Overview
The International Open University (IOU) is a pioneering online Islamic higher education institution established in 2007. Headquartered in The Gambia, IOU provides accessible, affordable, and quality education to students worldwide through its innovative digital learning platform. The university specializes in Islamic studies while offering diverse secular programs, all taught from an Islamic perspective.
IOU’s mission focuses on making higher education accessible to Muslims globally, particularly those in developing countries. With instruction primarily in English and Arabic, the university serves over 50,000 students from more than 200 countries. IOU’s unique model combines traditional Islamic scholarship with modern academic disciplines, offering accredited degrees through flexible distance learning.
2. General Information
| Name | International Open University (IOU) |
| Established | 2007 |
| Type | Online Islamic University |
| Headquarters | Kanifing, The Gambia |
| Language of Instruction | English, Arabic |
| Website | www.iou.edu.gm |
| Student Population | 50,000+ worldwide |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Total Program Cost (USD) |
| Bachelor of Islamic Studies | 1,200 – 1,800 |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Master of Islamic Studies | 1,000 – 1,500 |
| Master of Education | 1,200 – 1,800 |
| PhD Programs | 2,500 – 3,500 |
| Diploma/Certificate Programs | 200 – 600 |
4. Academic Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Arts in Arabic Language
- Master of Arts in Islamic Banking and Finance
- Master of Education in Islamic Pedagogy
- PhD in Islamic Theology and Philosophy
- Diploma in Shariah and Law
- Certificate in Quranic Studies
- Professional Islamic Counseling Program
5. Facilities
- Comprehensive online learning management system
- Digital library with Islamic resources
- Virtual classrooms and discussion forums
- Mobile app for course access
- Online student support services
- Digital research tools and databases
- Recording studios for lecture production
6. Accommodation
As a fully online institution, IOU does not provide physical campus housing. However, the university maintains regional offices in several countries that occasionally host residential programs and intensive courses. Students are responsible for their own study accommodations.
- Regional Intensive Programs: Varies by location
- Study Center Access: Available in select cities
- Virtual Student Community: 24/7 online access
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@iou.edu.gm
- Phone: +220 437 0247
- Address: MDI Road, Kanifing South, The Gambia
More Universities in Gambia
- University of The Gambia
- American International University
- Euclid University
- University of Science, Arts & Technology
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