MA History and Intensive Language
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA History and Intensive Language at SOAS University of London is a unique and intellectually stimulating postgraduate program that combines advanced historical studies with the in-depth acquisition of a language from Asia, Africa, or the Middle East. Designed for students who seek a deeper understanding of global historical developments and who are eager to engage with primary sources in their original languages, this program stands out for its global orientation and academic rigor. It is especially suitable for those planning careers in academia, diplomacy, international development, or cultural institutions, where language proficiency and historical insight are critical assets.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a balanced blend of historical scholarship and language immersion. Students undertake core modules in historical theory and research methods, alongside regionally focused electives such as Histories of the Middle East, African Political Thought, South Asian Nationalism, or East Asian Modernities. The language component includes an intensive study in languages such as Arabic, Persian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Swahili, or Hindi, among others, depending on the student's area of focus. The program is typically two years in duration to accommodate language training, and it culminates in a substantial dissertation that often integrates original-language sources, allowing students to demonstrate both linguistic and historical expertise.
Research Focus: SOAS is globally recognized for its cutting-edge research in non-Western histories. The MA History and Intensive Language program encourages critical and comparative study of historical narratives from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Students engage with topics such as colonialism and empire, gender and identity, religion and politics, conflict and migration, and intellectual traditions. Faculty members at SOAS are leading experts in their fields, and students benefit from close mentorship, interdisciplinary perspectives, and access to rare archival materials and regional literature in original languages. The program also promotes independent research, preparing students for doctoral study or research-based careers.
Industry Engagement: This program emphasizes the real-world application of both historical insight and language skills. Students are supported in finding internships, collaborative projects, and placements with museums, cultural institutions, NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations. The location of SOAS in the heart of London provides access to a wealth of historical and cultural institutions such as the British Library, British Museum, and various embassies and think tanks. Regular seminars, guest lectures, and alumni networking events connect students with professionals working in diplomacy, heritage, translation, media, and global policy—fields where linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy are in high demand.
Global Perspective: The hallmark of the MA History and Intensive Language program is its deeply global and decolonial perspective. Unlike traditional history programs focused predominantly on Europe or North America, this degree prioritizes histories of the Global South and encourages students to challenge Eurocentric historical frameworks. The integration of language learning further enhances this global engagement, allowing students to analyze sources and narratives from the regions themselves, fostering a more authentic and inclusive understanding of world history. Whether through fieldwork, language immersion, or region-specific coursework, graduates emerge with a nuanced global worldview that positions them as informed and empathetic global citizens.
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 and Intensive Language program at SOAS University of London offers a unique and comprehensive approach to understanding global history and cultures. By combining rigorous historical study with intensive language training, this program prepares graduates for a wide variety of career opportunities, particularly in international fields where both historical insight and language proficiency are highly valued. With a global perspective and a focus on underrepresented regions such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, graduates are equipped to pursue careers in academia, international development, diplomacy, cultural heritage, and media, among other sectors.
Academia and Research: Many graduates of the MA History and Intensive Language program go on to pursue doctoral studies (PhD), focusing on historical research in their chosen regional or thematic fields. With their strong foundation in both historical methodologies and language skills, graduates are well-equipped to contribute to cutting-edge research in global history, postcolonial studies, and area studies. They may work in universities, research institutions, or think tanks, conducting scholarly research, publishing academic papers, and teaching at the higher education level.
Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs: Proficiency in a foreign language, combined with historical knowledge of specific regions, is a critical asset in careers within diplomacy and foreign policy. Graduates can work for government agencies, international organizations such as the United Nations, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in roles such as policy analysts, foreign service officers, or diplomatic advisors. The program’s focus on languages from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East gives graduates a unique advantage in understanding the political, cultural, and social dynamics of these regions, which are essential in global diplomacy.
Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies: The combination of historical knowledge and language skills opens up opportunities in the heritage and museum sectors. Graduates can pursue careers as curators, archivists, conservators, or museum educators. Their ability to work with primary sources in original languages allows them to engage with rare and historically significant materials, often in underrepresented regions. Cultural heritage organizations, historical sites, and national museums around the world require experts who can interpret and present global histories accurately and sensitively, particularly in relation to colonialism, migration, and cultural exchange.
International Development and NGOs: Graduates can apply their expertise in history and language to roles in international development and humanitarian organizations. These sectors value professionals who understand the historical context behind current social, political, and economic issues in developing countries. Graduates can work with international NGOs, UN agencies, or grassroots organizations in roles such as program managers, development consultants, or field officers. They may focus on areas such as conflict resolution, human rights, environmental sustainability, and education, leveraging their language skills to work directly with local populations and enhance communication in multi-lingual environments.
Translation and Interpretation: Language proficiency, especially in languages spoken in Asia, Africa, or the Middle East, is highly valued in translation and interpretation. Graduates can pursue careers as professional translators or interpreters, particularly in legal, diplomatic, or cultural contexts. They can work for international organizations, translation agencies, or as independent freelancers. Their expertise in regional history and culture provides them with a deep understanding of the nuances and context behind texts, making them especially valuable in translating historical documents, literature, or policy papers.
Media and Journalism: With a robust understanding of history and culture, coupled with language skills, graduates can pursue careers in international journalism, media analysis, or documentary production. Media outlets, especially those focused on global issues, require experts who can offer insights into non-Western histories and political developments. Graduates may work as reporters, editors, or analysts, writing articles, producing broadcasts, or creating multimedia content on international affairs, human rights, culture, or history. Their ability to communicate complex issues in an accessible way to diverse audiences is a highly sought-after skill.
International Business and Consulting: Companies operating globally require professionals who are not only skilled in language but also understand the historical and cultural landscapes of the regions they work in. Graduates of the MA History and Intensive Language program can pursue roles in international business development, market research, or consulting. With expertise in both the history of the regions they focus on and the ability to navigate local languages, graduates can help businesses expand into new markets, manage cross-cultural teams, or negotiate with local partners effectively.
Public History and Community Engagement: Graduates can also pursue careers in public history where they engage directly with communities to share historical narratives and cultural stories. This might involve working in archives, historical societies, or public history projects that aim to make history accessible to the general public. Graduates can work in educational outreach, historical tours, and public exhibitions, ensuring that the stories of marginalized or underrepresented groups are preserved and shared. Public engagement in history projects allows graduates to connect with diverse communities and contribute to a broader understanding of history.
Nonprofit Organizations and Advocacy: In the nonprofit sector, MA History and Intensive Language graduates can work with advocacy organizations that focus on issues such as migration, human rights, environmental justice, or postcolonial reconciliation. Their understanding of historical and cultural contexts equips them to design and implement campaigns that address global challenges, foster cross-cultural dialogue, and promote social change. Advocacy roles may include program officers, communications specialists, or policy advisors, working to raise awareness and influence public opinion on critical global issues.
Foreign Service and Intelligence: Graduates with a background in both history and language are well-positioned for roles in foreign service or intelligence. Intelligence agencies and government departments require professionals who can understand historical contexts, analyze foreign affairs, and communicate effectively in multiple languages. Graduates may work in roles that involve intelligence gathering, analysis of international events, or managing diplomatic relations, all while utilizing their language skills to work effectively across different cultural settings.
