Engaging with Islamic Civilization: History, Thought, and Contemporary Expressions
The Department of Islamic Studies at Manhattan International University provides a rigorous, academic exploration of Islamic civilization in its historical depth and contemporary diversity. Our programs approach Islam as a global tradition of thought, practice, and cultural production, examining its theological, legal, philosophical, artistic, and political dimensions. We foster critical understanding of Muslim societies and their interactions with other cultures, preparing students for informed engagement with one of the world’s major religious and cultural traditions.

The curriculum covers Quranic studies, Hadith sciences, Islamic law (fiqh), theology (kalam), and Sufism, alongside the history of Islamic civilizations from the classical period to modern times. Students engage with diverse intellectual traditions within Islam and examine contemporary issues such as Muslim political thought, gender debates, and Islam in Western contexts. The program emphasizes primary source analysis (in translation) and familiarity with major scholarly debates in the field. Language study in Arabic is encouraged to facilitate direct engagement with Islamic texts.

Our location in multicultural London provides access to diverse Muslim communities and cultural resources, including manuscript collections and Islamic art in major museums. The department hosts scholars working on various aspects of Islamic studies and maintains connections with academic institutions in Muslim-majority countries. Graduates find employment in education, journalism, cultural organizations, diplomacy, community development, and interfaith work, or pursue advanced academic research, contributing to nuanced understandings of Islam in the contemporary world.