MA History
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA History program at SOAS University of London is a highly distinctive postgraduate degree that explores global histories from a non-Eurocentric perspective. SOAS is internationally renowned for its expertise in the histories of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, offering students the opportunity to examine historical narratives that are often underrepresented in Western academic traditions. This program encourages critical engagement with traditional historical methodologies while also promoting an understanding of diverse cultural and regional contexts. Whether focusing on the colonial experience, resistance movements, Islamic empires, or modern nationalism, the MA History program at SOAS is ideal for students who want to explore the complexities of global history through a decolonial and interdisciplinary lens.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA History at SOAS is both flexible and rigorous, allowing students to tailor their studies to suit individual academic and professional goals. The core component of the program includes modules on historical method and historiography, where students critically evaluate sources and historical interpretations from a global perspective. Elective modules vary annually but may include topics such as Modernity and the Making of the Middle East, History of South Asia, African Intellectual History, and Empire and Decolonization in Southeast Asia. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students conduct original research under expert supervision, exploring a historical topic of their choice that aligns with SOAS’s regional and thematic strengths.
Research Focus: SOAS is a global leader in historical research focused on the Global South. The MA History program fosters deep engagement with themes such as empire and colonialism, resistance and revolution, gender in historical contexts, religion and state, and transnational interactions. Students benefit from access to rich archival resources, including primary materials in non-European languages, and are encouraged to challenge Eurocentric paradigms through innovative research. Faculty members are leading historians whose work often intersects with anthropology, politics, and cultural studies, offering students a truly interdisciplinary research environment. SOAS also actively supports research seminars, academic workshops, and publishing opportunities that enhance student development as scholars and critical thinkers.
Industry Engagement: While history is traditionally viewed as an academic discipline, SOAS’s MA History program integrates career-oriented opportunities through strong engagement with museums, archives, cultural institutions, and non-governmental organizations. Students gain transferable skills in research, critical analysis, communication, and project management—skills highly valued across sectors. The university’s London location allows for networking with leading historical societies, think tanks, and heritage institutions. Students may also benefit from guest lectures by professionals in history-related fields such as curatorship, publishing, public history, and diplomacy. Internship support and career services further enhance the real-world applicability of the program’s academic content.
Global Perspective: One of SOAS’s most defining characteristics is its global outlook. The MA History program breaks away from the confines of Euro-American historical narratives and offers students a holistic, cross-cultural understanding of historical processes. With a strong focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, the program cultivates an awareness of the interconnectedness of global societies and histories. Students explore how events in one part of the world have shaped others, often through the lens of trade, migration, imperialism, and cultural exchange. This international and comparative approach makes the MA History program especially valuable for those looking to work in global academic, policy, or cultural fields.
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.
The MA History degree from SOAS University of London offers more than just academic excellence—it equips graduates with a globally informed perspective, critical thinking skills, and specialized regional knowledge that make them valuable assets across a variety of professional sectors. With its strong focus on the histories of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, the program not only prepares students for doctoral study but also opens up career opportunities in sectors that value analytical ability, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of historical processes. Graduates of the MA History program are highly sought after in industries such as education, research, government, heritage, international development, and media.
Academic Researcher or PhD Candidate: Many graduates use the MA History as a stepping stone toward a research-focused career or PhD studies. With a strong foundation in historical theory and original research, students are well-prepared to pursue doctoral programs in global history, postcolonial studies, or related disciplines. SOAS's interdisciplinary approach and regional expertise make its graduates competitive candidates for prestigious research institutions around the world.
Archivist or Curator: With specialized training in handling historical documents and cultural artifacts, graduates can work as archivists or curators in museums, historical societies, and heritage organizations. Institutions such as the British Museum, the National Archives, and the Victoria and Albert Museum value professionals who can contextualize global and colonial history through exhibitions and public education programs.
Policy Analyst or Civil Servant: Graduates often pursue careers in government, NGOs, or international organizations as policy analysts, civil servants, or program officers. Their in-depth understanding of historical trends, geopolitical contexts, and social movements makes them well-suited for roles in foreign affairs, cultural policy, migration, and human rights. The ability to critically assess the historical roots of contemporary issues is highly valued in shaping informed policy.
Journalism and Media: With strong writing, research, and analytical skills, MA History graduates can work as journalists, editors, or media analysts. Their global perspective and understanding of historical narratives allow them to contribute meaningful content in areas like international reporting, historical documentaries, and editorial analysis. Media organizations increasingly seek experts who can provide depth and accuracy in content related to global cultures and histories.
International Development and NGOs: Graduates often find roles in international development, working with NGOs, humanitarian organizations, or UN bodies. Their historical insights into postcolonial societies, conflict resolution, and socio-political dynamics are crucial in designing culturally sensitive development strategies and advocacy campaigns.
Education and Teaching: Many graduates pursue careers in secondary or higher education, teaching history, global studies, or humanities. With additional teaching qualifications, they can work as educators in the UK or internationally. The global emphasis of SOAS’s program also suits roles in international schools, curriculum development, and education policy.
Heritage and Cultural Management: Careers in cultural heritage, historical consultancy, and cultural tourism are increasingly popular among SOAS History graduates. These roles involve preserving and promoting cultural heritage through sustainable tourism, heritage site management, and public engagement. Understanding the historical context of local and global cultures is key in these industries.
Public History and Community Engagement: The demand for professionals who can translate academic history into public knowledge is growing. Graduates can work on public history projects, oral history archives, and community heritage programs, especially those that highlight marginalized voices or diasporic histories.
Publishing and Editorial Work: Graduates can enter the publishing industry as editors, content developers, or researchers. Their ability to synthesize complex historical information into accessible content makes them well-suited for academic publishing, historical fiction editing, or educational content production.
Corporate and Market Research Roles: Employers in business and consultancy increasingly recognize the value of humanities graduates for roles requiring analytical thinking, cultural literacy, and research skills. MA History graduates may work in roles related to market research, brand storytelling, or corporate social responsibility—especially in companies operating across diverse markets.
