Zaytuna University USA- Nurturing Islamic Education and Cultural Exchange in the Heart of America
Established in 2010, Zaytuna University USA has emerged as a beacon of Islamic education and intellectual discourse in the United States. This private liberal arts college, located in Hillsboro, Oregon, is dedicated to providing a comprehensive Islamic education that combines traditional Islamic teachings with contemporary academic rigor. As the first Islamic liberal arts college in the country, Zaytuna University USA has played a pivotal role in fostering a deeper understanding of Islam among American students and the broader community.
Zaytuna University USA was founded by Imam Zaid Shakir, a prominent Islamic scholar and community leader, with the vision of creating an institution that would offer a holistic education that integrates Islamic principles with Western academic traditions. The university’s mission is to cultivate intellectual, spiritual, and ethical leaders who are well-equipped to contribute positively to society. Over the years, Zaytuna University USA has gained recognition for its unique approach to education, which emphasizes critical thinking, interfaith dialogue, and community engagement.
One of the distinguishing features of Zaytuna University USA is its curriculum, which is designed to provide students with a broad-based education that encompasses both Islamic and secular subjects. The university offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Islamic Studies, with concentrations in Islamic Theology, Islamic Law, and Arabic Language and Literature. Additionally, Zaytuna University USA offers a Master of Arts degree in Islamic Law and Theology, making it one of the few institutions in the United States to offer advanced-level Islamic studies programs.
The academic programs at Zaytuna University USA are grounded in the principles of Islamic scholarship, while also incorporating critical thinking and analytical skills. Students are encouraged to engage with a wide range of texts and ideas, both within and outside the Islamic tradition. This approach not only equips students with a strong foundation in Islamic knowledge but also prepares them to become informed and responsible citizens in a diverse and multicultural society.
Another important aspect of Zaytuna University USA’s mission is its commitment to fostering interfaith understanding and dialogue. The university actively promotes dialogue between Muslims and people of other faiths, recognizing that mutual respect and understanding are essential for building a harmonious and inclusive society. Zaytuna University USA hosts regular events and conferences that bring together scholars, community leaders, and students from various religious backgrounds to discuss common challenges and explore shared values.
In addition to its academic programs and interfaith initiatives, Zaytuna University USA is also dedicated to community service and social justice. The university encourages students to engage in volunteer work and community projects that address pressing social issues, such as poverty, hunger, and education inequality. Through these efforts, Zaytuna University USA aims to instill a sense of social responsibility and compassion in its students, preparing them to become agents of positive change in their communities.
As Zaytuna University USA continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its original vision of providing a comprehensive Islamic education that is both intellectually rigorous and ethically grounded. The university’s graduates have gone on to pursue careers in various fields, including academia, law, medicine, and public service, demonstrating the institution’s success in preparing students for leadership roles in society. With its unique approach to education and its dedication to fostering a more just and inclusive world, Zaytuna University USA is poised to play an even greater role in shaping the future of Islamic education in the United States and beyond.
