About Us

Empowering Islamic Thought Since 1993

At AMI, we strive to foster a learning environment that encourages curiosity and growth. Our commitment to Islamic studies is rooted in respect for diversity and aims to empower individuals through education. We believe in the transformative power of knowledge and its role in community development.

By combining rigorous academic research with practical community engagement, we aim to bridge gaps and inspire meaningful dialogue. Join us on this journey to expand understanding and promote interfaith connections.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a leading centre for Islamic scholarship, promoting cross-cultural understanding and contributing to the academic and spiritual growth of individuals worldwide.

Our Mission

Our mission is to bridge the rich heritage of Islamic intellectual traditions with modern academic inquiry, creating an open platform for diverse perspectives. We aim to cultivate a global community of learners and researchers, emphasizing Shiʿi studies while welcoming all who seek knowledge.

Our Activities

Our activities encompass a wide range of scholarly and community-focused initiatives:

Study Programmes

Offering the Hawza Programme, PGDip in Islamic Studies, and Islam and Self-Development, blending seminary and academic approaches.

Research

Conducting cutting-edge studies in Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and Shiʿi traditions, with collaborative workshops and conferences.

Publications

Producing peer-reviewed monographs, edited volumes, and translations through AMI Publications, in partnership with De Gruyter Brill.

Library

Housing over 20,000 titles in our AMI Library, supporting research with rare manuscripts and quiet study spaces.

Centres

Hosting intra-faith platforms such as CIMS, ICCI, and DIA for dialogue and practical guidance on contemporary issues.

Podcasts & Media

Producing audio and video podcasts to make Islamic scholarship accessible to a wider audience.

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Celebrating 30+ years of Independent Scholarship

Discover the achievements that shape our community and growth.

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Students

have enrolled on various educational courses at AMI.

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Hours

of courses in Islamic studies available on-demand.

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Podcasts

exploring contemporary issues and the Muslim experience.

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Publications

including books, articles published by AMI and faculty.

Our History

Founded in 1993 by a group of visionary scholars, AMI began as a modest initiative to preserve and advance Shiʿi intellectual heritage. From our Birmingham base, we have grown into a respected institution, recognized for our pioneering educational programmes and extensive library, one of Europe’s largest seminary collections. Our historic partnership with the University of Birmingham, the first of its kind for a UK Islamic seminary, marks a milestone in integrating seminary depth with academic excellence. Over the decades, AMI has expanded its reach through publications, research, and community engagement, remaining true to its founding principles.

Our Partnerships

Through its collaborations with the University of Birmingham and Brill, AMI bridges seminary learning with academic excellence and extends its scholarship to a global audience, combining rigorous Islamic studies with internationally recognised research and publishing platforms.

AMI’s collaboration with the University of Birmingham, a Russell Group institution, represents a landmark partnership between seminary learning and academic excellence. This pathway enables Hawza students to pursue an MA in Islamic Studies, combining traditional Islamic sciences with contemporary research approaches.
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AMI’s partnership with Brill, one of the world’s leading academic publishers, marks a significant step in advancing scholarship in Islamic Studies. This collaboration combines AMI’s specialist expertise with Brill’s global publishing platform, ensuring the highest standards of academic quality and reach.
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Our Campus

Our campus in Birmingham offers a serene and inspiring environment for study and reflection. Featuring modern facilities, extensive library spaces, and beautiful gardens, our campus supports a vibrant scholarly community. For more details on our campus and spaces, visit AMI Spaces.

Meet Our Team

AMI is led by a dedicated team of scholars, administrators, and trustees who work collaboratively to uphold AMI’s vision and mission, serving our diverse community.

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Faculty & Affiliates

Lead teaching and research and advance Islamic scholarship while enriching the institute’s intellectual environment.

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Visiting Fellows

Bring fresh perspectives and specialised expertise, enriching AMI’s research environment.

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Administrative Staff

Ensure smooth daily operations, supporting both academic programmes and community engagement.

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Trustees

Provide strategic oversight and governance, safeguarding AMI’s mission and long-term vision.

Our Commitment

As a registered charity in the UK with special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), AMI is committed to serving the community through education, research, and outreach. This global recognition empowers our efforts to translate scholarly insights into impactful solutions for sustainable development, human rights, and interfaith dialogue. We strive to make a meaningful difference with our research while maintaining an open platform for discerning Muslim scholarship.