SOAS
About SOAS
Academics
SOAS boasts a rich academic profile with expertise across a wide array of subjects related to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The university is structured into three colleges: Humanities; Development, Economics and Finance; and Law, each housing various departments, schools, and institutes. Notable programs include Development Studies, Anthropology, Politics, and Law, with many undergraduate courses offering a year abroad to immerse students in regional cultures and languages. The teaching approach emphasizes interdisciplinary study, encouraging students to explore subjects from multiple perspectives and engage in critical debate.
International Students
SOAS is renowned for its international student body, with students from over 135 countries, making it one of the most diverse universities in the UK. The university offers extensive support services for international students, including a dedicated welcome day, immigration and visa advice, and financial guidance. English-taught programs are standard, and pre-sessional and in-sessional English language support are available for those who need it. Cultural integration is fostered through numerous student societies, language clubs, and a dedicated International Officer within the Students' Union.
Campus & Location
The SOAS campus is situated in the historic Bloomsbury area of central London, a vibrant intellectual and cultural hub. It is conveniently located within walking distance of major transport hubs like Euston, St Pancras, and King's Cross mainline stations, ensuring excellent connectivity across London. Campus features include the world-class SOAS Library, one of the UK's five National Research Libraries specializing in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and the Brunei Gallery, which hosts diverse exhibitions. Nearby attractions include the British Museum and the British Library, offering students ample opportunities to explore London's rich cultural offerings.
Career Outcomes
SOAS graduates are highly sought after, with the university ranking well for employment outcomes. The Careers Service, part of the larger University of London Careers Group, provides comprehensive support, including career counseling, workshops, internship guidance, and networking events. Graduates pursue diverse careers in international relations, law, business, and non-profit organizations, with alumni working for notable employers such as the United Nations, British Council, World Bank, Oxfam, and the BBC. SOAS also has a strong alumni network spanning over 100,000 graduates in more than 190 countries, offering valuable professional connections.
Highlights
- Specialist in Africa, Asia, Middle East
- Diverse global student community
- Central London Bloomsbury campus
- Interdisciplinary critical thought
- Strong Development Studies reputation
Student Life & Support
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Programs Offered at SOAS (56)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (22)
African Studies
African Studies
BA African Studies
African Studies
Arabic
Arabic Language and Culture
Chinese
Chinese Language and Culture
BA Chinese Studies
Chinese Studies
Development Studies
Development Studies
Economics
Economics
History
History
BA History
History
International Relations
International Relations
Law (LLB)
Law
BA Linguistics
Linguistics
Linguistics
Linguistics
Music
Music
BA World Philosophies
Philosophy
Politics
Politics
BA Politics
Politics
Study of Religions
Religious Studies
Social Anthropology
Social Anthropology
BA South Asian Studies
South Asian Studies
South Asian Studies
South Asian Studies
Southeast Asian Studies
Southeast Asian Studies
Certificate Programs (1)
Certificate in Arabic
Arabic Language
Diploma Programs (1)
Diploma in Japanese
Japanese Language
Master Programs (21)
MA African Studies
African Studies
MA Anthropology of Food
Anthropology
MA Arabic Language and Literature
Arabic Language and Literature
MA History of Art and Archaeology
Art History and Archaeology
MSc Development Studies
Development Studies
MSc Economics
Economics
MSc Economics with reference to the Middle East
Economics
MA Global Cinemas and the Transcultural
Film Studies
MA in Transnational Queer Feminisms
MA Transnational Queer Feminisms
Gender Studies
MSc Global Corporations and Policy
International Relations
MA International Studies and Diplomacy
International Relations
MA Japanese Studies
Japanese Studies
LLM (Master of Laws)
Law
LLM International Law
Law
MA Media in Development
Media Studies
MA Music in Global Cultures
Music
MA Music in Africa and Asia
Music
MA Politics
Politics
MSc Public Policy and Management
Public Policy
MA Religious Studies
Religious Studies
MRes Social Anthropology
Social Anthropology
PhD Programs (11)
PhD African Studies
African Studies
PhD Anthropology and Sociology
Anthropology and Sociology
PhD Development Studies
Development Studies
PhD Economics
Economics
PhD History
History
PhD Law
Law
PhD Linguistics
Linguistics
PhD in Music
PhD Music
Music
PhD in Politics and International Studies
PhD Politics and International Studies
Politics and International Studies
PhD Religious Studies
Religious Studies
PhD Study of Religions
Religious Studies
SOAS Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
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