Testimonials
See what students, the Alumni
and Studies of Religion Teachers have to say
about our course.
Students & Alumni Testimonials
About Islam, Culture & Society Degree
Phil Worrad - Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, Coordinator WNSW LHD
“In multicultural Australia, at a time when the population is getting closer and misinformation is making ‘truth’ more confusing, it is important that we equip ourselves with knowledge of and appreciation for Islam and Muslims; whether you are Muslim or not. Islam, Culture and Society degree provides a comprehensive, academic understanding of Islam and Muslims.
The lecturers and staff are supportive and engaged in your learning. This course of study has benefitted my work in education and mental health. It has given me skills to speak to communities and workplaces and to communicate with individuals from a platform of deep knowledge and respect. By my choice, the studies have strengthened my faith, spirituality and life path.
The assessments are aimed to enhance learning. The content focuses on Australia within the global context. The qualification may be your goal. From my experience, the learning continues to benefit and resource me long after my graduation.”
Dr David Sneddon - HS Teacher, NSW DET
“As a recent (non-Muslim) graduate of the Islam, Culture and Society program, I found all aspects of the course to be engaging and relevant in today’s world. Initially, I was sceptical about how I would find a fit with this course, but the lecturers ensured I not only found my place but in fact thrived. The skills and content, delivered at an appropriate pace, have ultimately allowed me to further pursue my academic interests in this area. I was encouraged to publish an article, which then led to an opportunity to enroll in a Ph.D. (Passed and awaiting conferral) This opportunity only came around with the help of CSU and ISRA. As someone from outside the field who had swallowed much of the mainstream rhetoric surrounding Islam, I have come out of this exercise enlightened, informed, and able to approach the field in an educated and articulate manner. As I by-product, I have gathered a whole new world of friends and acquaintances and for this, I sincerely thank all the lecturers at CSU the and Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation (CISAC) for this allowing me to make the most of this opportunity.”
John Francis Verry - Special Projects Leader, NZSATCM
“As a non-Muslim, living in Malaysia, the chance to study Islam, Culture and Society at CSU (by distance) was a wonderful opportunity for me to better appreciate the religious environment in which I live. The papers were relevant to the 21st Century lived Islam without my having to learn Arabic. I gained insight into the religion without having to spend a great deal of time on the theology. Completing the course helped me relate and better understand life in a Muslim majority country and meant I could show greater respect as I understood the religious environment and customs. Importantly, the programme enabled me to appreciate the unity within the rich diversity of Islam, and an also understand how the religion is lived in New Zealand Aotearoa by a growing minority population. The lecturers were excellent and the material and support provided by CSU made this the best study experience of my life – noting I have a Master of Education and Master of Laws. The teaching motivated me to read widely and the library resources were great and the library and academic staff supportive. My study, being retired, was for interest, and has enabled me to be a better person. I have no hesitation in recommending others who may be interested in finding out more about the programme.“
Salma Zafa, Alumni
“I gained a high level of knowledge from the various subjects studied throughout the semesters. I thought the weekly posting online was very helpful. It helped keeping on top of the lecturers and on top of the weekly readings. The lecturers were all friendly, easy to talk to and guided all students very well as to what was expected from them. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the course and would recommend to my family and friends!”
Whbet Beyan - Primary School Teacher/Student Services CA
“This degree has given me a new perception of how to apply Islamic principles in contemporary times. Islam is far from being the religion of a classic era rather it is more relevant to the contemporary era as it was when first revealed over 1400 years ago. The Islam, Culture and Society Masters program gave me the opportunity to critically analyse contemporary issues through the lens of Islamic principles, giving me a renewed perspective of the struggles with identity, spirituality, education, and family. All the lectures challenged my thinking process which I feel is a priceless.“
Studies of Religion (SoR) Teachers
On “Why study and teach Islam in Australia?”
“Ensuring that every individual has an understanding and mutual respect of each other’s beliefs, morals and culture is essential in fostering positive relationships within our world.”
“Really helpful to hear about the lived experience of Muslim devotion and practice so that we can understand and love our neighbours even where we differ.”
“These past two days of Professional Development have really reinforced in me the importance of teaching a subject like Studies of Religion. Providing a safe place to ask questions, identify misconceptions, and move toward a greater understanding and appreciation for diversity is something that our students lack. This is especially important in our multicultural society where social media and other media platforms can so easily cause polarisation. Thank you for providing teachers with this opportunity to expand our knowledge and experience of Islam.”
“It’s important to gain an understanding of other religions in order to dispel any misconceptions among the media and wider society.”
“It is essential to learn about Islam to remove ignorance and make our students worthy global citizens.”
“It’s enlightening to gain an insight into a religion other than my own. Learning about other faith traditions, such as Islam, allows us to better understand our world and each other.”
“I think it is wonderful to learn about Islam in our context as it enables us to inform and teach our students about a faith tradition that is not their own.”
“Crucial to learn about Islam as it allows a more communal society in multi faith Australia.”
“Currently there is far too much hate and misunderstanding in the world. I think that educating myself about Islam enables me to educate others in society who do not have the opportunity to engage with the Islamic community through such initiatives.”
“Students often come to our course with preconceived ideas, often developed through very minimal engagements with mainstream media. It is so important to provide accurate and relevant information and have a strong basis for discussion.”
“It is important to learn about Islam to dispel community myths and to live more harmoniously.”
“It enhances our understanding of the world around us and demystifies other cultures/beliefs/faiths.”
“As a Studies of Religion teacher, I think it is vitally important to have a good and accurate understanding of Islam so that I can educate my students. Education brings understanding, empathy and ultimately unity and peace.”
“Islam is largely misunderstood due to the media surrounding events. The importance lay in people being able to have accurate knowledge to improve harmonious relations.”
“Learning about Islam is crucial in Australia as we are an incredibly multifaith society and it will help remove the stigma from fear of the unknown and allow for greater peace within the society.”
“Very important to understand Islamic faith especially because the media at times portraits as negative.”
“This session gave me a more meaningful understanding of the religion itself and why it is followed by so many people in the world.”
“Misconceptions continue and each violent act perpetuates them. We need to enlighten people.”
*The responses are taken from a ‘why study Islam’ survey conducted among SoR teachers by CISAC.
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