PHD in Islamic Studies

Overview:

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is globally recognized as the highest academic credential. This program is specifically tailored for experienced and credentialed ministry professionals seeking advanced expertise. The Ph.D. in Islamic Studies combines a rigorous curriculum with the completion and oral defense of a doctoral thesis. Students may choose to specialize in either Qur’anic Exegesis and Sciences or Hadeeth. Coursework and research can be conducted in English or Arabic, offering flexibility for scholars. Additionally, Northampton University students in Islamic Studies are encouraged to engage with the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, participating in its vibrant community of worship, fellowship, and academic exploration.

Admission Requirements:

1. Completion of the application process.
2. A Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Islamic Studies (or an equivalent qualification validated by transcripts) or successful completion of a comprehensive test.
3. Two recommendation letters from recognized scholars.
4. At least five years of experience in religious work within the Muslim community.

Program Requirements:

1. Students must thoroughly review the Student Handbook issued for the year of their acceptance, with particular attention to the requirements of their chosen degree program. They are bound by the academic and financial obligations outlined in the Handbook at the time of their acceptance.
2. A total of eight courses (equivalent to 24 credit hours) is required for graduation. Up to four courses completed at any recognized institution within the same field may be transferred, subject to approval by the department head, Dr. Shahid Khan.
3. Ph.D. candidates must submit a doctoral thesis worth 6 credit hours, comprising a minimum of 175 pages (35,000 words or more) and including at least 25 bibliographic references.
4. A minimum of 18 months is required to complete the Ph.D. program unless an exemption is granted by the Director of Islamic Studies, Dr. Shahid Khan.
5. Candidates must successfully defend their thesis before GTF faculty, either in Indiana or at another location approved by Dr. Shahid Khan. Any student whose thesis is rejected more than once by the Islamic Studies Department will be dismissed from the program. (Note: Ph.D. students are not required to attend the graduation ceremony.)

Tutors:

Tutors are Imams approved by Imam Dr. Shahid Khan, Dean of Islamic Studies and Professor of Islamic Law, to teach at the Graduate Theological Foundation (GTF). Guidelines for tutor qualifications are as follows:

• Ph.D. graduates who pass an interview with the Director of Islamic Studies may teach undergraduate-level courses.
• After three years of teaching undergraduate courses without legitimate complaints, tutors may be approved to teach Master’s-level courses.
• After two years of teaching Master’s-level courses without legitimate complaints, tutors may be approved to teach doctoral-level courses.
• After two years of teaching doctoral-level courses without legitimate complaints, tutors may be approved to serve as thesis supervisors for M.Th. or Ph.D. candidates.

Exceptions to these guidelines may be made at the discretion of Dr. Shahid Khan, Dean of Islamic Studies.