The Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, founded in 1985, is an independent institution for the advanced study of Islam and the Muslim world. In 1993, HRH The former Prince of Wales became its Patron. It is a registered educational charity. In 2012 it was granted a Royal Charter by HM Queen Elizabeth II. The governance of the Centre is managed by a Board of Trustees made up of scholars and statesmen from around the world, and representatives of the University of Oxford nominated by the Council.