Exciting News for Future Islamic Scholars: New College Launching in Singapore!

SINGAPORE: Exciting developments are on the horizon for students passionate about Islamic studies and social sciences. The newly established Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS) will soon offer students the unique opportunity to pursue dual degrees in both religious studies and social sciences, according to the Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, Masagos Zulkifli.

In a statement made on November 13, Mr. Masagos emphasized that this dual degree approach allows graduates the flexibility to choose a career path that aligns with their interests, whether it be in religious education or social work. He explained how these interdisciplinary skills will empower students to make significant contributions within their communities.

Set to open its doors in 2028, SCIS will welcome its inaugural cohort of 60 students for a comprehensive four-year program. The college is strategically located at the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore's (MUIS) learning campus near Bencoolen Mosque. Notably, SCIS will collaborate with the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) for the social sciences curriculum, and with renowned institutions such as the Dar al-Ifta in Egypt, the University of Jordan, and Al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco for the Islamic studies program.

The first two years of study will provide foundational training across both disciplines, allowing students to understand the core principles before they decide whether to specialize in religious studies or social sciences during their third year. Those choosing to complete both degrees will have the option to extend their studies by an additional two years.

Mr. Masagos highlighted the importance of integrating practical life skills alongside religious knowledge, stating, “If our religious teachers possess a robust understanding of social work, psychology, and social structures, they will be incredibly well-equipped to address the diverse needs of our society.”

The establishment of SCIS marks a significant milestone for the Muslim community in Singapore, as it has long been an aspiration to create a local institution that nurtures qualified religious teachers, or asatizah. Currently, six madrasahs in Singapore offer education only up to the pre-university level, leading many students to seek further studies overseas. Annually, approximately 120 to 150 students leave Singapore to pursue Islamic education, often necessitating a return to undergo the Postgraduate Certificate in Islam in Contemporary Societies (PCICS) to be recognized as asatizah. SCIS graduates will automatically qualify as Tier 1 asatizah, bypassing this requirement thanks to the college’s locally-relevant curriculum.

With hopes of expanding its intake in the future, Mr. Masagos envisions SCIS not only catering to local needs but also serving as a beacon of knowledge for Muslims in similar socio-religious contexts, including nations like Thailand and the Philippines. He will lead SCIS’s international advisory panel, set to convene periodically to ensure the curriculum remains relevant and impactful.

The college will have a strong governance structure, chaired by former speaker of parliament Abdullah Tarmugi, overseeing operational aspects such as remuneration and student fees. Meanwhile, Singapore’s Mufti Nazirudin Mohd Nasir is heading the steering committee to guide the planning and development of the college.

Mr. Masagos expressed confidence that this pioneering cohort of students will seamlessly transition into meaningful roles within various sectors, including mosques, madrasahs, the Syariah Court, the Registry of Muslim Marriages, and MUIS. There’s an optimistic outlook for the future; he noted that as SCIS's reputation grows, the student intake could potentially expand to 120 to meet rising demand for religious leadership in Singapore and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates as SCIS sets the stage for a promising new era in Islamic education!