Diploma in Islamic Studies
IREL
The Islamic Studies Diploma is a degree specific to the EPHE, designed and organized with the support of the Institute for the Study of Religions and Secularism (IREL). Its objective is to provide an introduction to academic knowledge of Islamic thought and history: founding texts, law, major denominational and doctrinal trends, historical landmarks, classical arts and forms of Islamic civilization, and significant events. It provides methodological tools that foster independent and critical thinking among graduates.
This diploma is intended for a wide audience (Bac + 3 level, unless otherwise specified). It is open to all those who wish to cultivate their knowledge and enrich their personal reflection. It is also designed for religious leaders; military, prison, and hospital chaplains; employees of all public functions, as well as leaders or members of associations.
QUALIOPI-certified training (Article L. 6316-4 of the French Labor Code).
Overview of the Islamic Studies Diploma
Advice for Students of the Islamic Studies Diploma
This course provides keys to understanding, methodological tools, knowledge of basic bibliography in each field, and academic documentary references in France and abroad. Upon completion of the course, learners will be able to:
- situate the principal texts of the religious heritage of Islam (Quran, hadith, works of the main theologians and jurists) in the historical context of their writing; and thus, better discern the intentions and issues that animated them;
- manage the concepts of the main avenues of Muslim exegesis and theology: use of hadith, speculative reasoning, symbolic approach in mysticism;
- describe the various branches of Islam: schools within Sunni Islam, Shiite branches, philosophy, Sufism;
- use the tools of contemporary Islamological research: Encyclopedia of Islam, scientific journals, websites on Islam of recognized academic standing, Digital Campus of the Fondation de l'Islam de France.
Online Application Dates
- 1st session: from Tuesday, April 15th, 2025 to Wednesday, June 11th, 2025.
- 2nd session: from Tuesday, July 8th, 2025 to Thursday, September 4th, 2025.
1. Apply
The application process is entirely online. The online application form includes the list of required documents.
The program assumes sufficient knowledge of French to follow the courses and complete the assignments. Level B2 is required. Placement tests may be offered to candidates unable to provide a certificate at the time of application.
If the applicant's diplomas are foreign, attach an official certificate of French language proficiency (DELF or DALF diploma, or a valid TCF or TEF certificate).
Please note: Applicants of non-European Union nationality should note that a residence permit must be valid for the duration of their studies, starting from the first day of the program. Applicants are responsible for applying for their visa and residence permit themselves.
The number of places is limited.
2. Administrative Registration
If the Admissions Committee accepts your application, you will be invited to complete your administrative registration with the Continuing Education Department, which will determine your registration plan (continuing or formal education) and the applicable fee.
Fees
- Third-party funding (employer, OPCO, etc.): €2,000 including tax per year.
- Self-funding (with proof of no third-party funding): €600 including tax per year.
The diploma is prepared over a one-year period of study, corresponding to 100 hours of training at the EPHE-PSL in Paris, which is divided as follows:
- One 10-hour preparatory course, the objective of which is to provide students with a common foundation of knowledge for subsequent in-depth study in the two modules;
- One 42-hour Module A, "Fundamental Texts," which covers the history of texts and their interpretations, philosophy and law in Islam, and the study of Islam with and through material culture;
- One 40-hour Module B, "Times and Spaces of Islam," which focuses on the study of contemporary Islam in its diversity;
- One day of follow-up to the "The Definition of the Human" conference, 5 hours;
- One 3-hour visit to a cultural venue.
Students must attend all courses, the conference, and the visit. The modules give rise to written and oral assessments.
At the EPHE-PSL, the internationalization of our courses means that every student has the opportunity to undertake a study or internship mobility program.
The International Relations Department assists students in defining and implementing their projects, identifying the most appropriate financial instruments and schemes.
Holder of the “Welcome to France” label and the Erasmus+ 2021-2027 charter, the EPHE-PSL has also been welcoming a large and growing number of international students for many years.
Go to International relations
Download: Directory of financial mechanisms and instruments for international projects
Who should you contact? International Relations Department
Establishment of contact and information about the program structure via email.
- For questions about the general program structure, validation methods, and the registration process, please contact the Academic Secretariat for the program at IREL.
IREL
Campus Condorcet
14, cours des Humanités
FR - 93322 Aubervilliers cedex
- For questions related to administrative registration, please contact the EPHE Continuing Education Department.
EPHE - PSL
Continuing Education Department
4-14, rue Ferrus
FR - 75014 Paris