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The Foundations Program is a two-year initiative designed to cultivate a strong Islamic worldview and core knowledge in young Muslims across North America. Through a structured curriculum in theology, law, history, and spiritual refinement, the program strengthens faith, identity, and intellectual grounding while fostering a deep connection to Islamic scholarship.
Students will engage with classical texts and contemporary discussions, guided by experienced instructors and scholars. The program not only imparts essential knowledge but also equips students with the tools to analyze, articulate, and apply Islamic principles in the modern world. By the end of the program, students will have a solid foundation to continue their studies or serve their communities with greater confidence.
The Foundations Program follows a structured curriculum designed to provide students with a firm grounding in Islamic tradition. Below is the degree plan outlining the courses students will take each semester over the two-year program.
The Foundations Program is designed to not only provide knowledge but to transform the way students think, live, and engage with their communities. Through this journey, students cultivate three core dimensions of growth:
Develop a deep and coherent Islamic worldview by engaging with classical texts and foundational Islamic sciences. Critically analyze secular paradigms and contemporary challenges through the lens of Islamic thought.
Strengthen your Islamic identity by integrating spiritual growth with daily life. Learn to embody an Islamic way of living that is resilient in the face of modern societal pressures.
Cultivate a sense of responsibility toward the Muslim community and the cause of the Imam (aj). See yourself as a steward of faith, prepared to contribute meaningfully to society while upholding Islamic principles.
Mufid Seminary’s hybrid learning model combines the flexibility of online courses with the immersive engagement of in-person learning, allowing students to pursue their studies from anywhere while benefiting from essential face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers.
During the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters, all courses are conducted fully online, with classes held Monday to Friday from 6:00 – 9:00 PM EST. This schedule accommodates students across time zones while maintaining a structured learning environment.
Courses are designed for deep engagement, featuring live discussions, interactive coursework, and direct faculty interaction, ensuring a rich and dynamic educational experience.
To complement their online studies, students in the Foundations Program attend Weekend Intensives twice a year, gaining hands-on learning and direct mentorship in an immersive environment.
These in-person sessions, held in major cities like Washington D.C., Dearborn, Chicago, and Toronto at the start of the Fall and Spring semesters, span from Friday evening to Monday noon.
Through seminars, discussions, and interactive workshops, students deepen their understanding of core concepts while fostering meaningful relationships with instructors and fellow students, creating a well-rounded and transformative educational experience.
At Mufid Seminary, we are committed to making Islamic education both accessible and impactful. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Islam, strengthen your identity, or engage in meaningful service, we invite you to join a dynamic learning environment designed to equip you with essential knowledge and skills.
Admissions
The Foundations Program is open to young Muslims in North America who seek a structured, immersive education in Islamic studies. Our admissions process is designed to identify students who are eager to grow intellectually and spiritually.
Learn more about eligibility, requirements, and application deadlines on our Admissions page.
Tuition & Fees
We strive to keep tuition affordable while ensuring a high-quality learning experience. Tuition varies by program, and auditing courses is available at a reduced cost.
Find a full breakdown of tuition and fees on our Tuition & Financial Aid page.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
We believe that financial constraints should never be a barrier to seeking Islamic knowledge. Merit-based scholarships are available, and students demonstrating financial need may also apply for aid.
Learn about available scholarships and how to apply on our Tuition & Financial Aid page.
The Foundations Program is a two-year educational initiative designed to equip students with a comprehensive Islamic worldview and core foundational knowledge. Geared toward young Muslims in North America, the program nurtures intellectual and spiritual growth while providing students with the tools to navigate contemporary challenges with confidence.
The program spans two academic years and follows a semester-based structure. Students can expect to commit approximately 8–12 hours per week, which includes live class sessions, assignments, and personal study.
Live classes are held Monday through Friday between 6:00 – 9:00 PM EST, though specific course schedules vary by semester. To ensure flexibility in scheduling and instructor availability, students must keep this entire timeslot open each semester. While some courses may only meet on certain days within this window, class times are subject to change from semester to semester.
Additionally, students are required to attend two in-person Weekend Intensives each year, typically held at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters.
The Foundations Program is open to young Muslims in North America who are committed to deepening their understanding of Islam. For full details on admissions requirements, the application process, and important deadlines, please visit our Admissions page.
Tuition and fees for the Foundations Program are designed to make Islamic education accessible. We also offer merit-based scholarships and financial aid options for eligible students. For a full breakdown of tuition, fees, and financial aid opportunities, please refer to our Tuition & Aid page.
While all regular coursework takes place online, students are required to attend two in-person Weekend Intensives per year. These intensives provide an opportunity for deepened engagement, mentorship, and communal learning.
The Foundations Program is designed to be accessible to all young Muslims in North America, regardless of their prior formal Islamic education. While there are no specific academic prerequisites, the program is best suited for individuals who are eager to deepen their understanding of Islam and engage critically with foundational Islamic knowledge. The coursework is structured to accommodate students from a variety of educational backgrounds, making it an excellent fit for those looking to strengthen their faith, identity, and intellectual grounding in an immersive learning environment.
The Foundations Program follows a fixed curriculum designed to provide a comprehensive and cohesive learning experience for young Muslims in North America. Each course has been carefully selected to build a strong Islamic worldview, deepen spiritual identity, and equip students to navigate contemporary challenges with confidence. While students cannot tailor their coursework within the program, they are always welcome to audit additional courses beyond the Foundations Program to further explore specific areas of interest.
Courses are designed to be interactive and discussion-based, encouraging students to engage critically with the material. The program consists of:
- Live Online Classes (held on weekday evenings)
- Readings & Assignments
- Assessments & Reflections
- Two Required In-Person Intensives Per Year
The program prioritizes active learning and discussion. Students are expected to participate in class discussions, engage with readings, and connect with instructors and peers through structured Q&A, group activities, and mentorship opportunities.
Students are expected to:
- Attend all live classes and engage with discussions.
- Keep their cameras on to create a more interactive and inclusive learning environment.
- Complete assigned readings and coursework to enrich classroom discussions.
Yes, students will have weekly assignments and quizzes, along with a mid-term and final exam. These are required, and failure to complete them may result in a failing grade or dismissal from the course. The program is highly interactive, so students must come to class prepared, having completed all assignments. Based on past experience, students who do not allocate enough time to keep up with the coursework and assessments tend to struggle in the program. Consistent effort and time management are essential for success.
Weekend Intensives typically take place in major metropolitan areas such as Washington, D.C., Dearborn (MI), Chicago, Dallas, Toronto, or NY/NJ. Exact locations may vary each year.
Attendance at Weekend Intensives is mandatory. Students who anticipate conflicts should communicate with the administration well in advance to discuss potential accommodations.
Mufid Seminary will arrange accommodations for students attending the in-person intensives. While students are responsible for their own travel, financial need-based travel stipends may be available to help cover a portion of the costs. Students seeking assistance can inquire about eligibility and the application process.
The Weekend Intensives are essential in-person gatherings designed to complement online coursework. They provide a space for:
- In-depth seminars and discussions;
- Spiritual enrichment through collective worship and mentorship;
- Community building with peers and instructors,
Yes, students will need a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet capable of running video conferencing software (we generally use Zoom), and a headset or microphone for clear communication during online classes. Please note that we have a cameras-on policy to ensure active participation and engagement during sessions. Additionally, access to our Learning Management System, such as Google Classroom, is required for course materials and assignments. Specific details will be shared before classes begin.
Yes, the evening class schedule allows for flexibility, making it possible for students to work or study full-time while enrolled. To accommodate instructor availability and ensure smooth course delivery, students should keep the 6:00 – 9:00 PM EST timeslot open Monday through Friday each semester. While individual class schedules may vary—some courses may meet on certain days within this window—the timing is subject to change from semester to semester. Students should plan accordingly to ensure they can fully commit to their coursework and participation.
All classes in the Foundations Program are conducted live (synchronous) to foster real-time discussion, dynamic engagement, and direct access to instructors. Unlike many other programs that rely heavily on asynchronous learning, Mufid Seminary prioritizes interactive learning, making live participation an essential part of the student experience.
To maintain the integrity of the classroom environment, we have a cameras-on policy, ensuring that students are fully present and engaged in discussions. While classes may be recorded for educational and administrative purposes, recordings are only made available to students with an excused absence. Students who miss class due to an unexcused absence should not assume that recordings will be accessible to them.