ÎçÒ¹¾ç³¡

A transformative three-year teacher-education journey that supports committed individuals in developing as holistic educators, mentors and emerging educational leaders equipped to inspire young people and contribute meaningfully within their communities across diverse contexts.

The Secondary Teacher Education Programme prepares educators through rigorous academic study, professional formation, and field‑based experience across the global Ismaili community. STEP offers a distinctive pathway for those committed to advancing educational excellence within the Jamat and contributing to the wider field of religious education.

Programme status overview

The Institute of Ismaili Studies is currently delivering the 2‑Year STEP MA, historically validated through partnerships with UCL and SOAS. This programme is now in its planned teach‑out phase, with full support for all enrolled students.

All academic, pastoral, and professional commitments to both cohorts remain fully supported throughout the teach‑out period. Programme quality, assessment, and placement arrangements remain unchanged.

A new 3‑Year STEP MA, validated solely by SOAS, will commence in September 2027. This enhanced programme introduces an integrated placement year and expanded professional development opportunities. It is a unique three-year, fully funded teacher-education programme delivered in partnership with .

The programme is designed to prepare aspiring educators to teach within the Ismaili Religious Education Centres (RECs) worldwide. It offers an intellectually meaningful and integrated pathway that blends:

• °ù¾±²µ´Ç°ù´Ç³Ü²õ a³¦²¹»å±ð³¾¾±³¦â€¯s³Ù³Ü»å²â
• immersive, practice-based teacher training
• global exposure, including a purposeful year of contextual immersion

STEP supports its student-teachers in developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to grow and contribute meaningfully as secondary-level educators in diverse contexts.

Entry Requirements

Applications are due by 12 noon BST on 21 October 2026.

• A UK 1st or 2nd Class Honours Degree (2:1 preferred) or recognised equivalent
• An International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 or higher (or equivalent English proficiency)
• One year of teaching experience in a Religious Education Class under ITREB
• Entry into a 4-year teaching commitment
• Member of the Ismaili community

More details can be found on the Entry requirements page.

Reasons to join STEP

• Engage yourself in the academic study of Muslim societies and civilisations, with special reference to Ismaili traditions.
• Prepare for a meaningful teaching career, blending theory and practice.
• Learn collaboratively and teach with purpose, developing reflective practice and real educational impact.
• Become a change agent in education, ready to lead and innovate.
• Study with diverse, cross‑disciplinary faculty and peers from across the world.
• Immerse yourself in London, one of the world’s most diverse and inspiring cities.
• Broaden your horizons through flexible electives and auditing options.
• Conduct action research in real educational settings.
• Visit one of the Muslim contexts as part of an educational field visit*.
• Earn an innovative integrated MA, gaining a world‑class qualification from SOAS.
• Enter a clear professional pathway supported by ongoing development and a global alumni network.

* It is the students’ responsibility to obtain a visa for all excursions abroad. In the event of travel restrictions due to unforeseen circumstances including but not limited to a global pandemic such as COVID-19, alternative arrangements will be made to take place in the UK or in an online environment.