Islamic Studies – Master’s with Thesis
The Islamic Studies (English) Master’s with Thesis program at Istanbul University / İslam Tetkikleri Enstitüsü offers advanced, scholarly education in Islamic religion, thought, history, law, philosophy and related disciplines, conducted in English. The program is designed to enable students to study Islamic texts, classical and modern Islamic thought, religious law, theology, and social-historical aspects of Islam with a critical and academic approach. Through coursework and research culminating in a thesis, students acquire strong analytical, interpretive and research skills — preparing them for careers in academia, research, education, religious-social analysis or policy advisory roles related to religion and society.
Located in Istanbul — a city with deep historical, cultural and religious heritage and academic traditions — the program leverages a rich intellectual environment and institutional resources of the Institute to offer students a meaningful and internationally oriented education. The curriculum balances classical Islamic studies with contemporary issues and academic research methods, making it suitable for those aiming to contribute to scholarly work or public dialogue on religion and society.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.) / Master of Social Sciences in Islamic Studies
- Standard period of study: 2 years (4 semesters)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, English-taught)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Islamic Theology, Islamic Law, Islamic History, Islamic Philosophy, Qur’anic Studies, Comparative Religion
- Admission modus: Graduate admission process
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Islamic Thought, History & Methodology
- Introduction to Islamic Studies
- Early Islamic History / Islamic Civilization
- Principles of Islamic Law (Usul al-Fiqh)
- Theology / Kalam / Comparative Religion
- Research Methods & Academic Writing
Semester 2 – Advanced Studies in Law, History & Interpretation
- Modern Issues in Islamic Law & Contemporary Fiqh
- Hadith Studies, Tafsir or Classical Text Readings
- Social and Cultural History of Islam
- Ethics, Society and Religion
- Elective or Specialization Course
Semester 3 – Specialization & Thesis Preparation
- Seminar: Selected Topics in Islamic Law, Theology, History or Thought
- Research Proposal & Literature Review
- Elective Courses (e.g., Islamic Movements, Interfaith Relations, Religion & Globalization)
- Thesis Project Planning
Semester 4 – Thesis Research & Graduation
- Thesis Research & Writing
- Data Analysis & Interpretation
- Thesis Defense / Oral Presentation
- Optional Elective (if required)
Career Opportunities
Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, research institutes, cultural organizations, NGOs, religious and social policy institutions, education, publishing, media, interfaith dialogue centers, and advisory roles related to religion and society. They may also pursue doctoral studies in Islamic Studies, Religious Studies, Theology, History, or related fields.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Islamic Studies (English) Master’s program at Istanbul University provides an academically rigorous pathway to explore Islamic law, theology, history, and thought within an international, English-taught environment. The curriculum blends classical Islamic scholarship with modern academic methods, enabling students to engage with both traditional texts and contemporary issues.
With access to Istanbul’s rich intellectual heritage and the university’s strong academic foundation, students gain the skills to contribute to scholarly research, cultural analysis, and informed public discussion. The program is ideal for those wishing to develop expertise that bridges religious studies, culture, and modern society.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Institute of Islamic Studies
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: islamicstudies@istanbul.edu.tr
Graduate Student Affairs Office – Institute of Islamic Studies
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: graduateoffice@istanbul.edu.tr
International Office – Istanbul University
Beyazıt Campus
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: international@istanbul.edu.tr
