TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The University of Alabama International Honors Program will present “Understanding Islam,” a special forum on the origin and nature of Islam on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2003.

The program will allow University students to learn more about the Islamic religion, its texts and beliefs, the origination and growth of the Islamic civilization and its place in the world through forums scheduled during different times throughout the day.

Students will also have the opportunity to earn one credit hour of honors or non-honors credit by completing the provided preliminary readings on Islam, taking an objective test on the content of the readings, writing a 5-8 page paper under the instruction of a participating faculty member, and attending the full day of the forum.

Interested students will hear a variety of speakers, meet in discussion groups during different times of the day and also visit the Tuscaloosa Islamic Center and Mosque.

The forum will held from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at B.B. Comer Hall. Lunch will be provided.

“Understanding Islam” is sponsored by the UA International Honors Program, Campus Ministry Association, Capstone International Program Center, department of religious studies, Hillel Foundation, International Student Association, Islamic Society of Tuscaloosa, Muslim Student Association, New College, Office of Academic Affairs, University Honors Program and partial support from a grant from the U.S. State Department.

Students interested in registering may download an application from the UA International Honors Program website at http://ihp.ua.edu/islam/ or contact Dr. Fran O’Neal at 205/348-5554.