Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

Islamic wisdom, modern knowledge, global impact.

πŸ“ Riyadh, Saudi Arabia πŸ‡ΈπŸ‡¦

πŸ† #6 in Saudi Arabia Β· QS World #851 Β· THE World #601 Β· ARWU #901

Quick Facts about Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 60,000
  • International: 5%
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $2,000 – $8,000/year
  • Language: Arabic, English
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is a prominent public university established in 1974. Originating from an Islamic seminary founded in 1950, IMSIU has grown into a comprehensive institution that blends deep-rooted Islamic scholarship with modern scientific disciplines. The university is committed to fostering knowledge, research, and community service rooted in Islamic principles.

Academics

IMSIU offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 14 colleges and several institutes. Key faculties include Sharia, Arabic Language, Computer Science and Information Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Economics and Administrative Sciences. The university emphasizes a comprehensive education that respects traditional values while embracing modern skills. Specialized learning resources, such as the Virtual Court at the Higher Judicial Institute and the Hadith Lab, enhance the academic experience.

International Students

IMSIU welcomes international students, who make up approximately 5% of its student body. The university provides various support services, including housing, financial aid, scholarships, and free medical treatment for students. While many programs are taught in Arabic, the university offers an Arabic Language Institute specifically for non-native speakers to prepare them for further studies. Cultural integration is fostered within a diverse student body, with students from over 170 countries.

Campus & Location

The university's main campus is situated in Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is a large metropolis offering a dynamic city life, with the university campus itself spanning a significant area that includes separate facilities for male and female students, faculty housing, and sports areas. The city is a hub for various government bodies and cultural attractions. Transportation within Riyadh is accessible, and the campus provides various facilities like libraries, dining, and computer access.

Career Outcomes

IMSIU aims to prepare graduates who are well-equipped to contribute to society and the labor market. The university has a notable employability rate of around 43%. While specific industry connections and notable employers are not extensively detailed, the university's strong academic foundation in both Islamic and modern sciences, including fields like engineering and computer science, positions its graduates for diverse career paths. Career services and support for students are part of the administrative offerings.

Information for International Students at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia welcomes international students, with 5% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 5% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Arabic, English

Admissions Requirements for Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University:

  • IELTS minimum: 5
  • GPA minimum: 2
  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)

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Programs at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (20 programs)

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (10)

  • Information Systems (BSc) β€” 48 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program focuses on the design, development, and management of information systems within organizations, blending technical skills with business knowledge to solve real-world problems.
    Field: Information Technology
    Career outcomes: Information Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Project Manager, Business Analyst
  • Geography (BA) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    Students study physical and human geography, cartography, GIS, and environmental issues, developing skills in spatial analysis and understanding global patterns.
    Field: Geography
    Career outcomes: Cartographer, Urban Planner, Environmental Consultant, Geographic Information Systems Specialist
  • Computer Science (BSc) β€” 48 months Β· English Β· STEM
    Students learn fundamental concepts of computing, programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering, preparing them for careers in technology and further academic pursuits.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, System Analyst, Network Administrator, IT Consultant
  • Media and Communication (BA) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    This program delves into various aspects of media, including journalism, public relations, broadcasting, and digital media, preparing students for dynamic careers in communication industries.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Media Producer, Content Creator
  • Sharia (Islamic Law) (BA) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of Islamic jurisprudence, Quranic studies, Hadith, and the principles of Islamic law, preparing students for roles in religious scholarship and legal interpretation.
    Field: Islamic Studies
    Career outcomes: Islamic Scholar, Judge (in Islamic courts), Mufti, Religious Educator
  • Accounting (BSc) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    Students acquire expertise in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation, preparing them for professional roles in finance and business sectors.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst, Tax Consultant
  • Usul al-Din (Fundamentals of Religion) (BA) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    Focusing on the foundational principles of Islam, this program covers Aqeedah (creed), Tafsir (Quranic exegesis), Hadith sciences, and Dawah (Islamic propagation), equipping students with deep theological knowledge.
    Field: Islamic Studies
    Career outcomes: Religious Preacher, Islamic Researcher, Educator, Dawah Worker
  • Business Administration (BSc) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    This program covers core business functions including marketing, human resources, finance, and operations management, developing leadership and strategic decision-making skills.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, HR Manager, Entrepreneur
  • Arabic Language (BA) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    This program offers an in-depth study of classical and modern Arabic language, literature, grammar, and rhetoric, fostering advanced linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: Arabic Teacher, Translator, Editor, Journalist
  • Economics (BSc) β€” 48 months Β· Arabic
    Students explore microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic policy, gaining analytical skills to understand and address economic challenges.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor, Researcher

Master Programs (5)

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) β€” 24 months Β· English
    A comprehensive program designed to develop strategic leadership and management skills across various business functions, including finance, marketing, and operations.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Senior Manager, Director, Entrepreneur
  • Master of Computer Science (MSc) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program provides advanced knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and advanced algorithms, preparing students for leadership roles in technology.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Master of Sharia (Islamic Law) (MA) β€” 24 months Β· Arabic
    An advanced study of Islamic jurisprudence, legal theory, and contemporary Fiqh issues, preparing scholars for in-depth research and specialized roles in Islamic legal fields.
    Field: Islamic Studies
    Career outcomes: Islamic Legal Researcher, University Lecturer, Senior Mufti, Legal Advisor (Islamic Law)
  • Master of Usul al-Din (Fundamentals of Religion) (MA) β€” 24 months Β· Arabic
    This program offers specialized knowledge in Islamic theology, Quranic sciences, and Hadith studies, fostering critical analysis and advanced research capabilities in religious sciences.
    Field: Islamic Studies
    Career outcomes: Islamic Theologian, Academic Researcher, Religious Educator, Dawah Specialist
  • Master of Arabic Language and Literature (MA) β€” 24 months Β· Arabic
    An advanced program focusing on classical and modern Arabic literature, linguistics, and critical literary theory, enhancing research and analytical skills in the field.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: University Professor (Arabic), Literary Critic, Advanced Translator, Researcher

PhD Programs (5)

  • PhD in Sharia (Islamic Law) (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Arabic
    The highest level of academic study in Islamic law, involving extensive original research and contribution to the field of Islamic jurisprudence and legal studies.
    Field: Islamic Studies
    Career outcomes: University Professor (Islamic Law), Leading Islamic Scholar, Senior Researcher, Grand Mufti
  • PhD in Usul al-Din (Fundamentals of Religion) (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Arabic
    This doctoral program requires significant original research in Islamic theology, Quranic sciences, or Hadith, culminating in a dissertation that advances knowledge in these foundational areas.
    Field: Islamic Studies
    Career outcomes: University Professor (Islamic Studies), Senior Religious Scholar, Academic Dean, Director of Islamic Research Centers
  • PhD in Arabic Language and Literature (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Arabic
    A research-intensive program focusing on advanced topics in Arabic linguistics, literary theory, and historical studies, leading to original scholarly contributions.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: University Professor (Arabic Literature), Senior Linguist, Literary Historian, Academic Editor
  • PhD in Computer Science (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program involves cutting-edge research in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and cybersecurity, contributing to theoretical and applied computer science.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: University Professor (Computer Science), Research Scientist, Lead AI Engineer, Chief Technology Officer
  • PhD in Economics (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· Arabic
    A rigorous research program focusing on advanced economic theory, econometrics, and specialized fields like development economics or Islamic economics, leading to original contributions.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: University Professor (Economics), Senior Economist (Government/International Organizations), Economic Policy Advisor, Research Director

Scholarships & Tuition at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

Annual tuition for international students: $2,000 – $8,000/year

βœ… Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

  • National Ranking: #6 in Saudi Arabia
  • QS World University Ranking: #851
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #601
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

  • Comprehensive Islamic and modern education
  • Extensive academic programs, 14 colleges
  • Global student body, diverse nationalities
  • Strong student support, international focus
  • Riyadh main campus, dynamic city life

Accreditation

  • Ministry of Education of Saudi Arabia
  • National Center for Academic Accreditation and Evaluation

Fields of Study at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

  • Islamic Studies
  • Arabic Language
  • Law
  • Social Sciences
  • Education

Notable Alumni

  • Saleh Al-Fawzan
  • Saud Al-Shuraim
  • Salman Al-Ouda
  • Muhammad al-Hasan al-Diddu
  • Abdullah Mohammed Al-Hugail

Frequently Asked Questions about Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University

What is Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University?

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University is a public university located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It has approximately 60,000 students, with 5% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University?

Tuition fees at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University for international students range from $2,000 – $8,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University?

IELTS minimum: 5. GPA minimum: 2. Selectivity: Open (60%+).

What language are courses taught in at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University?

Courses at Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University are taught in Arabic and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.

How many programs does Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University offer?

Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University offers 20 programs: 10 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University ranked?

#6 in Saudi Arabia Β· QS World #851 Β· THE World #601 Β· ARWU #901.

Does Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University offer scholarships?

Yes, Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University provide visa support?

Yes, Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.

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