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Understanding Islam

A welcoming, non-judgmental exploration of the beauty, logic, and compassion of Islam.

Islam is often portrayed through a narrow or distorted lens. This course is a welcoming, non-judgmental space to explore the beauty, logic, and compassion of the Islamic faith — free from cultural baggage and misconceptions.

Sheikh Dr. Yusuf Hassan

Instructor

Sheikh Dr. Yusuf Hassan

Rating

4.8

Duration

8 Weeks

Watch Course Trailer

Effort

1 Class/Week · 8 Weeks Total

Access

Lifetime Access · Mobile & Desktop

Reward

Certificate of Completion from UIA

Course Curriculum

Non-Muslims, New Muslims & Born Muslims
Module 1: The Islamic Worldview (Weeks 1–2)
2 Lessons
Class 1: The Purpose of Life Exploring the big questions: Why are we here? Who is God (Allah)? The Islamic worldview of a deliberate, compassionate Creator.
Class 2: The Foundations of Belief (Articles of Faith) A deep dive into the six pillars of Iman: Allah, Angels, Books, Messengers, Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree.
Module 2: A Comprehensive Way of Life (Weeks 3–4)
2 Lessons
Class 3: The Pillars of Practice Understanding the five pillars of Islam as a framework for personal discipline, community building, and spiritual grounding.
Class 4: Revelation and the Messenger The miraculous preservation of the Qur'an and the Prophetic example (Sunnah). The life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) translates divine commands into human action.
Module 3: Clarifying Core Misconceptions (Weeks 5–6)
2 Lessons
Class 5: Jesus, Prophets, and Women in Islam Exploring Islam's reverence for Jesus and Mary. Deconstructing media narratives to reveal the true rights granted to women.
Class 6: Demystifying Shariah and Jihad The true definition of Shariah (a moral path) and Jihad (the inner and outer struggle for justice and self-improvement).
Module 4: The Heart and the Intellect (Weeks 7–8)
2 Lessons
Class 7: Spiritual Insights (Tazkiyah) The science of purifying the heart from arrogance and envy; cultivating gratitude (Shukr), patience (Sabr), and reliance on God (Tawakkul).
Class 8: Living the Faith & Open Forum How to integrate Islamic ethics into modern daily life. A concluding open Q&A session in a safe environment.

Assessment & Certification

Active participation in weekly discussions. Students who attend all sessions receive a Certificate of Completion from UIA.

Learn From Global Scholars

Sheikh Dr. Yusuf Hassan

Sheikh Dr. Yusuf Hassan

Head of Islamic Studies | Al-Azhar Certified Scholar

Sheikh Dr. Yusuf Hassan holds a PhD in Islamic Theology from Al-Azhar University and has spent over two decades guiding new Muslims and non-Muslim seekers across the English-speaking world. His clear, compassionate teaching style has made complex Islamic concepts accessible to thousands of students globally.

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Expected Learning Outcomes

  • Clearly explain the foundational tenets of Islamic theology, including the nature of Allah, the purpose of revelation, and the afterlife.
  • Describe the five pillars of Islam and their practical, spiritual, and social impact on a Muslim's daily life.
  • Confidently address and clarify common societal misunderstandings surrounding Shariah, Jihad, the status of women, and Jesus in Islam.
  • Utilize the Islamic perspective to find meaning, balance, and purpose in everyday life and social interactions.
  • Possess the knowledge and vocabulary required to have respectful, accurate discussions about Islam with friends, colleagues, and neighbors.