The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Islamic Education is a graduate program that integrates classical Islamic scholarship with contemporary theories of education. Tailored for educators, school leaders, and community education professionals, this 48-unit program (typically completed in about two years) equips students to develop and lead educational initiatives grounded in Islamic values while employing modern pedagogical best practices. Students gain a broad understanding of the core Islamic disciplines—such as Theology and ethics, Islamic law, Qur’anic studies, Sīrah (Prophetic biography) and ḥadīth studies—alongside exposure to current research in curriculum design, educational psychology, and instructional leadership. The result is a holistic preparation for those aiming to excel in Islamic educational settings.

The curriculum emphasizes the synergy between Islamic intellectual heritage and pedagogy. Core courses in Islamic studies provide a proper grounding in the ethos and principles that have historically underpinned Muslim education. Alongside these, students engage with courses on educational methodology, including classroom management, curriculum development, instructional technology, and student assessment, all examined through the lens of Islamic ethical and cultural considerations. For example, a student might learn to design school curricula that integrate Islamic moral values with state educational standards. Practical components, such as a supervised practicum or capstone project, allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts—developing, for instance, an enhanced religious studies curriculum for a school or a professional development workshop for Islamic school teachers.

This M.A. program is designed for current and aspiring educators who seek to become leaders in Islamic education. Ideal candidates include teachers at Islamic schools, school administrators, and curriculum designers who want to deepen their knowledge of Islam while refining their pedagogical skills. Graduates of the M.A. in Islamic Education will be prepared to take on roles such as principals, academic coordinators, lead instructors, or educational consultants in Muslim educational institutions. They will bring to these roles a unique combination of expertise in classical Islamic knowledge and advanced competence in educational theory and practice, enabling them to foster learning environments that are academically excellent and rooted in Islamic principles.

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree, and prior experience in teaching or educational administration is highly recommended.