Islamic Studies

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The MA Islamic Studies is appropriate for all those seeking to further their knowledge in the multidisciplinary academic fields associated with the study of Islam. The MA provides an academic qualification suitable for those working within - or associated with - Muslim communities, in minority and majority contexts, especially those wishing to develop a greater understanding of the people, cultures and religious perspectives they are working with.

This includes those in the fields of law, social work, diplomacy, politics and education. A broad range of professional, cultural, religious and personal backgrounds are reflected in the postgraduates currently engaged with this MA programme, in the UK and elsewhere.

This MA is particularly appropriate for students who have not previously studied Islam before at university level, and for mature students (of all ages and backgrounds) returning to education. It is a suitable option for those with some background interest in Islam or connections with Muslim communities (in the UK and elsewhere), who wish to extend their horizons within this fascinating subject sphere.

The MA is a platform through which the academic skills can be developed for individuals to progress to further postgraduate study (MPhil and PhD). The development of study skills, research methodologies and other 'transferable attributes' are an important component of this degree programme

Students work at their own pace via distance learning. You choose a time to suit your own personal circumstances. The 'work load' is as heavy or light as you wish, but it is recommended that you allow at least a few hours a week in order to progress with your studies. Some students have taken substantial time out of their schedules to concentrate on progressing quickly through the programme, whilst others have juggled family, career and other commitments whilst snatching a few hours a week! Some sympathetic employers have allowed students 'time-off' in order to work on their studies (and have even offered financial support). Arabic is not a requirement for this MA.

Students wishing to enjoy the 'campus experience' (and the beautiful local countryside and coast) can also attend optional study periods at the University of Wales Lampeter. There is the possibility

When you start studying, you will receive module packages relating to your programme. Each module package comes with all the information required to start studying your chosen subject, including detailed notes and guidance, and a 'set book'. These modules have been especially written for the MA by the Islamic Studies specialists in the department. You can also access a full range of university resources, from wherever you are located. Plenty of contact and support is provided: students can e-mail, write and phone for advice, and the Department has an excellent and 'user-friendly' postgraduate support system for distance learning. From July 08, a Newsletter will be sent to all students.

Lampeter offers a wide range of library resources for the MA Islamic Studies, including inter-library loans. Electronic resources are particularly important, and through the library system you can access a variety of journals, books and other materials. There is a growing range of materials online suitable for use in the MA Islamic Studies. Particularly important is the Encyclopaedia of Islam: Online Edition.of a field trip as part of the study programme.

A range of modules are available. You must take the compulsory modules in order to qualify for the MA.

* Islam Today
* Study Skills for Islamic Studies [New]
* Islamic Law in the Contemporary World
* From Theocracy to Nation Statehood - The Making of Egypt
* Muslim Networks: Communication, Knowledge, and Islamic Traditions in Historical and Contemporary Perspectives
* Muslim Politics
* Project Module

Compulsory modules
* Core modules

The MA Islamic Studies also offers the possibility of incorporating the study of other distance learning modules offered by the Department of Theology & Religious Studies at University of Wales Lampeter (up to 40 credits) in a wide range of subject areas.

Masters degrees are assessed by written work for both the taught modules and the dissertation. Each student will be required to submit six essays of 5,000 words (or the equivalent), and upon successful completion of these essays, proceed to a dissertation of no more than 20,000 words. Those who then successfully complete their dissertation will then qualify for an MA Islamic Studies of the University of Wales.

Students who successfully complete the six taught elements of the course will qualify for a University of Wales Diploma, and students who complete three modules will qualify for a University of Wales Postgraduate Certificate.

* A good first degree or relevant professional experience. * minimum of C3 in 6 subjects at higher level (234 UCAS tariff points ) International students applying for study at postgraduate level will normally be required to show evidence of sufficient command of the English language to be able to follow their course, undertake research and produce writing without major linguistic difficulties. For example, this is usually the Cambridge Advanced or Proficiency Certificate, IELTS minimum score of 6.5, TOEFL minimum score of 575. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 575 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

UK Students

Unfortunately, funding is very scarce for postgraduate courses. Some funding is available from external bodies such as the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). The AHRC is funded by a number of sources including the British Academy and the Department of Higher and Further Education and offers support including professional and vocational awards and Studentships in the Humanities. Applications can be made via the Registry in February each year. Occasionally there are University of Wales Studentships available which are equivalent to the funding given by the AHRC, but these are subject to availability. A funding guide is available from the Registry. Most UK students are self-funding and many opt for Career Development Loans.

Overseas Students

Loans

American and Canadian students can apply for funding via the Federal Student Loan System for their respective countries.

Overseas scholarships

Overseas students may apply for Overseas Research Scholarships if they are intending to study for a full-time MPhil or PhD. Application forms are available in February of each year from the Registry and must be completed and returned to the Registry by the end of April in any given year. If candidates are successful in their application, fees are reduced to that of a home student.