The Fairfax Institute (TFI) proudly presents the Integration of Knowledge (IOK) Winter Program, a transformative learning experience aimed at the integration of revealed and acquired knowledge.
Over two weeks, undergraduate students will apply the Maqasid Al-Quraniyyah Methodology to deeply engage with the Quran and the Sunnah and extrapolate universal principles that guide their comprehensive understanding of the world. Students will hone their critical and analytical skills to examine human intellectual heritage based on a global-centric Quranic worldview. Through collaborative learning, hands-on activities, and daily reflection, participants will enhance their problem-solving abilities, moral reasoning, and empathy. The learning experience fosters awareness of cognitive biases and encourages a community-oriented approach to service and teamwork. By the end of the program, students will have crafted a research proposal addressing a contemporary issue, emerging with a deeper understanding of reality and a renewed commitment to purposeful living.
“Honestly, I would say I'm overall very impressed with my experience here and what I've gained intellectually! … this program proves its importance by taking us farther in three weeks than the Islamization of Knowledge movement took us in three decades."
- Sherouk Ahmed, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“From the beginning of the program until now, there is for sure a shift in my thinking and worldview. The most important thing that I feel I have experienced is knowing how important it is to include the heart in the conversation with the outside world… how to go deep into an issue and look for the root causes rather than just confining ourselves to the symptoms."
- Waseem Hajam, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“I've been introduced for the first time to this concept of the Quran worldview. It is amazing how powerful this fundamental concept is. It feels like I now have a sturdy foundation upon which I can lean."
- Thouraya Hajjem, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“The program for me mostly was about enforcement of my worldview and belief system as well as to have a first-hand understanding of Islamic thought processes unique to western Muslims. A lot of times what western scholars would say seemed as bending to secular forces in the west, partly because of cultural differences and partly due to misconceptions. Two weeks later most of those misconceptions have been dispelled and I can with a sound conscience argue for their sincerity, knowledge and concern for the Ummah."
- Sohaib Jafry, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“The learnings were rich and deep. My whole perspective on how to approach the Quran [by] building a solid and intimate relationship with it is an important aspect of my journey that this program successfully delivered.”"
- Bina Bakhtiar, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“How is my heart? Praise be to Allah who created me and the Heavens and the Earth and all of humanity and creation. My heart is full! Full of joy, full of happiness, serene, and content. As I sit with my thoughts, and I find myself doing that more often, I am praising and thanking Allah for leading me to this class. This experience has affirmed for me that Allah is listening to me and my dua and that He is answering my dua! In addition to a grateful heart, I have gleaned a greater responsibility for my purpose in life. There has definitely been a shift in my cognitive state and I have manifested a more elevated consciousness that is preventing me from sleeping at night. My journey with the Qur’an now has deeper meaning and I have become more intentional about my relationship with Allah."
- Nadia Hassan, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“This earth has been entrusted to us by God. What should I do to accomplish my mission on the earth! … We are all Adam's family we have to know how to live together to improve our relationship...Today I comprehended meaning of Umran and I understand one more time that I have mission in this world."
- Norhan Demiraslan, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“I think people here are supportive and not judgmental as our experiences are similar in regards to what we experience, like identity, family issues, and feeling left out from our community. What gives me hope is knowing that these people have the best of intentions for me and the program, and they are at least trying to make something happen and trying to form an identity. So these are the different emotions that are surfacing. Overall, there is a shift in my world views. I think this is a good shift because it is introducing me to issues that no one wants to speak about, or even find solutions for. I am glad that I am having a shift in my worldview because it is based on the Quran, and Tawhid.”
- AbdelAziz Hassen, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“Hessa: My experience throughout the program has been incredibly enriching and impactful, and I'm truly grateful for it. As the program comes to a close, I find myself feeling a sense of sadness. The program encompassed a wide range of elements that contributed to its value. From the diverse group of participants to the engaging, weekend activities, and enlightening guest speakers, every aspect played a part in shaping this memorable journey. Our core classes led by Dr. Zainab; they not only provided a wonderful learning experience but also renewed my connection with the Quran and my heart. One of the most valuable takeaways for me is the comprehensive understanding I gained about Islamic thought and its contemporary implications. Exploring concepts like the Maqasid theory opened up new perspectives on addressing modern issues
One of the most valuable takeaways for me is the comprehensive understanding I gained about Islamic thought and its contemporary implications. Exploring concepts like the Maqasid theory opened up new perspectives on addressing modern issues "
- Hessah AlSalem, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023
“The question and necessity of an Umranian view was something very enlightening for me. Both the Umranian and "Tawhidian" worldview (if one were to use such a term) are both very much interrelated and significant. The Umranian worldview, based on the monotheistic pronouncement of the oneness and unity of God, extends such pronouncement in the context of the worldly life and society. The Umranian view posits that, for their to be a unity of God, logically there must also be a unity among humans, prosperity among human beings and human society."
- Hamzah Hanif, IOK Summer Program, Class of 2023No, IIIT offers the summer and winter programs tuition free for all students.
There are three main differences between the summer and winter programs: target audience, program length, and the nature of the final group project. The summer program is designed for graduate-level students and above, while the winter program is aimed at undergraduate students. The summer program runs for four weeks, whereas the winter program lasts for two weeks. Finally, the summer program requires students to complete a final group research study, while the winter program involves preparing a group research proposal.
The summer and winter programs have no prerequisites. However, applicants must demonstrate their interest in joining by completing the required essay included in the registration form.
Yes, students are required to complete a reading list, which will be sent to them after they receive their acceptance letter. Based on our experience with previous programs, students who completed the required readings beforehand were able to fully enjoy the learning experience with little to no stress. Therefore, it is crucial to finish the reading list before attending the winter or summer program.
No, students will be provided with all the reading materials as part of the program.
Upon joining the winter or summer program, you will have the opportunity to visit and borrow books from two libraries at the IIIT location in Herndon, Virginia, with collections exceeding 100,000 volumes. All library books can be kept for the duration of the program. Additionally, you will have access to the IIIT library database, enabling you to request additional resources.
Students are required to attend every day of the program in its entirety, as outlined in the schedule (two weeks for the winter program and four weeks for the summer program). During the program, students will be expected to actively participate in classroom discussions and complete all required assignments and group research activities.
Additionally, students are responsible for arranging their own travel to the program location (by flight or car) and for covering their daily food needs. A complimentary hot breakfast will be provided with your room, if you choose to stay at our hotel accommodation.
Yes, the program includes lodging accommodations for students from out of state and for local students with a long commute.
Yes, a complimentary hot breakfast will be provided with their room accommodation. Students will be responsible for covering their daily lunch and dinner.
No, students will be paired with another participant of the same gender to share a room.
The program's classroom setting and learning activities are coeducational, meaning students will work with peers of the opposite gender on group research projects. All participants are expected to observe modesty and adhere to Islamic etiquette throughout the program.
Yes, students are required to complete daily learning assignments and submit them to the program learning management system. Although there are no final exams in the program, students will be required to complete a final group research study or proposal and a presentation.
Students will receive a list of contemporary issues as part of the registration process. They will be asked to rank their top three choices, and research groups will be formed based on the most popular topics.
Students need to bring their own laptops and a notebook.
Students should plan to arrive the day before the commencement of the program and depart after the last day.
The closest airports to the IIIT location in Herndon, Virginia are:
The IOK summer and winter programs are non-credit, pass/fail programs. Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate of attendance. To pass and receive this certificate, students must attend every session in full and complete at least 80% of the program requirements as outlined in the program schedule.
For questions about the program, contact the Program Coordinator at tfiadmissions@iiit.org