Sharjah: Al Qasimia University (AQU) has announced the launch of two Master's programmes: Arabic Language and Literature at the College of Arts and Humanities, and Jurisprudence and its Principles at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, with the start of the 2025-2026 academic year. This initiative aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah, and Founder of the University, aiming to enable university graduates and researchers worldwide to continue their postgraduate studies.
According to Emirates News Agency, the university's postgraduate programmes have garnered significant interest from students and researchers globally, attracting a total of 1,343 applicants, with 468 for the Arabic Language and Literature programme and 873 for the Jurisprudence and its Principles programme. After meeting admission requirements and undergoing personal interviews, the university approved the admission of 30 male and female students from 20 different nationalities, forming the first cohort of the university's College of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research.
In his speech during the graduate student reception, Professor Dr. Awad Al Khalaf, Chancellor of AQU, highlighted that accrediting these two programmes marks a strategic step in AQU's journey towards academic and research excellence. He commended the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, which has positioned the university as a leading global institution among higher education entities.
Al Khalaf further stated that the university remains committed to offering quality programmes meeting the aspirations of students and researchers from many countries, contributing to preparing a generation of academics and researchers. These individuals will be capable of serving their communities and promoting the moderation of Islam and the Arabic language in their homelands.
Al Khalaf noted that the two master's programmes have received accreditation from the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the United Arab Emirates. This makes them the first master's programmes offered at the university since its inception.
He concluded by encouraging students to seize this distinguished academic opportunity, which opens broad horizons for scientific research, innovation, and academic and professional excellence. Each programme's curriculum comprises 33 credit hours split between compulsory and elective courses, culminating in a specialised academic thesis. The programme design ensures evening study sessions, enabling a broader range of researchers and employees to pursue postgraduate studies.
The Master's Programme in Arabic Language and Literature aims to prepare academic competencies capable of exploring linguistic and literary heritage deeply and adopting modern research methods, especially for non-native Arabic speakers. The Master's Programme in Jurisprudence and its Principles focuses on establishing Islamic knowledge through a solid scientific methodology, addressing emerging issues, Islamic objectives, and the rationale behind rulings. This prepares graduates to contribute to the fields of fatwa, judiciary, and academic research.