MA Postcolonial Studies
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Postcolonial Studies program focuses on the historical relationships of power, domination, and practices of imperialism and colonialism from the late nineteenth century to the present. Through the study of literature and culture, students examine representations of colonialism, decolonization, neo-colonialism, nationalism in postcolonial societies, and diasporic experiences. The program introduces various theoretical and methodological approaches to these areas, fostering a critical understanding of postcolonial constructs such as the Oriental, the Global, the Cosmopolitan, the Third World, and the multicultural.
Curriculum: Students are required to complete 180 credits, comprising 60 credits from a dissertation and 120 credits from taught modules. The core modules include "Postcolonial Critical Thought" and "Decolonial Practices," which provide foundational knowledge in postcolonial theories and methodologies. Students can choose from a wide range of optional modules, such as "Intersecting Worlds: Race and Gender in the Contemporary Postcolonial Novel," "Contemporary African Literature," and "Migration, Borders and Space: Decolonial Approaches," allowing for specialization in areas of interest .
Research Focus: The program is supported by the Centre for Cultural, Literary and Postcolonial Studies (CCLPS), which serves as an intellectual hub for research in these fields. CCLPS facilitates interdisciplinary research projects, seminars, and events, drawing scholars from across and beyond SOAS. The center's commitment to exploring Asian, African, and Middle Eastern cultures, literatures, and languages enriches the research environment for students .
Industry Engagement: SOAS offers students opportunities to apply for internships, enhancing their practical experience and professional development. These internships allow students to engage with organizations and projects that align with their academic interests, providing valuable insights into the application of postcolonial studies in various sectors .
Global Perspective: SOAS's MA Postcolonial Studies program stands out for its global outlook, emphasizing the importance of understanding postcolonial issues within a worldwide context. The program encourages students to critically engage with global narratives and perspectives, fostering a nuanced appreciation of cultural diversity and international relations. This global approach prepares graduates to navigate and contribute to discussions on multiculturalism, race relations, and national affiliations in an increasingly interconnected world .
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.
Graduates of the MA Postcolonial Studies program at SOAS University of London are equipped with critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of the complex legacies of colonialism and imperialism. This interdisciplinary training opens diverse career pathways across various sectors.
Academic and Research Careers: Alumni often pursue doctoral studies or academic positions, contributing to scholarly discourse in postcolonial theory, cultural studies, and related fields.
Cultural and Arts Organizations: Graduates find roles in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, engaging in curation, cultural programming, and community outreach that explore and present postcolonial narratives.
International Development and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): The program's focus on power dynamics and global inequalities prepares students for positions in international development agencies and NGOs addressing issues such as social justice, human rights, and community development.
Publishing and Journalism: With strong analytical and communication skills, graduates enter publishing and media, working as editors, writers, or journalists who critically engage with topics related to postcolonialism, multiculturalism, and global affairs.
Government and Policy-Making Bodies: The comprehensive understanding of historical and cultural contexts enables alumni to contribute to policy development, diplomacy, and public administration, particularly in roles focusing on international relations and multicultural policies.
