About this minor
Note: The information on this page is from 2025-2026. New information will follow as soon as possible. Courses and course descriptions are subject to change.
Always wanted to know more about Islam in theory and practice and sharpen your mind about the role of religion in contemporary society? This minor introduces the core teachings of Islam and explores the multiple ways it is lived in Muslim majority and minority contexts. We offer the basics but also delve deep in key themes in the study of Islam, including Islamic law, Muslim thinkers and trends, society, gender, media, and migration. Welcoming students of all backgrounds, the minor fosters open and informed conversations about the role of Islam in contemporary societies. A field trip provides the opportunity to connect academic insights with lived realities.
Maximum number of participants: 50 Prospectus number: 5000MIRSN Language of instruction: English Registration via EduXchange: 19 May (13:00 hrs) until 30 June 2026
Learning outcomes
After completing the programme, the student is able to:
- describe and illustrate the core teachings of Islam;
- discuss ways in which Islam is lived across time and place with concrete examples;
- analyse the relationship between Islamic law and Muslim religious practice;
- apply and critically evaluate theoretical and methodological approaches in the academic study of Islam;
- communicate this knowledge orally and in writing for both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Good to know
- Extent: 30 EC (either semester I or spread over semesters I and II)
- Intended for: students of all disciplines
- Language of instruction: English
- Website: Islam and Society
- Coordinator: Dr. Nathal M. Dessing
- Information: Contact Education Administration Office.
- Board of Examiners: Religious Studies
- Registration: via EduXchange: 19 May (13:00 hrs) until 30 June 2026
Request an eduID account to register in EduXchange. On how to do this, watch Explore & register for your minor via eduXchange. Students from another university: please visit Info about minors
- From July, register separately for the courses via MyStudymap (only applies to LEI students!) Guest students will be helped with their course enrollment.
Follow-on master’s programme
Master Middle Eastern Studies Master Religious Studies
Remarks
Alternatively, students can opt for a 15 EC course package. This consists of the three compulsory courses of semester I. It is not possible to follow this package in semester II.
Required prior knowledge
None
Resources
Additional information
- More infoMinorpage on website of Leiden University
- Contact a coordinator
- Levelbachelor
Starting dates
31 Aug 2026
ends 4 Jul 2027
Enrolment starts 19 May, 13:00Register between 19 May, 13:00 - 30 Jun
