Can I learn from a non-Muslim teacher?

Knowledge is valued, wherever it comes from

Islam puts huge weight on learning. The Prophet ﷺ said that whoever follows a path seeking knowledge, Allah makes easy for him a path to Paradise (Sahih Muslim 2699). And the Quran teaches a short dua every student can use:

Nothing in these texts limits useful knowledge to Muslim teachers. Your physics lecturer, your driving instructor and your piano teacher can all be part of that path.

The Prophet ﷺ relied on non-Muslim expertise

When the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr migrated from Makkah to Madinah, they hired a guide from the pagan Quraysh who knew the desert routes, and trusted him with their camels (Sahih al-Bukhari 2263). His skill was what mattered for that job. Muslim history is full of the same attitude: early scholars translated Greek, Persian and Indian works on medicine, astronomy and mathematics, then built on them.

Where to be careful

• Religious beliefs and rulings. A teacher of comparative religion may explain Islam fairly, but for what you should believe and how to pray, learn from trusted Muslim teachers. See How do I know if an online Islamic teacher is trustworthy?
• Ideas that clash with your faith. You can study a theory, understand it and pass the exam without believing every claim. See Can I learn about evolution in biology class as a Muslim?
• One-to-one settings. Private lessons with the opposite gender follow the usual guidelines: avoid being completely alone behind a closed door, and keep it professional.

Respect your teacher

Good manners toward teachers are part of Islamic adab, whatever their religion. Be on time, be polite, and thank them. Many converts find that being a respectful, hardworking student is one of the best ways to show what Islam is about. Plenty of Muslim families choose Christian or secular schools for the same reason; see Can I go to a Catholic school as a Muslim?