Faculty of Islamic Studies

Founded in 1982, the Faculty of Islamic Studies is the second Faculty of the Makassed University of Beirut. It evolved from an institute to a recognized faculty in the year 2000.

Today, the Faculty of Islamic Studies at the Makassed University in Beirut stands at a pivotal moment in its development due to its numerous religious, social, political, and intellectual challenges. This moment calls for preparing a resilient generation of leaders and scholars capable of confronting and overcoming contemporary challenges.

To achieve this, we must build a strong foundation in Islamic and human sciences for our students. We will also provide them with an understanding of the economic, social and political challenges our communities is facing. Additionally, we will equip them with modern tools for scientific research, critical thinking, and conflict resolution. This will help them stay up to date with global developments, evaluate and critique new ideas, and anticipate future trends.

Our objective is to cultivate scholars who possess a deep understanding of contemporary developments and actively engage with them. These scholars will be proficient at critically reviewing and advancing these developments while aligned with our core values and principles.

Study System and Curriculum

At this stage, we focus exclusively on graduate studies, offering only master’s and doctoral programs. Developing the Master’s degree is the starting point for rebuilding the Facultyof Islamic Studies.

Master’s Degree

The master’s program spans four semesters. Each semester, students take eight courses, each lasting 15 weeks, totaling 16 academic units per semester. The first three semesters cover coursework, and the fourth is dedicated to research and thesis defense. Specific required and elective courses, exemptions, and success criteria will be outlined later.

Study Phases

Preparatory Phase

Targeted at students without a bachelor’s degree in Sharia and Islamic Jurisprudence, this stage lasts one academic year. Students take five courses per semester, totaling 30 American credits. This stage provides foundational knowledge in Islamic sciences, Sharia, and related humanities, preparing students to address contemporary issues.

Regular Phase

For students with a bachelor’s degree in Sharia and Islamic Jurisprudence or those who completed the preparatory stage. In the first year, students take five courses per semester, totaling 30 American credits. The second year focuses on the master’s thesis (9 credits) and includes three additional courses (9 credits).

Focus Areas

Students can choose from several focus areas, receiving certification for completed courses. These areas include:

• Charitable Institutions Management: Training for work in non-profit organizations and social centers.
• Media and Publishing: Opportunities as reporters, authors, editors, or content creators.
• Scientific Research and Academia: Preparing for doctoral studies and academic careers.
• Religious Relations and Conflict Resolution: Working in government, NGOs, or international organizations, specializing in Islamic conflict resolution.
• Financial Management and Economic Development: Preparing for roles in Islamic financial institutions and sustainable economic development.
• Family Affairs: Deep understanding of family dynamics, supporting academic writing, lectures, and conflict resolution.
• Cultural Documentation and Manuscript Management: Working in museums or cultural organizations, preserving and digitizing manuscripts.
• Education: Training to become distinguished teachers in Islamic and Arabic studies.

Doctoral Program

The doctoral program requires a minimum of three years of study focused on thesis preparation. Applicants with a master’s degree in Islamic studies or equivalent, with at least a “good” grade, may apply. The admissions committee reviews applications and accepted students receive a written notification of their rights and responsibilities. A scientific council assigns a supervisor for the initial four-month period, focusing on research planning and resource identification.

Admission to the Master’s program in the Faculty of Islamic Studies requires meeting four criteria: proof of a Bachelor’s degree, demonstrated skills in oration and communication, a statement of purpose for pursuing graduate studies at the Faculty of Islamic Studies, and passing a personal interview. The details of these requirements are as follows:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade of “Pass” or higher.
• Communication Skills: Applicants need to demonstrate acceptable skills in oration and linguistic communication.
• Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement highlighting their academic and Islamic interests and goals in the field of Islamic studies. This statement will be used to assess the applicants’ critical thinking and personal vision.
• Personal Interview: Applicants must undergo a personal interview to evaluate their skill level and desire to pursue a Master’s degree in Islamic studies and must meet the acceptable threshold for admission.

Students with a Bachelor’s in Sharia or Islamic Studies

• Regular Year: Students enroll in the regular year, which consists of two full semesters with 10 courses (30 credits). They then proceed to the thesis year, which includes 3 elective courses from other specializations or seminars (9 credits) and thesis preparation (9 credits), totaling 18 credits.
• Thesis Year: Each student is assigned a mentor for two months to assist in preparing the thesis outline. The outline is then presented to the academic committee for approval, after which a dedicated supervisor is appointed for the student.

Students with a Bachelor’s in Other Fields

• Preparatory Year: Students enroll in the preparatory year, which consists of two full semesters with 10 courses (30 credits).
• Regular Year: Upon successful completion of the preparatory year, students enroll in the regular year, which includes two full semesters with 10 courses (30 credits).
• Thesis Year: Following the regular year, students proceed to the thesis year, which includes 3 elective courses (9 credits) and thesis preparation (9 credits), totaling 18 credits.
• Thesis Year: Each student is assigned a mentor for two months to assist in preparing the thesis outline. The outline is then presented to the academic committee for approval, after which a dedicated supervisor is appointed for the student

Exemplary Student Conduct in the Faculty of Islamic Studies: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Faculty of Islamic Studies provides a unique educational environment, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Student conduct is a fundamental aspect influencing both their academic and social experiences. Fostering exemplary conduct among students enhances cooperation, positive interaction with peers and faculty, and creates a productive and stimulating educational environment.

This guide aims to highlight the ideal student conduct expected at the Faculty of Islamic Studies. Embracing these behaviors contributes to building an optimal educational environment that fosters academic and social growth.

Respect and Good Morals

Respect and good morals are the foundation of positive interactions among students. Students should respect each other and maintain a high level of ethics in their dealings with peers and faculty. This includes mutual respect, active listening, and avoiding disruptive or provocative behavior.

Cooperation and Positive Interaction

Students should work towards enhancing cooperation and positive interactions. This can be achieved through sharing ideas and experiences, helping peers with class preparations, and encouraging fruitful discussions and cultural exchanges to broaden understanding and knowledge.

Attendance and Participation

Regular attendance and active participation in classes are crucial for successful learning. Students should be committed to attending lectures and participating in discussions and activities to maximize their faculty experience.

Teamwork and Timely Completion of Tasks

Effective teamwork and timely completion of tasks require organization and responsibility. Students should contribute consistently and actively to group projects and academic activities, building trust and enhancing organizational and team skills.

Handling Different Opinions

Students at the Facultyof Islamic Studies are exposed to diverse viewpoints. They should learn to handle this diversity respectfully and openly, benefiting from it to develop a comprehensive understanding of Islamic topics through open-minded listening and constructive discussions.

Discipline and Organization

Discipline and organization are essential behaviors. Students should manage their time and academic tasks effectively by setting a clear schedule and daily and weekly academic goals.

Effective Communication

Effective communication is crucial for enhancing social and academic relationships. Students should develop good communication skills, including clear expression and active listening, to foster understanding, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships.

Commitment to Research Ethics

Research ethics are a critical part of student conduct. Students should adhere to academic integrity standards, avoiding plagiarism and cheating in research and papers, and being aware of ethical issues related to religion and philosophy.

Respect for Cultural and Religious Diversity

The Facultyof Islamic Studies values cultural and religious diversity. Students should interact respectfully with peers from different backgrounds, being open to learning and engaging with others without bias or discrimination.

Conflict Resolution and Mediation

With diverse opinions and beliefs, conflicts may arise. Students should have effective conflict resolution and mediation skills, using constructive dialogue and critical thinking to resolve disputes and reach mutual understanding.

Participation in Student Activities

Student activities play a crucial role in developing social and leadership skills. Students should engage in clubs, events, and teams available at the college, building a strong social network and developing time management and leadership skills.

Continuous Learning and Self-Development

Students should have a strong desire for continuous learning and skill development. This can be achieved through additional reading, attending conferences and seminars, and exploring new topics related to Islamic studies, enhancing their academic and professional capabilities.

Mental and Emotional Health

Attention to mental and emotional health is vital. Students should care for their emotional, psychological, and physical well-being through regular exercise, sufficient rest, and social support from friends and family.

Critical Thinking and Innovation

Students should develop critical thinking and logical reasoning skills, analyzing information and drawing logical conclusions. These skills can be enhanced through tackling difficult problems, engaging in intellectual discussions, and leveraging available resources for innovation and creativity.

Coping with Challenges and Pressures

Students may face various academic and personal challenges. They should be capable of effectively managing these challenges and pressures through time management, prioritization, and seeking academic support and professional advice when needed.

Engagement in Scientific Research

Students should be interested in scientific research and continuous exploration of topics related to Islamic studies, conducting original research, writing academic papers, and participating in conferences, developing research, analytical, and writing skills.

Promoting Trust and Mutual Respect

By adopting respectful and mutually supportive behavior, students and faculty can build a comfortable and stimulating learning environment, promoting teamwork and collaboration among students and enhancing academic success.

Promoting Respect for Others’ Rights and Tolerance

Through positive and respectful interaction with different opinions and cultural diversity, the faculty encourages democratic values and tolerance. Students are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue and develop their debating and critical thinking skills.

Enhancing Active Learning and Participation

By committing to regular attendance and active participation in classes and student activities, students are encouraged to delve deeply into topics and share opinions and ideas, fostering active learning.

Developing Leadership and Organizational Skills

Participation in student activities and group projects helps develop leadership and organizational skills, motivating students to take initiative and develop time management, teamwork, and effective communication abilities.

Fostering Social Spirit and Community Service

Participation in volunteer activities fosters a social spirit among students, promoting community service values. Students are encouraged to be socially responsible and contribute to the local and global community.

Achieving exemplary student conduct requires effort and commitment from both students and faculty, leading to a conducive educational environment that promotes overall success and development.

By adopting these positive behaviors, students at the Faculty of Islamic Studies can enhance their academic and social experiences and achieve comprehensive success in their field of study. This commitment and self-discipline will lead to enhanced learning and personal growth.

Disciplinary Actions for Non-Compliance

1. Verbal Warning or Formal Warning: The student may receive a verbal warning or a formal warning from the administration or faculty due to inappropriate behavior or violation of university rules and regulations.
2. Disciplinary Penalties: These may include suspension from studies for a specified period, reduction of grades, or temporary or permanent expulsion from the university.
3. Referral to a Disciplinary Committee: In severe cases, the student may be referred to a disciplinary committee to review the case and determine the appropriate penalty.
4. Additional Disciplinary Actions: These may include community service, financial fines, or referral to a rehabilitation program, depending on the nature of the violation.

These penalties should be reasonable, balanced, and aligned with university policies and regulations. Before imposing any penalty, the student should be given an opportunity to defend themselves and provide evidence or explanations if necessary.

Priority should be given to promoting positive behavior and providing a supportive and motivating educational environment that encourages students to adhere to required conduct and achieve academic excellence.

Procedure for Disciplinary Actions

The procedure for imposing disciplinary actions against students for misconduct varies between universities and depends on each institution’s policies and procedures. However, a general model of the process may include:

1. Violation Detection: The misconduct is usually detected through reports from students, academic staff, employees, or potential witnesses.
2. Evidence Collection: Investigations and collection of evidence related to the alleged violation are conducted. This may include interviewing the suspected student and any other relevant witnesses.
3. Disciplinary Committee: A special committee may be formed to review the case of the offending student and decide on the appropriate penalty. The committee may include faculty members, administration, and other students.
4. Right of Defense: The offending student is given the opportunity to defend themselves and present any evidence or explanations they deem appropriate to the committee.
5. Decision Making: Based on the evidence presented and the student’s arguments, a decision is made regarding the appropriate penalty. Potential penalties may include suspension, grade reduction, temporary or permanent expulsion, or other academic disciplinary actions.
6. Appeal Process: There may be an appeal process that allows the offending student to request a reconsideration of the decision or to file a grievance.

This process should be clear and aligned with principles of justice and transparency, implemented with respect for the student’s rights, and ensuring the credibility of the committee responsible for making disciplinary decisions. The aim is to promote academic discipline and encourage exemplary behavior among university students.

Implementation Measures

To implement and enforce the Code of Student Conduct at the Facultyof Islamic Studies, the following measures should be taken:

1. Awareness and Education: Students should be educated about the required behaviors and their importance through workshops, lectures, and informational materials. The desired behaviors should be explained, emphasizing their role in achieving academic and social success.
2. Establishing Conduct Rules: Clear and specific rules of student conduct should be established, outlining the standards and expectations that students must adhere to in their daily behavior at the college.
3. Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism: A mechanism should be established to monitor student behavior and evaluate their adherence to the required behaviors. This can include academic performance evaluations, behavioral assessments, surveys, and personal interviews.
4. Promoting Positive Incentives: Positive student behavior should be encouraged through rewards and recognition for students who adopt the desired conduct. Rewards can include certificates of appreciation, participation in additional activities, and opportunities for volunteering and leadership.
5. Training for Faculty and Staff: Faculty and staff should be trained on the concept of desired student behavior and how to promote and implement it. Workshops and training programs can be provided to develop their skills in managing student behavior and effective communication.
6. Providing Exceptional Support: Additional support should be provided for students who need help adopting the required behaviors. Academic and social counseling and guidance can be offered to assist in achieving the desired behavioral change.
7. Evaluating and Updating the Code: The effectiveness and success of the code should be regularly assessed. The code should be updated periodically to ensure its alignment with academic and social developments and student requirements.

Examples of Misconduct

Here are examples of actions that are considered violations of the Student Conduct Code; these are not intended to define misconduct comprehensively or exclusively. Any student who violates the principles outlined in this document should be subject to disciplinary action according to the Student Conduct Code.

Section 1 – Definitions of Misconduct

Academic Misconduct:

Misconduct Definitions

1. Cheating During tests or exams, students must rely on their own mastery of the subject and must not seek assistance in any way not expressly approved by the instructor. For example, students should not attempt to use notes, educational materials, or another person’s work. Cheating includes attempting to give or receive information about the test, attempting to take a test for someone else, or attempting to have someone else take a test for them.
2. Plagiarism When students rely on another’s work, they must specify what they are doing, whether it be facts, opinions, or quotes, and properly cite where the ideas or expressions borrowed from another source are documented in the researcher’s writings. Failure to acknowledge the source constitutes plagiarism.
3. Classroom Disruptions Students are expected to behave appropriately and not engage in disruptive or inappropriate behavior during lectures or exams.
4. Lying Students are expected to be honest in all their dealings with the university.

• Misrepresenting personal circumstances to the instructor (e.g., requesting a make-up test or special deadline for an assignment, or explaining an absence).
• Forging parts of official documents or signatures (including both university documents and related external documents, such as doctor’s notes).
• Taking credit for work in a group project when there was little or no contribution to the team effort.
• Illegally copying computer programs.
• Engaging in bribery of any kind.

Disciplinary Council

The Disciplinary Council is responsible for adjudicating second-degree violations committed at the university level. It consists of the university president, the dean of the faculty, and a committee of professors from the department or the faculty.

Powers: The Faculty Council takes the president’s approval for major disciplinary decisions such as cheating or disturbing the university’s public order. The decision is discussed between the university president, the members, and the dean of each faculty to reach the final outcomes for any student who disrupts the order.

Right to Appeal: A student who receives a disciplinary decision from the president or the dean can appeal to the University Council within two weeks from the date of receiving the administrative decision.

Research Plan Highlights

The primary aim of the research projects in the Department of Islamic Studies at Maqasid University is to highlight the civilizational values of Islam and its sciences at local, regional, and global levels. This is done with a spirit of moderation, openness, and centrism, which characterizes the Maqasid mission. We emphasize engaging with different cultures and fostering dialogue within frameworks of cooperation and mutual respect, striving to promote and uphold the human values that unite diverse cultures and civilizations.

Our research plans also address contemporary intellectual and jurisprudential challenges by contributing to problem-solving and dispelling misconceptions. This is achieved by leveraging the authenticity of Islamic intellectual and jurisprudential heritage while benefiting from contemporary scientific, intellectual, and technological advancements.

Key Criteria for Research Projects:

1. Novelty and Depth: Research should be original, profound, contemporary, and authentic, avoiding repetition, intellectual triviality, and superficiality.
2. Relevance: The research field should align with the researcher’s specialty and academic level (Master’s or PhD).
3. Supervision: The research topic should match the supervisor’s expertise. If it spans two fields, a co-supervisor from the second field will be appointed.
4. Feasibility: The research must be achievable within the available timeframe, financial resources, and research materials.
5. Academic Integrity: The research should not contain information or opinions that compromise public order or harm the university’s internal and external relations.

Examples of Research Areas:

Intellectual and Civilizational Studies:

• Revisiting and studying the Arab-Islamic scientific heritage and exploring its potential applications in various fields such as medicine, nutrition, and urban planning.
• Documenting and publishing Beirut’s intellectual and scientific heritage to preserve and promote it for future generations.

Jurisprudence:

• Addressing contemporary jurisprudential issues in worship, transactions, and prohibitions. Examples include:
  • Fasting and medical treatments, genetically modified foods, and the use of impure substances in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
  • Digital currencies, stock trading, currency exchange, gold and silver sales, new contract forms like lease-to-own, international trade of precious metals, pyramid schemes, Islamic finance, and banking transactions.

Family Studies:

• Responding to contemporary misconceptions about marriage laws and the rights of women and children.
• Arbitrating in Sharia courts, comparative studies in personal status law to develop family law, and applying educational psychology within the family context.

Research Originality:

• The research topic must be original, not previously explored or only partially covered. It should address gaps, errors, or deficiencies in existing studies.

Note:

• Translations are not accepted.