The Diploma in Religious Studies at International University Canada (IUC) is designed for faith leaders, educators, community workers, and anyone seeking a deeper academic understanding of world religions who wants a recognised credential without interrupting their lives. Delivered entirely online through the School of Religious Studies — Department of Islamic Studies — this program covers the academic study of religion: comparative religion, world faith traditions, religious philosophy, ethics, sacred texts, interfaith dialogue, and the sociology of religion.
As interfaith understanding and religious literacy become increasingly vital in a globalised, multicultural world, graduates of this program gain a credential recognised in 46+ countries, equipping them for roles in education, community leadership, chaplaincy support, and interfaith relations, or to progress toward a PhD in Religious Studies or Islamic Studies.
Career Outcomes
| Role |
Industry |
| Religious Education Teacher |
Schools, Madrasas, Community Centres |
| Interfaith Relations Coordinator |
NGO, Government, Civil Society |
| Community & Faith Leadership Assistant |
Religious Institutions, Mosques, Centres |
| Chaplaincy Support Worker |
Hospitals, Prisons, Universities |
| Religious Studies Researcher / Writer |
Publishing, Academia, Media |
| Cultural & Religious Affairs Officer |
Government, International Organisations |
| Pathway to PhD in Religious Studies or Islamic Studies |
Further Education |
Curriculum Overview
The Diploma in Religious Studies is structured across 4 curriculum components totalling 60 credits. All coursework is self-paced and completed 100% online.
Religious Studies Foundations (18 Credits):
| Code |
Course Title |
Credits |
| REL101 |
Introduction to Religious Studies |
3 |
| REL102 |
World Religions — Origins & Development |
3 |
| REL103 |
Comparative Religion Methodology |
3 |
| REL104 |
Religious Ethics & Professional Standards |
3 |
| REL105 |
Sociology of Religion |
3 |
| REL106 |
Academic Writing & Religious Research Literacy |
3 |
| Component Total |
18 Credits |
Sacred Texts & Religious Philosophy (15 Credits):
| Code |
Course Title |
Credits |
| SCT201 |
Sacred Texts — Interpretation & Context |
3 |
| SCT202 |
Abrahamic Religious Traditions |
3 |
| SCT203 |
Eastern Religious Traditions — Hinduism, Buddhism & Beyond |
3 |
| PHL201 |
Religious Philosophy & Theology |
3 |
| PHL202 |
Mysticism & Spiritual Traditions |
3 |
| Component Total |
15 Credits |
Interfaith Dialogue & Religion in Society (18 Credits):
| Code |
Course Title |
Credits |
| INT301 |
Interfaith Dialogue & Religious Tolerance |
3 |
| INT302 |
Religion, Conflict & Peacebuilding |
3 |
| SOC301 |
Religion, Culture & Globalisation |
3 |
| SOC302 |
New Religious Movements & Contemporary Spirituality |
3 |
| CHP301 |
Pastoral Care & Chaplaincy Support Skills |
3 |
| CHP302 |
Religious Education & Community Engagement |
3 |
| Component Total |
18 Credits |
Capstone Project (9 Credits):
| Code |
Course Title |
Credits |
| CAP401 |
Comparative Religion Case Study & Portfolio |
3 |
| CAP402 |
Applied Religious Studies Research Methods |
3 |
| CAP403 |
Diploma Capstone Project |
3 |
| Component Total |
9 Credits |
Credit Summary:
| Component |
Credits |
| Religious Studies Foundations |
18 |
| Sacred Texts & Religious Philosophy |
15 |
| Interfaith Dialogue & Religion in Society |
18 |
| Capstone Project |
9 |
| Total Credits |
60 |
FACULTY
Our online Diploma in Religious Studies faculty are internationally recognised scholars of religion with deep expertise in comparative religion, religious philosophy, sacred text interpretation, and interfaith relations. Each professor brings active academic and community engagement experience and a passion for mentoring diploma
students from Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Malaysia, Cambodia, Egypt, Nepal, and across the world.
| Professor |
Title & Specialisation |
| Dr. Hassan M. Qureshi |
Senior Professor — Comparative Religion & Islamic Philosophy |
| Dr. Miriam S. Goldstein |
Professor — Abrahamic Traditions & Interfaith Studies |
| Dr. Anand K. Chandrasekaran |
Associate Professor — Eastern Religions & Sociology of Religion |
| Sheikh Yusuf A. Ibrahim |
Lecturer — Sacred Texts & Religious Education |
Programs Cost
Our program costs are designed to remain transparent competitive and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. Each academic program includes tuition fees, registration charges and essential learning resources ensuring students receive high-quality education and comprehensive academic support Costs may vary based on program type, course load, and mode of study (on-campus, hybrid, or online) We aim to provide exceptional value through modern facilities, expert faculty, and industry aligned curriculum making your investment in education both meaningful and future-focused.
Total Course Fee
CAD $2,500
Full Diploma program — all credits included
Maximum Financial Aid
Up to 60%
Academic merit & life experience
Minimum You Pay
CAD $1,000
After maximum 60% aid applied
💡 Good to know: CAD $2,500 is the total course fee for the full Diploma program. You can pay in full or in easy installments. Financial aid is confirmed with your offer letter.
Payment Options
| Payment Plan |
Amount |
Frequency |
| Full Payment |
CAD $2,500 |
One-time — pay once, no extra charges |
| 2-Installment Plan |
CAD $1,250 |
2 payments — every 6 months |
| 4-Installment Plan |
CAD $625 |
4 payments — every 3 months |
| Monthly Plan |
CAD $209 |
12 monthly payments |
Financial Aid — Academic Merit
| Your Previous CGPA |
Aid |
You Pay |
| 3.8 – 4.0 |
60% |
CAD $1,000 |
| 3.5 – 3.79 |
45% |
CAD $1,375 |
| 3.0 – 3.49 |
30% |
CAD $1,750 |
| Prior academic awards or distinctions |
Extra 5–10% |
Assessed individually |
Financial Aid — Life Experience
| Your Experience |
Aid |
You Pay |
| 10+ years senior faith leadership or community service experience |
60% |
CAD $1,000 |
| 5–9 years relevant religious education or community work experience |
40% |
CAD $1,500 |
| Community religious leadership, NGO, or public service |
25% |
CAD $1,875 |
| Military chaplaincy or government service |
30% |
CAD $1,750 |
| Independent ministry or religious organisation leadership |
20% |
CAD $2,000 |
For Education Consultants & Agents
| Item |
Details |
| Agent Commission |
Available for authorized education consultants |
| How to Register |
Email us at info@iuc-edu.ca |
| Commission Payment |
Paid after student enrollment confirmation |
| Support Provided |
Marketing materials, official letters, application support |
Apply Now
Our program costs are designed to remain transparent competitive and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. Each academic program includes tuition fees, registration charges and essential learning resources ensuring students receive high-quality education and comprehensive academic support Costs may vary based on program type, course load, and mode of study (on-campus, hybrid, or online) We aim to provide exceptional value through modern facilities, expert faculty, and industry aligned curriculum making your investment in education both meaningful and future-focused.
Apply Now
Our program costs are designed to remain transparent competitive and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. Each academic program includes tuition fees, registration charges and essential learning resources ensuring students receive high-quality education and comprehensive academic support Costs may vary based on program type, course load, and mode of study (on-campus, hybrid, or online) We aim to provide exceptional value through modern facilities, expert faculty, and industry aligned curriculum making your investment in education both meaningful and future-focused.
Admissions Requirements
1
Academic Qualifications
- High school diploma (HSC, A-Level, or equivalent)
- Mature applicants with relevant faith leadership or community experience considered
- No prior theology or religious studies degree required
- Official academic transcripts from previous institution
2
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Valid National ID or Passport copy
- One letter of recommendation (academic or community)
- Personal Statement (500–800 words)
- Updated CV or Résumé (if applicable)
3
Financial Requirements
- Total program fee: CAD $2,500
- Financial aid of up to 60% available on application
- Flexible installment payment plans available
- Agent or self-funded sponsorship confirmation (if applicable)
4
Additional Diploma Requirements
- Genuine interest in world religions, faith traditions, or interfaith dialogue
- Basic English communication skills (written and spoken) required
- Prior religious education, community service, or faith leadership experience is an advantage
- Interview with admissions advisor (if required)
Application Deadlines
| Intake | Applications Open | Deadline | Classes Begin |
|---|
| Spring Intake | October 1 | December 30 | January 15 |
| Fall Intake | April 1 | August 10 | September 5 |
| Rolling Admissions | Open Year-Round | Anytime | Next Available Session |
Requirements and Deadlines
Our program costs are designed to remain transparent competitive and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. Each academic program includes tuition fees, registration charges and essential learning resources ensuring students receive high-quality education and comprehensive academic.
