Module manager: Dr Abdul-Bashid Shaikh
Email: A.B.Shaikh@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces students to the classical intellectual traditions that underpin modern Arabic and Islamic thought. It explores the emergence of Islam and its formative impact on the social, moral, and religious landscape of Arabia, while highlighting the wider contributions of Islamic civilisation to global knowledge. Through this grounding, students acquire the historical and conceptual tools needed to engage critically with contemporary debates in Arabic and Islamic studies. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
• Identify key classical features of Arab-Islamic culture, as it has developed since the 7th Century
• Outline the succession major Islamic dynasties and their role in shaping Islamic civilisation
• Recognise core doctrines of the Islamic faith and their significance in early Muslim communities
• Demonstrate an informed understanding of the contribution of major Islamic Scholars to blogal intellectual history
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Critically assess some of the key classical aspects of Arab-Islamic culture, as it has developed since the 7th century until the present day.
2. Analyse key features of Arab and Islamic Civilisation from the 7th to the 15th century
3. Develop a number of basic personal transferable skills (PTS), including oral presentation, essay writing and time management skills.
4. Communicate ideas and information clearly.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 21 | 1 | 21 |
| Seminar | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Private study hours | 168 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 32 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Opportunities for formative feedback are integrated into the module to support students in developing the skills needed for the final assessed essay. Students receive feedback on short written or preparatory tasks that enable them to practise structuring arguments, engaging with sources, and refining their academic writing. A designated feedback session is also held during the semester, offering students the chance to discuss their work, ask questions, and seek guidance on areas requiring further development. These mechanisms ensure that students can apply formative advice effectively as they work towards the summative assessment.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Essay | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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