Certificate of Higher Education

Muslim Culture & Civilisation (Validated by Middlesex University)

At a time when some analysts – due to lack of mutual understanding and appreciation of cultural commonalities – have repeatedly suggested that cultural interests such as ethnicity and religion play a primary role in patterns of conflict and alliances around the world, this course is unique in its approach. Having religion as well as culture and civilisation as its main components, this course provides a truthful portray of Islam and illustrates diversity and dynamism of Muslims within global, national and personal levels.

There is currently an increasing demand for qualified persons with an understanding of Islam and the Muslims from a cultural point of view. The Government has designated Islamic Studies as a strategically important subject in June 2007. In a report to the Minister of Lifelong learning, further and Higher Education, the opportunities available for potential students particularly those modules related to Islamic Studies that can be integrated into wider programs of Study has been highlighted. One of the biggest drawbacks of Islamic Studies in Britain is that it is a bit too historically focused and very rarely look at the contemporary realities and the question of what sort of actual trends there are in one billion and a third Muslim population today.

This programme rather stresses on the diversity and dynamism of Muslim cultures and would study them as part of world cultures and civilisations. It will encompass prevalent currents of thought as well as marginal and contested perspectives. Students will develop an understanding of the character not only of Muslim cultures historically, but also of the complex social, political and economic processes that they are undergoing in the contemporary world. The programme is wide-ranging and integrated, giving students an opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding. The overarching aim thus remains promoting and developing knowledge and skills in relation to today’s Islam. Arabic and Persian languages incorporates in the course are necessary tools for understanding Islamic literature and appreciation of Islamic Art.
The course is entirely based on optional modules to be chosen by the students but modules can only be taken if there are five students enrolled for that particular module. Successful completion of a module in each semester earns students 20 or 10 credits, depending on the scope of the module and the level of the module is indicated by the module code. Each module is allocated a fixed credit weighting and a level which gives an indication of the workload associated with that module. For a year-long module, credit is gained only after the completion of the second part of the module in the second semester. A total of 120 credits would be needed for the Certificate of higher education.