Islamic Studies

The Islamic Studies Program at George Mason University recognizes that Islam is a universal faith and a world civilization with a global community. It provides a global rather than regional framework for exploring Islam.

This innovative approach encourages students to explore Islam's role and contributions beyond the Middle East. Through the multidisciplinary coursework offered in support of this program, students come to appreciate the experiences that connect over one billion Muslims worldwide—from the past into the present.

The program works in very close collaboration with the Ali Vural Ak Center for Global Islamic Studies. The mission of the center is to promote to the surrounding community and broader public a sound and nuanced understanding of the Islamic faith, its role in world history, and its current patterns of globalization. It fulfills this mission by supporting the academic programs in Islamic studies, sponsoring research and events, and providing a range of opportunities for students and faculty.

Mason Receives $4 million Commitment to Islamic Studies Center

George Mason University has taken a substantial step forward in becoming the area’s leader in Islamic studies. Provost Peter Stearns announced that Mason has received a $4 million commitment to create the Center for Global Islamic Studies.

Mason Welcomes New Islamic Studies Program Director

George Mason University welcomes Dr. Cemil Aydin as the new director of its Center for Global Islamic Studies. Aydin joined Mason’s History and Art History Department in the fall of 2009, holding the Endowed IIIT Chair in Islamic Studies, bringing with him years of experience in the fields of history and Middle Eastern studies.

Religious Studies Welcomes Islamic Studies Professor

This fall, the Religious Studies Department welcomes Dr. Juliane Hammer to its distinguished list of professors. Dr. Hammer, who received her PhD in Islamic studies from Humboldt University in Berlin, has a wealth of experience in teaching Islamic studies having taught at Princeton, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Elon University.