations (East and West) |
| ISD6104 | Islamic Ethics | Core | 4 | Foundations of moral philosophy in Islam, Concept of Akhlaq (character) and Adab (etiquette), Virtues and vices in Islamic tradition, Rights and duties in Islam: individual, family, society, Ethical decision-making processes (e.g., Istikhara, consultation), Application of Islamic ethics to contemporary dilemmas |
| ISD61E1 | Islamic Dawah | Elective | 4 | Concept and importance of Dawah in Islam, Methods and strategies of Dawah, Role of the Da''''i (caller) and effective communication, Challenges and obstacles in Dawah work, Contemporary Dawah movements and organizations, Ethics of Dawah and interfaith dialogue |
| ISD61E2 | Islam and Science | Elective | 4 | Islamic perspective on knowledge and scientific inquiry, Quranic verses on natural phenomena and cosmic signs, Historical contributions of Muslim scientists, Compatibility of Islam with modern science, Islamic worldview on technology and environmental ethics, Contemporary debates on creationism and evolution |
| ISD61E3 | Islamic Banking and Finance | Elective | 4 | Principles of Islamic finance: Riba-free operations, Key Islamic contracts: Mudarabah, Musharakah, Ijarah, Sukuk (Islamic bonds) and Takaful (Islamic insurance), Islamic financial institutions and products, Regulatory framework for Islamic finance, Challenges and growth of Islamic finance industry |
| ISD61E4 | Sufism | Elective | 4 | Origins and historical development of Sufism, Key concepts: Tawhid, Ma''''rifah, Fana, Baqa, Sufi practices: Dhikr, Sama, Muraqabah, Major Sufi orders (Tariqahs) and their teachings, Influence of Sufism on Islamic culture and literature, Critiques and defenses of Sufism |
| ISD61E5 | Comparative Religions | Elective | 4 | Methodology of comparative study of religions, Core beliefs and practices of major religions (Christianity, Judaism), Overview of Eastern religions (Hinduism, Buddhism), Similarities and differences in theological concepts, Interfaith dialogue and religious pluralism, Islamic perspective on other faiths |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISD6201 | Islamic Philosophy | Core | 4 | Origins and development of Islamic philosophical thought, Major Muslim philosophers (Al-Kindi, Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Ibn Rushd), Metaphysics and epistemology in Islamic philosophy, Ethics, logic, and political philosophy, Influence of Greek philosophy and its integration, Impact of Islamic philosophy on Western thought |
| ISD6202 | Contemporary Islamic Issues | Core | 4 | Globalization and its impact on Muslim societies, Human rights and women''''s rights from an Islamic perspective, Islamophobia, extremism, and terrorism, Interfaith relations and dialogue in a globalized world, Environmental ethics and climate change in Islam, Challenges of identity and modernity for Muslims |
| ISD6203 | Islamic Minorities | Core | 4 | Status and challenges of Muslim minorities globally, Integration, assimilation, and maintaining Islamic identity, Fiqh of minorities (Fiqh al-Aqalliyat), Case studies of Muslim communities in non-Muslim lands, Role of Muslim organizations and leadership, Issues of citizenship and religious freedom |
| ISD6204 | Project Work/Dissertation | Project | 8 | Research proposal development and literature review, Methodology design and data collection, Data analysis and interpretation, Thesis writing and academic argumentation, Presentation skills for defense, Adherence to research ethics and originality |
