Introductory – Level One Modules

Scroll down to see course descriptions and module introduction videos for these modules.

Note 1: To take any of the four modules listed above, it is not necessary to have done any of the previous modules.

Note 2: The flexible nature of our programmes means that you do not have to take all the modules that are offered in each semester. Whether you do the Certificate, Diploma, or Non-award, you can take up to 60 credits each semester (excluding Arabic) and progress through the course at a pace that suits you.

To apply, click here Level 2 Modules

Shaykh Muhammad Saeed Bahmanpour

ISLAMIC THEOLOGY 1

The two Islamic Theology modules on the programme aim to critically examine fundamental doctrines of Islamic belief from a Shi‘i perspective. The first of these modules focuses on God: His existence, His attributes, and His relationship with His creation. In addition to assessing rational arguments for and against Shi‘i perspectives about God, the module calls students to reflect on verses of the Qur’an and traditions to assess how far reason and revelation tell us the same thing about the Absolute Perfect Being. The module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skill to navigate through diverse perspectives on God in a logical and structured manner.

Course Detail

Credits: 20
44 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £230.00
Non-Certificate Students: £460.00

Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi

ISLAMIC LAW 1

In line with the traditional format of the tawḍīḥ al-masāʾil (manual of Islamic rulings), the Islamic Law syllabus of the programme is divided into two parts: the first concerns ritual acts of worship (ʿibādāt), and the second covers transactions (muʿāmalāt). Following an introduction to the subject, Islamic Laws 1 systematically discusses nine major areas of Islamic jurisprudence. In each area, the most important rulings are carefully studied, including those which pertain to Muslims living in Western countries. The module investigates one’s legal duty in different scenarios and acquaints students with fundamental legal terminology and principles.

Course Detail

Credits: 20
44 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £230.00
Non-Certificate Students: £460.00

Shaykh Muhammad Khalfan

ISLAMIC ETHICS

Islamic spirituality, at its core, revolves around the pursuit of aligning oneself with God’s will. This module delves deep into the foundational principles and transformative practices that underpin this spiritual journey. It explores the approaches found in prominent works of Islamic Ethics and offers an insightful examination of the classical analysis of the soul and its primary faculties. Furthermore, the module investigates the cardinal virtues and the path leading to spiritual enlightenment. It incorporates a selection of spiritual guidance drawn from the profound teachings of the Qur’an and the Ahl al-Bayt (a). Rooted in the rich tradition of the Hawza, it also delves into the etiquettes governing the pursuit of knowledge.

Course Detail

Credits: 10
22 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £115.00
Non-Certificate Students: £230.00

Shaykh Rizwan Arastu

LIFE OF THE PROPHET (S) – BEFORE HIJRA

This module surveys the life of Prophet Muhammad (s) from his birth until his migration to Medina. The second part of the course, which will be taught in the following semester, continues from the migration to the end of his life. Students will gain a familiarity with the major events of the Prophet’s life and the struggles he faced as he endeavoured to guide humanity. Special emphasis will be placed on events where Sunni historians have traditionally diverged from Shi‘i historians. Students will become familiar with each side’s arguments and learn techniques to wade through the debate without becoming lost in the quagmire.

Course Detail

Credits: 10
22 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £115.00
Non-Certificate Students: £230.00

Shaykh Muhammad Saeed Bahamanpour

ISLAMIC THEOLOGY 2

This second instalment of the Islamic Theology course begins by examining doctrines concerning the guides sent by God to humanity, namely Prophets and Imams. The need for them, their principal characteristics, and contentious matters regarding them are fully investigated with reference to their historical unfolding and doctrinal significance. Following this, the authenticity and miraculous nature of the Qur’an are explored. The module ends with a detailed study of eschatology; here, students learn about death, judgement, and the final destiny of all creation. As with the first part of the Islamic Theology course, rational arguments, verses of the Qur’an, and traditions on these topics will be presented, debated, and critically assessed.

Course Detail

Credits: 20
44 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £230.00
Non-Certificate Students: £460.00

Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi

ISLAMIC LAW 2

In line with the traditional format of the tawḍīḥ al-masāʾil (manual of Islamic rulings), the Islamic Law syllabus of the programme is divided into two parts: the first concerns ritual acts of worship (ʿibādāt), and the second transactions (muʿāmalāt). Islamic Law 2 begins with the rulings on buying and selling and goes on to systematically discuss the most important laws on matters such as marriage, divorce, loans, wills, and inheritance. In addition to learning about one’s legal duty in different scenarios and conditions, students are acquainted with important terminology as well as rulings which pertain to Muslims living in Western countries.

Course Detail

Credits: 20
44 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £230.00
Non-Certificate Students: £460.00

Shaykh Rizwan Arastu

LIFE OF THE PROPHET (S) – AFTER HIJRA

This module surveys the life of Prophet Muhammad (s) from his birth until his migration to Medina. The second part of the course, which will be taught in the following semester, continues from the migration to the end of his life. Students will gain a familiarity with the major events of the Prophet’s life and the struggles he faced as he endeavoured to guide humanity. Special emphasis will be placed on events where Sunni historians have traditionally diverged from Shi‘i historians. Students will become familiar with each side’s arguments and learn techniques to wade through the debate without becoming lost in the quagmire.

Course Detail

Credits: 10
22 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £115.00
Non-Certificate Students: £230.00

Shaykh Safdar Razi Master

LOGIC

Traditionally, logic is described as a rule-based instrumental discipline, the application of which helps one to reason correctly. In other words, logic provides us with general and universal rules, which, if employed properly, keeps our mind from making mistakes in reasoning. This module aims to introduce students to the main concepts and methods of logic as developed by Muslim logicians. Through the application of these concepts and methods in set exercises, students will also develop their skills in critical thinking and rational argument.

Course Detail

Credits: 10
22 pre-recorded lectures, 4 live tutorials
Certificate Students: £115.00
Non-Certificate Students: £230.00