University of Exeter United Kingdom

MA Islamic Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter offers you a comprehensive and flexible postgraduate journey into the complexities of Islamic thought and practice. This Master's degree is ideal for students seeking to deepen their understanding of Islam, engage with contemporary debates, and develop advanced research skills. You will explore critical issues and scholarly discussions within Islamic studies, benefiting from the expertise of leading academics in a department renowned for its work on the Middle East and Islamic societies. This programme provides a robust academic framework for those passionate about this dynamic field.

You will study this full-time, on-campus programme over one year, undertaking 135 credits of compulsory modules, including 'New Approaches to Islamic Thought' and 'Theorising the Middle East,' alongside 45 credits of optional modules tailored to your interests. The curriculum emphasizes rigorous training in Islamic studies research methodologies, culminating in a substantial MA Dissertation. You will graduate with advanced knowledge and analytical skills, preparing you for diverse career paths in academia, policy, NGOs, or further doctoral study, with your expertise in Islamic studies highly valued by employers.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in Islamic Studies program offers a comprehensive exploration of Islamic thought and the Middle East. Students will engage with new approaches to Islamic thought, theorize the Middle East, and develop essential dissertation skills. The curriculum allows for specialization through a wide range of optional modules covering topics such as state and society, Iranian history, Islam in practice, and various aspects of Middle Eastern politics, society, and intellectual history.

1 Compulsory modules

New Approaches to Islamic Thought
Theorising the Middle East
Dissertation skills
MA Dissertation

2 Optional modules

State and Society in the Middle East
Iranian History, 1500 - the Present
Islam in Practice
Independent Reading Course - Sem 1
Independent Reading Course - Sem 2
Nationalisms in the Middle East
International Relations of the Middle East
The Palestine Question: Past and Present
Gender and Politics in the Middle East
Oral History: Principles and Practice
Gender, Sexuality and Violence in Palestine/Israel
Contemporary History and Politics of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula
Sociology and Anthropology of the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula
Politics and Economics of the Middle East
Critical Readings in Kurdish Studies
Rethinking Palestine: Critical Readings
Theorising Islam
The Sovereign, the Good, and Society in Islamic Thought
Esotericism and the Magical Tradition
Texts and Traditions in Islamic Intellectual History
The Kurds: History and Politics

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

39% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Streatham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsArtificial Intelligence & Machine LearningBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesCorporate Training & DevelopmentCorrections & RehabilitationHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringIntelligence & InvestigationsMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementProduct Management & UXSoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

EXPOSE

Primrose Kitten Academy

University of Exeter

Why Study MA Islamic Studies at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MA Islamic Studies at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, you must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with their respective score criteria.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as researchers, educators, policy analysts, or in public and private sector roles.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program offers advanced studies in Islam and the methodologies of Islamic research. You'll engage with key issues and debates within Islamic studies while working alongside leading scholars.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA in Islamic Studies has an intake month of September. Make sure to prepare your application well in advance.
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