Islamic Studies

Here, you'll gain a unique academic perspective that allows you to explore Islam through the lens of interfaith dialogue. By leveraging the resources of New York City and Fordham's Muslim Life on campus, you’ll build a rich understanding and extensive context of Islamic culture.

Common majors paired with Islamic studies include political science, international studies, global business, history, and humanitarian studies. However, the minor in Islamic studies is meant for students in any major who want to augment their studies with a deeper knowledge of the Muslim faith and culture.

As an Islamic studies minor, you’ll take courses like Topics in Arabic Cultures, where you’ll examine texts from artistic movements in Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Libya, and Medicine and Healing in Islam, where you’ll explore Muslim perceptions of health, disease, medicine and healing across time and space, and in conversation with the religious traditions of Islam. You’ll also take courses in Arabic language and literature.

In addition to studying in the classroom, you’ll be able to take community engaged learning courses that allow you to work with and learn from partner organizations across New York City. You’ll also have the chance to connect with the Muslim Students Association and ministry on campus.

With New York City as your college town, you’ll have access to internships with partner institutions and community organizations both on and off-campus, including the Arab American Association of New York and the Inner-City Muslim Action Network.

You’ll be prepared for a range of career paths unique to the major you choose. The Islamic studies minor will help prepare you for careers in government, law, media, nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), teaching, academia, and many other fields.

At Fordham, you’ll use AI as a tool to enhance your learning. Our program will equip you with the skills to navigate the ever-changing landscape of AI in the workforce. As an Islamic studies minor, you could even conduct research into how AI has affected perceptions of Islam, preparing you for careers in AI policy, strategy, and safety.

You’ll also be able to earn credentials and paid micro-internships through IBM SkillsBuild’s Getting Started with AI course. All Fordham students and graduates have access to AI training through RamConnect, the University’s alumni and experiential learning platform.

Above all, you’ll learn skills that can’t be replaced by AI, such as critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and integrity.