Islamic Studies Courses for Women

This two-year, in-person course is taught by Dr Umm Abdillah (Naheed Anwar), a highly experienced female tutor and PhD researcher with over 25 years of teaching expertise in both Islamic and academic subjects. Designed for beginners to Islam—including new Muslims and students with little or no prior exposure to formal Islamic studies—the course offers a comprehensive and structured introduction to key Islamic beliefs, practices, and historical developments.

Grounded in the authentic Salafi methodology, all lesson materials are drawn from the works of Shaykh Abu Khadeejah, and are presented in a format that is both academically rigorous and accessible. What sets this course apart is its teaching style: it is not just about preparing for an exam, but about cultivating understanding. Lessons are enriched with practical examples, real-life anecdotes, and down-to-earth reflections, helping students connect Islamic knowledge with everyday life and lived experience.

The course also provides a unique opportunity for students to submit questions, which may then be forwarded to Shaykh Abu Khadeejah for further scholarly clarification—ensuring that learning remains both grounded and guided.

Students are expected to commit a minimum of three hours per week—two hours of classroom instruction and one hour of independent study. Regular attendance is essential. Weekly homework is assigned, marked, and monitored to track progress. In the final three months leading up to the exam (for those choosing to sit it), students should expect to dedicate additional time to focused revision and preparation.

This programme is particularly suited to home-educated learners, teenage girls, and adult women who wish to pursue Islamic studies in a serious, structured, and personally meaningful way.

This in-person course, taught by Dr Umm Abdillah (Naheed Anwar), a PhD-qualified female tutor with over 25 years of experience in Islamic education, was developed in response to growing demand from women across various countries seeking reliable, structured Islamic learning.

It is ideally suited for young women, adult learners, newly practising Muslims, and converts to Islam who want to engage in regular, semi-structured learning—without the pressure of exams or homework. While perfect for beginners, the course has also proven beneficial for those wishing to consolidate their understanding and reinforce core Islamic knowledge in a supportive and thoughtful environment.

Lessons are based on bespoke study notes prepared by Shaykh Abu Khadeejah, ensuring the content remains rooted in the authentic Salafi methodology. With just one hour of class per week, it fits easily into busy schedules, offering a consistent opportunity to step back from daily distractions and focus on meaningful Islamic learning.

More than just academic, this is a cultivation class—nurturing both understanding and character. Dr Umm Abdillah draws on real-life examples and down-to-earth anecdotes to make Islamic teachings practical, relatable, and relevant. The atmosphere encourages thoughtful reflection, and students may also submit questions for Shaykh Abu Khadeejah to address, adding another layer of clarity and connection to the learning.

This course offers a welcoming, structured setting for those seeking clarity, consistency, and personal growth in their Islamic journey—without the burden of formal assessment.

This class, designed specifically for young and teenage girls, began in 2005 when Dr Umm Abdillah (Naheed Anwar) started teaching a small group in her home in Birmingham. With over 25 years of experience in Islamic education, Dr Umm Abdillah has since grown the course from local weekend lessons into a structured programme now offered online, attracting students from across the UK and around the world.

The course focuses on character building, strengthening Islamic identity, and learning how to live as a Muslim in today’s world. Lessons are based on bespoke, tailor-made notes prepared by Shaykh Abu Khadeejah, ensuring the content is authentic, relevant, and age-appropriate. Students also have the opportunity to submit questions to Shaykh Abu Khadeejah for further guidance on issues they may face in daily life.

While the course is structured and includes light weekly homework to reinforce learning, there is no pressure to complete all assignments. Many girls benefit simply from regular attendance, as consistent exposure to beneficial knowledge and a nurturing community fosters gradual personal growth and a deeper understanding of Islam.

Ideal for girls who wish to connect with their faith, develop good character, and carry themselves confidently and purposefully as Muslims in the modern world, the Tarbiyah class offers a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment—bringing together like-minded peers from diverse backgrounds across the globe.