American Islamic College: A Beacon of Islamic Learning in Chicago
Introduction
The American Islamic College (AIC) stands as an institution of higher learning rooted in Islamic values, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds. It strives to cultivate an appreciation for the breadth and depth of Islamic history and civilization through its academic programs and public events showcasing Islam's intellectual, artistic, and cultural contributions. This article explores the history of AIC, its programs, and its mission to provide a comprehensive understanding of Islam in the American context.
A Historical Perspective
Originally established in 1981, the American Islamic College occupied a distinguished building near Lake Michigan in Chicago. From its inception, the institution's mission, upheld by its founders, subsequent presidents, faculty, and staff, centered on engaging students in a rigorous academic curriculum that emphasized both scholarly pursuits and community service.
After a period of dormancy, AIC reopened in 2010 with a new administration, a reconstituted Board, and renewed operating authority from the State of Illinois. This marked a new chapter for the college, culminating in the graduation of its first cohort of Master of Islamic Studies students, with undergraduate students also on track to complete their degrees.
One long-time employee described the differences between the early days of the college and the present: “The college in the 80s was not run as professionally as it is now. The facilities then were not as well kept as they are now and the library was rarely used. Today the school looks inviting and has a growing library.”
Academic Programs
AIC holds Degree Granting Authority for its three degree programs:
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- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Islamic Studies: This program provides a foundational understanding of Islamic thought, history, and culture.
- Master of Arts (MA) in Islamic Studies: This program offers advanced study in various areas of Islamic scholarship.
- Master of Divinity in Islamic Studies (MDIS): This program is designed for students seeking to serve as religious leaders and community educators.
As another employee who started working at AIC in 2011, when everything was very new, describes the changes, “AIC has continuously improved since its reopening. In the beginning, we couldn't offer any degrees or classes for credit. Now we offer three-degree programs and students enrolled in each of them. I used to vision AIC with students walking in the hallways and reaching out to us with all kinds of questions."
Mission and Values
The College is committed to providing students with a broad understanding of the historical and global forces shaping the political and social structures of diverse Muslim societies. AIC takes its mission seriously.
AIC aims to achieve the following:
- Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Islamic history, civilization, and thought.
- Foster critical thinking and analytical skills.
- Promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.
- Prepare students for leadership roles in their communities.
One student described the school's growth in this way: “Over the past four years that I have been a student at AIC I’ve seen the school grow to become a cultural as well as an educational center."
Financial Assistance and Opportunities
AIC is committed to making education accessible and offers financial assistance to students who meet the requirements. Work-study positions and internships are also available to help students prepare for their chosen careers.
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The Muslim American Community and AIC's Role
Recognizing that the Muslim American community mirrors the diversity of American society, encompassing people from all ethnic backgrounds and belief systems. AIC strives to serve as a bridge, fostering understanding and promoting inclusivity.
One student explained the importance of AIC's mission in this way: “As a Muslim American, I believe correct knowledge of the religion is crucial to representing the proper perspective of Islam. Every Imam is obligated to learn the religion from the most authentic sources and hopefully influence others to appreciate Islam’s universal relevance."
Another student noted, “I’ve had an interest in the academic study of Islam for many years. My first Arabic class was under the leadership of Hon. Elijah Muhammad. Imam W. Deen Mohammed (RA) strongly emphasized importance for Imams to increase their formal knowledge of Al-Islam." He added, “As a researcher and writer at CAIR-Chicago and BTF, the work has helped me to understand the theological histories of the communities I serve, their similarities and differences."
Accreditation Status
It is important to note that AIC does not currently have regional accreditation. As a result, students may not be able to transfer credits or access federal financial aid (FAFSA).
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tags: #American #Islamic #College #history #and #programs
