Qassim University

What you'll study

This programme combines taught modules with an independent research dissertation to develop a deep understanding of legal theory and comparative methods. Core themes cover traditional Islamic jurisprudence (Usul al‑Fiqh), comparative constitutional and administrative law, comparative criminal and civil law, and contemporary issues such as human rights, commercial regulation and family law in plural legal contexts.

• Foundations of Comparative Jurisprudence – comparative approaches to law, legal families, sources of law and methodology.
• Usul al‑Fiqh and Modern Application – principles of Islamic legal theory and their application to contemporary legal problems.
• Comparative Constitutional and Administrative Law – structures of government, judicial review, and administrative accountability across systems.
• Comparative Criminal and Civil Law – liability, procedure and substantive rules in different legal traditions.
• Human Rights and International Norms – interactions between international human rights standards and domestic/Islamic legal frameworks.
• Legal Research Methods – qualitative and doctrinal research skills, critical analysis and preparation of a research proposal.
• Electives and Seminars – options may include commercial law, family law, Islamic finance, dispute resolution and translation of legal texts.
• Major Dissertation – an independent piece of supervised research on a comparative jurisprudence topic, demonstrating originality and methodological rigour.

The programme typically mixes lectures, seminars, case studies and guided research. Students are encouraged to produce work in Arabic and/or English depending on their research focus and supervisory arrangements.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in Sharia, law or a closely related discipline. Admission normally requires evidence of good academic standing from the previous degree and an ability to undertake independent research.

• Recognised undergraduate degree in law, Sharia or a related field.
• Academic transcripts and a statement of purpose or research interest outlining the proposed area of study.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to submit a short research proposal.
• Relevant professional experience in law, judiciary, legal practice, government or NGOs may strengthen an application.

Applicants whose first language is not the language of instruction may need to demonstrate language competence; details are provided by the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Comparative Jurisprudence go on to careers in academia, public service, and the legal profession. The degree prepares students for roles that require sophisticated comparative and analytical skills.

• Academic and research positions in universities, think‑tanks and research centres focused on law and Islamic studies.
• Legal advisory roles in government ministries, legislative bodies and regulatory agencies.
• Judicial and court-related careers, including positions in courts that handle matters involving Islamic and civil law.
• Legal practice or consultancy with firms specialising in comparative legal issues, Islamic finance, family law or international law.
• Roles in international organisations, NGOs and human rights bodies working on law reform, compliance and transnational legal issues.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University offers a supportive environment for advanced study in jurisprudence with faculty expertise in both traditional Islamic law and contemporary comparative legal scholarship. The university’s faculties and research centres provide access to specialised libraries, manuscript collections and regional legal resources.

• Interdisciplinary faculty combining Sharia scholars and comparative law experts.
• Opportunities for engagement with local courts, legal institutions and policy makers in the region.
• Structured supervision for research projects and a programme designed to develop both doctrinal and empirical research skills.
• An academic environment that facilitates study in Arabic and English, reflecting the bilingual nature of many comparative legal inquiries.