The Study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg

BA (Hon), MA and D Lit et Phil (PhD) Programs

The University of Johannesburg is embarking on a new program in the Study of Islam that combines critical and creative scholarship with the best that traditional learning programs have had to offer. The program is directed by Professor Farid Esack who has recently returned to South Africa after teaching at Harvard University in the United States. In addition to the undergrad program where Islamic Studies can be taken as part of BA (Humanities), UJ offers a part-time (2 year) BA Honours program, and both part-time and full-time programs in the MA and D Lit et Philprograms.

The BA Honours course consists five modules of one semester each, and a compulsory research essay. Tuition in each module consists of an intensive course of three days (usually in February and July) and five two-hour evening seminars per semester. The venue, particularly of the intensive three days course, is normally the Auckland Park campus, although we will consider offering tuition in other parts of the country if there is sufficient interest.

Of the following seven modules offered, students have to complete five which include the Compulsory Research Essay. (Note of the semester and the particular year in which a module is offered.)

  • Introduction to the Qur’an as a Text, and Its Major Themes (1st Semester, 2010).
  • The Shari’ah (Islamic Law) and its application within South African Liberal Constitutional Democracy (2nd Semester, 2010)
  • Critical Issues in Contemporary Islam. (This may include facets such as Environmental Justice; Race Class and Jihad and The War on Terror; Islam and AIDS, Democracy and Human Rights) (2nd Semester, 2010).
  • Studies in Hadith (Muhammad’s Narrations) (1st Semester 2011)
  • Islam and Gender Justice (1st Semester, 2011)
  • Islamic Spiritual Tradition(Sufism) (2nd Semester 2011)
  • Compulsory Research Essay (first and second semester of either 2010 or 2011). (Students are free to choose their own subjects in consultation with, and consistent with the capacity (expertise, time, etc.) of academic staff.)

Who may apply?

For the BA Honors Program, appropriate candidates are normally graduates in Islamic Studies, religious studies or a related field wherein the study of Islam was a significant component. Others in possession of a senior school certificate (grade 12) who have not had a formal university education but have completed a significant work in Islamic Studies, or have graduated but not in Islamic Studies or related disciplines may also be eligible if they can demonstrate (by means of a written and oral test) that they comply with the university’s prescribed Recognition of Prior Learning requirements

Where all the requirements are not in place, the Dept will consider offering a bridging course to promising candidates. Where students have had limited exposure to research and writing skills, the university may also institute additional support mechanisms.

For the MA and D Lit et Phil programs, all those who have fulfilled the prior requirements in Islamic Studies, religious studies or a related field will be considered. Potential students should contact us with ideas of their field of interest,

UJ we may be able to offer partial financial support for those who need it and whom we consider particularly promising

For further information contact Professor Farid Esack, preferably via e-mail at , phone + 27 (0) 11 559-3858 or fax (+ 27) 11 5593858