MA Anthropology of Food
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
SOAS University of London, renowned for its global focus on the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, offers a unique and interdisciplinary MA in Anthropology of Food. This specialized program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of food from an anthropological perspective, drawing on the university's expertise in diverse cultural, social, and economic contexts. The MA Anthropology of Food at SOAS integrates theory, empirical research, and practical application to explore food's role in shaping human societies, cultures, and identities across the world. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and research skills, enabling them to analyze contemporary issues related to food, such as sustainability, globalization, and cultural heritage.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Anthropology of Food is structured to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized insights into food anthropology. Core modules explore themes such as the cultural, social, and political aspects of food, food production systems, and global food movements. Students will study the complex relationships between food and identity, ethnicity, gender, and power. The program offers diverse optional modules, allowing students to tailor their learning based on specific interests, including topics like food security, the politics of food distribution, and the impact of globalization on food systems. A significant component of the curriculum is the dissertation, providing students the opportunity to engage in original research on a topic of their choosing, applying their academic learning to real-world issues.
Research Focus: SOAS is internationally recognized for its research excellence, particularly in the areas of anthropology and food studies. The MA Anthropology of Food program draws on the university's strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, combining anthropology with fields such as sociology, economics, and cultural studies. The research focus at SOAS is both global and locally situated, offering insights into food systems across different geographical contexts. Students are exposed to a range of research methodologies, including ethnographic fieldwork, archival research, and qualitative analysis. Faculty members are active researchers in the fields of food anthropology, sustainable agriculture, and the intersection of food, culture, and politics. Students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research projects, participate in seminars, and contribute to academic publications.
Industry Engagement: SOAS fosters strong connections with the food industry, NGOs, policy-makers, and global development organizations. This engagement provides students with the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. The university's collaborations with international institutions and organizations facilitate internships, fieldwork opportunities, and networking events that are invaluable for students pursuing careers in food policy, sustainable food systems, international development, or academic research. Students benefit from access to a wide range of industry experts who regularly contribute to the program through guest lectures and workshops, ensuring they are well-equipped to address contemporary food-related challenges.
Global Perspective: A key feature of the MA Anthropology of Food is its global perspective. SOAS University of London, with its unique international focus, allows students to engage with food systems in both developed and developing countries, understanding the complex interplay between local practices and global trends. The program emphasizes the cultural diversity of food practices, exploring how food is central to the construction of social, political, and economic identities. Through its diverse student body and faculty, the program offers a multicultural learning environment where students can gain insights into food practices from around the world. This global outlook equips graduates with the skills necessary to work in diverse international settings, from NGOs to governmental organizations, with a focus on food security, sustainability, and the human right to food.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
SOAS University of London offers a highly specialized MA in Anthropology of Food, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the intricate connections between food, culture, society, and the global economy. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue diverse and rewarding career opportunities across multiple sectors. This detailed guide outlines potential career paths for individuals who complete an MA in Anthropology of Food at SOAS, showcasing the versatility of the degree and its applicability to various fields.
Food Policy and Advocacy: Graduates with an MA in Anthropology of Food can work in food policy development and advocacy. Many governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) require experts who understand the complexities of food systems, food security, and sustainability. Professionals in this field work to influence policies that promote sustainable agriculture, equitable food distribution, and global food security. Alumni can work for international agencies like the United Nations (UN), World Health Organization (WHO), and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), or with local NGOs addressing hunger, malnutrition, and food justice.
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems: Sustainability is a major concern in the contemporary food industry, and the MA in Anthropology of Food provides graduates with a solid understanding of the environmental, cultural, and social dimensions of food systems. Graduates can pursue careers in sustainable agriculture, helping to design and implement systems that reduce environmental impact, promote local food production, and support ethical food practices. Positions might include working with organic farms, food cooperatives, environmental NGOs, or sustainability-focused businesses.
International Development: With a global perspective on food, graduates of the MA in Anthropology of Food are equipped to work in international development, particularly in projects related to food security, nutrition, and poverty alleviation. This career path might involve working for development organizations, foundations, or international agencies to design programs aimed at improving food access and reducing hunger in developing countries. Professionals in this field use their anthropological insights to address the social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to food insecurity.
Academic Research and Teaching: For those with a passion for research and education, an MA in Anthropology of Food offers the opportunity to pursue advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D., and a career in academia. Professors and researchers in food anthropology often work in universities or research institutions, conducting studies on food practices, nutrition, and cultural heritage. Graduates may also teach and mentor future generations of students, contributing to the growing field of food studies.
Market Research and Food Industry Consulting: The food industry, including businesses in food production, retail, and marketing, relies heavily on understanding consumer behavior and trends. Graduates of the MA in Anthropology of Food possess unique insights into the cultural and social aspects of food, which are valuable in market research, branding, and product development. These professionals analyze consumer preferences, food trends, and the social and cultural impact of new food products. Career opportunities may include roles in food consulting firms, market research agencies, or working directly with food brands.
Culinary Anthropology and Food Tourism: Culinary anthropology is a growing field that explores the intersection of food, culture, and tourism. Graduates of the MA in Anthropology of Food can apply their knowledge of food practices to the tourism industry, particularly food tourism, which has become an increasingly popular sector. Professionals in this field can work as culinary guides, researchers for food-related documentaries, or in the development of food tourism programs that explore local food cultures around the world. Opportunities also exist in ethnographic culinary research, investigating how food shapes cultural identity and tourism experiences.
Food Journalism and Media: Food journalism is an exciting career option for graduates of this program, where individuals can apply their anthropological expertise to writing, photography, or documentary filmmaking about food. Professionals in this field create content for magazines, newspapers, online platforms, and television. They explore food-related topics, ranging from cultural traditions to the global food economy. The MA in Anthropology of Food provides the critical tools necessary for understanding and conveying complex food-related topics to a wide audience.
Public Health and Nutrition: The intersection of food, health, and nutrition is a critical area of focus for graduates of the MA in Anthropology of Food. Professionals in this field work with public health organizations, hospitals, or governmental bodies to promote healthy eating habits, improve nutrition, and address issues such as obesity, malnutrition, and diet-related diseases. The knowledge of cultural dietary practices and health issues gained through this program is essential for implementing culturally sensitive health interventions and nutrition policies.
Food and Cultural Heritage Preservation: Cultural heritage and food traditions are inextricably linked, and preserving these traditions is vital for maintaining cultural diversity. Graduates can work in the preservation and promotion of traditional food cultures, collaborating with museums, cultural institutions, and heritage organizations. This role may involve documenting, researching, and protecting traditional food practices or supporting efforts to sustain food-related cultural practices in the face of globalization.
Entrepreneurship in the Food Sector: For those inclined towards entrepreneurship, the MA in Anthropology of Food provides an ideal foundation for launching a food-related business. Graduates may open restaurants, food cooperatives, food education initiatives, or artisanal food production companies that emphasize sustainability, ethical sourcing, and local food movements. This career path allows graduates to integrate their anthropological knowledge into practical business strategies, offering a unique and socially responsible approach to the food industry.
