College: Graduate Programs Institute
This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and contributions of Islamic sciences, focusing on the historical, philosophical, and scientific advancements made by Muslim scholars during the Islamic Golden Age and their relevance to modern science. Students will explore key topics such as astronomy, mathematics, medicine, and philosophy, as well as integrating Islamic ethics and values into scientific research. The major emphasizes integrating historical knowledge with contemporary scientific practices to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and science education.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the fundamental principles of Islamic sciences and their historical contributions to global knowledge.
- Develop skills to analyze and interpret the works of prominent Muslim scholars and researchers.
- Learn techniques for integrating Islamic ethics and values into modern scientific practices.
- Explore the principles of Islamic scientific disciplines, such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.
- Comprehend the impact of Islamic sciences on the evolution of modern science and technology.
- Analyze the challenges and opportunities of incorporating Islamic perspectives into contemporary scientific research.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address challenges at the intersection of science and Islamic thought.
Main Curriculum:
- Introduction to Islamic Sciences
- An overview of Islamic sciences, their history, and their importance during the Islamic Golden Age.
- Islamic Philosophy and Ethics in Science
- Basics of Islamic philosophy, including the works of Al-Farabi, Avicenna, and Al-Ghazali.
- Techniques for integrating Islamic ethics and values into scientific research.
- Astronomy and Cosmology in Islamic Sciences
- Principles of Islamic astronomy, including contributions from Al-Battani, Al-Biruni, and Nasir al-Din al-Tusi.
- Techniques for understanding and applying historical astronomical knowledge in modern contexts.
- Mathematics and Engineering in Islamic Sciences
- Basics of Islamic mathematics, including the works of Al-Khwarizmi, Omar Khayyam, and Al-Karaji.
- Techniques for exploring the impact of Islamic mathematics on modern mathematical theories.
- Medicine and Pharmacy in Islamic Sciences
- Principles of Islamic medicine, including contributions from Avicenna, Al-Razi, and Ibn Al-Nafis.
- Techniques for understanding and applying historical medical knowledge to contemporary healthcare practices.
- Islamic Contributions to Natural Sciences
- An overview of Islamic contributions to fields such as chemistry, physics, and biology.
- Methods for analyzing the works of scientists like Jabir Ibn Hayyan and Ibn Al-Haytham.
- Islamic Sciences and Modern Technology
- The impact of Islamic scientific principles on the development of modern technology.
- Techniques for integrating an Islamic perspective into contemporary scientific research and innovation.
- Emerging Trends in Islamic Sciences
- Exploring modern efforts to revive Islamic scientific traditions and integrate them into current scientific practices.
- Techniques for addressing global challenges through the lens of Islamic science and ethics.
Assessment Methods:
- Research papers and projects to assess understanding of both historical and contemporary Islamic sciences.
- Written tasks and presentations to evaluate the knowledge of Islamic scientific contributions and their applications.
- Participation in group discussions and debates on the integration of Islamic ethics in modern science.
- Practical projects and case studies to apply Islamic scientific principles to real-world problems.
Recommended Books:
- "The House of Wisdom: How Arabic Science Saved Ancient Knowledge and Gave Us the Renaissance" by Jim Al-Khalili.
- "Islamic Science and the Making of the European Renaissance" by George Saliba.
- "Science and Civilization in Islam" by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
Prerequisites:
Basic knowledge of Islamic history, philosophy, and sciences is recommended. This major is suitable for students in Islamic studies, history of science, philosophy, and related fields.
Program Duration:
Typically, this major lasts for four academic years, comprising lectures, research projects, and seminars.
Certificate:
Upon successful completion of the program, students can obtain a degree in Islamic sciences, depending on the program and institution.
Target Audience:
This major is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in Islamic studies, history of science, philosophy, and related fields, as well as professionals seeking to explore the intersection of Islamic thought and scientific inquiry. The major prepares students and professionals to excel in the field of Islamic sciences, leveraging historical knowledge, ethical principles, and contemporary scientific practices to contribute to global scientific advancement while remaining rooted in Islamic values.