COURSES OFFERED IN ISLAMIC STUDIES

 

RL255. ISLAM (3 cr.)
Study of the historical and scriptural foundations of Islam, its theology, and social structures. Topics include study of the Qur’an, the Five Pillars, Muslim lifestyles, the spread of Islam, Muslim contributions to world culture, and different manifestations of Islam.

RL356. ISLAM IN AMERICA (3 cr.)
The second largest religion in the world and fastest growing religion in the United States today. Outline of the impact of Muslims on American society and the relationship between the United States and the Muslim world.

RL399. ISLAM AND TERRORISM (3 cr.)
Focusing on historical references in the texts of Islam, this summer course provides fundamental knowledge and a secure ground for discussion about the relationship of the religion of Islam to violence. A special consideration is given to an early heretical Islamic group, the Kharijite. Additionally, equal attention is given to terrorist movements and activities in our modern day and their use of some Quranic verses to justify their terrorist activities, and the environments in which they thrive. There is also special stress on Islamic law vis-à-vis rebellion and violence.

RL554. ISLAMIC SPIRITUALITY (3 cr.)
This high level graduate course is designed to elaborate on the mystical/Sufi tradition of Islam. It aims to provide, first, knowledge on the emergence of Islamic spirituality. The course details the Qur’anic verses and paradigms from the sayings of the Prophet that constitute the main sources for the spiritual dimensions of Islam. The course also offers examples of well-known mystical personalities in Islam such as Harith al-Muhasibi (d. 857), Junayd al-Baghdadi (d. 910), al-Ghazzali (d. 1111), and Rumi (d. 1273).

Stay tuned for additional courses which will be added soon.

INDEPENDENT STUDY OPPORTUNITIES

Opportunities for Independent Study are available for students wishing to pursue a particular topic of interest within the field of Islamic Studies beyond the topics addressed in the courses offered. An Independent Study is typically designed by the student, working closely with the professor to ensure that requirements for the desired topic are met appropriately. Students interested in a particular topic should speak with the Nursi Chair at least one semester prior to the semester in which they would like to pursue their independent study.

STUDY ABROAD

We are currently working with Fatih University in Istanbul, in collaboration with the Center for Global Education, to develop a partnership between the two universities to allow for greater intercultural dialogue and mutual exchange opportunities for students of both institutions. For more information about this upcoming exchange program, please contact the Nursi Chair or the Center for Global Education.

STUDY ARABIC

There are a variety of opportunities available in the Cleveland area, especially at JCU, for the study of Arabic as a second language. Four Arabic courses are offered at John Carroll University through the Department of Classical and Modern Languages. Other area schools, including Cleveland State and Case Western Reserve, offer a few courses as well. For more information on local opportunities for the study of Arabic, contact the Department of Classical and Modern Languages here at JCU.