Overview

The Islamic Studies programme at George Washington University provides an advanced academic framework for understanding the complexities of the Islamic world. Students engage with diverse perspectives on religious thought, history, and culture to develop a nuanced global outlook. This curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and rigorous research skills within a prestigious urban academic setting.

By enrolling in this course, scholars gain access to a wealth of resources dedicated to Middle Eastern and Islamic civilisations. The curriculum bridges the gap between classical traditions and contemporary societal issues, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the multifaceted nature of modern international relations and religious discourse.

Why Islamic Studies at George Washington University?

George Washington University is renowned for its strategic location in the heart of Washington, D.C., providing students with unparalleled access to global policy centres, think tanks, and cultural institutions. The institution maintains a strong reputation for excellence in international affairs and humanities, offering a vibrant intellectual community for those pursuing specialised religious research.

The faculty comprises leading experts who bring extensive field experience and linguistic proficiency to the classroom. Students benefit from a collaborative environment that encourages interdisciplinary study, drawing on the university's extensive library collections and partnerships with international organisations to enhance their academic journey.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 2091 per credit
National fee: USD 2091 per credit
Local fee: USD 2091 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on a blend of historical analysis and contemporary thematic studies. Modules may include:

Islamic Law and Jurisprudence
Sufism and Islamic Mysticism
Modern Islamic Thought
Quranic Studies
History of the Islamic World
Islam in America
Gender and Islam
Political Islam

Careers with Islamic Studies

Graduates of this programme often pursue diverse professional paths in sectors that require deep cultural competency and analytical expertise. Many find success in international diplomacy, governmental agencies, and non-governmental organisations focused on Middle Eastern affairs or human rights.

The degree also serves as a robust foundation for roles in journalism, education, and museum curation. Additionally, the rigorous research training prepares students for further doctoral studies or academic careers, while others apply their knowledge in the private sector as consultants for international business and cross-cultural communication.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Islamic Historiographies

Qur’an and Hadith

Islamic Law

Topics in the Study of Islam

Thesis Research

Philosophy and Mysticism in the Shi'i World
Principles of Shi'i Jurisprudence

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Washington, D. C., United States

Disciplines

Islamic Studies View 36 other Masters in Islamic Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Two (2) recommendations
Prior academic records:Transcripts are required from all colleges and universities attended, whether or not credit was earned, the program was completed, or the credit appears as transfer credit on another transcript.
Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be uploaded to your online application.
Official transcripts are required only of applicants who are offered admission.If transcripts are in a language other than English, English language translations must be provided. The English translation alone should be uploaded into your application.
Statement of purpose: In an essay of 250 – 500 words

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

75276 USD / year

≈ 75276 USD / year
Out-of-State

75276 USD / year

≈ 75276 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

75276 USD / year

≈ 75276 USD / year

Living costs

Washington, D. C.

United States

1705 - 2975 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Islamic Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Washington, D. C.

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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