Specialization in Atheism
Science and Islamic Thought
Level 1 – Online Diploma
A Profound Exploration into the Intersection of Belief, Reason, and Science.
PRE-REQUISITE: To enroll in the Atheism Diploma, students must complete the prerequisite course:
Atheism and Islam – Level 1
About The Course
The three-year Specialization in Atheism, Science and Islamic Thought is a structured academic programme that integrates classical Islamic scholarship with contemporary intellectual concerns. The diploma is organised into eighteen modules delivered through live online classes, guided readings, and interactive discussions, allowing students to explore theology, philosophy, and science through a coherent and well-supported learning journey.
Level 1 marks the beginning of this structured path, introducing learners to the first set of modules delivered in the rolling teaching cycle. Rather than serving as a “basic” stage, it forms part of a unified curriculum designed to cultivate disciplined reasoning, familiarity with scholarly methods, and an informed understanding of the intellectual frameworks that shape modern debates around belief and scepticism.
Students join a diverse cohort and begin their studies at a consistently rigorous academic standard that continues throughout all three levels.
PRE-REQUISITE: To enroll in the Atheism Diploma, students must complete the prerequisite course: Atheism and Islam – Level 1
Note: To continue to the next level(s), you must earn an average grade of 40% in each diploma stage.
6 Modules
72+ Live Online Sessions
72+ teaching hours
Duration : 1 Year
Video Recordings Available
Access to Mobile App
Digital Certificate
Saturdays, 2 PM - 4 PM (London, UK)
From £28.99/Month
(For 12 Months)
Enroll Now
Starts on 7th February 2026
Course Fee
Pay in Full: £479.99 £299.99 (Save 37.5%)
Pay In 12 Installments: £28.99 per month
(Note: Less discount available with installment plan)
Registration Deadline:
6th February 2026
Al Balagh Scholarship
AlBalagh Scholarship is available for learners who cannot afford the fee.
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Course Team
Ustadh Asadullah Ali Al-Andalusi
(Research Fellow, Yaqeen Institute | Founder, The Andalusian Project)
Dr. Jamie B. Turner
(Doctoral Researcher, Philosophy of Religion, University of Birmingham)
Ustadh Safaruk Chowdhury
(Humanities Team and IB theory of knowledge coordinator, tutor in history and religious studies)
Modules
Specialization in Atheism Science and Islamic Thought Level 1
Part-Time | 3 Years | 18 Modules
Modules Group A
Core Theological & Philosophical
Frameworks
Click to View >>
Modules Group B
Philosophy, Metaphysics &
Epistemology
Click to View >>
Modules Group C
Atheism, Modern Thought &
Intellectual Critique
Click to View >>
Modules Group A
Core Theological & Philosophical
Frameworks
Click to View >>
MODULE GROUP A — Core Theological & Philosophical Frameworks
- Introduction to Islamic Theology
- The Creed of Ṭaḥāwī (al-ʿAqīda al-Ṭaḥāwiyya)
- Sanūsī’s Preliminaries to Islamic Theology (Muqaddimāt)
- Sanūsī’s Mother of Proofs (Umm al-Barāhīn) – Part 1
- Sanūsī’s Mother of Proofs (Umm al-Barāhīn) – Part 2
- Ghazālī’s Book of Knowledge (Iḥyāʾ Book 1)
(Note: Students complete all modules across the three-year programme. Modules run in a rolling cycle, so learners join modules which are currently being taught.)
Modules Group B
Philosophy, Metaphysics &
Epistemology
Click to View >>
MODULE GROUP B — Philosophy, Metaphysics & Epistemology
- Philosophy of Religion
- Philosophy of Science
- Decoding Philosophy, Science & Scientism
- Decoding Islamic Metaphysics
- Decoding Islamic Epistemology
- Islam and Science
(Note: Students complete all modules across the three-year programme. Modules run in a rolling cycle, so learners join modules which are currently being taught.)
Modules Group C
Atheism, Modern Thought &
Intellectual Critique
Click to View >>
MODULE GROUP C — Atheism, Modern Thought & Intellectual Critique
- Reviewing Armin Navabi’s Why There Is No God
- Reviewing Richard Dawkins’ The God Delusion
- Where the Conflict Really Lies (Alvin Plantinga)
- Islamic Theology & the Problem of Evil
- Advanced Studies in Islam and Atheism
- Daʿwah Skills (Applied Engagement & Communication)
(Note: Students complete all modules across the three-year programme. Modules run in a rolling cycle, so learners join modules which are currently being taught.)
ENTRY REQUIREMENT
Eligibility criteria:
- 16+ years of age.
- Fluent in the English language.
The aspiring students should have completed:
- Atheism and Islam – Level 1 at Al Balagh Academy (https://www.albalaghacademy.org/course/atheism-and-islam-level-1/)
Other eligible candidates include:
- Housewives
- College or University Students
- Individuals holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Academics (currently in a professional academic role or associated with any academic institute)
- Working Professionals (those with a professional skill-based career such as Medical Professionals, Accountants, IT Professionals, Lawyers, Journalists, etc.)
- Those with experience in any Islamic daʿwah or social welfare organization
For any queries, contact our Admission team at +44 7946 835804.
Our programme follows a structured three-level diploma format designed to offer both academic coherence and flexibility:
- Each level consists of six modules, forming part of the wider eighteen-module curriculum.
- The diploma operates on a rolling module system, where teaching continues seamlessly throughout the year.
- Each level is organised into scheduled academic periods that include:
- live online classes
- guided readings
- assessments
- interactive discussions with instructors
This flexible structure ensures that every student completes all eighteen modules over the duration of the programme, while benefiting from a well-supported and accessible learning experience—regardless of when they begin their studies.
The programme will be delivered in a series of live online classes, tutorials, presentation based lectures, textbook-based traditional lectures, seminars, and workshops, all delivered live online. The recordings will be uploaded onto our advanced ILM student’s learning portal (24/7 Accessibility from a web browser and Mobile App) for students to review and revise at their own pace and convenience.
The whole course is taken online and offers a flexible way to study while maintaining work and personal commitments. It consists of the following key approaches:
- Classical Texts: Students will study the classical texts from beginner level to advanced levels to gain familiarity with classical books on multiple disciplines written by renowned Shariah scholars. Students will explore many classical textbooks during the programme.
- Presentation-Based Lectures: There will be many courses every semester that will be delivered through presentations to support easier learning and to assure that students who learn visually can benefit.
- Live Online Sessions: There will be regular weekly live interactive online classes to discuss topics raised with case studies where appropriate. You are encouraged to discuss cases during the live interactive sessions, ask questions and raise important points for feedback. This interactive session will be a key component of the learning process and the more you can engage with your lecturer, the more productive and enjoyable your learning will be.
- Video Recordings: The live session will be recorded, and you can access these recordings on the website. This will make it easy for students to revise and make notes later.
- Online Course Material: In every course, your lecturer will suggest further reading material that you can review, print, read, and engage with, prior to the live session. This course material may be in the form of articles, case scenarios with questions, or recorded videos.
- Online Learning Activities and Online Assessments: In every course, there will be a variety of online learning activities, practical assignments, Module Assessments (graded or ungraded) to help you revise, reflect and gain a pragmatic approach and understanding to the subject.
- Discussion with Fellow Learners: Discussion with fellow learners is another important component of your development. In our course-specific WhatsApp groups, and our regular online Muzakarah sessions, students can review their course material and class with other learners, and share ideas with fellow students.
- Students Seminars: Regular participation in seminars will develop thinking, presentation and public speaking skills. (Students will learn to produce presentations and present via seminars, whilst presenting their arguments. This will be an excellent opportunity to receive constructive feedback.
3 Levels: The Online Diploma programme has been divided into 3 levels.You must attain the required credit points in each Semester to complete Year I,II, III. Upon successful completion of every level, students will be awarded a certificate to acknowledge their academic achievement.
Flexible Medium Of Learning: Online education has enabled pursuing almost every course and programme easily. Students can attend the live classes from the comfort of their home and complete their sacred journey of Islamic learning without compromising on other commitments.
Attendance Requirement: Attendance (a minimum of 50% attendance) is mandatory in the live online sessions of all core courses.
24/7 Access to Video Recordings: Video recordings for every live session will be available within 48 hours on students’ course dashboard for revision and convenience.
Mobile App: Students can get access to the course content on the go, using Al Balagh Academy mobile app(on both Apple and android devices) and complete the coursework from anywhere and at any time.
Upon successful completion of the first level, students will be awarded:
إجازة متخصصة في الدعوة والرد على الإلحاد (Specialized Ijazah in Da'wah and Countering Atheism (Level 1)
Upon successful completion of the second level, students will be awarded:
إجازة متخصصة في الدعوة والرد على الإلحاد (Specialized Ijazah in Da'wah and Countering Atheism (Level 2))
Upon successful completion of the third level, students will be awarded:
إجازة متخصصة في الدعوة والرد على الإلحاد (Specialized Ijazah in Da'wah and Countering Atheism (Level 3))
Course Overview
Level 1 introduces learners to the central intellectual questions that have shaped Islamic engagement with belief, knowledge, and the nature of reality. This stage explores how human beings come to recognise truth—through revelation, reason, reflection, and lived experience—and how these sources interact in forming a coherent understanding of faith.
Students examine arguments about God, the structure of belief, and the principles by which theological doctrines are articulated and defended. They study how scientific inquiry produces knowledge, what its limits are, and how its claims relate to wider questions about meaning and existence. The programme also guides students through the metaphysical foundations that underpin Islamic thought, including how causality, necessity, and the nature of existence are understood in the tradition.
Alongside these analytical themes, learners engage with classical discussions on the ethics and purpose of seeking knowledge, the discipline required of the student, and the responsibilities that accompany intellectual pursuit. Throughout this level, students develop clarity in reasoning, confidence in engaging complex ideas, and a grounded framework for understanding how Islamic scholarship addresses both historical and contemporary sceptical worldviews.
Learning Objectives
The diploma aims to:
- Explore the central theological, philosophical, scientific, and epistemic questions that shape Islamic engagement with belief, scepticism, and modern worldviews.
- Present the classical methods by which scholars articulated creed, constructed rational proofs, and resolved theological questions, drawing from foundational works of kalām and creed.
- Analyse how atheistic literature, sceptical arguments, and scientistic worldviews are constructed, and how Islamic thought evaluates, responds to, and deconstructs them.
- Examine the principles underlying scientific inquiry, its philosophical assumptions, and its relationship with broader metaphysical and theological concerns.
- Investigate metaphysical and epistemological frameworks that explain existence, causality, necessity, knowledge, certainty, doubt, and justification.
- Study ethical and spiritual principles related to the pursuit of knowledge, drawing from classical discussions on intention, sincerity, intellectual discipline, and scholarly responsibility.
- Develop advanced skills in structured reasoning, argument construction, critical reading, worldview analysis, and philosophical reflection.
- Equip learners with a coherent, integrated intellectual framework through which to understand and respond to contemporary atheism, scientism, and secular philosophies.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the full programme, students will be able to:
- Analyse and articulate theological doctrines using classical kalām principles, creed texts, and rational frameworks developed by major scholars.
- Evaluate atheistic literature, secular philosophical objections, and scientistic claims using structured reasoning grounded in Islamic theology and metaphysics.
- Explain the philosophical assumptions behind scientific inquiry and distinguish between empirical method, misuse of science, and ideological scientism.
- Apply metaphysical concepts such as necessity, contingency, causality, existence, and divine attributes in theological and philosophical discourse.
- Distinguish between certainty, doubt, conjecture, and knowledge through Islamic epistemic standards and address modern epistemological challenges with confidence.
- Critically assess the Problem of Evil and other central objections raised by atheists using both classical and contemporary Islamic responses.
- Engage with prominent sceptical authors and arguments—ancient, modern, and contemporary—using systematic analysis grounded in revelation, reason, and scholarly tradition.
- Synthesise insights from theology, philosophy, science, and epistemology into a unified worldview that addresses modern intellectual challenges coherently.
- Communicate Islamic positions with clarity in academic, community, and daʿwah contexts, using effective argumentation, refined reasoning, and ethical scholarly conduct.
Explore Relevant Courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Al Balagh diplomas recognised or accredited?
Al Balagh diplomas do not provide an externally accredited or recognised qualification. Our own expert team works at the course content. With over 40000+ learners, we are continuously growing and our vision is to make Al Balagh qualifications renowned worldwide through our expert team, without seeking formal accreditation or recognition from external institutional bodies.
How is this online course structured?
Our online diploma consists of live interactive online sessions, pre-recorded videos, online course material that include, presentations, reading material & online learning activities. Students may ask questions and get their doubts cleared from their respective lecturers, if any. Our dedicated academic support team will assist you as required.
Are the course structure, content, and schedule guaranteed to remain the same?
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of relevant bodies or revisions to subject benchmark statements. We may also make changes to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
When will I have access to the online course material?
Upon successful enrollment, you will get access to ILM Portal (our advanced online learning portal) within 24 hours. (login details and important contact information will be provided on your registered email address)
Will I get notification for live sessions?
You will be able to view all course wise live session details including joining links on your ILM Portal calendar. Weekly email reminders are also sent out on your registered email address. If you find any difficulty with the link/calendar please contact us immediately via Email: admin@albalaghacademy.org or by Phone: +447946835578 . Our dedicated support team will ensure that your problem gets resolved at the earliest
Is it mandatory to attend live sessions?
Attending live sessions, while not mandatory for course progression, is strongly encouraged. Prominent scholars and educators highlight the unique value of live attendance, emphasizing its role in the authentic transfer of knowledge. Live participation fosters an interactive learning environment, allowing for real-time questions, discussions, and clarifications that are not as easily replicated through recorded materials. This live engagement is seen as essential for a deeper understanding and connection to the subject matter, echoing the tradition and Adab of scholarly learning.
I missed a live session. Can I get the video recordings?
If you miss a live session, don't worry! You can access the recorded sessions, presentations, and relevant materials on your course dashboard within 24-48 hours after the live class is delivered. Our admin team uploads the content promptly so you can catch up on what you missed and be well-prepared for the next live class. Simply log in to the ILM Student portal and find the materials under the respective course section if you miss a scheduled live lecture.
Can I download the video recordings on my device (Desktop/Laptop/Mobile/Tab)?
We understand that having constant access to educational content is important for our students. However, to maintain the integrity and security of our course materials, videos are not available for download directly from the Learning Management System (LMS). We ensure that our LMS is accessible at all times and from various devices, allowing you to study at your convenience, wherever you have internet access. If you have any concerns about accessing the materials or need assistance with the LMS, please do not hesitate to contact our support team for help.
I have doubts but I cannot attend the live session. Any other way to ask my questions?
For any doubts or discussions, join the dedicated Course WhatsApp Groups where you can engage with peers for question clarification and discussions. Course instructors may be part of these groups at their discretion. If you need to contact a specific instructor, please reach out to the Admin Team.
How do I interact with my classmates?
You can interact with your classmates on our WhatsApp Groups exclusive for the course students. To join the official WhatsApp group, log in to your course on https://ilm.albalaghacademy.org/ and access the "Join Official WhatsApp Group'' tab. Go to Start → Sessions → Welcome Aboard: Course Introduction → Join Official WhatsApp Group
Joining the group will allow you to connect with fellow course students for discussions and updates.
What is the process for reaching out to the instructor?
For inquiries about instructor contact information, please reach out to the course administrator directly. Instructor details will be shared only with their explicit consent. However, participants are encouraged to connect through group discussions.
( Please note, they often have demanding schedules and may not always be able to address individual queries. We encourage you to attend live sessions and utilize the Q&A period for questions. For queries post-lecture, feel free to contact our administrators, and we will do our best to assist. Responses from instructors will depend on their availability. Thank you for your understanding.)
How long will I have access to the online diploma?
The duration of access to the paid online diploma is 1 year from your date of enrollment.
I am facing trouble signing into the “ILM” Online Student portal. What should I do?
In case you find any trouble accessing your account, then please contact us immediately via email: admin@albalaghacademy.org or by phone: +447946835578 . Our dedicated support team will ensure that your problem gets resolved at the earliest. The time taken to resolve issues depends on the team's availability and working hours. We guarantee prompt resolution of your queries. Please be aware that it typically takes around 24 hours to resolve any technical issues.
How can I apply for the Al Balagh Scholarship?
Al Balagh Academy values seekers of knowledge more than anything. Please visit here to apply for a scholarship. Our team will assess your application and respond in 2 - 3 working days.
What is the diploma grading policy?
Our course grading policy is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding and mastery of the subject matter. To successfully pass, students are required to achieve a minimum grade of 40% in Level 1 to qualify for Level 2.
The assessments are usually online objective assessments with multiple-choice questions, although the format can vary depending on the instructor's preference for evaluating students in their assigned modules.
Achieving a score of 40% or above overall is essential to progress to the next level of the diploma.
When can I expect to receive my Diploma Certificate?
Following successful course completion, you will be eligible to receive your digital certificate of achievement. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
Attainment of the Minimum Passing Threshold: A minimum grade of 40% overall is required to qualify for the certificate of achievement for each level of the diploma.
Who do I contact if I still have doubts related to my courses?
If you have questions or need assistance during your journey, our dedicated support team is here for you. Your success is our priority. Please be patient as our team works round the clock to provide support.
📞 Admissions Team (Payment, Scholarships, Enrollment, or information about New Courses):
- Email: info@albalaghacademy.org
- WhatsApp: [Admissions WhatsApp Support]
🚀 Short-Term Course Support (Assessment, Course-related, or IT-Technical issues):
- Email: admin@albalaghacademy.org
- WhatsApp: [Course WhatsApp Support]
Is there a mobile app for accessing my courses ?
Maximize your learning flexibility with our newly updated mobile app! Enjoy seamless access to your courses anytime, anywhere. Click on the links below to download the app tailored to your device:
- For Android users: Download from the Google Play Store
- For iOS users: Download from the App Store
Dive into a world of convenient and accessible learning today!
Are Al Balagh courses recognised or accredited?
Al Balagh courses do not provide an externally accredited or recognised qualification. Our own expert team works at the course content. With over 40000+ learners, we are continuously growing and our vision is to make Al Balagh qualifications renowned worldwide through our expert team, without seeking formal accreditation or recognition from external institutional bodies.
How is this online course structured?
Our online course comprises live interactive online sessions, pre-recorded videos, online course material that include, presentations, reading material & online learning activities. Students may ask questions and get their doubts cleared from their respective lecturers, if any. Our dedicated academic support team will assist you as required.
Are the course structure, content, and schedule guaranteed to remain the same?
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of relevant bodies or revisions to subject benchmark statements. We may also make changes to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
When will I have access to the online course material?
Upon successful enrollment, you will get access to ILM Portal (our advanced online learning portal) within 24 hours. (login details and important contact information will be provided on your registered email address)
Will I get notification for live sessions?
You will be able to view all course wise live session details including joining links on your ILM Portal calendar. Weekly email reminders are also sent out on your registered email address. If you find any difficulty with the link/calendar please contact us immediately via Email: admin@albalaghacademy.org or by Phone: +447946835578 . Our dedicated support team will ensure that your problem gets resolved at the earliest
Is it mandatory to attend live sessions?
Attending live sessions, while not mandatory for course progression, is strongly encouraged. Prominent scholars and educators highlight the unique value of live attendance, emphasizing its role in the authentic transfer of knowledge. Live participation fosters an interactive learning environment, allowing for real-time questions, discussions, and clarifications that are not as easily replicated through recorded materials. This live engagement is seen as essential for a deeper understanding and connection to the subject matter, echoing the tradition and Adab of scholarly learning.
I missed a live session. Can I get the video recordings?
If you miss a live session, don't worry! You can access the recorded sessions, presentations, and relevant materials on your course dashboard within 24-48 hours after the live class is delivered. Our admin team uploads the content promptly so you can catch up on what you missed and be well-prepared for the next live class. Simply log in to the ILM Student portal and find the materials under the respective course section if you miss a scheduled live lecture.
Can I download the video recordings on my device (Desktop/Laptop/Mobile/Tab)?
We understand that having constant access to educational content is important for our students. However, to maintain the integrity and security of our course materials, videos are not available for download directly from the Learning Management System (LMS). We ensure that our LMS is accessible at all times and from various devices, allowing you to study at your convenience, wherever you have internet access. If you have any concerns about accessing the materials or need assistance with the LMS, please do not hesitate to contact our support team for help.
I have doubts but I cannot attend the live session. Any other way to ask my questions?
For any doubts or discussions, join the dedicated Course WhatsApp Groups where you can engage with peers for question clarification and discussions. Course instructors may be part of these groups at their discretion. If you need to contact a specific instructor, please reach out to the Admin Team.
How do I interact with my classmates?
You can interact with your classmates on our WhatsApp Groups exclusive for the course students. To join the official WhatsApp group, log in to your course on https://ilm.albalaghacademy.org/ and access the "Join Official WhatsApp Group'' tab. Go to Start → Sessions → Welcome Aboard: Course Introduction → Join Official WhatsApp Group
Joining the group will allow you to connect with fellow course students for discussions and updates.
What is the process for reaching out to the instructor?
For inquiries about instructor contact information, please reach out to the course administrator directly. Instructor details will be shared only with their explicit consent. However, participants are encouraged to connect through group discussions.
( Please note, they often have demanding schedules and may not always be able to address individual queries. We encourage you to attend live sessions and utilize the Q&A period for questions. For queries post-lecture, feel free to contact our administrators, and we will do our best to assist. Responses from instructors will depend on their availability. Thank you for your understanding.)
How long will I have access to the online diploma?
The duration of access to the paid online diploma is 1 year from your date of enrollment.
I am facing trouble signing into the “ILM” Online Student portal. What should I do?
In case you find any trouble accessing your account, then please contact us immediately via email: admin@albalaghacademy.org or by phone: +447946835578 . Our dedicated support team will ensure that your problem gets resolved at the earliest. The time taken to resolve issues depends on the team's availability and working hours. We guarantee prompt resolution of your queries. Please be aware that it typically takes around 24 hours to resolve any technical issues.
How can I apply for the Al Balagh Scholarship?
Al Balagh Academy values seekers of knowledge more than anything. Please visit here to apply for a scholarship. Our team will assess your application and respond in 2 - 3 working days.
What is the diploma grading policy?
Our course grading policy is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding and mastery of the subject matter. To successfully pass, students are required to achieve a minimum grade of 40% in Level 1 to qualify for Level 2.
The assessments are usually online objective assessments with multiple-choice questions, although the format can vary depending on the instructor's preference for evaluating students in their assigned modules.
Achieving a score of 40% or above overall is essential to progress to the next level of the diploma.
When can I expect to receive my Diploma Certificate?
Following successful course completion, you will be eligible to receive your digital certificate of achievement. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
Attainment of the Minimum Passing Threshold: A minimum grade of 40% overall is required to qualify for the certificate of achievement for each level of the diploma.
Who do I contact if I still have doubts related to my courses?
If you have questions or need assistance during your journey, our dedicated support team is here for you. Your success is our priority. Please be patient as our team works round the clock to provide support.
📞 Admissions Team( Payment, Scholarships, Enrollment, or information about New Courses):
- Email: info@albalaghacademy.org
- WhatsApp: [Admissions WhatsApp Support]
🚀 Short-Term Course Support (Assessment, Course-related, or IT-Technical issues):
- Email: admin@albalaghacademy.org
- WhatsApp: [Course WhatsApp Support]
Is there a mobile app for accessing my courses?
Maximize your learning flexibility with our newly updated mobile app! Enjoy seamless access to your courses anytime, anywhere. Click on the links below to download the app tailored to your device:
- For Android users: Download from the Google Play Store
- For iOS users: Download from the App Store
Dive into a world of convenient and accessible learning today!