MA Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability at SOAS University of London offers a pioneering and future-facing approach to the study of human societies and the challenges they face in an increasingly interconnected world. This innovative program explores how communities across the globe imagine, build, and negotiate their futures amid rapid social, environmental, and technological changes. Rooted in anthropological theory and methodology, the program emphasizes sustainability, social justice, and critical thinking. SOAS’s strong focus on the Global South ensures that students engage with diverse perspectives and practices beyond Western paradigms, equipping them to address pressing global issues through an inclusive and decolonial lens.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide both theoretical grounding and applied learning, enabling students to critically examine how ideas of the future and sustainability shape societies. Core modules include topics such as the anthropology of development, climate change, ecological crises, and the role of technology in shaping future societies. Students will explore how concepts of sustainability are interpreted and implemented across different cultural and political contexts. The program offers a wide range of optional modules that allow students to focus on specific themes such as environmental justice, global health, urban transformations, and digital futures. A major component of the curriculum is the independent research dissertation, where students apply anthropological methods to a topic of their choice, often connected to current global challenges or emerging technologies.
Research Focus: SOAS is internationally renowned for its cutting-edge research, particularly in anthropology, sustainability studies, and regional expertise in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The MA Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability draws on this research strength, offering students access to faculty members engaged in fieldwork on climate justice, indigenous knowledge systems, alternative economies, and the anthropology of the Anthropocene. The program encourages interdisciplinary research and supports projects that challenge dominant narratives around progress, development, and innovation. Students are trained in ethnographic research methods and critical theory, preparing them to conduct impactful research that informs both academic debates and real-world interventions.
Industry Engagement: The program offers strong industry connections and engagement opportunities with NGOs, research institutes, environmental organizations, and international agencies working on global sustainability issues. Through guest lectures, workshops, and partnerships, students are introduced to professionals and practitioners in the field. SOAS’s location in London—a global hub for international development, policy, and innovation—further enhances access to internships, networking events, and collaborative projects. Students often go on to work in sectors such as environmental advocacy, international development, climate policy, and social innovation. The program's focus on applied anthropology ensures that graduates are equipped with both academic insight and practical skills needed in the professional world.
Global Perspective: One of the defining strengths of the MA Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability is its global and decolonial perspective. At SOAS, students are encouraged to challenge Eurocentric views and engage with knowledge systems from the Global South. The program emphasizes diverse worldviews on the future, sustainability, and resilience, providing a critical platform for understanding how different cultures envision long-term societal transformation. With a diverse student body and faculty, the program fosters a rich environment for cross-cultural exchange and global collaboration. This broad outlook prepares graduates to work effectively in international contexts and to develop solutions that are culturally informed, ethically sound, and globally relevant.
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.
Graduating with an MA in Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability from SOAS University of London equips students with the knowledge, research skills, and interdisciplinary insights to address complex global challenges. This unique program blends anthropological theory with practical approaches to sustainability, social justice, and development. With the increasing global demand for experts in sustainability, climate change, and social transformation, graduates of this program are highly sought after in both the public and private sectors. The following career options highlight the diverse and impactful pathways available to students upon completion of the program.
International Development and Policy Making: Graduates are well-prepared for careers in international development organizations, government agencies, and policy think tanks. Their understanding of global sustainability issues, coupled with their ability to analyze social and environmental change, makes them ideal candidates for roles in development policy, planning, and project implementation. Graduates may take on positions such as policy advisor, international development officer, program manager, or advocacy coordinator within organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, or various national and international NGOs working on issues like poverty alleviation, sustainable development, and climate resilience.
Environmental and Climate Change Advocacy: With climate change being one of the most urgent global challenges, there is increasing demand for professionals who can work in environmental advocacy and climate justice. SOAS graduates of the MA Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability can pursue careers in non-governmental organizations, environmental agencies, and international bodies dedicated to combating climate change. Roles such as environmental policy analyst, climate change advisor, sustainability consultant, or climate justice campaign coordinator are common in organizations working on global environmental challenges.
Sustainability Consulting and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): As businesses and corporations are increasingly expected to adopt sustainable practices, graduates of this program are in high demand for roles in sustainability consulting and CSR. These roles focus on helping organizations minimize their environmental impact, develop ethical sourcing strategies, and promote social responsibility within their operations. Career paths may include sustainability officer, CSR consultant, environmental impact assessor, or ethical supply chain manager within private sector companies or consulting firms that specialize in sustainability.
Research and Academia: The program provides a strong foundation for students who wish to continue their studies or pursue research careers in anthropology, sustainability studies, or related fields. Many graduates go on to undertake PhD research in anthropology, environmental studies, or global development, focusing on areas such as social transformation, indigenous knowledge, and sustainability practices. These graduates may then pursue academic careers as university lecturers or researchers, contributing to scholarly debates and policy development in their areas of expertise.
Urban Planning and Development: The program’s focus on global futures and sustainability also equips graduates with the skills needed to work in urban planning, particularly in relation to sustainable cities, climate-resilient infrastructure, and green development. Graduates can pursue careers as urban planners, sustainable design experts, or development coordinators, working with local governments, municipalities, and urban development agencies to plan and implement sustainable urban solutions.
Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Graduates of the MA Anthropology of Global Futures and Sustainability often develop a strong entrepreneurial mindset and a commitment to social change. Many go on to launch or work with social enterprises that focus on sustainable solutions to environmental and social issues. These enterprises may work on projects related to renewable energy, fair trade, eco-friendly technologies, or community-driven development. Roles in this field include social entrepreneur, innovation manager, or program director within organizations that blend profit-making with social impact.
Human Rights and Social Justice: Graduates with an interest in human rights, social equity, and justice are well-equipped to take on roles in organizations that advocate for marginalized communities and address issues such as displacement, inequality, and environmental justice. Graduates may work with human rights organizations, international aid agencies, or community groups focused on social equity. Positions such as human rights advocate, social justice coordinator, and policy officer are common in NGOs and governmental bodies focused on human rights and environmental justice.
NGOs and Grassroots Organizations: The program’s emphasis on the social and cultural dimensions of sustainability allows graduates to work with grassroots organizations that focus on local solutions to global challenges. These organizations often work directly with communities to implement sustainable practices, improve local food security, or support environmental conservation. Career options include program manager, community outreach coordinator, and field officer within NGOs and local community initiatives focused on sustainable development and social transformation.
Food Systems and Agricultural Development: As sustainability and food security are increasingly interlinked, graduates of this program are also well-suited for careers in food systems and agricultural development. They may work on projects aimed at improving sustainable farming practices, promoting food sovereignty, or addressing global food crises. Positions such as agricultural development consultant, food security advisor, or program coordinator for sustainable agriculture initiatives are common in international development organizations, environmental NGOs, or governmental agencies.
Digital Futures and Technology for Sustainability: With technology playing a critical role in shaping global sustainability efforts, graduates may choose to work in digital futures and tech-driven sustainability solutions. These roles may involve the use of technology to monitor environmental change, improve energy efficiency, or facilitate sustainable resource management. Graduates can work as data analysts, digital sustainability consultants, or technology project managers, particularly in sectors that focus on innovative solutions for sustainability, climate monitoring, or green tech.
