The Aga Khan University Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (AKU-ISMC) is a unique institution which applies approaches from a range of disciplines within the humanities and social sciences to the study Muslim civilisations – in all of their geographical, linguistic, cultural and ethnic diversity. By studying the cultures of Muslims – their languages, histories, arts and architecture, societies, development processes and legal and political thought – the Institute seeks to enable students to be able to understand issues facing Muslim societies today.

Currently there are there are 29 students completing their Master of Arts in Muslim Cultures at AKU-ISMC. The students come from a diverse range of backgrounds and countries including Afghanistan, Canada, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iran, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan and Tunisia, and between them speak more than 9 languages.

The students play an important role in the academic life of the Institute – participating alongside faculty and prominent speakers in seminars, lectures and cultural events. Student life is exciting and vibrant, with students participating in a range of cultural and academic excursions throughout the year.