Qassim University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Sharia focuses on the classical and contemporary disciplines that form the body of Islamic law and its application. The curriculum combines theoretical study with practical training in legal reasoning and institutionally applied Sharia.

• Core Islamic sciences: Quranic studies (Tafsir), Hadith sciences, Seerah and Islamic creed (Aqeedah).
• Jurisprudence and methodology: Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Usul al‑Fiqh (principles of jurisprudence), comparative fiqh across the Sunni schools, and principles of legal derivation.
• Applied Sharia disciplines: Family law (marriage, divorce, custody), inheritance (Mirath), criminal rulings in Sharia (Hudud, Qisas, Ta'zir), transactional law (sales, contracts, partnership) and contemporary issues such as Islamic finance and banking.
• Arabic language and legal rhetoric: Advanced Arabic grammar, rhetoric and legal drafting to ensure graduates can read primary sources and prepare legal opinions.
• Research and skills modules: Courses in legal research methods, Sharia comparative analysis, ethics, and professional practice which prepare students for issuing fatwas, arbitration and court work.
• Practical training and graduation project: Supervised internships, placements with courts, religious institutions or financial organisations, and a final-year research project or thesis on an applied Sharia topic.

The programme is typically delivered over multiple academic years, progressing from foundational subjects to specialised elective topics in later years, and culminates in practical experience and a major research assignment.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor of Sharia normally requires a secondary school certificate equivalent to the Saudi General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihi) with satisfactory grades in relevant streams. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong proficiency in Arabic, both written and spoken.

• Secondary school completion or equivalent qualification from a recognised system.
• Evidence of Arabic language ability; non‑native speakers may be required to pass a language assessment or preparatory course.
• Some programmes require passing a university entrance examination or an interview to assess suitability for studies in Sharia.
• Other desirable attributes include a commitment to ethical conduct, critical reading of texts, and readiness for applied legal work.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Sharia find roles across public, private and non‑profit sectors where expertise in Islamic law is required.

• Judicial and legal roles: Positions as Sharia court clerks, legal researchers, or, with further qualifications, judges and court advisors.
• Religious leadership and education: Imams, teachers in religious schools and universities, or lecturers in Islamic studies.
• Financial and commercial sector: Sharia compliance officers and advisers in Islamic banks, takaful companies and financial institutions that need expertise in Islamic commercial law.
• Public sector and advisory roles: Legal advisers in ministries, social services, zakat and charitable organisations, and arbitration tribunals handling family and commercial disputes.
• Research and postgraduate study: Pathways to master's and doctoral research in Sharia, Islamic law reform, or applied Islamic finance and public policy.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University offers a focused Sharia programme grounded in the region's scholarly tradition while engaging contemporary legal and social issues. The faculty combine expertise in classical jurisprudence with applied experience in courts and banking, supporting students with supervised internships and community links.

• Regional relevance: Strong connections with local courts, religious institutions and organisations across the region provide practical exposure and employment pathways.
• Academic support: Experienced academic staff, access to specialised libraries and research centres in Islamic studies enhance scholarly development.
• Practical training: Structured internship opportunities and applied modules prepare graduates for real‑world advisory, judicial and financial roles.
• Progression routes: Clear paths to postgraduate study, professional certification and roles in both public and private sectors where Sharia expertise is valued.