Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the purpose of the program?

A: The program is designed to give an intensive introduction to the Islamic Sciences and Islamic thought. It is aimed at giving the student a basic degree of “literacy” in the Islamic Sciences so that he/she may understand the many issues that Muslims in America face and insha-Allah work towards their resolution in a constructive manner.

Q: Is the program focused on a certain ideology?

A: ALIM’s ideology is one of inclusion and respect for all ideologies within the Islamic framework. We believe in the free marketplace of ideas. As such, it does not seek to impose a certain ideology on its students. Our programs will explore the different perspectives on any given issue in order to encourage critical thinking. If this methodology can be considered an ideology than, that is what ALIM espouses.

Any educational program carries with it some sort of philosophy and this program is no different. This philosophy is not easily described but one might label it an academic/social/practical approach to Islamic Studies. Our instructors include accomplished scholars as well as experienced activists familiar with the Muslim American landscape. The content of the program is composed of the different views of these instructors (Please see Biodata link on homepage). The program is not affiliated with any particular group, party, or organization (i.e. Ikhwan, Sufiyyah, Salafiyyah, Hizbut-Tahrir, etc.). The program’s content may concur with or contradict the views of any given group or ideology on many issues but it is unlikely that the program as a whole can be categorized under one group’s ideology or as opposing an ideology in its entirety.

Q: What will the format of the program be?

A: The program will run in a classroom-type setting during the day. The format of the class will vary with the instructor; some may prefer straight lecturing and others may favor more discussion. Students will always have the opportunity to ask questions. The evening portion of the program will vary. Sometimes there might be an evening lecture and other times it maybe a large discussion. Other activities such as qiyamul-layl and brotherhood/sisterhood activities may also be included. There may also be various early morning activities focusing on spiritual development. A period will always be set aside for free time insha-Allah and the program committee will try to provide students with as much information as possible on recreational activities in the area as well.

Q: How much do I have to know?

A: While there is no set level of knowledge, it is necessary to have at least a basic understanding of Islamic principles. This means that one should know the basics of prayer, be familiar with the meaning of the Qur’an, know the general life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and be familiar with at least a few common hadith. This program will assume at least this basic knowledge and it is unlikely that one would benefit without this level of exposure. If you are not sure you meet this level please contact one of the listed resource people (located on homepage) and insha-Allah they can help.

Q: What kind of commitment do I have to make?

A: This is an intensive educational program and the commitment required is great. There are no shortcuts to learning and we have only one month. Students are expected to attend all of the activities/classes unless there is a reasonable excuse. Without full attendance the effectiveness of the program cannot be guaranteed. In addition, poor attendance on the part of one student affects the experience of all of the students. We have an important responsibility to learn about Islam and we should take it at least as seriously as we do our schoolwork. This is not to say the program will be an Islamic boot camp. Insha-Allah the program will be interesting and stimulating enough that commitment will not be a problem. There will also be plenty of opportunity to build brotherhood/sisterhood and for recreational activity insha-Allah.

Q: Is the tuition expensive?

A: Students are getting over 200 hours of quality, planned instruction from experienced, well-qualified scholars and activists. Most of these instructors have taught or are teaching at top universities so they are well prepared for intensive education. There are more hours of instruction than one gets in a full spring semester of college. The instructional material is also included in this fee, which is not the case for college classes. If we applied the fee only to the cost of instruction it would come to less than $5 per hour. But in addition, students are also provided with excellent accommodations (see Concordia College link on homepage) with housing and all meals provided for 28 days. The program committee has striven to get the best deals in every area of cost so we think the tuition is very reasonable.

Q: Will brothers and sisters be separated?

A: The housing accommodations for brothers and sisters are in separate floors. The day-time instruction will be in the same classroom with brothers on one side and sisters on the other. Other activities may be completely separated depending on the format (i.e. brotherhood/sisterhood activities are completely separated, lectures are not). Some Q/A sessions may be set aside exclusively for sisters or exclusively for brothers as well. All participants are expected to practice modesty and Islamic etiquette throughout the program (and beyond insha-Allah).

Q: Will there be other levels and additional programs in the future?

A: Insha-Allah A.L.I.M. plans on offering several levels of this program in the future. This might include more intensive study of fewer topics as well as an Arabic component. There may also be think-tank like conferences in the future for former participants. These programs are still being developed. Since there is only a limited amount of time during the summer we may have to expand to the winter as well as alternating levels between summers (i.e. level one and two one year and levels three and four the next.).

Q: Is there any homework and will there be any exams?

A: There will be reading that the students will be expected to prepare for each day but the instructors will try to be reasonable. An educational program cannot be effective without some preparation on the part of the student. There will be no exams but the instructors may choose to evaluate students in class by asking them questions on the readings. The program is too intensive and too time constrained to offer effective examinations so students are left primarily to their own initiative.

Q: Is there any pre-reading for the program?

ALIM has not mandated any pre-reading for the program. ALIM’s programs are unique and we do not feel that there is any literature available that could, standing on its own, convey ALIM’s philosophy at this time. As such, we rely primarily upon in–class instruction. A professor may, at his or her discretion, require reading of the students during the course.

Q: What is the nearest airport to the program location?

A: The nearest airport to Madonna University is Detroit-Metro Airport (DTW) located approximately 12 miles south of the university.

Q: Can we record the sessions?

A: Individuals are only allowed to record sessions for personal use AFTER obtaining permission from the individual scholar.

Q: Will we be able to ask questions?

A: Yes. ALIM encourages an interactive environment in its classes and we encourage you to ask any and all questions. Certain professors may prefer to take their questions all at once at the end of a session, but most will encourage and allow you to ask questions throughout a session. Please be respectful of other students, however, and try to keep your questions focused on the session at hand.

Q: Do we get any academic credit for this course?

A: No. Unfortunately, academic credit is not available at this time for the summer program.

Q: Is the food halal/zabiha?

A: Yes. All food is zabiha courtesy of Midimar and Al-Safa.

DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER QUESTIONS? PLEASE E-MAIL summer@alimprogram.com, THANK YOU.