Qassim University

What you'll study

The programme combines classical Islamic disciplines with contemporary approaches to teaching and research. Core areas include Quranic Studies (Tafsir and Tajwid), Hadith studies, Fiqh and Usul al-Fiqh (legal theory), Aqidah (creed), Seerah (Prophetic biography) and Islamic ethics. Students also study Arabic language and grammar to enable direct engagement with primary texts, plus modules on Islamic history, civilisation and comparative religions.

Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Quranic Sciences: methods of interpretation (Tafsir), recitation rules (Tajwid) and thematic studies of the Qur'an.
• Hadith: classification, authentication, major collections and application of prophetic traditions.
• Fiqh and Legal Theory: study of Islamic jurisprudence schools, practical rulings and principles of legal reasoning (Usul al-Fiqh).
• Aqidah and Islamic Thought: study of creed, theology, and contemporary issues in Islamic thought.
• Arabic Language: advanced grammar (Nahw), rhetoric (Balaghah) and text analysis for primary-source competence.
• Islamic History and Civilisation: historical development of Islamic societies, institutions and intellectual movements.
• Research Methods and Project: academic writing, research methodology and a final-year dissertation or capstone project.
• Practical Training and Community Placement: supervised teaching practice, mosque-based activities, sermon preparation, and community engagement projects.

The degree is structured around progressive levels of study across the programme years, with a mix of lectures, seminars, text-based study, language classes and assessed coursework, culminating in an independent research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised secondary school certificate (for example the Saudi high school certificate or equivalent). Entry typically requires satisfactory results in secondary-level Arabic and religious studies subjects and meeting the minimum grade/GPA threshold set by the university for the Faculty of Islamic or Sharia studies.

Additional requirements for applicants may include:

• Proof of proficiency in Arabic sufficient for academic study; some applicants may be required to take a placement test.
• An official certificate of equivalence for international qualifications where applicable.
• Selection interview or assessment in some cases, particularly for scholarship or competitive entry routes.

Specific requirements and any additional documentation (medical checks, identity documents) are provided by Qassim University's admissions office; applicants should consult the university’s official guidance for the precise criteria that apply to their category.

Career prospects

Graduates of Islamic Studies go on to a wide range of careers in religious, educational, public and private sectors. Common career paths include:

• Imam, khateeb or mosque administrator—leading worship, delivering sermons and community religious guidance.
• Religious teacher or lecturer in schools, colleges and madrasahs, or further study at the postgraduate level leading to academic careers.
• Policy and advisory roles in government ministries, religious affairs departments and interfaith organisations.
• Roles in Islamic finance and compliance where knowledge of Sharia principles is required (with additional specialist training).
• Positions in NGOs, community development, counselling and youth work that require cultural and religious literacy.
• Publishing, media and translation work focused on religious content, educational materials and scholarly output.

The programme’s combination of textual competence, Arabic language and research skills also provides a foundation for postgraduate study (MA, PhD) and specialised professional training.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University has established faculties dedicated to Sharia and Islamic studies, offering access to experienced faculty who combine traditional scholarship with contemporary academic methods. The university’s location within a region that hosts significant religious and community institutions provides practical placement opportunities, mosque-based learning and community engagement.

Students benefit from institutional resources such as specialised libraries and manuscript collections, structured supervision for research projects, and links with government and religious organisations that support internships and career pathways. The learning environment emphasises both classical textual study and skills for addressing modern ethical, social and legal questions in Muslim societies.