Masters of Divinity (MDiv) in Islamic Studies

At Mufid Seminary, we seek committed students who have demonstrated excellence in Islamic learning and community service and are prepared for the rigor of advanced seminary studies. Admission to the MDiv in Islamic Studies is competitive, and applicants must meet the following requirements.

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Commitment to Program Structure

The MDiv in Islamic Studies is a structured, two-year, part-time program that requires full participation in all coursework and field education requirements. Students must commit to completing two courses per semester, attending two in-person Weekend Intensives per year (Fall and Spring), and fulfilling a supervised Field Education placement in their local community. All classes are held on weekday evenings between 6–9 PM EST, and students must ensure their availability during these hours.

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Foundations Program Completion

Applicants must have successfully completed the Foundations Program at Mufid Seminary. Given that the MDiv curriculum builds upon the Foundations coursework, prior completion of the full program is required.

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‍Prior Education:
Applicants must have earned a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 by the time of matriculation. Students who apply while completing their undergraduate studies may be conditionally admitted, provided they graduate before beginning the MDiv program.

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Residency:
Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or Canada.

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‍Arabic and Quranic Proficiency:
Applicants must demonstrate fluency in Quranic recitation and proficiency in Quranic Arabic at the intermediate level. Completion of the Quranic Arabic Certificate within the Foundations Program satisfies this requirement. These language skills ensure that students can meaningfully engage with primary Islamic texts and advanced coursework.

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English Language Proficiency:

For non-native English speakers, submission of TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate proficiency in English.

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‍Statement of Purpose:

As part of the application process, applicants must submit a Statement of Purpose (500–700 words) reflecting on their motivations for pursuing the MDiv in Islamic Studies. The statement should outline their personal and academic growth in the Foundations Program, their vision for community service, and how the MDiv will equip them for that role. Additionally, applicants should discuss their long-term aspirations in Islamic education, pastoral care, or leadership and how they intend to apply their training to serve the Muslim community.

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Two (2) Letters of Recommendation:

Applicants must provide two Letters of Recommendation from individuals who can attest to their academic preparedness, intellectual rigor, and commitment to Islamic learning. These letters should be written by individuals who have had direct experience with the applicant’s academic or professional development. One letter should come from a professor or mentor who can assess the applicant’s ability to engage with advanced coursework, while the second should be from a professional or community leader who can speak to the applicant’s discipline, leadership, and service to the Muslim community.

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‍Character Reference Letter:

In addition to the Letters of Recommendation, applicants must submit a Character Reference Letter from a recognized religious scholar, teacher, or community leader who has personally guided them in their Islamic studies. This letter should confirm the applicant’s moral character, sincerity, and ethical conduct, as well as their readiness to serve in a pastoral or community support role. The recommender should provide insight into the applicant’s commitment to Islamic values and their potential to contribute meaningfully to their community.