The Graduate Programme in Islamic Studies and Humanities

Successful graduates of GPISH emerge with two Master’s degrees:

• Two-year MA in Islamic Studies and Humanities, delivered by the IIS and validated by SOAS University of London.
• One-year Master’s at a UK University and in a subject of the student’s choice, within the broader remit of the humanities and social sciences. 

GPISH Modules

Pre-Sessionals 

Before beginning their first MA modules, students attend up to five weeks of intensive orientations and introductory classes. These provide a survey of the various disciplines that make up the humanities, as well as focused training in the core academic skills needed to pursue them. Students who are not proficient in Arabic attend elementary language classes. Based on English language levels, some students may also be offered individual support over the months before they arrive at the IIS. 

Years 1 and 2 – MA in Islamic Studies and Humanities at the IIS 

• Year 1 lays the foundations with regard to knowledge and approach. Year 2 confronts broader thematic subjects and particular attention is dedicated to cultivating research skills. 
• 14 subject modules: 8 in Year 1 and 6 in Year 2. 
• Intensive Arabic language training year-round, as well as a month-long language immersion trip to an Arabic-speaking country*. Students who are already proficient in Arabic may learn Persian instead, with an immersion trip to Iran. 
• Leadership workshop and careers seminars. 
• Educational field trip to Spain*. 
• Field research project*, leading to a 10,000-word dissertation. 

Year 3 – Master’s degree at a UK university 

Students spend Year 3 studying for a Master’s degree at a UK university in a subject area that resonates with the aims of GPISH. Guidance and support are provided to help students select their third-year options and prepare applications. Programme choices must be approved by the IIS for scholarship funding, and students are responsible for gaining acceptance at a university. Students will continue to have access to IIS facilities while studying elsewhere in Year 3. 

All study abroad components are subject to travel advice by the UK Gov Travel Advice and students obtaining the necessary visas. In the event a student cannot travel, alternative study arrangements will be made in the UK.