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Fatwa CenterStudying in a Mixed University
Question
Assalamu alaikum. I'm an undergrad Physics student from India. Alhamdulillah, my subject helps me ponder upon Allah's creation, His greatness and magnificence. My aim is to study physics deeply and pursue research as that would enable me to appreciate the creation of this universe and to ponder over Qur'anic verses which talk about space and physics, in a greater depth and which could reflect latest scientific research. In future, if I’m able to find such verses, I wish to write articles or a book someday highlighting how the Qur'an is timeless. This could also open-up a door to Dawah and could act as evidence for the timeless nature of the Qur'an and I aim to tread on this path, if Allah wills. However, the education system in the local (segregated) colleges here is an utter waste of time and energy. It does not help me achieve my purpose or 'actually' learn the subject. So for masters, I would like to ask if it's allowed for me to study in a mixed university which is one of the top colleges in the country? The edu system there is everything that will help me in achieving this. They will train me to think critically; get a clear, deep and full understanding of concepts and will test me on that basis, etc. Also, I will be exposed to world-class labs which will enhance my knowledge and understanding. InShaaAllah, I will abide by the full hijab and will not talk to boys unnecessarily and will try to keep my gaze lowered. I really wish to do something for my religion and since Allah has blessed me with the potential to learn and understand this subject, I do not want to let it go in vain. Jazakumullahu khair.
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad 
is His slave and Messenger.
In brief, you ask about the ruling of studying in a mixed university in which you hope to obtain knowledge that you cannot obtain in a non-mixed university. We have previously made clear in many fatwas that studying in mixed universities is not permissible except for a necessity or a severe need. The current mixing between males and females in universities is forbidden because of the seclusion that occurs between a man and a woman, some women do not abide by Hijab, male and female students talk to each other, and even worse things happen between them.
There is no scholar who has a doubt about the prohibition of this kind of mixing, and as long as there is a non-mixed university, it is impermissible for a Muslim to study in a mixed university.
As for the difference in educational attainment between the two universities, the student can compensate for it by studying hard, since all lessons and explanations are available on the Internet. You will find illustrated explanations for any sort of science on the Internet. In conclusion, we are of the view that studying at a mixed university is prohibited, with the availability of an alternative
Allah knows best.
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