MA History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East and Intensive Language
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The curriculum spans a vast geographical area, from Islamic Spain through the Arab countries, Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia, covering diverse historical periods. Students engage with various art forms, including Islamic visual culture, Arab, Persian, and Turkish painting, Qur'anic calligraphy and illumination, Moroccan architecture and urbanism, Ottoman arts and architecture in Turkey and the Balkans, and the material culture of western Iran. The program also explores trans-regional topics, such as the cultural and artistic interactions between the Islamic lands and Europe.
Curriculum: The course structure requires the completion of 120 credits through taught modules, supplemented by a 60-credit dissertation. Core components include the "Dissertation in History of Art and Architecture of the Islamic Middle East" and "Theory and Method in Art History." Students must select at least 45 credits from guided options like "Islam and the West: Artistic and Cultural Contacts," "Arab Painting," "Vision, Visuality and Islamic Visual Culture Studies," and "Art and Architecture of the Seljuks and Ottomans (12th-15th centuries)." Additionally, up to 60 credits can be chosen from open options across the School, including language courses.
Research Focus: SOAS emphasizes a critical and theoretically informed approach to global arts and culture. The program encourages students to actively participate in research seminars, lectures, and conferences, fostering a dynamic academic environment. This engagement enhances students' understanding of the complex historical and cultural contexts of Islamic art and architecture.
Industry Engagement: The School of Arts at SOAS maintains strong connections with industry partners, offering students opportunities for internships and practical experiences. Collaborations with institutions like the British Council and the Chu Te-Chun Foundation provide students with unique opportunities, such as internships at prestigious events like the Venice Biennale. Exclusive internships at the Rietberg Museum in Zurich and co-creator internships in the Special Collections of the SOAS Library further enrich students' professional development.
Global Perspective: Situated in London, SOAS offers a global perspective on the study of Islamic art and architecture. The program's diverse curriculum, combined with the university's international partnerships, allows students to engage with a wide range of cultural and academic perspectives, preparing them for global careers in academia, museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.
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 program equips students with specialized knowledge in Islamic art and architecture, combined with intensive language training in Arabic, Persian, or Turkish.
Museums and Galleries: Many alumni have secured positions at esteemed institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, the National Gallery, and the Museum of East Asian Art.
Auction Houses: Graduates have been employed by leading auction houses like Christie's and Sotheby's, where their expertise in Islamic art is highly valued.
Cultural and Arts Organizations: Organizations such as the British Council, Design Museum, and India Foundation for the Arts have hired SOAS graduates for their deep understanding of cultural contexts.
Diplomatic and International Relations: The program's emphasis on language and cultural studies prepares graduates for roles in embassies and international bodies, including the British Embassy and the Taiwan Embassy.
Media and Publishing: Alumni have found opportunities in media outlets and publications that focus on arts and culture, leveraging their analytical and communication skills.
