Islamic studies

Convenor: Abdullah Saeed

Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world. It is embraced by approximately one-fifth of the world's population. The Islamic studies program at the University of Melbourne provides students with the opportunity to study the development of Islamic thought and Muslim societies from a broad multidisciplinary perspective. Dedicated teaching staff provide expertise in areas ranging from modern Islamic hermeneutics, political thought and gender issues, to the study of economics and finance in Muslim societies. Students who specialise in Islamic studies develop transferable skills that will enhance their career options. They are also able to expand on their interest and knowledge through an articulated structure of higher degree study at the University of Melbourne.

Islamic studies addresses the issues relevant to the development of Islam as a religion and civilisation from its origins to the present. It draws on broad multidisciplinary perspectives provided by subjects taught by the departments of anthropology, Arabic studies, cultural studies, history, Indonesian studies, philosophy, political science and Islamic studies.

The Islamic studies program is expected to be particularly attractive to students interested in working in an area where success depends on their understanding of Islam and Islamic culture. Examples of such areas include foreign affairs, international trade, immigration, ethnic affairs, journalism, social work and teaching.

Islamic studies at Asia Institute

The strength of the program lies in that it allows students to study Islam and Muslim societies from a multidisciplinary perspective. Students in this program are encouraged to develop their interests in Islamic Studies and in another area of study which would provide them with skills to analyse issues relevant to Islam and Muslim societies with a reasonable understanding of Islamic world view, its value system, and particular historical experiences.

Ways to enroll in Islamic studies

Undergraduate students can enroll in Islamic studies through:

Islamic Studies can also be completed:

At the graduate level, Islamic Studies offer courses for:

Islamic Studies can also be a component in Asian Studies and Political Science program both undergraduate or graduate levels.

Credit for overseas study

Please note that not all exchange programs are valid for credit. Please check this before leaving for overseas study. Also, all overseas study is subject to DFAT warnings.

Islamic studies subjects

The following subjects are taught in the Islamic Studies program. Availability of particular subjects in a given semester, along with the requirements for major and honours are listed in the University Handbook under Islamic studies major. Some subjects have online content (note some areas maybe be password protected).