Islam in Contemporary Britain (MA/PgDip)
1 year (Full-time) / 2 years (Part-time) / n/a (Distance / E-Learning)
Course Aims
This programme aims to provide students with an understanding of the history and development of Muslim communities in the UK, and the social science training and skills to undertake original qualitative research with and about Muslims in Britain.
Special Features
- Provides an in-depth understanding of the theoretical and conceptual vocabulary surrounding British Islam
- Develops the skills required to undertake high quality research on Islam in Britain, according to codes of professional ethics in the social sciences
- Provides a recognised qualification indicating competence to work in a professional capacity with British Muslims
- Students are provided with opportunities to engage in placements/volunteering with local Muslim organisations
- Students on the MA/PG Dip Islam in Contemporary Britain are encouraged to attend and contribute to the annual ‘Islam-UK Centre Public Lecture Series’ in the Spring Semester. Examples of these can be viewed via YouTube
Course Structure
Students taking the Postgraduate Diploma take a total of 120 credits of modules, consisting of:
- 40 credits of core research skills
- 80 credits of modules focusing on Muslims in Britain and advanced research methods
Students enrolled on the MA take these modules plus:
- 60 credit dissertation (topic or theme chosen by the student in consultation with academic staff).
8 contact hours per week, Autumn and Spring Semesters
Please see the Religious Studies website for more course and module information.
Career Prospects
The course offers a wide range of possible career opportunities. It is a highly suitable programme for those who are looking for careers in academic research, the public sector (such as local authorities), the race and community relations industry, inter-faith work, community development and the voluntary sector.
Skills Acquired
On completion the Diploma or MA students will be able to:
- An ability to exercise independent judgement on a topic to support an evidence-based argument
- Data generation strategies; such as participant observation, qualitative interviewing, focus groups, working with documents
- Analytical approaches; such as coding and categorizing, conversation and discourse analysis, narrative approaches
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UK & EU Full Time for 2013/14
£5,445.00
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UK & EU Part Time for 2013/14
£2,723.00
Fees are for the MA courses. Diploma fees are £1,212 per 40 credit modul and £1,815 per 60 credit module. -
International Full Time for 2013/14
£12,700.00
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International Part Time for 2013/14
£6,350.00
Fees are for the MA courses. Diploma fee: £6,350.
Career Prospects
The course offers a wide range of possible career opportunities. It is a highly suitable programme for those who are looking for careers in academic research, the public sector (such as local authorities), the race and community relations industry, inter-faith work, community development and the voluntary sector.
Student Testimonials
“Prior to joining Cardiff’s Islam-UK centre, I undertook a BA in English Literature with Creative Writing at Birmingham University. I have lived in many cities, but by far the most welcoming is Cardiff! The best thing about the MA course is the friendly and close-knit network of students and scholars in the department. Each person brings something unique to the course through their research interest”
Anisa Ather, studying in 2012-13
“The MA students at Cardiff are presented with a unique opportunity to explore, analyse and gain an in-depth understanding of past and present issues facing Muslim communities in Britain. This has been a fascinating and enriching experience as the course complements and builds upon the knowledge that I acquired during my undergraduate degree in Religion and Education from the University of Huddersfield”.
Yunus Ali, studying in 2012-13
Entry Requirements
1st or upper 2nd class UK Honours degree in an appropriate subject. The course is suitable for graduates in a wide variety of Humanities disciplines and Social Sciences and those with an interest in understanding Islam in Britain, past, present and future. This programme is also helpful for people who work with, or for, the Muslim community, and those who are keen to develop a research/academic career in this exciting new field.
Students whose first language is not English will be required to pass an IELTS test (minimum 6.5) or equivalent.
Students are encouraged to undertake voluntary work with Muslim communities in Cardiff, and are supported in doing so. This might include activities such as assisting with homework clubs run via local mosques, or contributing to the Muslim Council of Wales ‘iLead’ programme which aims to support young Muslims developing leadership skills.
Note: International students pursuing part-time programmes of study are not eligible for Tier 4 (General Student) visas and must have alternative leave to remain in the UK if they intend to study at the University in person.
How to Apply
Applications can be made for this course via our Online Application Service selecting the MA Islam in Contemporary Britain option from the list of courses. Applicants should use the Personal Statement section of the form to outline their area of interest and, if possible, the topic that they hope to research for their dissertation.
Funding
With the help of a very generous gift to the University, the Jameel Scholarships have been established to enable the very best students to come to Cardiff – those who have the intellect and determination to apply their knowledge for the benefit of Muslim communities in the UK, and to promote better understanding of Islam in wider society.
Please visit the main Jameel Scholarships page for full details and application forms.
For more information on funding available for Masters students in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion please see the school's funding website.
Tuition Fees:
Next intake: September each year
School Contact
Name: Dr. Sophie Gilliat-Ray
Telephone: +44 (0)29 2087 6125
Fax:
Email: Gilliat-RayS@cardiff.ac.uk
School Website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/share/aboutus/religion/index.html
