Post-Chaplaincy Certificate in Religious Literacy:
For chaplains already in the field who want to go deeper. Over 24 weeks, this ECI × Center DC program reconnects practicing Muslim chaplains to the classical Islamic disciplines that ground their work — fard ayn literacy, Quranic recitation, fiqh of the body, and full liturgical competency — alongside six Saturday intensives on the hardest questions chaplaincy raises: convert care, Sunni–Shia pastoral reality, anti-Blackness, mental health, marriage and sexuality, and addiction.

Taught by Imam Suhaib Webb and Chaplain Lauren. Formation through encounter, not information transfer.

ECI Adult Education

Winter Term • Center DC

This winter, ECI is back at Center DC for 8 weeks of adult education — open to everyone, no background required.

📖 Tuesdays, 6:00–7:00pm — Applied Theology

📖 Tuesdays, 7:00–8:00pm — Intro to Qur’an

🕌 Thursdays, 7:00–8:30pm — New Muslim Certificate Program

Classes begin October 13.

These classes run give-what-you-can — as a mission-driven institution, we never want cost to be the reason someone can’t learn.

Interested in sponsoring a student instead? Click below.

Inaugural Graduation & Conference — Class of 2026. The Ella Collins Institute cordially invites you to witness a milestone: the inaugural graduation and conference of our Foundations Cohort.

Join us to hear from honored teachers and guest speakers Sh. Abdullah Oduro and Sr. Leqaa Kordia, as graduates share reflections on their capstone projects and how they'll carry what they've learned into service. Saturday, August 8, 2026 · 1:00 PM · Center DC, Washington, D.C. Admission is free, with lunch provided and a livestream available for those joining from afar.

Application Download

Applications Due 7/15/2026

About Ella Collins

Honoring a Legacy of Leadership

Ella Little-Collins was more than Malcolm X's sister—she was a pioneering Muslim educator, community organizer, and spiritual leader in her own right. Her dedication to Islamic education and social justice laid the foundation for generations of Muslim leaders.

As a devoted educator, Ella believed in the transformative power of knowledge rooted in Islamic tradition while addressing contemporary challenges. Her legacy continues through her son, Yusuf Collins, who serves on our board, ensuring her vision remains central to our mission.

Interested in Contributing?

Support the next generation of Muslim scholars & community leaders

Frequently Asked Questions

Ella Collins Institute - Islamic Seminary, Washington, D.C.

Are scholarships available?
Yes. During your application interview, you'll be asked if you require financial support. While scholarships may be limited, we are committed to supporting students who show promise and demonstrate hard work and dedication to the Institute. Scholarships come with service responsibilities, including helping conduct classes, assisting fellow students, welcoming new students, and contributing to social media and community outreach.
Will scholarships cover room and board?
ECI is a new institution based in Washington, D.C., and we are currently unable to provide support for room and board. Students are responsible for arranging and covering their own housing and living expenses.
Are scholarships available for online students?
Yes. Online students are equally eligible for financial support, based on need and demonstrated commitment to the program.
Does ECI help with locating housing?
We do not. Housing arrangements are the full responsibility of the student.
Can I do the program part time?
It is possible to complete the program part time, but only for online students. In-person attendance requires full-time study. Part-time online students must commit to a two-year completion timeline and are required to pay the first year's tuition in advance.
How is tuition submitted?
Tuition for each student must be paid in full by the first day of each semester. For example, the fall semester tuition is due by September 13th. Payment plans are available — yearly, per semester, or monthly.

Registration Form

السلام عليكم و رحمة الله

Please register for the webinar here.

Your Help Is Essential.

Your donation funds transformative Islamic education rooted in tradition.

About Us

Ella Little-Collins was more than Malcolm X's sister—she was a pioneering Muslim educator, community organizer, and spiritual leader in her own right.

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