MA History of Art and Architecture of Islamic Middle East
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
SOAS University of London, renowned for its expertise in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, offers an insightful MA in History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East. This specialized program provides an in-depth exploration of the visual culture and architectural development within the Islamic world, particularly focusing on regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the complex relationship between art, architecture, and Islamic culture. The curriculum combines theoretical analysis with historical context, offering students the opportunity to explore the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Islamic Middle East.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East is both comprehensive and rigorous. The program covers a broad range of subjects including the art and architecture of early Islamic periods, the evolution of architectural styles, the significance of visual arts in Islamic culture, and the role of art in shaping socio-political dynamics. Core modules include subjects such as "Introduction to the Art and Architecture of the Islamic World," "The Arts of the Ottoman Empire," and "The Architecture of the Islamic World." In addition to these, students are encouraged to explore the intersections of Islamic art with other cultural traditions and historical periods. The program also includes a dissertation component, allowing students to engage in independent research on a topic of their choice.
Research Focus: SOAS University is at the forefront of research in the field of Islamic art and architecture. The program offers students the chance to engage with cutting-edge research and methodology, both from historical and contemporary perspectives. Students benefit from access to the university's extensive library resources, special collections, and archives, providing opportunities for original research. SOAS faculty are renowned experts in the field and often work in collaboration with scholars from international institutions, offering students exposure to a wide range of theoretical approaches and research practices. Research at SOAS emphasizes the importance of understanding art and architecture not only as aesthetic forms but also as tools for understanding historical and cultural narratives within the Islamic world.
Industry Engagement: SOAS maintains strong links with industry professionals and institutions related to art and architecture. Students have the opportunity to attend conferences, participate in exhibitions, and collaborate with museums, galleries, and other cultural organizations. This engagement allows students to gain practical insights into the working world of art history, curation, and architectural preservation. Additionally, the program encourages students to undertake internships and placements, providing valuable real-world experience. SOAS also collaborates with organizations in the Middle East and beyond, offering students opportunities for field research, study trips, and networking with leading professionals in the field.
Global Perspective: One of the key features of the MA History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East at SOAS is its global perspective. The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of Islamic art with global cultural and historical developments, drawing links between art in the Islamic world and other global traditions. Students are encouraged to think critically about how Islamic art and architecture interact with contemporary issues such as politics, religion, and identity, while also exploring the transnational nature of art and culture. SOAS attracts a diverse student body from all over the world, providing a rich environment for cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration. This global outlook ensures that students graduate with a broad and nuanced understanding of Islamic art and its place in world history.
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 a Master’s in History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East from SOAS University of London opens doors to numerous career opportunities in the fields of academia, cultural heritage, museums, galleries, and the broader creative industries. The specialized nature of the program equips students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue careers that engage with art history, architectural preservation, and Islamic culture in diverse global contexts.
Academic Careers: One of the most prominent career paths for graduates of the MA History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East is academia. SOAS, as a globally respected institution, provides students with a solid foundation for pursuing further academic study, including PhD programs in art history, architecture, Islamic studies, or related fields. Graduates can go on to teach at universities and colleges around the world, specializing in Islamic art, architecture, and history. The expertise developed at SOAS allows individuals to contribute to scholarly research and publications in top-tier academic journals, often becoming leaders in the field of Islamic art history.
Museum and Gallery Curatorship: Graduates of this program often pursue careers in curatorship and collections management at museums and galleries, especially those focused on Islamic art, global art, or world history. SOAS has strong links to leading institutions in the field, allowing students to develop the necessary skills and experience required to work in prestigious museums, such as the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Louvre. Roles may include curating exhibitions, researching collections, managing preservation projects, or educating the public about Islamic art and architecture. This path provides graduates with the opportunity to shape how Islamic cultural heritage is presented to diverse audiences.
Cultural Heritage and Preservation: Another potential career avenue for graduates is working in cultural heritage and preservation. The Islamic Middle East is home to a rich architectural and artistic legacy, which requires experts who can safeguard and maintain these treasures for future generations. Graduates can work for governmental bodies, NGOs, or private organizations that focus on the preservation of historical sites, monuments, and art. This may involve conservation work, heritage policy development, or advising on the restoration of historic structures. The program’s focus on both the historical and contemporary aspects of Islamic architecture and art makes SOAS graduates well-suited for positions in this field.
Art Auction Houses and Galleries: Art auction houses and galleries specializing in Islamic art, contemporary Islamic artists, or historical Islamic artifacts are other career options for SOAS graduates. The increasing global interest in Islamic art has led to a growing market, and graduates with specialized knowledge in the field are highly sought after. Careers in this sector may involve art curation, sales, research, or cataloging artworks for auction. Prestigious institutions like Sotheby’s and Christie's frequently look for experts in Islamic art to evaluate and curate valuable collections. Graduates may also find work in art consultancy, advising collectors and investors on acquiring Islamic art pieces.
International Organizations and NGOs: The global perspective emphasized by the SOAS program also enables graduates to pursue careers with international organizations or NGOs that focus on cultural diplomacy, cross-cultural exchange, and the preservation of Islamic art and heritage. These roles might include working with UNESCO, cultural foundations, or international organizations that protect and promote cultural diversity and heritage. Positions could involve project management, cultural advisory roles, and fostering dialogue between different cultures through art.
Government and Policy Roles: Graduates can also enter government service or policy roles related to culture, heritage, or international relations. In such roles, they may work with national governments or international entities to develop policies that support the preservation of Islamic art and architecture, promote cultural exchange programs, or manage cultural initiatives. These positions often involve strategic planning, cultural diplomacy, and working with international agencies on cultural heritage initiatives.
Architecture and Urban Planning: For those with an interest in architecture, the MA History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East provides a foundation for working in fields related to architectural conservation, urban planning, or the design of public spaces. Graduates may work with architectural firms, heritage organizations, or urban planning departments to ensure that Islamic architectural styles are preserved and integrated into modern contexts. This could include consulting on the restoration of historical buildings or advising on new designs that respect Islamic architectural traditions.
Publishing and Journalism: Graduates with strong writing and communication skills may choose a career in publishing, journalism, or media, focusing on art, architecture, and cultural heritage. These professionals write articles, produce documentaries, and create digital content that explores the intersection of art, architecture, and Islamic culture. Whether writing for magazines, producing documentaries, or contributing to art blogs, graduates can contribute to shaping public understanding of Islamic art and architecture on a broader scale.
