Islam In Contemporary Britain - MA / Diploma
Aims of the course
The study of Islam in Britain is a rapidly growing academic field. There is a need for more scholars and researchers with in-depth knowledge of the history and contemporary context of Muslims in Britain. This course will:
- Provide you with an in-depth understanding of the theoretical and conceptual vocabulary surrounding British Islam
- Equip you with skills to undertake your own high quality research on Islam in Britain, according to codes of professional ethics in the social sciences
- Provide you with a recognised qualification indicating competence to work in a professional capacity with British Muslims
Who is it for?
The course is specially designed for those with an interest in understanding Islam in Britain: past, present, and future. It is also a natural choice for those who work with, or for, the Muslim community.
Also, if you are keen to develop a research or academic career in this exciting new field, this is the course for you.
Future careers?
The course offers a wide range of possible career opportunities. It is a particularly suitable programme for those who are looking for careers in the public sector (such as local authorities), in the race relations and community relations industry, inter-faith work, community development, and the voluntary sector. You will leave the course with a wide range of social scientific research skills that could be deployed in a wide variety of careers. It is also a pathway into a research or academic career in the field of British Islamic Studies.
Entry requirements
Applicants will normally possess an initial degree in an Arts, Humanities, or Social Science subject, awarded by a recognised Institution, at 2:1 standard or above. At the discretion of the Board of Studies, non-graduates whose relative lack of formal qualifications is compensated for by their age and relevant work experience may also be admitted provided the candidate has held, for a minimum of two years, a position of responsibility relevant to the programme. Candidates who fulfil the criteria for admissions will be selected on the basis of:
- academic performance in, and relevance of, prior undergraduate degree
- evidence of ambition to develop a career related to British Muslims
- evidence of ambition to develop an academic research career
- extent of prior experience of working with Muslims in Britain
Teaching and Learning
You will be taught by staff in the School of Religious and Theological Studies. The School is ranked as one of the leading centres of research excellence in the UK. You will also be taught by a team of internationally recognised experts from the School of Social Sciences. Teaching methods include: large group lectures, small group seminars, one-to-one tutorials, and workshops. The course begins at the start of each academic year. Full-time MA/Diploma students will complete the course over one academic year. Part-time MA students will complete the course over two academic years. Part-time Diploma students have three years to complete the course.
An overview of the course
The course is taught in two parts. For more information about each of the three modules below, please click on the module title.
Indicative timetable for full-time students, and part-time MA students
The timetable for each academic year may vary so the information below is simply an indication of the number of hours of teaching involved:
Autumn Semester
Tuesday: 10.00-12.00; 14.00-16.00
Wednesday: 9.00-11.00
Thursday: 10.00-12.00; 14.00-16.00
Spring Semester
Tuesday: 10.00-12.00; 14.00-16.00
Wednesday: 9.00-11.00


