This programme is accredited by the Department of Higher Education and South African Qualifications Authority as qualification at National Qualification Framework 5 (post-matric).

This qualification is available to all matriculants, who do not have university pass (see the BA Islamic Studies for those who obtained a university pass).

The duration of the programme is one year.

The Higher Certificate in Islamic Studies (HCIS) is aimed at providing students with the social, cognitive and emotional skills which are essential components of coping strategies to face the challenges of daily life.

It will concentrate on character strengths that enhance moral competence, while giving students a solid grounding in Islam.

Central to the development of character strengths and coping skills is the example of the Prophet (SAW) who is described in Qur’an as:

‘Indeed you (O Muhammad) are on an excellent standard of character’ (Q68:4)

A cursory glance at the character-building and skills training built up during period will make you realise that these are transferable skills, and can be used anywhere – in the society, personally and academically.

• It will make you more resilient to face the challenges of society
• It will make you manage relationships better
• It will make you improve your ability to pursue further studies
• It will enable you to hone your skills in life coaching

The Global Leadership and Life Orientation

This is essentially a life coaching course which deals with life coaching, positive thinking, goal setting, self-esteem, time-management etc.

Interpersonal Interactions and Marital Relations

This course looks at fostering good moral values such as justice, equity and sacrifice and detestable social habits such as arrogance, uncontrolled anger and hypocrisy, particularly in marital relations.

Academic Skills

It covers critical analysis, problem-solving, decision-making, conflict resolution, writing skills, oral presentations etc.

Sīrah (Biography) of Muhammad (SAW) 

The biography of the Prophet (SAW) enables us to consider his conduct under different circumstances throughout his life.

The meanings of Qur’an, Qur’an literacy, Qur’anic Recitation and Memorisation

Learn to recite the Qur’an with Tajweed and Memorising the short suwar of the Qur’an.

Engage with the Higher Objective of the Qur’an, Interfaith Responsibilities, Spiritual and Moral Welfare of Society, Socio-Economic Welfare etc.

Learning Arabic through the Qur’an

The meanings of the Qur’an are considered through understanding the Surah Ḥujurāt (also known as Suratul Akhlāq) and Surah Yusuf.

Devotional Arabic

A collection of selected duas made on various occasions such as janaazas, weddings, birthdays etc.

Islamic Laws of Worship

This covers the Laws and accompanying duas including Arkaans of Iman, Islam and Al-Ihsaan.

Tohaarah, Salaah (including Jumuah and Janaazah), Zakaah, Saum, and Hajj and four Mathahib is covered.

Aqeedah (The Creed of Islam)

Getting to know Allah (SWT) through the Asma ul-Husna (the divine attributes of Allah), the attributes that are waajib (essential), mustaheel (impossible) and attributes that are jaa-iez (possible) for Allah.

Higher Certificate in Islamic Studies (HCIS) – minimum 1 Year full time and minimum 2 Years part time

The HCIS programme aims to enhance spiritual consciousness and provide a deeper understanding of Islām. A student will gain a solid introduction to the various fields of Islamic knowledge, including literacy, research skills as well as leadership capabilities, which ultimately aim at inspiring moral regeneration. The programme, thus, acts as a catalyst for change.

Since 2014 the Higher Certificate in Islamic Studies Programme (HCIS) includes a specially designed ‘Leadership & Youth Development’ module. Completing the HCIS successfully allows entrance to the IPSA Bachelors of Arts Islamic Studies programme.

Our courses that are run part-time are during normal class hours which are:
Monday to Thursday - 8am to 3pm
Friday - 8am to 12pm. 

MODULES
Arabic through Qur`ān
Qur`ān Literacy
Devotional Arabic
Principles of Qur’ānic Recitation and Memorization
Fiqh: Islamic Laws of Worship
‘Aqīdah (Islamic Belief)
Meanings of the Qur’ān
Sīrah: Prophetic Biography
Islamic Interpersonal Relationships
Global Leadership & Youth Development
Critical Reading & Writing Skills Development
TOTAL 150 CREDITS
*ALL CREDITS MUST BE OBTAINED TO GRADUATE IN THIS PROGRAMME

The HCIS Program is run over two semesters, with the above listed modules offered in both semester one and two throughout the year. See the IPSA Student Handbook for further details.