“And say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge.'”
(Quran 20:114)
Advanced Entry Pathway
Fast-track your way to a fully-funded MA in Islamic Studies awarded by the University of Birmingham.
Who is the Advanced Entry Pathway for?
Students with prior seminary or university training in Islamic studies who wish to consolidate their learning, gain academic research and writing skills, and progress to an internationally recognised MA in Islamic Studies degree awarded by the University of Birmingham. There are two routes a student can undertake on the Advanced Entry Pathway. Explore both routes below.
Direct Equivalence
This route requires applicants with advanced-level hawza training from another seminary to demonstrate completion of the equivalent of AMI’s four-level Hawza Programme. Where minor gaps remain, these can be ‘topped up’ with selected modules via our online learning platform to qualify for the MA.
- Credit mapping against AMI’s four-level Hawza Programme
- Targeted online modules to complete any shortfall
- Streamlined progression towards MA entry requirements (450 credits)
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
This route requires applicants with intermediate-level hawza or Islamic Studies training from another seminary or university to enrol on AMI’s Postgraduate Diploma in Islamic Studies (PGDip). The programme provides training in research and writing, preparing students to progress on to the MA in Islamic Studies.
- Designed for students transitioning from hawza to university study
- Emphasis on academic writing and research methods
- Provides a clear pathway to the MA in Islamic Studies on completion
How to Apply
Begin your journey!
01 / Submit
Complete the application form and submit your CV, personal statement, transcripts/certificates in English, and proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
02 / Review
Your application will undergo an academic review, followed by an interview to determine your place on the Hawza Programme or the Postgraduate Diploma.
03 / Complete
Complete the required Hawza modules online or the Postgraduate Diploma and accumulate 450 credits to qualify for entry on the MA programme at UoB.
04 / Done
Once eligible, you will be considered for a full or part scholarship to support you during your MA residential year in Birmingham.
Funding and Scholarships
Students who obtain the required credits may be awarded full or partial scholarships for the MA year, which can include tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. With recognition of prior learning, students avoid repeating content and benefit from flexible online study through recorded seminars and tutorials. The programme then culminates in Birmingham, where they join a vibrant scholarly community and progress toward an internationally recognised MA in Islamic Studies awarded by the University of Birmimgham.
“To come to Al-Mahdi Institute has been an enlightening experience. Their collaboration with the University of Birmingham allowed me to engage with academic texts in English while building on my seminary background. The faculty are approachable and supportive, and Birmingham’s libraries offer an excellent collection of resources.”
Syed Imran Taqavi (Advanced Entry Pathway Alumnus)
Qualify with an MA in Islamic Studies
AMI’s historic partnership with the University of Birmingham makes it the first UK Islamic seminary to integrate a Hawza programme with an academic MA. After three years of online study, students progress to a fourth year on campus, engaging with cutting-edge modules while bridging traditional Islamic sciences with contemporary research, supported by flexible study options and fully-funded scholarships.
Have a question?
You’re covered.
Yes, all modules on the Hawza Programme and Postgraduate Diploma are available online with recorded content and live tutorials, enabling flexible pacing alongside other commitments.
We map your transcripts and seminary record against our four-level Hawza structure, then advise the best route for you to take to help you progress on to the MA.
Applications are accepted year-round. However, early contact is encouraged to align with MA application timelines.
Scholarships are competitive and awarded to eligible students who complete the required 450 credits of the Hawza Programme or complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Islamic Studies (PGDip) for entry on the MA Programme. Scholarships typically include tuition fees, accommodation, and/or a monthly stipend, depending on academic merit.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Join our Advanced Entry Pathway and be part of a vibrant learning community. Dive deeper into Islamic Studies and expand your horizons today!