The Islamic Economics and Finance (English) master’s program at Marmara University is a graduate-level degree taught fully in English. This program aims to provide students with deep knowledge of economic theory, financial systems, and ethical-legal principles derived from Islamic tradition. Students explore topics such as Islamic economic thought, participation finance (Islamic banking), ethical finance, financial instruments compliant with Islamic law, and global economic issues from an Islamic perspective. Through courses, seminars and research work, the program helps students analyse financial markets, design Sharia-compliant financial products, and study economic and financial systems with respect to Islamic ethics and modern economic realities.
Located in Istanbul — a city bridging continents and cultures and at the crossroads of global finance and commerce — the program offers a dynamic and internationally-oriented academic environment. Students benefit from being part of an institute dedicated to Islamic economics and finance studies, with access to research, academic seminars and collaborations. The program is ideal for those who want to combine economics, ethics and finance, and aim for careers in banking, consultancy, research or international finance with ethical and sustainable perspectives.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts / Master of Science (M.A. / M.Sc.) — Thesis (Graduate Programme)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters (2 years)
- Location: Istanbul, Turkey
- Study Type: Graduate
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Islamic Economics & Finance — combining economics, finance, ethics and Islamic economic principles.
- Admission modus: The program has thesis-based master’s admission; applications are open to national and international students.
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Islamic Economics & Finance
- Introduction to Islamic Economic Thought & History
- Principles of Islamic Finance & Participatory Banking
- Economic Theory & Islamic Ethical Foundations
- Research Methods & Academic English
Semester 2 – Advanced Topics in Finance and Economics
- Islamic Financial Instruments & Risk Management
- Comparative Finance: Conventional vs Islamic Financial Systems
- Global Economic Issues & Islamic Economic Perspectives
- Quantitative Methods or Elective Course
Semester 3 – Specialized Study & Research Preparation
- Islamic Banking and Financial Markets Case Studies
- Ethical Finance, Financial Regulation & Compliance
- Seminar in Islamic Economics & Finance
- Thesis Project Planning & Literature Review
Semester 4 – Thesis & Graduation
- Master’s Thesis / Research Project in Islamic Economics & Finance
- Thesis Defense & Presentation
- Academic Seminar / Publication Preparation
- Graduation & Professional Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can work as experts, analysts or consultants in Islamic banks and financial institutions, participation banking, fintech companies focusing on ethical finance, Islamic insurance (Takaful), fund management; in regulatory institutions, financial advisory, economic research centres, NGOs focused on sustainable and ethical finance, or international organisations. With deep knowledge in both modern economics and Islamic financial principles, they may develop or manage Sharia-compliant financial products, lead projects in participation finance, work on ethical investment, or pursue academic/research careers. The English-taught degree also helps graduates collaborate internationally or work in global finance contexts.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Islamic Economics and Finance (English) master’s program at Marmara University means studying at an institute that specialises in ethical economic and financial education rooted in Islamic tradition — rare among universities worldwide. You gain a unique combination of economic theory, financial expertise and moral-ethical perspective, allowing you to understand global financial systems and contribute to socially responsible finance and economy.
Additionally, studying in English opens doors to international literature, research, and cross-border collaborations — preparing you for global careers in finance, consultancy or research. The program balances academic rigour with real-world relevance, making it ideal for students who want to shape responsible financial systems and contribute to sustainable economic development.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Institute of Islamic Economics and Finance
Islamic Economics & Finance (M.A. / M.Sc.) Program Office
Göztepe Campus, Kadıköy
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 348 02 92
Fax: +90 216 348 02 91
Email: info@muisef.marmara.edu.tr
Institute of Islamic Economics and Finance – Student Affairs Office
Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 30 00
Fax: +90 216 777 30 01
Email: studentaffairs@muisef.marmara.edu.tr
International Office – Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 11 00
Fax: +90 216 777 11 01
Email: international@marmara.edu.tr
