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Master of Arts in Islamic Finance and Economics (Track R)

The International Islamic University of Minnesota proudly presents the Master of Arts Degree in Islamic Finance and Economics – Research Track, designed for instructors, academics, and researchers dedicated to advancing Islamic financial theory and practice. This distinguished program emphasizes deep analytical and research-based engagement with both classical and modern financial systems, preparing students for academic publication and doctoral study in the field of Islamic economics and finance.

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates of this program will:

  • Develop a strong foundation in the principles and objectives of Islamic economics and finance.

  • Analyze modern financial systems through a Sharia-compliant lens.

  • Conduct advanced research to address contemporary economic and financial challenges.

  • Contribute to the global discourse on Islamic finance through academic writing and scholarship.

Program Features

Flexible
Study Format

Online/live sessions or
Self-Paced Study

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Tuition and Fee

Per Credit: $100

Monthly: $383

​$50 Technology Fee: Charged each active academic quarter.

Total: $5750

Completion Time

1.5 - 2 years completion time

Instruction Medium

English

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Study Time Options

Full Time: Minimum 2 courses per quarter

Part Time: Minimum 1 courses per quarter

Degree Completion Requirements

Total: 60 quarter credits

Core Courses: 30 credits

Electives: 20 credits

Research Methodology course: 5 credits

Capstone: 5 credits

Curriculum Details

  • Students Must Take All 5 Courses from this List:

    1. IEFC500 – Islamic Finance Principles - 5 Credits

    2. IFEC501 – Islamic Financial Transactions I- 5 Credits

    3. IFEC502 – Modern Financial Instruments- 5 Credits

    4. IFEC503 – Wealth & Portfolio Management - 5 Credits

    5. IFEC504 – Islamic Banking- 5 Credits

  • Students Can Choose Any 5 Courses from this List:

    1. IEMF505 – Home Financing and Real Estate – 5 Credits

    2. IEMF506 – Management & Accounting for IFIs – 5 Credits

    3. IEMF507 – Risk Management for IFIs – 5 Credits

    4. IEMF508 – Islamic Financial Ethics – 5 Credits

    5. IEMF509 – Islamic Corporate Finance – 5 Credits

    6. IEMF510 – Islamic Financial Transactions II – 5 Credits

    7. IEMF511 – Islamic Capital Markets – 5 Credits

    8. IEMF512 – Islamic Insurance: Products & Practices – 5 Credits

    9. IEMF513 – Islamic FinTech and Digitalization – 5 Credits

    10. IEMF514 – Global Islamic Economics – 5 Credits

    1. IFEC504 Research Methodology - 5 Credits

    1. IFEC505 Capstone Project - 5 Credits

  • 1. IEFC500 – Islamic Finance Principles: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of Islamic finance, with particular attention to the ethical and legal frameworks that distinguish it from conventional finance. Students will explore key concepts such as risk-sharing, profit-and-loss sharing, and the prohibition of Riba (interest). Through practical examples and real-world applications, students will gain insight into the growing role and significance of Islamic finance in the global economy.

     

    2. IFEC501 – Islamic Financial Transactions I: This course provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices of Islamic financial transactions, with a focus on key contracts and structures such as Murabahah, Musharakah, and Mudarabah. Students will examine the ethical foundations of Islamic finance, relevant regulatory frameworks, and the application of Sharia-compliant financial products in contemporary markets. Through case studies and practical applications, students will develop a strong understanding of how Islamic financial transactions operate within the global financial system.

     

    3. IFEC502 – Modern Financial Instruments: This course explores contemporary financial instruments, investment products, and services, including Sukuk, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), foreign exchange (forex), and real estate investment trusts (REITs). Students will examine their economic impact and the regulatory and Sharia-compliance considerations associated with these instruments. Through case studies and practical exercises, students will develop an understanding of both asset-backed and asset-based structures and how modern financial instruments can operate within an Islamic finance framework.

     

    4. IFEC503 – Wealth & Portfolio Management: This course provides a comprehensive framework for financial planning and wealth management from an Islamic perspective. Topics include personal investments, taxation, estate planning, and retirement planning. The course also introduces key principles of portfolio management, including diversification, asset allocation, risk assessment, and ongoing portfolio monitoring. Students will learn how Islamic wealth managers can align financial strategies with clients’ goals, risk tolerance, and Sharia principles.

     

    5. IFEC504 – Islamic Banking: This course explores the principles and practices of Islamic banking, focusing on its ethical foundations, financial structures, and regulatory frameworks. Students will examine the differences between conventional and Islamic banking systems and analyze case studies highlighting the development, operations, and performance of Islamic banking institutions. Particular attention will be given to the regulatory environments and Sharia principles that guide Islamic banking practices.

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    6. IEMF505 – Home Financing & Real Estate: This course examines the contemporary Islamic home financing and real estate market, with particular attention to Sharia-compliant structures such as Musharakah, Murabahah, and Sukuk. Students will analyze the ethical, economic, and social implications of various financing models through the review of real-world home financing structures and contracts. The course provides students with a practical understanding of how Islamic finance principles can be applied to real estate financing, investment, and property ownership.

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    7. IEMF506 – Management & Accounting for IFIs: This course examines the management and accounting challenges faced by Islamic Financial Institutions (IFIs) and how financial professionals address these challenges while maintaining Sharia-compliant practices. Students will explore contemporary management issues, regulatory environments, accounting considerations, and ethical responsibilities unique to Islamic finance. The course is designed to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and account for financial activities within Islamic financial institutions.

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    8. IEMF507 – Risk Management for IFIs: Effective risk management is an essential component of modern financial institutions, including Islamic Financial Institutions (IFIs). This course examines the unique risks associated with Islamic finance, including credit, market, liquidity, and operational risks. Students will explore strategies for identifying, assessing, and mitigating these risks while maintaining compliance with Sharia principles. Through case studies and practical exercises, students will develop the skills necessary to navigate risk within an evolving global financial environment.

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    9. IEMF508 – Islamic Financial Ethics: This course examines the ethical and professional responsibilities of individuals working within the Islamic finance industry. Students will explore the moral and ethical framework that guides Islamic financial practices, with particular emphasis on integrity, fairness, transparency, accountability, and professional conduct. The course emphasizes the responsibility of finance professionals to represent their institutions ethically while upholding the principles and values of Islamic finance.

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    10. IEMF509 – Islamic Corporate Finance: This course explores the principles and practices of corporate finance within the framework of Islamic law. Students will examine key concepts such as risk-sharing, Sharia-compliant investment, ESG considerations, and the prohibition of interest. Through theoretical discussions and case studies, students will analyze how Islamic finance principles influence corporate strategies, financial decision-making, capital structures, and investment practices in contemporary organizations.

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    11. IEMF510 – Islamic Financial Transactions II: This advanced course builds upon the principles introduced in Islamic Financial Transactions I and examines more complex financial transactions within a Sharia-compliant framework. Students will explore concepts such as Riba and Gharar in greater depth and analyze their implications for contemporary financial products and practices. Topics include complex financial structures, risk management, ethical investment considerations, and the evolving role of Islamic finance in global markets and sustainable development.

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    12. IEMF511 – Islamic Capital Markets: This course provides an in-depth examination of Islamic capital markets, including their structures, instruments, operations, and regulatory frameworks. Students will explore Sharia-compliant investment practices, capital market instruments, investment strategies, and risk management approaches. Particular attention will be given to the evolving role of Islamic capital markets within the global financial system and the opportunities for research and innovation within the field.

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    13. IEMF512 – Islamic Insurance: Products & Practices: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Islamic insurance (Takaful), an increasingly important component of the global Islamic finance industry. Students will examine the principles, structures, products, and practices associated with Sharia-compliant insurance. The course also explores contemporary developments within the Takaful industry and is particularly relevant for students, researchers, and professionals seeking to understand Islamic insurance products and their role within modern financial markets.

     

    14. IEMF513 – Islamic FinTech & Digitalization: This course examines recent developments in financial technology and their impact on the Islamic finance industry. Students will explore the opportunities and challenges associated with maintaining Sharia compliance in an increasingly digital financial environment. Topics include cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, digital financial services, and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in both conventional and Islamic financial systems. Through theoretical and practical perspectives, students will examine how FinTech is being used to develop innovative financial solutions, improve efficiency, and create new opportunities for growth within the Islamic finance industry.

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    15. IEMF514 – Global Islamic Economics: This course examines the impact and role of Islamic finance within the global economy, with particular attention to Muslim-majority countries where Islamic economic and financial principles have become increasingly influential. Students will explore both macroeconomic and microeconomic perspectives while analyzing contemporary challenges and opportunities facing Islamic economies and financial systems. The course also considers the integration of Islamic finance within diverse economic environments and its potential contribution to equitable and sustainable global economic development.

     

    16. IFEC504 Research Methodology and Analysis:- This course provides an in-depth exploration of research methodologies specific to Islamic finance, equipping students with the skills to design, conduct, and analyze empirical studies. Emphasizing both qualitative and quantitative approaches, students will engage with case studies and develop critical thinking in the context of Islamic financial principles. By the end of the course, participants will be prepared to undertake rigorous research projects that contribute to their field's academic and practical advancements.

     

    17. IFEC505 Capstone Project:- The student will conduct research on a relevant hypothesis or theory in Islamic Economics or Finance under a faculty supervisor, focusing on original sources and broad literature. After gathering materials, they will present their findings, demonstrating critical thinking and implications, with possible testing in controlled settings. The course culminates in a written thesis, which may be published or bound for library placement.

What Our Students
Say About Us

I love the weekend format! It fits seamlessly into my busy life, and the classes are not only informative but also highly engaging. I look forward to each session!

Fateema Karim

Studying at IIUMN has been an incredible journey, offering deep courses in Islamic sciences and expert guidance from instructors at every step.

Khalid Azizi

The professors at IIUMN are highly knowledgeable, offering deep insights and clear guidance that make learning truly enriching.

Ali Hassan

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Admission Requirements

  1. Copy of Valid Passport or ID: Please provide a clear image of your valid passport or photo ID to verify your identity.

  2. Personal Statement: A personal statement is required. This should outline your interest in the program, your career goals, and why you believe you would be a good fit for the program.

  3. Most Recent College or University Diploma and Transcripts: Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree. Official transcripts must be submitted.

  4. Application Form: Applicants must submit a fully completed application form through the university's online application system. It is essential that all sections of the form are thoroughly and accurately completed to ensure your application is properly considered.

  5. Application Fee: The application fee for a master’s degree program is $50.

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