Going to universities and colleges

Women attending universities

Q: Is it permissible for Muslim women to receive secular education and study in universities so that they can earn a degree? Some people argue that it is necessary for a woman to hold a degree so that if she is divorced or widowed, she will be able to earn a living and see to her dependants. Furthermore, there is a need for Muslim female professionals e.g. doctors. If our Muslim sisters do not become doctors, Muslim women will be forced to go to male doctors.

Girls going to school

Q: I go to a public school and I am a girl. Their are male teachers and males at my school but I try to avoid most conversations with other male students. Is it ok to go there? Also I dress modestly nothing revealing. I can't go to an all girls school as its far from where I live.

Talking to non-mahrams

Q: I want to know is it permissible to talk to non-mahrams? Like if someone is studying in a co-education and having boy fellows and male teachers so then is it allowed to talk to them? I have heard that a girl is not allowed to talk to non-mahrams but if in case of helping and if a non-mahram shares his problems with you without having any bad intention so is it allowed? Can girls and boys be friends?

Women going to universities

Q: I am going to university, boys and girls both are coming there. Actually I am wearing burqa and I want to cover my face. But because of long time like 7 hours, it seems difficult for me. In that case can I open my face only? May I open my face at lunch time in the canteen? I am taking my lunch with girls only.

Women attending universities

Q: The argument put forward for Muslim women attending western universities, particularly to study medicine, pharmacy etc. is as follows:

1. Female medical issues can only be dealt with by other females. If Muslim women are not present in these fields, then Muslim female patients will have to interact with men.

2. If a Muslim is steadfast in Deen/modesty, then there shouldn't be a problem of women and men obtaining secular education. What is the Shar'i response and evidences to such fallacious arguments, if indeed they are fallacious?