Graduate Programs in Qur’anic Readings "Qirāʾāt" in Saudi Universities: A Situational Analysis 10.35781/1637-000-161-005

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to provide a descriptive, analytical, and comparative overview of graduate programs in Qur’anic readings (Qirāʾāt) across Saudi universities at both the master’s and doctoral levels. It examined their academic structures, curricula, and course compositions, while identifying similarities and differences among them. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing content analysis of official program documents, including academic specifications and study plans. The study explored the distribution and development of these programs, as well as their patterns—whether thesis-based or project-based. It also analyzed key features of study plans in terms of credit hours, program duration, and the nature of courses, categorized into recitation (performance), theoretical (analytical), and research components, in addition to how these courses are structured within the programs. The findings revealed a clear variation in program design, particularly in the distribution of credit hours and the emphasis placed on coursework versus the thesis. The study also identified diversity in theoretical courses, ranging between specialized analytical approaches and foundational scholarly orientations. Furthermore, differences were observed in research training, with some programs adopting structured methodological coursework, while others rely more on direct supervision and self-directed learning. The study also identified three main doctoral program models: research-intensive, coursework-intensive, and balanced models. The study concluded that this variation reflects diverse academic philosophies in program design and should not be viewed as a deficiency. However, it highlights the need to enhance integration among program components and to achieve a better balance between theoretical grounding and research output, in alignment with the requirements of the National Qualifications Framework. The study recommends strengthening research methodology courses, enhancing the integration between coursework and research, and improving consistency across programs to elevate the overall quality of learning outcomes. Key words: Graduate Programs , Qur’anic Readings (Qirāʾāt) , Study Plans, Scientific research, Saudi Universities