Census data shows that Muslims are now the second largest faith community in British society. Our rewarding programme delivers a comprehensive understanding of the development of Muslim communities in the UK, the current challenges they face, and an introduction to the scholarly study of Islam in a modern Western European society.

On this programme, you will gain the social science skills essential to pursue high calibre research on Islam in Britain today within our flagship Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK.

You will gain an in-depth understanding of the theoretical and conceptual vocabulary surrounding British Islam and the skills to undertake high quality research according to social sciences professional ethics codes.

Our recognised qualifications are recognised as indicators of professional competence to work with British Muslims.

Encouraged to contribute to the Centre’s highly respected Public Seminar Series, you will have ample opportunity to engage in placements and volunteer with local Muslim organisations.

You are encouraged to undertake voluntary work with Muslim communities in Cardiff in activities ranging from assisting with homework clubs run via local mosques to contributing to the Muslim Council of Wales ‘iLead’ programme which aims to support young Muslims developing leadership skills.

Distinctive features

• Gain in-depth understanding of the theoretical and conceptual vocabulary surrounding British Islam
• Develops essential skills for high quality research on Islam in Britain in accordance with codes of professional ethics in the social sciences
• Recognised qualification indicating competence to work in a professional capacity with British Muslims
• Opportunities to engage in placements/volunteering with local Muslim organisations
• Ideal for professional development within the public sector
• Excellent resources and facilities including excellent library resources, access to a wide range of relevant journals and online sources and extensive audio-visual resources via Vimeo
• Dedicated seminar room.

Key facts

Admissions criteria

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 particularly 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.

Applicants should normally possess or expect to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK Honours degree, or equivalent. However, those able to demonstrate relevant work experience in lieu of a graduate qualification may also be admitted at the discretion of the School. To apply via this route, you will need to have held a position of responsibility relevant to the programme for a minimum period of two years. You will also be required to satisfactorily complete an interview and a 1500 word essay on a subject determined by School staff.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be expected to provide evidence of English proficiency. IELTS exam results showing an overall grade of 6.5 or above are acceptable for this programme, with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub score.

We welcome applications year-round but to commence your studies in any given year (starting September), you must submit your application by 1 August.

Find out more about English language requirements.

Applicants who require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK must present an acceptable English language qualification in order to meet UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) requirements

Criminal convictions

• access to computers or devices that can store images
• use of internet and communication tools/devices
• curfews
• freedom of movement, including the ability to travel to outside of the UK or to undertake a placement/studies outside of Cardiff University
• contact with people related to Cardiff University.