Doctor of Philosophy of Syariah and Judiciary (Research)

Programme Code        : L401 (MQA/FA5614)
Medium of Instruction  : English/ Arabic/ Malay
Programme Option     : Full Time/Part Time
Programme Type        : Research

Program Education Objective (PEO):

1. A scholar capable of conducting original and in-depth research, as well as writing intensively by applying relevant knowledge and skills for continuous professional development. Utilizing digital and numeracy skills to enhance scholarship and explore entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of Shariah and judiciary, both locally and internationally, through the integration of Naqli and Aqli knowledge (PLO1, PLO2, PLO4, PLO5, PLO7).
2. A respected scholar with sustainable practices and interpersonal skills, who can become a reference expert in the field of Shariah and judiciary, proficient in convincing and effective communication and argumentation (PLO3, PLO6, PLO8).

Programme Learning Objective (PLO):

1. Developing new and original ideas/ijtihad or expanding existing ideas and concepts in Shariah and judiciary.
2. Conducting intensive and in-depth research and writing aimed at advancing academic scholarship in the field of Shariah and judiciary.
3. Demonstrating intellectual competence and interpersonal skills to become a reference expert in Shariah and judiciary.
4. Critically evaluating issues within the field of Shariah and judiciary using scientific skills.
5. Adapting practical skills to foster innovative ideas in the Shariah and judiciary field.
6. Producing original and well-researched papers and theses in line with academic and ethical standards.
7. Exhibiting the ability to expand knowledge through lifelong learning with an entrepreneurial mindset in the Shariah and judiciary sector.
8. Demonstrating leadership qualities through effective communication and collaboration with peers and stakeholders.

Duration of Studies:

Fee Structure:

ACADEMIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

• A Master’s Degree in the relevant field or a related field, recognized by the Senate; or
• Other qualifications equivalent to a Master’s Degree AND relevant professional experience recognized by the Senate; or
• Applicants without related qualifications or work experience in the field must complete prerequisite courses as determined by the Faculty; or
• Master’s degree students who meet the requirements of Regulation 8.0 and have Senate approval to upgrade to a Ph.D.; or
• A Bachelor’s Degree with the following conditions:
  • A Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant field or related field with First Class Honours (CGPA 3.67 or higher) or equivalent from an academic program or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET);
  • Undergo internal evaluation; and
  • Any additional requirements from JKPSU.

Note: 1 year of work experience is equivalent to 0.05 CGPA.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

A.  Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following:

• TOEFL with a minimum score of 180 (computer-based) or 64 (internet-based); or
• IELTS with a minimum score of Band 5; or
• MUET with a minimum score of Band 3; or
• Graduated from an institution that uses English as the primary language of instruction, AND required to take the University English Proficiency Test (UEPT) with a minimum score of Band 3; or
• Graduated in TESL, English Language Studies (ELS) or equivalent from a Senate-recognized university; or
• The candidate is a native English speaker.

B.  Applicants intending to write their thesis in Arabic must meet the following criteria:

• TOEFL with a minimum score of 150 (computer-based) or 52 (internet-based); or
• IELTS with a minimum score of Band 4; or
• MUET with a minimum score of Band 2; or
• UEPT with a minimum score of Band 2.

C.  Applicants who do not meet the criteria under A or B may register conditionally and are required to meet any criteria under A or B within 24 months (for Ph.D. students).

A PhD in Syariah (Islamic law) and Judiciary opens up a variety of career opportunities across academic, legal, governmental, and private sectors. Here are some potential career paths:

1. Government and Policy Making

• Policy Advisor or Legal Counsel: Advising government agencies on the development and implementation of laws and policies related to Islamic law and judiciary.
• Ministry of Religious Affairs: Holding key roles in developing Syariah laws and regulations at the national or state level, especially in Muslim-majority countries like Malaysia.
• Islamic Legal Reform Specialist: Working on law reform and the modernization of Islamic legal systems in Muslim-majority regions.

2. Islamic Finance and Banking

• Shariah Board Member: Serving on the board of Islamic financial institutions, providing guidance on compliance with Islamic law.
• Shariah Compliance Officer: Overseeing that Islamic finance products and services meet Syariah standards.

3. Public Sector and Diplomatic Roles

• Diplomat in Islamic Legal Affairs: Representing your country in international discussions on Islamic law and judiciary matters.
• Legal Advisor in Muslim Communities: Assisting in community development and resolution of disputes under Islamic law.

A PhD in Syariah and Judiciary equips individuals with high-level expertise in Islamic law, opening pathways to leadership and specialized roles across various sectors, particularly in Muslim-majority regions.