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BA in Afzal Ul Ulama at University of Calicut
Malappuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Afzal-Ul-Ulama at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This BA Afzal-Ul-Ulama program at University of Calicut focuses on in-depth study of Arabic language, Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and history. It delves into classical Arabic texts, Quranic studies, Hadith, and the rich cultural heritage of Islam. The program is designed to cultivate scholarly understanding and analytical skills within the context of Islamic knowledge systems, highly relevant for religious and academic roles in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a strong interest in Arabic language and Islamic studies, aspiring to careers in religious scholarship, education, or cultural preservation. It also suits individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Islamic heritage for academic pursuits or community leadership. Prerequisite backgrounds typically include a foundational knowledge of Arabic or a willingness to engage rigorously with linguistic and theological texts.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including Islamic scholarship, teaching in madrasas or schools, translation services, religious guidance, and research in cultural institutions. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in academic or specialized roles. The program aligns well with opportunities in interfaith dialogue, manuscript preservation, and contributing to India''''s pluralistic cultural fabric.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Classical Arabic Grammar & Vocabulary- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time daily to understanding Arabic morphology (Sarf) and syntax (Nahw) through textbooks and practice exercises. Build a strong vocabulary of classical Arabic words. Engage in weekly study groups to clarify concepts and practice sentence construction.
Tools & Resources
University grammar texts, online Arabic dictionaries (e.g., Hans Wehr), flashcard apps (Anki), peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of classical Arabic is fundamental for all subsequent studies and essential for careers in Islamic scholarship, translation, and teaching.
Engage with Quranic & Hadith Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Begin systematic reading and basic understanding of the Holy Quran and selected Hadith texts. Attend supplementary lectures or workshops on Quranic recitation (Tajweed) and basic interpretation (Tafseer). Reflect on the historical and ethical contexts of the texts.
Tools & Resources
Authorized Quran translations, Hadith collections (e.g., Riyad as-Salihin), university library resources, local religious scholars
Career Connection
Builds the core knowledge base required for all Islamic studies-related roles and provides a spiritual foundation for personal and professional growth.
Develop Academic English & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in English language common courses, focusing on critical reasoning, academic writing, and public speaking. Practice summarizing academic articles, preparing short presentations, and using proper citation methods.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, online academic writing guides (e.g., Purdue OWL), English newspapers/journals, presentation software
Career Connection
Essential for higher studies, academic publications, interfaith dialogue, and communicating Islamic knowledge effectively in a global context.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Quranic Exegesis & Hadith Criticism- (Semester 3-4)
Move beyond basic understanding to explore different schools of thought in Quranic exegesis (Tafseer) and Hadith methodology. Analyze the chain of narration (Isnad) and text (Matn) for Hadith. Participate in debates and discussions on theological interpretations.
Tools & Resources
Classical Tafseer works, Hadith sciences textbooks, online scholarly databases (e.g., Al-Maktaba Al-Shamela), departmental seminars
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and specialized knowledge for advanced research, lecturing, and scholarly writing in Islamic sciences.
Explore Islamic Jurisprudence & Cultural History- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically study the principles of Islamic jurisprudence (Usul al-Fiqh) and its application in contemporary issues. Delve into the rich cultural and civilizational history of Islam, identifying key figures, movements, and their contributions to Indian and global heritage.
Tools & Resources
Fiqh manuals, Islamic history texts, documentaries on Islamic civilization, museum visits (virtual or physical) to explore Islamic art and architecture
Career Connection
Prepares for roles requiring understanding of Islamic law, social guidance, heritage preservation, and cultural consultancy.
Engage in Arabic Literary Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Read and critically analyze classical and modern Arabic prose and poetry. Focus on literary devices, themes, and historical contexts. Practice essay writing and oral presentations on literary works. Consider joining an Arabic literary club if available.
Tools & Resources
Arabic literary anthologies, critical essays, online literary journals, departmental workshops on Arabic poetry/prose
Career Connection
Enhances linguistic proficiency and analytical skills, crucial for translation, journalism, academic research in literature, and creative writing.
Advanced Stage
Specialization through Electives & Advanced Research- (Semester 5-6)
Choose electives strategically (e.g., Arabic Journalism, Computer Applications in Arabic) based on career aspirations. Begin identifying a research topic for your final project/dissertation early, and consult faculty for guidance. Focus on independent research and critical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Academic research databases, university library, thesis writing guides, faculty mentors, statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Provides a competitive edge in specific fields, develops research expertise, and serves as a portfolio piece for higher studies or specialized job applications.
Develop Professional Translation & Communication Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Actively practice translation between Arabic and English, focusing on nuances, cultural context, and accuracy, especially with religious and academic texts. Participate in mock interviews and public speaking events to enhance communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Bilingual dictionaries, translation software (for reference), cultural sensitivity guides, language exchange partners, toastmasters clubs (if available)
Career Connection
Directly prepares for roles in professional translation, international relations, journalism, and academic presentations.
Network & Explore Career Pathways- (Semester 5-6)
Attend webinars, seminars, and conferences related to Islamic studies, Arabic language, and cultural heritage. Connect with alumni and professionals in relevant fields. Explore opportunities for internships or volunteer work in Islamic institutions, NGOs, or cultural organizations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university career services, professional associations (e.g., Arabic language teachers associations), alumni network events
Career Connection
Crucial for discovering job opportunities, gaining practical experience, securing recommendations, and building a professional profile before graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Plus Two or equivalent
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARB1A01 | Foundation of Academic English | Common Course (English) | 4 | Academic English Fundamentals, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Grammar and Usage, Academic Writing |
| ARB1A02 | Critical Reasoning & Academic Writing | Common Course (English) | 4 | Critical Thinking, Logical Reasoning, Argumentation, Report Writing, Research Skills |
| ARB1A07(1) | Functional Arabic I | Common Course (Arabic) | 4 | Basic Arabic Grammar, Everyday Vocabulary, Simple Sentence Structures, Reading Short Texts, Basic Conversation |
| AU1B01 | Classical Arabic Grammar (Morphology & Syntax I) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Arabic Grammar, Word Categories (Noun, Verb, Particle), Verb Conjugations, Nominal Sentences, Basic Verbal Sentences |
| AU1C01 | Quranic Science & Holy Quran (Part 1) | Complementary | 3 | Revelation of Quran, Collection of Quran, Mecca and Medina Chapters, Quranic Recitation Rules (Tajweed), Selected Chapters Study |
| AU1C02 | History of Islam (Pre-Islamic Period to Abbasid Period) | Complementary | 3 | Pre-Islamic Arabia, Life of Prophet Muhammad, Rightly Guided Caliphs, Umayyad Dynasty, Abbasid Dynasty |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARB2A03 | Readings on Indian Constitution, Secularism & Sustainable Environment | Common Course (English) | 4 | Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Secularism in India, Environmental Protection, Sustainable Development Goals |
| ARB2A04 | Readings on Life Skills & Professional English | Common Course (English) | 4 | Communication Skills, Soft Skills, Interview Techniques, Resume Building, Professional Ethics |
| ARB2A08(1) | Functional Arabic II | Common Course (Arabic) | 4 | Intermediate Arabic Grammar, Sentence Structure, Reading Comprehension, Writing Short Paragraphs, Conversational Practice |
| AU2B02 | Classical Arabic Grammar (Morphology & Syntax II) | Core | 4 | Advanced Verb Forms, Derived Nouns and Adjectives, Particles and Prepositions, Case Endings (Irab), Sentence Analysis |
| AU2C03 | Quranic Science & Holy Quran (Part 2) | Complementary | 3 | Abrogation (Nasikh Mansukh), Occasions of Revelation (Asbab al-Nuzul), Quranic Rhetoric, Methods of Tafseer, Selected Chapters Exegesis |
| AU2C04 | History of Islam (Abbasid Period to Ottoman Period) | Complementary | 3 | Decline of Abbasids, Emergence of Dynasties, Mamluks and Delhi Sultanate, Ottoman Empire, Islamic Civilization Contributions |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARB3A09(1) | Functional Arabic III | Common Course (Arabic) | 4 | Advanced Arabic Structures, Media Arabic, Writing Formal Letters, Public Speaking Practice, Cultural Texts Reading |
| AU3B03 | Classical Arabic Literature I (Prose) | Core | 4 | Pre-Islamic Arabic Prose, Umayyad Prose Writers, Abbasid Literary Figures, Adab Literature, Rhetoric in Prose |
| AU3B04 | Quranic Exegesis (Tafseer) I | Core | 4 | Principles of Tafseer, Types of Tafseer, Historical Development of Tafseer, Major Mufassirun, Selected Chapters Analysis |
| AU3B05 | Hadith Studies I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Hadith Science, Definition of Hadith and Sunnah, Components of Hadith (Isnad, Matn), Classification of Hadith, Prominent Muhadditheen |
| AU3C05 | Logic & Fundamentals of Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) I | Complementary | 3 | Introduction to Logic, Methods of Reasoning, Sources of Islamic Law, Principles of Fiqh (Usul al-Fiqh), Ijma and Qiyas |
| AU3C06 | Culture & Civilization of Islam I | Complementary | 3 | Islamic Arts and Architecture, Sciences in Islamic Civilization, Education System, Social Structure, Cross-cultural Interactions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARB4A10(1) | Functional Arabic IV | Common Course (Arabic) | 4 | Official Correspondence, News Reading and Reporting, Interview Skills (Arabic), Research Presentation in Arabic, Translating Practical Texts |
| AU4B06 | Classical Arabic Literature II (Poetry) | Core | 4 | Pre-Islamic Poetry, Umayyad Poets, Abbasid Poetic Innovations, Major Poetic Genres, Analysis of Masterpieces |
| AU4B07 | Quranic Exegesis (Tafseer) II | Core | 4 | Literary Tafseer, Scientific Tafseer, Thematic Tafseer, Contemporary Approaches to Tafseer, Detailed Exegesis of Specific Surahs |
| AU4B08 | Hadith Studies II | Core | 4 | Science of Jarh wa Ta''''deel, Critique of Hadith Narrators, Authenticity of Hadith, Hadith Collections (Sahih, Sunan), Study of Specific Hadiths |
| AU4C07 | Logic & Fundamentals of Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) II | Complementary | 3 | Analogical Reasoning (Qiyas), Juristic Preference (Istihsan), Public Interest (Maslahah Mursalah), Fatwa and Its Principles, Contemporary Fiqh Issues |
| AU4C08 | Culture & Civilization of Islam II | Complementary | 3 | Philosophical Traditions, Mystical Traditions (Sufism), Political Systems, Economic Practices, Impact on World Civilizations |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU5B09 | Modern Arabic Prose & Drama | Core | 4 | Evolution of Modern Arabic Prose, Short Story and Novel, Arabic Drama, Literary Criticism, Major Modern Writers |
| AU5B10 | Rhetoric & Prosody in Arabic | Core | 4 | Ilm al-Ma''''ani (Semantics), Ilm al-Badi'''' (Figurative Language), Ilm al-Bayan (Eloquence), Arabic Meter (Arood), Rhyme and Rhythm |
| AU5B11 | History of Arabic Literature I (Pre-Islamic to Abbasid) | Core | 4 | Jahiliyya Period Literature, Early Islamic Period, Umayyad Literary Trends, Golden Age of Abbasid Literature, Literary Movements and Genres |
| AU5B12 | Islamic History (Ottoman to Modern Period) | Core | 4 | Decline of Ottoman Empire, European Colonialism, Modern Islamic Movements, Formation of Nation-States, Contemporary Challenges |
| AU5B13 | Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) I | Core | 4 | Fiqh of Purification (Taharah), Fiqh of Prayer (Salat), Fiqh of Fasting (Sawm), Fiqh of Zakat, Fiqh of Hajj |
| AU5D01 | Arabic Journalism | Elective (Optional) | 3 | History of Arabic Journalism, Journalistic Writing Styles, News Reporting and Editing, Media Ethics, Digital Journalism in Arabic |
| AU5D02 | Computer Applications in Arabic | Elective (Optional) | 3 | Introduction to Computers, Arabic Word Processing, Internet and Arabic Resources, Arabic Script Software, Digital Libraries for Arabic |
| AU5D03 | General Linguistics (Arabic) | Elective (Optional) | 3 | Introduction to Linguistics, Phonetics and Phonology (Arabic), Morphology (Arabic), Syntax (Arabic), Semantics and Pragmatics |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU6B14 | Modern Arabic Poetry & Criticism | Core | 4 | Modern Arabic Poetic Movements, Free Verse (Shi''''r Hurr), Poetic Schools and Styles, Contemporary Poets, Arabic Literary Criticism |
| AU6B15 | History of Arabic Literature II (Abbasid to Modern Period) | Core | 4 | Post-Abbasid Decline, Ottoman Period Literature, Nahda (Arabic Renaissance), Impact of Western Literature, Contemporary Literary Trends |
| AU6B16 | Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) II | Core | 4 | Fiqh of Transactions (Mu''''amalat), Fiqh of Marriage (Nikah), Fiqh of Divorce (Talaq), Fiqh of Inheritance (Fara''''id), Islamic Criminal Law |
| AU6B17 | Islamic Theology & Philosophy | Core | 4 | Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama''''ah, Mutazilism, Asharism and Maturidism, Major Islamic Philosophers, Logic and Kalam |
| AU6B18 | Translation (Arabic-English & English-Arabic) | Core | 4 | Theories of Translation, Techniques of Translation, Translation of Religious Texts, Translation of Literary Texts, Practical Translation Exercises |
| AU6B19(P) | Project / Dissertation | Core (Project) | 4 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation Skills |
