New Islamic Studies Minor at LMU Promotes Interfaith Dialogue

Beginning in fall 2025, the Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts (BCLA) at LMU will introduce an Islamic studies minor aimed at providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Islam’s history and its significance in contemporary society, The Los Angeles Loyolan reported. The program, led by Saqib Hussain, Ph.D., will offer various courses that engage critically with Islam and its cultural, social, and political contexts.

The minor is designed to be interdisciplinary, allowing students to integrate their interests in areas like women’s studies, international relations, and philosophy with their studies of Islam. Professors Amir Hussain and Tracy Tiemeier emphasize the importance of this program in fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding, particularly within a Catholic university setting.

The initiative reflects LMU’s commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of Islam’s historical contributions to global discourse. As the program prepares for its launch, it aims to enrich students’ academic and personal growth through meaningful engagement with the religion.