Qassim University

What you'll study

The programme combines in-depth study of the Qur'an’s text, historical transmission and interpretive sciences with training in research methods. Core areas include classical and contemporary approaches to Tafsir (exegesis), Ulum al-Qur'an (Qur'anic sciences), principles of Tajwīd and Qirā’āt (recitation traditions), Arabic grammar and rhetoric as applied to the Qur'anic text, and manuscript and codicology studies.

• Tafsir and Exegesis: thematic and verse-by-verse exegesis, comparative readings of major classical and modern Tafsir works.
• Ulum al-Qur'an: topics such as compilation and preservation, occasions of revelation (asbāb al-nuzūl), variant readings and the canonisation process.
• Qirā’āt and Tajwīd: study of canonical recitation methods, rules of pronunciation, transmission chains and practical recitation training.
• Arabic Language and Rhetoric: morphology, syntax and rhetoric (balaghah) focused on exegetical application and textual analysis.
• Manuscript Studies and Textual Criticism: palaeography, manuscript transmission and techniques for assessing textual variants.
• Research Methods: academic writing, critical analysis, historiography and methodologies for Qur'anic studies.
• Thesis or Major Project: independent research under faculty supervision producing a substantial piece of original scholarship or applied project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in Sharia, Islamic Studies, Arabic language, Qur'anic Studies or a closely related discipline. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong Arabic language competence, academic references from previous institutions, and a record of relevant coursework. Admission processes often include an assessment of academic transcripts, an interview or oral examination, and submission of a brief research statement or proposal outlining intended thesis topics.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in religious education, academia and community leadership. Typical career paths include:

• University or college lecturer and researcher in Qur'anic studies and related fields.
• Teacher of Qur'an and Islamic studies at secondary schools, institutes and memorisation (ḥifẓ) centres.
• Imamate, mosque leadership and roles in religious counselling and community engagement.
• Curriculum developer and educational consultant for religious education programmes.
• Positions in research centres, Islamic foundations, publishing houses and media that produce scholarly or educational Qur'anic content.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University is a major Saudi institution with established faculties and research centres in Islamic studies and Arabic language. The university provides access to experienced academic staff who specialise in Qur'anic sciences, as well as extensive Arabic-language resources and libraries with classical and contemporary scholarship. Students benefit from a learning environment that combines traditional scholarly transmission with modern research training, and opportunities to engage with regional scholarly networks and religious institutions.