Background

The College of Shariah and Law at the University of Hargeisa is a cornerstone academic institution dedicated to cultivating legal scholars, judges, and professionals who are proficient in both Islamic jurisprudence and conventional legal systems. The College plays a critical role in shaping a just and knowledgeable society grounded in ethical, legal, and religious principles.

The College consists of two specialized faculties:

1. Faculty of Shariah – Islamic Studies
   This faculty focuses on the foundational sciences of Islam, including Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Usul al-Fiqh (principles of jurisprudence), Qur’anic exegesis, Hadith, and ethics. It aims to produce scholars who can interpret and apply Islamic law in contemporary settings, grounded in authentic Islamic knowledge and scholarship.

2. Faculty of Law
   This faculty offers a comprehensive education in modern legal systems, including constitutional law, criminal and civil law, international law, and human rights, with an integrated understanding of Islamic legal thought. The curriculum prepares students for diverse roles such as lawyers, legal advisors, judges, and public servants by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills in advocacy, legal writing, and case analysis.

The College of Shariah and Law reflects the unique legal reality of Somaliland, where both Islamic and conventional legal frameworks coexist. By equipping students with dual legal literacy, the College ensures that its graduates are capable of navigating complex legal landscapes and contributing meaningfully to justice, governance, and religious leadership.

Why Study at Our College?

Studying at the College of Shariah and Law offers students a rare and valuable opportunity to master two vital legal traditions—Islamic and secular law—within a single academic framework. This dual approach enhances intellectual depth, versatility, and employability in both national and international legal arenas.

Whether your goal is to become a judge, lawyer, legal advisor, Shariah scholar, policymaker, or educator, our programs are designed to provide a strong foundation in ethics, legal reasoning, and practical experience. The College combines rigorous coursework with real-world training, including legal clinics, moot courts, internships, and research opportunities.

Moreover, in a society where religious principles and modern governance often intersect, our graduates are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between tradition and progress, offering informed, balanced, and just solutions to contemporary legal and social challenges.