Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies and Arabic Language (BAISAL

Overview

An integrated, competence-based degree in which Arabic is both a field of specialization and the principal medium for engaging primary Islamic sources. The program combines rigorous Islamic scholarship with advanced Arabic language, literature and translation, explicit application to East African communities, and critical, ethical use of AI and digital research tools across all three years.

Key Information

An integrated, competence-based degree in which Arabic is both a field of specialization and the principal medium for engaging primary Islamic sources. The program combines rigorous Islamic scholarship with advanced Arabic language, literature and translation, explicit application to East African communities, and critical, ethical use of AI and digital research tools across all three years.

Admission Requirements

Direct Entry: UCE or equivalent with at least five passes, AND UACE or equivalent with at least two principal
passes obtained at the same sitting. Relevant subjects: Arabic, Islamic Religious Education, Religious
Studies, English, Literature, History, Kiswahili, or related humanities.
Diploma Entry: recognized diploma at credit or distinction level in Arabic, Islamic Studies, Sharia,
Education, or Translation — advanced standing by transcript mapping (not automatic).
Mature Entry: age 25+, NCHE-recognized mature-age entry examination with a mark of 50% or above.
Placement: all admitted applicants sit an Arabic & Islamic Studies placement assessment — 70%+ overall
enters Year One directly; others join the Immersion Pathway first

Credit Units Distribution

Category Credit Units (CU) Percentage
Islamic Studies & Sharia disciplines 48 40%
Arabic Language, Literature & Translation 33 27.5%
Specialized AI & Digital Applications 6 (+3 in Core)
Professional Practice & Field Engagement 12
Research Methods & Graduation Project 9
University Requirements 12