STEP caters directly for students wishing to embark upon a career in teaching within the wider Aga Khan network of institutions, with a particular focus on teaching at the Ismaili Religious Education Centres (RECs) at the secondary level worldwide.
Students are trained to teach humanities and religious studies with a particular emphasis on the IIS’ Secondary Curriculum which explores the humanistic, civilisational and normative dimensions of religious education. STEP extends over two academic years and culminates in two postgraduate awards (Level 7):
Tailor-made for STEP, the MA and the PGDip form a bespoke programme specifically designed with the needs of STEP students, the Ismaili Tariqah and Religious Education Boards (ITREBs) who employ them, and the communities they serve. The programme equips students with the tools and knowledge to take responsibility for their personal learning and continuous professional development beyond STEP.Â
Through the Programme, students will develop:
The MA in Muslim Societies and Civilisations offers students a systematic and critical interdisciplinary examination of Muslim histories, cultures and societies.
It helps develop:
The MA is aimed at:
Upon successful completion of the MA, students acquire a series of subject-specific knowledge and intellectual skills, as well as subject-based practical and transferable skills.
The PGDip provides a comprehensive teacher education programme, fostering academic rigour as well as practical understanding and application of theories. The approach integrates academic theory with a well-supported teaching practice.
As a STEP student you will be provided with learning opportunities to develop high academic and professional standards and to apply critical reflection as a basis for personal continuous professional development beyond the course. We will encourage you to learn how to contextualise curricula and transfer theories and practical strategies from one context to another.
Successful graduates should: