MA History of Art and Archaeology
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA History of Art and Archaeology at SOAS University of London is a distinctive postgraduate program that explores the visual cultures, material histories, and artistic traditions of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Unlike conventional Western-centric art history degrees, this program offers a global and decolonial approach to the study of art and archaeology, rooted in the cultural contexts of non-Western societies. Designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of global art history while engaging with real-world artifacts and heritage issues, this MA is ideal for those aspiring to careers in museums, galleries, academia, or cultural institutions with an international outlook.
Curriculum: The curriculum combines core theoretical modules with a diverse selection of region-specific and thematic electives. Students develop foundational knowledge in art historical theory, visual analysis, archaeological methods, and museum and heritage studies. Elective modules allow students to specialize in areas such as Islamic art, Buddhist iconography, African sculpture, East Asian painting, and ancient architecture. Many courses incorporate direct engagement with art objects, either through SOAS's own collections or through access to major London institutions like the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The program culminates in an original dissertation, where students conduct independent research on a chosen topic, often involving primary sources, fieldwork, or material analysis.
Research Focus: Research at SOAS in the fields of art history and archaeology is internationally recognized for its emphasis on decolonial methodologies, interdisciplinary perspectives, and the integration of local voices and traditions in understanding visual and material culture. The program encourages exploration of underrepresented artistic traditions and challenges Eurocentric narratives in the study of global art. Students are supported by faculty who are active researchers with expertise in regions such as South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. SOAS also benefits from strong archival and visual resources, including access to image databases, rare manuscripts, and regional art collections.
Industry Engagement: The program offers numerous opportunities for students to connect with the heritage and cultural industries. Located in the heart of London, SOAS provides access to prestigious museums, galleries, and auction houses. Many students benefit from internships, research placements, and collaborative projects with institutions like the British Museum, the Courtauld Institute of Art, and UNESCO-related bodies. Regular guest lectures and workshops from curators, archaeologists, and art historians provide real-world insights into the professional landscape. Students also have the chance to participate in exhibitions, digital archiving projects, and community outreach programs, all of which enhance their professional portfolios and prepare them for careers in the cultural sector.
Global Perspective: A core strength of the MA History of Art and Archaeology at SOAS is its truly global perspective. The program prioritizes the study of non-Western art forms and emphasizes the interconnectedness of cultural traditions across time and space. By learning the histories of art and material culture from a global South perspective, students gain critical awareness of cultural diversity, heritage preservation, and the impact of colonialism on art historical narratives. The international student body and faculty at SOAS foster cross-cultural dialogue, and the program’s content equips graduates with the sensitivity and knowledge required to work in global settings, including multicultural museums, international NGOs, and cross-border heritage initiatives.
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 of Art and Archaeology program at SOAS University of London offers students a comprehensive, global perspective on the history of art and material culture, focusing on regions such as Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The program equips graduates with a deep understanding of non-Western art forms, archaeological practices, and heritage management, preparing them for a wide range of careers in academia, museums, cultural institutions, and international organizations. With its emphasis on decolonizing art history and promoting cross-cultural dialogue, SOAS graduates are highly sought after by employers in sectors that value expertise in global art and heritage.
Museum and Gallery Curator: Graduates often pursue careers in museums and galleries, working as curators, exhibition designers, or collection managers. With their specialized knowledge of non-Western art and archaeology, graduates are particularly suited for roles in museums that focus on global or cross-cultural collections, such as the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and National Museums of World Cultures. They may also work in curatorial roles at smaller institutions that focus on regional art, such as those that highlight African, Asian, or Middle Eastern collections. Curators are responsible for selecting objects for display, organizing exhibitions, conducting research, and engaging with the public through educational programs.
Art and Cultural Heritage Conservation: Graduates can pursue careers in the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage, working as conservators or heritage managers. This includes the preservation of artworks, artifacts, and archaeological sites. Professionals in this field work for national and international cultural organizations, such as UNESCO, or local heritage bodies, ensuring that important cultural materials are properly maintained and protected for future generations. Their deep understanding of non-Western art and material culture is crucial for working in global conservation projects that involve delicate, historically significant objects.
Archaeologist or Fieldwork Specialist: Those with an interest in archaeology can work as professional archaeologists or fieldwork specialists, engaging in excavation, analysis, and preservation of archaeological sites. Graduates may work with archaeological teams on excavation projects in regions like the Middle East, Africa, or South Asia, contributing to ongoing fieldwork in areas rich in historical significance. Archaeologists may be employed by universities, government agencies, private consulting firms, or heritage organizations, focusing on excavation, site analysis, and archaeological documentation.
Art Historian and Academic Researcher: Many graduates of the MA History of Art and Archaeology program continue their academic journey by pursuing PhD studies. With their background in both the theory and practice of art history and archaeology, graduates are well-prepared to conduct original research and contribute to the academic field. Graduates often go on to become university professors, researchers, or lecturers, specializing in non-Western art history or archaeological studies. They may also contribute to academic publications, journals, and conferences, driving forward research that challenges Eurocentric art historical narratives.
Cultural Consultant: Graduates can work as cultural consultants for businesses, government agencies, or international organizations. Their expertise in art history, archaeology, and global cultural practices allows them to provide advice on cultural sensitivity, heritage preservation, and the appropriate use of cultural symbols in branding and marketing. They may also be involved in advising film studios, media companies, and international organizations on the accurate portrayal of cultures and historical periods.
Heritage and Museum Education: Graduates can work as educators or outreach coordinators in museums and cultural institutions. These roles involve developing educational programs, conducting public tours, and creating engaging materials to help visitors understand the art, archaeology, and cultural history of the collections on display. They may work with schools, community groups, or international audiences to create inclusive, informative experiences that promote global art appreciation and cultural understanding.
Exhibition Organizer and Event Manager: Graduates of this program often find careers as exhibition organizers or event managers within museums, galleries, or cultural festivals. They are responsible for coordinating the logistics of setting up exhibitions, organizing public events, and managing relationships with artists, donors, and stakeholders. Their skills in research, curation, and cultural interpretation make them ideal for organizing global art exhibitions that highlight diverse artistic traditions and historical periods.
Art Auction Houses and Market Analysis: Graduates may work in the art market, including roles at auction houses like Sotheby’s or Christie’s, or within galleries and private collections. They can work as art analysts, valuers, or advisors, providing expertise on the provenance, historical context, and market value of art objects and archaeological items. Their background in both history and material culture gives them the ability to assess the cultural significance and authenticity of artworks, which is invaluable in the art market.
International Development and NGO Work: Graduates can work for NGOs, international organizations, or governmental bodies focusing on cultural preservation, heritage management, and the safeguarding of cultural resources in developing regions. Their expertise in understanding the socio-cultural implications of art and archaeology enables them to contribute to programs that aim to preserve cultural heritage while addressing issues such as post-conflict reconstruction, migration, and sustainable development.
Cultural Journalism and Media: With their specialized knowledge of art and culture, graduates may choose careers in cultural journalism, media production, or documentary filmmaking. They can work as cultural journalists, writing articles, producing documentaries, or contributing content for museums, galleries, or news outlets focused on global arts and cultural heritage. Their expertise in non-Western art and archaeology makes them well-suited for providing in-depth analysis and critique on global art movements, exhibitions, and archaeological findings.
