Islamic World Studies

Program Overview

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The Islamic World Studies minor at Fairfield University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Islamic World, encompassing its diverse societies, cultures, traditions, and histories. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students develop critical thinking, intercultural communication skills, and cultural competency, preparing them for careers in international relations, diplomacy, education, and research. The minor also offers opportunities for study abroad, guest speakers, and a capstone experience project, fostering a deep engagement with the Islamic World.

Program Outline

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Islamic World Studies

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Degree Overview:

The Islamic World Studies minor engages students in an interdisciplinary study of the societies, cultures, religious traditions, politics, and histories of the Islamic World. The minor helps students become informed and critical global citizens with a broad cultural competency regarding the significance of Islam and Muslims in the world today.

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Objectives:

• Provide students with a multifaceted understanding of the Islamic World, encompassing its diverse societies, cultures, traditions, and histories.
• Foster critical thinking and analytical skills in relation to the complexities of the contemporary Islamic world and its evolving geopolitical landscapes.
• Equip students with intercultural communication skills and cultural competency for better understanding and engagement with the Muslim world.
• Prepare students for diverse career paths focusing on international relations, diplomacy, advocacy, education, and research, among others.

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Outline:

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Required Courses:

(15 credits)

• Islam and Its Traditions (REL 202)
• History of the Middle East (HST 228)
• Literature and Culture of the Arab World (ARA 210)
• Politics in the Middle East (POL 380)
• Contemporary Issues in the Islamic World (ARA 399)

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Elective Courses:

(minimum 5 courses, 15 credits)

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Humanities:

• Arabic Literature in Translation (ARA 220)
• Islamic Art and Architecture (ARA 350)
• Classical Islamic Thought (REL 360)
• Islam in America (REL 365)
• Women and Islam (WGS 375)

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Social Sciences:

• Economic Development and the Middle East (ECO 320)
• Introduction to Islamic Law (POL 375)
• Gender and Politics in the Middle East (WGS 390)
• The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (POL 395)
• Islam and the Modern World (HST 396)

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Arabic Language:

• Elementary Arabic I (ARA 101)
• Elementary Arabic II (ARA 102)
• Intermediate Arabic I (ARA 201)
• Intermediate Arabic II (ARA 202)
• Advanced Arabic (ARA 301)

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Assessment:

Each course utilizes various assessment methods, often drawing from a combination of:

• Exams:
Evaluating students' understanding of key concepts and factual knowledge.
• Essays and research papers:
Allowing students to analyze complex issues, research related topics, and effectively communicate their arguments.
• Class participation:
Encouraging active engagement in discussions, debates, and critical analyses.
• Presentations:
Supporting students to develop strong presentational skills and confidently express their perspectives.
• Creative projects:
Enabling students to explore innovative ways to showcase their understanding through various media expressions.

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Teaching:

• Interactive lectures that stimulate and challenge学生的thinking.
• Small group discussions that foster active participation and peer-to-peer learning.
• Guest speakers and visiting scholars who bring varied perspectives on contemporary issues pertaining to the Islamic World.
• Study abroad opportunities to immerse students in diverse cultural settings and enhance their firsthand understanding of the region.
• Film screenings and cultural events that enrich learning experiences and promote intercultural encounters.

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Careers:

The completed minor equips students for diversified career options in both the private and public sectors, notably in areas such as:

• International organizations and diplomacy
• Development work and humanitarian outreach
• Advocacy and intercultural mediation
• Education and research related to the Middle East and Islam
• Media and communication industries focusing on international affairs
• Business sectors involving intercultural collaboration and interaction with Middle Eastern markets

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Other:

• Upon finishing the Minor coursework, students are encouraged to participate in the Islamic World Studies Capstone Experience Project.
This allows culminating efforts towards demonstrating acquired knowledge application and promoting independent research skills within their specialization area in Islamic World Studies.
• Opportunities offered through Fairfield may include presentations of Capstone projects, publishing works via the “Islamic World Studies Review – Student Journal – Fairfield University,” and active participation in the vibrant Islamic World Studies Club's activities – fostering community building among engaged members around shared interests in promoting cultural understanding towards the Muslim world.