JIGE 6 .
JURNAL ILMIAH GLOBAL EDUCATION
id/index.
php/jige DOI: https://doi.
org/10.
55681/jige.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character:
Analysis of Personality Development Courses in Public Universities Dilan Imam Adilan1.
MuAomin2 Universitas Nurtanio.
Bandung.
Indonesia UIN Sunan Gunung Djati.
Bandung.
Indonesia, muminwelah@gmail.
*Corresponding author email: dilanimam@unnur.
Article Info Article history:
Received June 10, 2025 Approved August 15, 2025 Keywords:
Qur'an.
Hadith, legal change, fatwa, ijtihad.
Islamic organizations ABSTRACT This study explores the role of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) in shaping students' professional religious character within higher education.
Amidst growing challenges from globalization, digital culture, and moral relativism, the integration of religious values into university curricula becomes essential.
Through a qualitative-descriptive approach supported by survey and document analysis, this research examines how IRE courses contribute to students' moral reasoning, spiritual development, and ethical decision-making.
The findings reveal that well-structured religious education enhances studentsAo understanding of Islamic principles while also fostering leadership, empathy, and resilience.
Lecturers employ interactive teaching methods, such as case studies, mentoring, and community engagement, to internalize values of integrity, discipline, and accountability.
However, the study also identifies barriers, including religious pluralism, limited instructional time, and the gap between theoretical knowledge and workplace demands.
To address these challenges, the study recommends curriculum reform, stakeholder collaboration, and a more interdisciplinary approach linking religion with practical competencies.
The research concludes that IRE plays a transformative role not only in shaping studentsAo moral foundations but also in preparing them to navigate complex professional environments with spiritual integrity and ethical clarity.
Copyright A 2025.
The Author.
This is an open access article under the CCAeBY-SA license How to cite: Adilan.
, & MuAomin.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character: Analysis of Personality Development Courses in Public Universities.
Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education, 6.
, 1549Ae1566.
https://doi.
org/10.
55681/jige.
INTRODUCTION
Religious education plays a fundamental role in shaping the character and ethical values of university students, particularly in the context of Islamic Religious Education (PAI).
It functions as a vital "moral filter," guiding students through the complexities of the digital age and fostering responsible digital citizenship and ethical decision-making (Septianingsih et al.
, 2.
PAI
contributes significantly to enhancing studentsAo understanding of Islamic teachings, deepening Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1549 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
their spiritual awareness, and promoting moral behavior.
This is achieved through exemplification, discipline, and habituation, helping students internalize ethical principles and apply them in everyday situations (Afuwah, 2.
In todayAos fast-paced world, marked by rapid technological advancements and globalization.
In light of these challenges, the educational system must evolve beyond simply protecting students from negative influences.
It must proactively equip them with the ethical and intellectual foundation necessary to become well-rounded professionals.
Such an integrated framework ensures that students not only excel intellectually but also the moral and spiritual resilience necessary to navigate the complexities of professional life with integrity (Garcya et al.
This holistic approach equips students to thrive in their future careers, blending technical expertise with strong ethical foundations, thus preparing them for leadership roles in a rapidly evolving world.
The crucial role of integrating religious education into public university curricula, particularly through Personality development Courses, building on this foundation, the holistic approach aims not only to internalize values but also to cultivate who are equipped not only with the necessary technical skills for professional success but also with the ethical foundation required to contribute positively to society.
By emphasizing personal and spiritual growth alongside academic achievement, these courses help produce graduates who can lead with both competence and character (Pratiwi et al.
, 2.
Islamic Religious Education plays a critical role in shaping students' character and fostering social responsibility within higher education settings.
Research consistently highlights the positive impact of IRE in enhancing students' understanding of Islamic teachings, deepening their spiritual awareness, and promoting ethical behavior in their daily lives (Afuwah, 2.
instilling values grounded in Islamic principles.
IRE not only facilitates the moral ment of students but also encourages them to embody ethical behavior in both personal and professional One of the most significant contributions of IRE lies in its ability to address social issues, thereby improving students' social responsibility, empathy, and willingness to assist others (Kholidah, 2.
By emphasizing the application of religious values to real-world challenges.
IRE helps students with a sense of obligation to contribute positively to their communities.
This alignment between religious teachings and social action enhances students' awareness of societal issues, motivating them to act with compassion and justice.
Effective strategies for character development through IRE include exemplification, discipline, habituation, and creating supportive environments.
These strategies encourage students to internalize moral values through consistent practice and reflective actions, leading to lasting character transformation (Afuwah, 2.
However, several challenges can hinder the full potential of IRE in character ment.
These include limited instructional time and diverse religious understandings among students, which can affect the depth of their engagement with the subject matter.
Some students may struggle to relate their religious teachings to real-life situations, especially in the absence of sufficient time for in-depth discussions and reflection.
To overcome these obstacles, it is essential to integrate IRE across all learning activities and involve parents in the character-building process (Haerudin.
Collaboration with families ensures that the values taught in educational settings are reinforced at home, creating a more consistent and supportive environment for moral ment.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1550 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
Ultimately.
IRE should be viewed as a long-term investment in the creation of individuals with strong moral responsibility and Islamic character.
By focusing on the holistic ment of studentsAinot only intellectually but also ethically and sociallyAiIRE prepares them to contribute meaningfully to both their professions and society.
As Yusri et al.
suggest, the impact of IRE is profound, shaping students' character in ways that extend far beyond the classroom and influencing their role as ethical leaders in the future.
The synergy between religious education and professional ethics fosters a generation of professionals who not only excel in their technical competencies but also uphold the highest ethical standards.
Building on this premise, recent studies further emphasize the strategic importance of embedding religious education into university curricula, particularly in public institutions, to strengthen ethical responsibility and bridge the gap between academic preparation and real-world professional challenges (Muspardi et al.
, 2024.
Rifa 'Afuwah, 2.
In Indonesian Islamic universities, the curriculum strives to balance religious education with the ment of practical skills necessary for professional success.
However, the implementation of this integration often faces challenges related to the consistent application of religious teachings alongside the acquisition of technical competencies.
These challenges reflect broader issues in higher education, such as curriculum alignment, instructor training, and students' varying levels of religious understanding (Siregar, 2.
Despite these hurdles, the goal remains to equip students with both the ethical frameworks derived from Islamic teachings and the skills needed to excel in the workforce.
Personality ment Courses within Islamic Education aim to shape students' character, morality, and spirituality.
These courses focus on instilling core values such as integrity, responsibility, and accountability, which are essential for professional and personal success.
aligning students' values with their professional aspirations, these courses help foster individuals who are ethically and spiritually grounded, capable of contributing positively to society (Pratiwi et al.
, 2.
The use of interactive teaching methods, such as case studies, role-playing, and group discussions, ensures that students can actively engage with the material, allowing for a deeper understanding of how Islamic principles apply in contemporary contexts.
Moreover, the integration of diverse evaluation techniques, including both theoretical assessments and practical applications, enables instructors to measure not only students' knowledge of Islamic teachings but also their ability to apply these principles in real-world This holistic approach is essential for ing well-rounded professionals who can navigate the ethical challenges of the modern workplace while maintaining their religious and moral integrity (Pratiwi et al.
, 2.
The significance of interdisciplinary approaches to character development, particularly by integrating religious teachings into social sciences and technology.
For instance.
Uswatun Hasanah .
shows how this integration fosters deeper moral engagement, while Joni Indra Wandi et al.
advocate for religiosity in character education to reinforce ethical standards and internalize values such as honesty and social responsibility among students.
While Islamic Religious Education significantly contributes to shaping students' character, morality, and ethics, its implementation is not without challenges.
In response to these issues.
Islamic universities in Indonesia have begun adopting integrative approaches that combine religious instruction with professional skill development to better prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1551 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
METHOD This study utilizes mixed-methods research design, combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of Religious Education on the ment of professional religious character among university students.
The quantitative aspect involves administering surveys with Likert scale questions to measure students' perceptions of how Religious Education influences their ethical decision-making, moral identity, and professional behavior.
The qualitative component involves in-depth interviews with lecturers and thematic analysis of studentsAo open-ended responses, offering insights into their personal experiences and reflections on religious practices.
The population of the study consists of 212 students from Nurtanio University Bandung and UIN Sunan Gunung Djati, representing diverse academic disciplines such as Informatics Engineering.
Social and Political Sciences, and Ushuluddin.
The sample includes first-year students .
and third-year students .
emester 5 and .
to capture variations in religious understanding and character ment across different academic stages.
Data collection combines surveys, in-depth interviews with lecturers, and open-ended questions to gather both numerical data and qualitative narratives from the students.
For data analysis, the study employs regression analysis to examine the relationship between religious education and character ment, while thematic coding is used to analyze interview and narrative responses.
Triangulation of data from multiple sources ensures the reliability and validity of the findings, providing a robust analysis of how Religious Education courses contribute to the formation of professional religious character.
By combining these methods, the study aims to offer a thorough and nuanced understanding of the role of religious education in shaping students' moral and professional behavior.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Religious Education's Impact on Professional Religious Character The survey conducted for this study aimed to assess the impact of Religious Education, particularly through Personality development Courses, on the professional religious character of students in Indonesian public universities.
The respondents included students from various academic levels, specifically semester 2 (Level .
and semester 5-6 (Level .
, from different disciplines such as Informatics Engineering.
Social and Political Sciences, and Ushuluddin (Islamic Studie.
The survey collected both quantitative data using Likert scale questions and qualitative data through open-ended questions regarding religious experiences.
Below is the presentation of the quantitative results, focusing on the mean scores and percentage distribution to gauge students' perceptions of the influence of religious education on their professional character development.
Table 1.
Average Score and Percentage Distribution of Respondents on the Survey of the Impact of Religious Education on the Formation of Religious Professional Character Mean Mean % Score Question (Semester Score 5 (Semester 5 (S5-.
Description (S.
Religious studies Level 5-6 helped me Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1552 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
understand the relationship between spiritual values and professional ethics.
Discussing the importance of ethics in religious education courses has improved my ability to resolve conflicts in my family and than level 2.
I feel I have a clear moral identity thanks to religious studies.
Religious practices .
prayer/shadaqa.
help me manage stress in life and .
I am motivated to study/work because I see it as a form of Religious learning objectives .
having an honest attitude and character and practicing honest.
influence how I make decisions in life and The ethics scores on the showed an increase in perception at a higher level.
Indications of moral identity along with The application of practices is in 5-6th year Worshipbased increases in An increased awareness of decisionmaking was seen in level 5-6 group.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1553 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
To complement these quantitative findings, students also shared reflective experiences that offer deeper insight into how religious education shapes their professional character.
The table presented above represents the results of data processing, including averages and percentages, derived from a sample of students at FISIP UNNUR.
The sample is divided into two groups:
second-semester students .
and fifth- to sixth-semester students .
The table below summarizes the key responses to the questions from the "Personality development" questionnaire, which were compiled using the G-Form data collection tool.
Religious studies have played a significant role in shaping my understanding of the relationship between spiritual values and professional ethics.
Through discussions on the importance of ethics in religious education.
I have enhanced my ability to resolve conflicts in both my family and workplace.
My religious studies have also helped me a clearer moral identity, and I have found that religious practices, such as prayer and charity, help me manage stress in both my personal life and professional work.
These practices motivate me to view studying and working as forms of worship.
Additionally, the religious learning objectives, such as cultivating honesty in character and behavior, strongly influence the decisions I make in both my personal and professional life.
Reflecting on my religious experiences such as worship practices, life challenges, and critical situationsAihas significantly shaped my perspective and enthusiasm for living out my faith and engaging in both my student and professional activities Table 2.
Thematic analysis of open-ended responses on religious experiences.
Main theme Frequency Percentage Short Narrative Example .
(%) "Praying in congregation and Closeness to God & Inner i'tikaf gave me peace and reshaped Peace the direction of my life.
"The failures and trials during my Life Trials & Personal illness made me realize that every Transformation trial brings me closer to Allah.
"The Social Motivation & interactions at the orphanage Empathy motivated me to help and be more Some respondents highlighted that religious teaching motivated them to engage in social responsibility, including charity work and community service.
These experiences enhanced their sense of empathy and gratitude, leading them to adopt more socially responsible behaviors.
This theme reflects the integration of religious values with professional ethics, as students were driven to contribute positively to their communities and empathy toward others The findings from the interviews and classroom observations regarding the effectiveness of Personality development Courses reveal a nuanced picture of how these courses contribute to the development of studentsAo professional religious character.
In interviews with lecturers, many emphasized the courses' role in helping students with a clearer moral identity, with one lecturer noting that students who actively participated in religious practices tended to exhibit stronger professional ethics and moral decision-making in both academic and personal contexts.
Students also echoed this sentiment, describing how the Personality development Courses helped them Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1554 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
align their personal values with their professional behavior.
Additionally, classroom observations showed that students engaged in reflective activities such as group discussions and journaling, which allowed them to process personal and professional challenges.
For example, in one session, students reflected on how religious practices like prayer helped them manage stress and maintain focus, thereby building emotional resilience.
The presence of spiritual practices, such as communal prayer and charity work, further enhanced student engagement, with several students noting how these practices fostered a sense of connection to their faith and the community.
Observations also revealed that these practices positively influenced the studentsAo involvement in class discussions and group activities, demonstrating a deeper sense of Moreover, discussions on social responsibility, ethics, and empathy were prominent in the Personality development Courses curriculum, as students participated in case studies and shared experiences related to charity work and community service.
These discussions seemed to encourage a strong sense of social responsibility, with students noting how religious values guided their decisions in ethical dilemmas and professional contexts.
However, the implementation of Personality development Courses also faced challenges.
Some lecturers pointed out that students from technical or secular backgrounds initially found it difficult to relate religious teachings to their professional fields.
For example, students in engineering or the sciences expressed resistance to discussions that connected faith with professional practice, although over time, they began to appreciate how ethical behavior is integral to their competence as professionals.
These challenges highlight the need for a more contextualized approach that better bridges religious education with students' diverse academic disciplines.
An analysis of how religious education in Personality development Courses contributes to the development of professional religious character.
Religious education plays a pivotal role in shaping students' character and moral ment within higher education.
Specifically.
Islamic Religious Education courses are designed to instill core values such as integrity, discipline, and empathy, while deepening studentsAo understanding of Islamic teachings and promoting their application in daily life.
These courses not only enhance studentsAo religious knowledge but also encourage the integration of these principles into their personal and professional conduct (Pratiwi et al.
, 2.
By emphasizing the practical application of religious teachings.
IRE courses prepare students to navigate ethical challenges in a complex, diverse world.
The formation of religious character through IRE is achieved through various strategies, including exemplification, discipline, habituation, and the creation of a supportive environment.
These approaches ensure that students are not only taught theoretical knowledge but also provided with opportunities to internalize these values through continuous practice and role modeling (Afuwah, 2.
Teachers in IRE courses serve as moral role models, embodying the ethical principles they aim to impart, thus fostering an atmosphere where students are encouraged to act with honesty, responsibility, and mutual respect (Haerudin, 2.
The integration of religious principles into students' lives through these educational strategies enables them to align personal values with professional behavior, helping them with clear and consistent moral identity.
This alignment ensures that students not only gain academic knowledge but also cultivate the ethical foundations necessary for success in their future professional lives.
As Pratiwi et al.
suggest, this integration facilitates the formation of Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1555 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
ethically responsible professionals who can navigate complex moral dilemmas with integrity and The significant impact of integrating religious education into academic curricula on students' personal and professional development.
Studies indicate that incorporating spiritual practices and teachings within educational settings enhances stress management, emotional resilience, and overall well-being among students, equipping them with essential coping strategies for managing academic pressures and personal challenges (Khodijah et al.
, 2.
These benefits are particularly relevant in todayAos high-stress educational environments, where the ability to maintain mental and emotional balance is crucial for success.
Religious education further contributes to students' development by fostering ethical decision-making abilities and cultivating a sense of purpose in both academic and professional endeavors (Pratiwi et al.
, 2.
By encouraging students to integrate religious principles into their daily lives, religious education helps them approach problems with a moral compass, ensuring that their decisions reflect both academic integrity and ethical responsibility.
This guidance is especially critical as students prepare for careers where they will face complex ethical dilemmas, requiring a foundation of strong moral judgment.
These courses not only provide students with the technical knowledge required for their careers but also reinforce the importance of empathy, respect, and service to others, which are integral aspects of professional conduct in fields like healthcare.
By fostering a compassionate approach to patient care, these courses help students understand the ethical dimensions of their future roles and encourage them to approach their work as an opportunity for spiritual growth and service.
The integration of religious principles into education encourages students to view their academic and professional responsibilities as more than just career goals but as opportunities for spiritual development and contribution to the greater good.
This perspective shapes a professional character rooted in ethics, integrity, and social responsibility (Pratiwi et al.
, 2025.
Islam et al.
By integrating religious values into their professional training, students are better prepared to meet the moral and ethical challenges of the workforce, ensuring that their work not only benefits them personally but also serves the well-being of society.
Islamic religious education plays a pivotal role in shaping students' character, morality, and mental well-being.
By integrating core Islamic values such as faith .
, worship .
, and ethical behavior .
into the curriculum, it equips students with the necessary tools for both moral and intellectual growth.
Beyond character development.
Islamic education also contributes significantly to students' mental health.
Its emphasis on spiritual development enables students to navigate the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany academic and personal life.
By fostering spiritual maturity, students become more resilient, better able to manage stress, and capable of developing a balanced sense of self-worth (Khodijah et al.
, 2.
Teachers, as role models of these values, have a significant influence on the formation of students' ethical and moral identities.
Furthermore, the professionalism of teachers and the learning motivation of students are critical factors in fostering an Islamic personality.
Educators' ability to model ethical behavior and encourage active, motivated learning in the classroom directly impacts students' engagement with the material and their ability to internalize these values (Prasetiya, 2.
By addressing contemporary challenges and incorporating Islamic principles into students' daily lives, this approach to education equips students to navigate ethical and moral dilemmas Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1556 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
they will face in their future careers.
Ultimately.
Islamic education contributes to the holistic development of students, helping them become well-rounded individuals who are not only prepared to succeed in their professional endeavors but also committed to contributing positively to society (Pratiwi et al.
, 2.
This comprehensive approach ensures that students graduate not only with academic knowledge but also with the moral and ethical foundation necessary to lead with integrity and responsibility.
Reflection on how different study programs The integration of religious values in professional and academic settings is essential yet varies across disciplines, reflecting the unique challenges and objectives of each field.
Islamic teachings, with their emphasis on work ethic, professionalism, and spiritual balance, provide a framework for integrating ethical conduct in modern Muslim societies.
These values help shape students and professionals who are not only technically proficient but also ethically grounded, aligning their professional practices with their faith (Shalawati & Sofa, 2.
The studies indicate that while the understanding of integrity and professional values is crucial, it does not always significantly influence academic ethics practices among lecturers in Islamic higher education institutions.
For instance.
Sufriadi and Yusoff .
found that academic ethics, particularly regarding the behavior of lecturers, may not be as significantly impacted by religious values alone.
Despite this, there is increasing recognition of the importance of religious moderation values, which are more explicitly incorporated into certain curricula, such as in Comparative Fiqh programs.
These valuesAitolerance, compassion, cooperation, and harmonyAiare critical in promoting social cohesion and peaceful coexistence, reflecting the Islamic principles of justice and respect for diversity (Nurdin et al.
, 2.
These values of moderation are not only reflected in the curriculum but also play a significant role in shaping the institutional vision and culture.
For example.
Bandung Islamic University emphasizes the application of Islamic values throughout its academic offerings, human resources management, and work environments.
This commitment strengthens moral guidance for students, faculty, and staff alike, ensuring that religious principles are integrated into both the educational experience and the service-oriented goals of the institution (Yulianti et al.
By embedding religious values into every aspect of the institution's operations, these educational institutions strive to create a holistic and integrated system of Islamic values that guide both academic endeavors and service to the community.
Thus, the integration of religious values into higher education curricula and institutional practices is key to fostering ethical and professional development among students and staff.
prioritizing values such as integrity, tolerance, and cooperation, universities not only enhance academic outcomes but also contribute to the broader goal of building a morally and spiritually grounded society.
The significant role of integrating religious values into education, particularly in the digital Islamic Religious Education (IRE) serves as a vital "moral filter," guiding students in navigating the complexities of digital environments in an ethical and responsible manner.
providing students with a framework for moral reasoning.
IRE helps ensure that their engagement with digital platforms remains aligned with ethical standards and religious teachings (Septianingsih et al.
, 2.
This approach highlights the importance of not only imparting knowledge but also fostering ethical awareness in the face of rapid technological advancements.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1557 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
Similarly, the integration of digital literacy into Christian Religious Education has been shown to enhance student engagement, academic performance, and ethical development.
combining religious teachings with digital tools, students are better equipped to engage with both their studies and the broader world in a manner that reflects their values (Pariama, 2.
Digital literacy, when combined with religious education, fosters critical thinking and ethical decisionmaking, enabling students to become more responsible digital citizens.
The potential for integrating religious values into character education can also be facilitated through digital technologies, including religion-based learning applications and educational These tools provide an interactive and engaging way for students to learn and internalize religious teaching while simultaneously developing their digital literacy skills.
By using such technology, educators can create an immersive learning environment that makes religious education more accessible and relevant to the digital generation (Syukrin & Salahudin, 2.
To overcome these challenges, collaboration between educational institutions, society, and the government is crucial.
This collaboration should focus on the development of relevant curricula, the provision of adequate training for educators, and ensuring equitable access to digital resources.
Moreover, increasing community involvement in the educational process will help bridge gaps and ensure that religious education remains accessible to all students, regardless of their background or resources (Samol, 2.
Meanwhile.
Ushuluddin students, who specialize in Islamic studies and religious scholarship, view religious values as the cornerstone of their professional identity and ethical Their approach to applying religious values is deeply rooted in religious texts and traditions, and they see their future rolesAiwhether as scholars, educators, or clericsAito guide others in moral and spiritual matters.
For these students, religious education offers direct and practical guidance on how to live a righteous life and apply ethical principles in their professional and personal spheres.
Ushuluddin students often aim to be exemplary of religious values in both their academic pursuits and their interactions with others.
Their professional conduct is expected to reflect the high moral standards set by religious teachings, with a focus on justice, integrity, and humility.
In many ways, the application of religious values for Ushuluddin students is less about adaptation to professional settings and more about ensuring that their professional roles serve to uplift and guide others in their spiritual and moral meant.
The distinct ways in which these study programs perceive and apply religious values illustrate the adaptability of religious teachings across various professions.
While the application of religious values may manifest differently ranging from the responsible use of technology in Informatics to ethical leadership in Social and Political Sciences, and spiritual guidance in Ushuluddin common themes of integrity, social responsibility, and moral conduct transcend disciplinary boundaries.
Religious education, in each case, provides a moral compass that directs students toward ethical professionalism, ensuring that their work and future careers are aligned with the values of justice, compassion, and service to humanity.
Role of religious practices in the professional life of students.
Religious practices hold a significant role in shaping the professional lives of both students and business leaders, particularly in areas such as decision-making and stress management.
Research has shown that religious leaders, across various faiths, often rely on their spiritual connection for guidance when facing difficult situations, complementing traditional management tools and strategies.
This spiritual framework profoundly influences the emotional, motivational, and judgmental aspects of decision-making, offering individuals a source of solace, inspiration.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1558 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
and ethical clarity when navigating complex situations.
By integrating spirituality with decisionmaking processes, these leaders are better able to make choices that align with both their professional responsibilities and personal values.
For students, religious education also plays a critical role in developing emotional intelligence (EI), which is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Studies indicate that religious studies contribute to enhancing self-awareness, empathy, and stress management skillsAiall fundamental aspects of emotional intelligence (Miftahudin, 2.
By engaging in religious teachings and practices, students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others, which in turn fosters healthier interpersonal relationships and better coping mechanisms in high-pressure environments.
This development of EI allows students to manage academic and social stress more effectively, ultimately improving their overall well-being.
The Young Muslims in Indonesia have reported using religious practices as a coping mechanism for stress, especially when dealing with academic pressures and personal relationships (Adriani & Yustari, 2.
Religious rituals such as prayer and reflection offer a framework for managing emotions, allowing individuals to process stress and maintain composure in challenging circumstances.
While the positive effects of religiosity on emotional intelligence may vary from person to person, a holistic approach that embraces religious diversity can foster greater empathy and encourage individuals to contribute positively to society (Miftahudin, 2.
This approach not only promotes emotional resilience but also creates a foundation for ethical behavior and a commitment to social good.
These findings underscore the importance of religious practices in enhancing ethical decision-making and stress management in professional settings.
By combining spiritual principles with practical decision-making frameworks, individuals are better equipped to face challenges while maintaining integrity and emotional balance.
As such, the integration of religious practices into both academic and professional life offers individuals a powerful tool for personal growth, professional success, and societal contribution Research highlights the significant role of religious practices in managing stress and promoting well-being among both students and employees.
Practices such as prayer, meditation, and community engagement contribute to spiritual well-being, personal development, and These practices not only offer emotional comfort but also strengthen individuals' ability to cope with stress and maintain mental balance in the face of lifeAos challenges (Lumandas et al.
, 2.
Through regular engagement in spiritual practices, individuals experience a greater sense of connection, inner peace, and personal growth, which are essential for sustaining longterm well-being.
For college students, religious support has been shown to mitigate the stress experienced during transitional periods, such as adjusting to the demands of higher education.
Research by Branham and Valenti .
suggests that the sense of spiritual grounding offered by religious practices significantly eases the pressures associated with such transitions, promoting a smoother academic experience.
This support system, rooted in religious beliefs, provides students with a sense of community and a framework for overcoming the challenges of academic life.
In the workplace, spiritual values and practices have been found to be associated with improved mental well-being, reduced occupational stress, and lower work-related exhaustion (Arnetz et al.
, 2.
Employees who engage in religious practices such as prayer or mindfulness tend to experience greater emotional stability, better decision-making, and clearer moral perspectives, all of which contribute to a more fulfilling work environment.
These practices foster Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1559 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
a sense of purpose in one's professional life, making it easier to navigate workplace challenges with resilience and clarity.
Furthermore, religious practices promote compassion, forgiveness, and gratitude, which are crucial qualities for building positive relationships and maintaining well-being in both personal and professional spheres (Lumdanas et al.
, 2.
By encouraging these virtues, religious practices help individuals cultivate a mindset that supports social cohesion, emotional health, and personal growth.
The integration of religious practices into daily routines has proven to be an effective tool for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life with confidence and hope.
These practices contribute to stress-reduction efforts and personal development programs, highlighting the importance of addressing the spiritual aspects of well-being.
The effectiveness of the interdisciplinary approach in shaping character, integrating academic competence with spiritual and ethical ment The effectiveness of interdisciplinary approaches in Islamic education for fostering holistic character development.
By integrating multiple disciplines, such as social sciences, psychology, and technology, this approach enhances students' spiritual, moral, and intellectual dimensions.
This blend not only makes religious teachings more relevant and applicable to students' daily lives but also fosters deeper engagement and a more profound understanding of moral and ethical principles (Asma et al.
, 2024.
Hasanah, 2.
Through interdisciplinary strategies.
Islamic education becomes more adaptable to contemporary challenges, empowering students to navigate modern complexities with a strong ethical foundation.
One of the key benefits of integrating Islamic teachings with other disciplines is its ability to address real-world issues such as social justice, collective responsibility, and mental health.
The Pancasila values, when integrated with Islamic principles, promote the importance of community, equity, and social harmony.
This integration enhances students' understanding of social justice and their role in contributing to a fairer, more compassionate society.
It also supports mental health by providing students with spiritual resources to cope with stress and adversity, reinforcing the connection between spiritual well-being and emotional resilience (Adiyono et al.
, 2.
Furthermore, the Ulul Ilmi model, a comprehensive framework grounded in Islamic principles, has demonstrated its effectiveness in enhancing students' spiritual and moral character.
This model emphasizes a balanced approach that addresses knowledge acquisition, skills development, positive attitudes, and spiritual growth.
By integrating these four dimensions, the Ulul Ilmi model offers a structured pathway for students to develop both academically and ethically, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern world while upholding their spiritual values (Budiyanti & Parhan, 2.
These studies collectively highlight the critical role of multidisciplinary methods in Islamic Religious Education.
By adopting such approaches, educational systems can better prepare students to face the challenges of modern life, equipping them with tools to integrate spiritual, moral, and intellectual growth.
This ensures that students not only excel in their academic and professional pursuits but also maintain their spiritual and ethical foundations, contributing positively to society.
The integration of modern science with Islamic teachings strengthens both academic competence and moral-ethical development, enabling students to appreciate the relevance of their Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1560 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
religious teachings within the context of contemporary challenges.
This approach not only enhances academic success but also nurtures ethical reasoning, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility (Retnowati et al.
, 2.
By creating a curriculum that is both academically rigorous and spiritually enriching, educators can encourage students to excel in their studies while also fostering a deeper understanding of their ethical and moral obligations in the world.
Ultimately, reconnecting spirituality with education provides a pathway for students to develop a more integrated understanding of life.
It emphasizes the importance of nurturing all aspects of a personAiintellectual, emotional, and spiritualAiso they can approach life's challenges with confidence, purpose, and ethical clarity.
The integration of religious education with academic coursework plays a significant role in enhancing students' cognitive skills, ethical reasoning, and moral frameworks, thereby contributing to responsible citizenship and professional success.
This approach blends religious teachings with scientific knowledge, facilitating character development while making education more relevant to contemporary societal needs (Multidisiplin et al.
, 2.
By fostering an understanding of the intersection between academic knowledge and ethical values, this integration empowers students to approach their academic pursuits with a sense of purpose, seeing them as a means to contribute positively to society while maintaining a strong adherence to ethical principles.
For example, in engineering programs, students learn to prioritize the societal impact of their innovations, ensuring that their technical work is aligned with ethical considerations and social good.
This approach encourages them to not only focus on the functionality of their inventions but also consider the broader consequences of their work on the environment, communities, and global systems.
The ability to integrate ethical reasoning into technical disciplines is essential for fostering socially responsible professionals who can contribute to the greater good through their expertise.
The integration of digital literacy into religious education further enhances student engagement, academic performance, and ethical development.
By incorporating digital tools and resources into religious education, students are equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital world while maintaining their spiritual and moral foundations.
This blend of digital literacy and religious values prepares students to engage with contemporary challenges and ethical dilemmas in both academic and professional settings (Pariama, 2.
Ultimately, the integration of religious education with academic learning not only enhances students' academic capabilities but also strengthens their ethical decision-making skills, preparing them to be responsible professionals and engaged citizens in the modern world.
This collection of papers explores the interdisciplinary approach to character development and moral education, integrating psychological and sociological perspectives.
Erikson's theory of social-emotional development and Kohlberg's moral development stages are highlighted as valuable frameworks for understanding students' moral reasoning and social interactions (Bakhrudin All Habsy et al.
, 2.
The role of teachers in shaping moral values and character is emphasized, drawing from psychological, sociological, and anthropological viewpoints (Delia Anjura et al.
, 2.
The importance of developing an adequate model of character psychology to address character education challenges is stressed.
Additionally, the link between psychological identity status paradigms and sociological individualization theory is explored, suggesting that agency in identity formation connects these disciplinary approaches (Cyty & Schwartz, 2.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1561 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
Overall, these papers underscore the significance of a multidisciplinary approach in fostering moral development, self-awareness, and social responsibility in educational settings.
Sociological imagination and social responsibility are interconnected concepts that play a crucial role in shaping students' ethical and leadership capacities.
Sociology encourages students to develop a sense of social responsibility through experiential learning and academic knowledge (Hironimus-Wendt & Wallace, 2.
This perspective is reinforced by research showing a strong correlation between ethical awareness and social engagement among students (Buwono et al.
The discipline of sociology provides a foundation for leadership studies by examining cultural and organizational dimensions of human interactions (Lorr, 2.
Furthermore, social perspective-taking, a higher-order cognitive skill, has been found to have a strong direct effect on group-level leadership values and an indirect effect on societal-level leadership values (Dugan et , 2.
These findings highlight the importance of incorporating sociological perspectives and social responsibility into educational curricula to foster responsible academic practices and prepare students for ethical challenges in their future careers.
These interdisciplinary efforts not only enhance individual character development but also carry significant implications for curriculum design and pedagogical practices in higher As such, the following section outlines these implications and recommendations for enhancing religious and moral education in university settings.
Implications for Higher Education Religious education plays a vital role in shaping studentsAo character and professional ethics within higher education.
Islamic Religious Education (IRE) enhances studentsAo understanding of religious teachings, nurtures spiritual awareness, and fosters moral behavior (Afuwah, 2.
Lecturers employ various strategies such as interactive methods, case studies, extracurricular programs, and personal mentoring to build students' religious character (Murdianto, 2.
However, religious diversity and the influence of popular culture present challenges, requiring more inclusive and adaptive approaches.
In response.
Islamic universities in Indonesia have started integrating religious education with both soft and hard skill development.
Yet, these efforts require further curriculum adjustments to align with labor market demands (Siregar, 2.
Effective collaboration among academics, industry experts, and policymakers is essential to improve curricular relevance.
Incorporating religious values, developing innovative teaching methods, and increasing community engagement are also recommended to enhance character formation (Samol, 2.
Recent research emphasizes the need to link religious education with practical Siregar .
advocates for a balance between spiritual formation and professional readiness.
Likewise.
Edy et al.
propose curriculum models that combine theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, while Muspardi et al.
highlight the benefits of assessing religious attitudes in improving graduate outcomes.
These studies suggest a holistic educational framework that fosters both religiosity and employability.
Integrating personal and religious values into professional ethics education can significantly strengthen students' ethical decision-making.
Case-based learning helps students apply moral principles in real-life situations, enhancing their ability to resolve ethical conflicts.
Models that merge ethical principles with personal values and professional standards have proven effective in business ethics education (Blosser, 2.
Students benefit from moving beyond memorizing ethical codes to actively integrating those values into their decision-making processes (Ametrano.
Religious Education in Shaping Professional Religious Character A - 1562 Adilan & MuAomin / Jurnal Ilmiah Global Education 6 .
Spiritual values also support student development in the broader context of global Incorporating religious rituals and service-learning into curricula helps students deepen their faith and social responsibility (Urbanus Sukri, 2.
The growing diversity of religious and spiritual perspectives in modern classrooms requires greater sensitivity and cultural Scholars such as Nasibah Azme .
and Parker et al.
advocate for more comprehensive teacher training on religious diversity.
Interreligious education programs have shown that using multiple perspectives helps student-teachers achieve deeper understanding (Kienstra et al.
, 2019.
Brawer et al.
, 2.
Beyond formal coursework, extracurricular activities also shape students' moral and leadership qualities.
Participation in religious and social programs has been shown to promote tolerance, empathy, and moderation (Budiman et al.
, 2.
Other activities such as sports, the arts, and community service likewise contribute to ethical behavior and social responsibility (Bhullar et al.
, 2.
Strong engagement in these areas is associated with improved leadership and civic engagement (Kim & Wargo, 2.
CONCLUSSION
This study demonstrates that Personality Development Courses grounded in religious education significantly contribute to shaping studentsAo professional religious character.
interdisciplinary approach that combines religious instruction, stress management, and ethical decision-making has effectively enhanced studentsAo moral integrity, religious identity, and social These courses support not only academic growth but also provide a strong moral foundation for navigating the complexities of professional life.
Nevertheless, ongoing efforts are needed to improve how religious education is integrated into higher education.
Greater emphasis on practical strategies such as ethical case studies, community service programs, and routine worship practices will help bridge the gap between theory and application.
Additionally, training educators to teach ethics in contextualized and impactful ways is essential.
In conclusion, universities hold a crucial responsibility in producing graduates who are not only professionally competent but also ethically and spiritually grounded.
By continuously strengthening religious education, cultivating an ethical campus culture, and offering meaningful learning experiences, higher education institutions can shape future leaders guided by integrity, wisdom, and social responsibility.
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