Islam and Self-Development Program (Cert.)

Date: September 15-24, 2025
Venue: Al-Mahdi Institute, 60 Weoley Park Road, Birmingham, B29 6RB, UK
Course Fee: £600
Early-Bird Registration Deadline (40% Discount): June 30, 2025

This 10-day residential course, hosted by Al-Mahdi Institute, offers a transformational journey toward a deeper understanding of Islam, self, and the world.

The Islam and Self-Development Program is a 10-day residential course designed for those eager to deepen their understanding of Islam while engaging in both intellectual and spiritual growth. Moving beyond rituals and traditions, this program provides a unique opportunity to critically explore faith, reason, and self-discovery while tackling some of the most profound questions in Islamic thought.

Led by experienced scholars with both seminary and academic expertise, this immersive course encourages students to explore, debate, and reflect on four key areas:

• Islamic Philosophy, Theology, and Mysticism
  Explore questions on faith, existence, beauty, love, and beyond. Dive into philosophical and theological debates on God’s existence and mystical insights into life’s deeper meanings. This course blends intellectual exploration with personal growth, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on the relationship between faith, reason, and the human experience to understand modern-day challenges and ethical dilemmas.
• Islamic Psychology
  Explore key concepts such as Nafs (self), Qalb (heart), and Rūḥ (spirit), and discover their role in shaping mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Engage with topics like identity crises, gender roles, Islamophobia, and the impact of social media, while learning strategies to build resilience and combat mental health stigma. Through case studies and hands-on exercises, develop a holistic approach to mental health that is relevant to contemporary challenges.
• Islamic Law and Contemporary Challenges
  Explore the evolution of Islamic law, from its origins to its impact on today’s world. Understand the balance between tradition and change, the role of jurists, and how Islamic rulings shape your life. Through engaging discussions on human rights, ethics, and contemporary challenges, you’ll gain the tools to understand and assess the ongoing relevance of Islamic law in secular and multi-faith societies.
• Scriptural Insights
  Explore the core texts of Islam, from the Qur’an and its key debates to the rich traditions of Hadith and Islamic history. You’ll dive into the depths of supplicatory texts like Sahifa Sajjadiyya and Nahj al-Balagha, while discovering how these texts shape Islamic thought and spirituality. With a focus on understanding the Qur’an, Hadith, and history, this course will give you a deeper connection to the foundations of Islam and how they continue to influence the world today.

Through facilitated discussions, participants will engage with thought-provoking questions such as:

– What is the purpose and nature of human existence?
– How does Islam address free will, destiny, and moral responsibility?
– Why does suffering exist?
– How are religious rulings formulated? Who has the authority to determine them?
– Should Islamic law evolve to address contemporary challenges?
– What are the key concepts of Nafs (self), Qalb (heart), and Rūḥ (spirit)?
– How does Islamic thought compare with contemporary psychology on mental health and well-being?
– What psychological challenges do Muslims face today?

Read or download the full prospectus HERE.

Upon completion, students will receive a Certificate of Completion, granting them eligibility to enroll in other accredited programs offered at Al-Mahdi Institute.

No prior knowledge of Islamic studies or Arabic is required!

The standard fee for the course is £600. This covers all learning materials, as well as lunch, dinner, and refreshments throughout the course. Register by June 30, 2025, to benefit from a 40% early-bird discount. Spaces are limited!

For those traveling from outside the area, accommodation can be arranged at an additional cost. Please contact education@almahdi.edu for more details or any questions.

More information and registration at: Al-Mahdi Institute