Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies

Description

The Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, established in 1985, is an independent institution dedicated to advanced studies of Islam and the Muslim world. In 1993, HRH The former Prince of Wales became its Patron. It is a registered educational charity. In 2012, it received a Royal Charter from HM Queen Elizabeth II. The Centre is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of global scholars, statesmen, and University of Oxford representatives appointed by the Council.

The Centre focuses on multidisciplinary research into Islamic culture, civilization, and contemporary Muslim societies. Numerous Fellows of the Centre are actively involved in various departments, faculties, and colleges across the University. Oxford has welcomed many students and senior academics through the Centre's Scholarships and Visiting Fellowships programs over the years. Throughout the academic year, the Centre organises lectures, seminars, workshops, conferences, exhibitions, and other scholarly events.

Since the establishment of its programme in 1993 with HRH The former Prince of Wales' inaugural lecture, 'Islam and the West,' the Centre has hosted renowned statesmen and scholars as guest speakers. These include heads of state, government leaders, internationally acclaimed scholars from the Muslim world and beyond, and secretary generals of international organizations such as the UN, OIC, Arab League, UNESCO, and the Commonwealth.

Initially located in a wooden hut on St Cross Road, the Centre later moved to office spaces on George Street in 1990. Finally, in the 2016/17 academic year, it relocated to purpose-built premises. The Centre's facilities include a lecture theatre, seminar and teaching rooms, exhibition space, library, offices for Centre Fellows and staff, a dining hall, and accommodations for students and visiting fellows. These facilities are arranged around quadrangles and gardens in the traditional Oxford style. Additionally, the complex houses a public mosque for daily prayers.

Situated adjacent to Magdalen College, the Centre enjoys easy access to the University's main libraries, academic departments, and colleges. Its architecture combines elements of traditional Oxford colleges with the forms and styles of the classical period of Islam. This unique blend symbolises the harmony between two ancient scholarly traditions united in the pursuit of knowledge. The Centre serves as a hub for international collaboration and provides academic, social, and residential amenities vital to a community of scholars.

Offers funding

No, this infrastructure does not provide funding.

Founding year

1985

Contact details

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University affiliation(s)

University of Oxford
University Offices
Wellington Square
Oxford
OX1 2JD