This course explores the historical, philosophical, psychological, and sociological foundations of education through both Western and Islamic perspectives. Students examine major learning theories and educational movements while reflecting on the role of educators in shaping just, purposeful, and transformative learning environments. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, reflective practice, and the societal impact of education.

This course prepares educators to build structured, respectful, and spiritually grounded learning environments. Students explore approaches such as social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and culturally responsive discipline, with special attention to Islamic educational values. Emphasis is placed on fostering routines, dignity, and belonging to support both academic and moral development.

This course equips aspiring educational leaders to build and sustain innovative, values-driven institutions. Students explore leadership theory, governance, strategic planning, and change management through both contemporary frameworks and Islamic principles. Emphasis is placed on integrity, vision, and practical skills for leading faith-based schools, community programs, and educational reform efforts.

This course explores how languages are learned, with a particular focus on Arabic as a second and heritage language. Students examine key theories of first and second language acquisition, as well as cognitive, emotional, and learner-specific factors that influence language development. The course also introduces a range of instructional methods and teaching strategies relevant to diverse learning contexts. Emphasis is placed on connecting research to practice, equipping students to deliver effective, learner-centered Arabic instruction that supports the needs of diverse learners.

This course introduces foundational teaching methods for children ages 5–10, emphasizing lesson planning, classroom management, and age-appropriate instruction. Rooted in both educational theory and Islamic pedagogical values, students explore child development, the Prophetic model, and the role of the educator in nurturing holistic growth. Emphasis is placed on practical skills, reflection, and compassionate, purposeful teaching.

This course focuses on effective teaching strategies for young adult and adult learners in secondary, higher education, and community contexts. Students explore lesson planning, engagement techniques, and adult learning theory, while integrating Islamic values and the Prophetic model. Emphasis is placed on culturally responsive pedagogy, critical thinking, and building respectful, transformative learning environments.

Each semester, the course may center on a distinct subject area or theme—such as literature, social change, spirituality, or leadership—allowing students to practice teaching content through adaptable, topic-based design. This flexible approach cultivates pedagogical creativity and prepares educators to teach diverse subjects with confidence and depth.

This course prepares students to design effective, outcomes-based learning experiences for diverse educational contexts. Drawing from models such as Backward Design and UDL (Universal Design for Learning), students learn to align objectives, content, and assessment while integrating Islamic pedagogical values. Emphasis is placed on culturally responsive, spiritually grounded instruction across digital, classroom, and community settings.

This course prepares educators to support students with exceptionalities through inclusive, faith-informed practices. Students explore disability categories, legal frameworks, and strategies for differentiation, behavior support, and family engagement. Emphasis is placed on creating welcoming environments that promote dignity, access, and academic growth for all learners in both general and Islamic educational contexts.

This course introduces key psychological theories related to learning, motivation, and development, with applications for classroom practice. Students explore cognition, behavior, and emotional well-being, gaining insight into how learners grow and respond within educational environments. Emphasis is placed on culturally and spiritually responsive teaching in Islamic and diverse learning settings.

This course explores curriculum as a reflection of educational philosophy, institutional identity, and social values. Students examine foundational and contemporary theories, with emphasis on Islamic and values-based approaches to curriculum development. Through critical analysis and design practice, students learn to create culturally relevant, pedagogically sound programs that shape meaningful learning experiences.

This course explores the relationship between instruction, assessment, and learner development, focusing on the needs of diverse and multilingual students. Students will examine effective teaching strategies, literacy development, and inclusive assessment design. Emphasis is placed on using data to support language growth and planning instruction that meets learners across skill levels.

This course examines foundational and justice-oriented approaches to teaching and learning across historical, cultural, and spiritual traditions. Students explore pedagogical theories from the Prophetic model and tarbiya to Freirean liberation pedagogy, reflecting on the teacher’s role in holistic, transformative education. Emphasis is placed on inclusion, identity, and ethical practice in contemporary classrooms.

This course explores the ethical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of technology in modern life, with a focus on education, work, and community. Students examine issues such as data privacy, AI, digital citizenship, and wellness through both secular and Islamic ethical frameworks. Emphasis is placed on responsible, values-based technology use that fosters learning, well-being, and justice.

This course explores the historical evolution of formal education across cultures and time, with special emphasis on Islamic educational traditions. Students examine how schooling has served diverse social, political, and spiritual aims, from classical madrasas to modern community-led models. Emphasis is placed on critical inquiry into the past and reimagining education for a just, inclusive, and purposeful future.

This culminating course integrates theory, practice, and innovation through a hands-on practicum and original capstone project in online education. Students apply instructional design and pedagogy in real-world settings while developing a digital course, tool, or learning initiative. Emphasis is placed on leadership, creativity, and reflective practice in advancing meaningful, accessible education.