faq

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions/ Comments

What is the AOU? How does it work?

The AOU is a university which teaches Islamic studies according to the way of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaa' via distance learning. There is a bachelor's program in Islamic Studies in the English medium, a bachelor's program in Islamic Studies in the Arabic medium, four master's programs in the Arabic medium, and a Ph.D. program in the Arabic medium. (This web site obviously only deals with the bachelor's program in the English medium).

Is the AOU accredited?

The AOU is accredited by Al-Azhar University, one of the most respected universities in the Islamic world.

What exactly is that oral exam prerequisite for the Arabic classes?

The prerequisite is being able to read Arabic fluently (i.e., to be able to read Arabic text, not necessarily being able to understand it). You will inshaAllah be asked to read some verses from the Quran and translate a couple of words. This prerequisite is here because the first Arabic class, Intermediate Arabic I, starts off with Arabic vocabulary, and simple to medium difficulty sentences.

Comment: People should study under a sheikh and not via distance learning! This is nontraditional!

It is definitely best to study at the big schools under the sheikh. However, not everyone has this ability due to financial obligations, family obligations, etc. The AOU allows a lot of people to study without having to leave other obligations.

Besides, it's not like the students are just reading without anybody to help them. The students contact the teachers via phone, email or other means. The teachers are highly qualified and well known.