MA Religion, Politics and Society
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
SOAS University of London, renowned for its focus on the languages, cultures, and societies of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, offers a distinguished MA in Religion, Politics, and Society. This postgraduate program delves into the intersection of religion, political dynamics, and societal structures. It equips students with an in-depth understanding of how religious beliefs influence political systems and vice versa, while also considering how these interrelations shape societal values and policies across the globe. The program prepares graduates to navigate complex political landscapes, with a focus on regions where religious beliefs play a significant role in shaping both public and private life.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Religion, Politics, and Society at SOAS is comprehensive and interdisciplinary. Students are exposed to a variety of core and optional modules that cover theoretical frameworks and contemporary case studies from around the world. Core modules typically include topics on the relationship between religion and politics, religious conflict, secularism, and the role of religion in global governance. Optional modules allow for deeper exploration into specific regions, such as the Middle East, South Asia, or Africa, where religious movements often intertwine with political and social developments. This curriculum is designed to provide students with both historical and contemporary insights into the religious underpinnings of political and societal structures.
Research Focus: Research at SOAS is an integral part of the academic experience for students pursuing the MA in Religion, Politics, and Society. The university is home to renowned scholars whose work focuses on the intricate ways religion and politics intersect across different global regions. Areas of research focus include religious nationalism, global Islamic politics, the politics of religion in Africa, and secularism in the modern world. Students benefit from being part of a research-driven institution that encourages critical inquiry and intellectual debate. Through independent research projects, students can explore their own areas of interest within this interdisciplinary field, often contributing new perspectives to ongoing scholarly discussions.
Industry Engagement: SOAS University of London places significant emphasis on practical engagement with industries and organizations related to religion, politics, and society. The MA program facilitates opportunities for students to collaborate with policy-makers, non-governmental organizations, and religious institutions. Students have access to networking events, internships, and field trips, which help to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world practice. This industry engagement is invaluable for students seeking careers in international organizations, diplomacy, NGOs, and media, or for those pursuing academic and research-based careers.
Global Perspective: A defining feature of the MA Religion, Politics, and Society program is its global perspective. SOAS's diverse student body and faculty offer a unique opportunity to engage with multiple viewpoints from around the world. The program encourages students to look beyond Eurocentric views and to consider religious and political systems from a global and intercultural standpoint. This broad perspective is essential for understanding the complexities of religion’s role in international relations, policy-making, and societal change. By studying case studies from various regions, students develop a well-rounded understanding of the global challenges faced by societies at the intersection of religion and politics.
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 an MA in Religion, Politics, and Society from SOAS University of London opens up a wide array of career opportunities in diverse fields. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the critical skills and in-depth knowledge to navigate the complex interactions between religion, politics, and society. As one of the world’s leading institutions specializing in the study of global regions, SOAS ensures that its graduates are highly prepared for roles in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, think tanks, and academia.
International Relations and Diplomacy: The MA Religion, Politics, and Society provides a strong foundation for careers in international relations and diplomacy. Understanding the role of religion in shaping political systems and societal structures is crucial for anyone pursuing a career in foreign affairs. Graduates may work in embassies, consulates, or international organizations like the United Nations, where they can help craft policies, negotiate international treaties, and analyze global security issues from a religious and political perspective. Their knowledge of global religious movements and political systems prepares them to handle complex diplomatic challenges in areas where religion plays a significant role in statecraft.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Human Rights: SOAS’s focus on social justice and global development offers excellent career prospects for graduates interested in working for NGOs or in the human rights sector. Many organizations address issues related to religious freedom, political rights, and social justice, and they value the interdisciplinary approach that SOAS graduates bring to the table. Careers may involve working with humanitarian aid organizations, development agencies, or grassroots movements that address religious conflicts, interfaith dialogue, and the promotion of human rights in religious contexts.
Political Analysis and Research: Graduates of this program are well-suited for roles in political analysis and research. Think tanks, research institutions, and policy analysis groups often seek experts who can analyze the political and social implications of religious movements. Graduates can work as political analysts, providing insights into how religion shapes elections, public opinion, and government policies. Their expertise in the intersection of religion and politics allows them to contribute valuable perspectives on topics such as religious extremism, secularism, or interfaith relations.
Media and Journalism: For those interested in media and journalism, the MA Religion, Politics, and Society provides a strong analytical foundation for understanding and reporting on the role of religion in global political developments. Graduates can work as journalists, reporters, or media analysts covering topics such as religious conflicts, political Islam, or secularization trends in society. Their ability to contextualize global events within religious and political frameworks makes them highly sought after by news organizations, both traditional and digital.
Academia and Teaching: For those who wish to pursue academic careers, the MA in Religion, Politics, and Society offers the foundation for further study and research. Graduates may choose to pursue PhD programs and embark on careers as university professors or research fellows specializing in religious studies, political science, or international relations. The interdisciplinary nature of the program makes it ideal for those who wish to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on religion’s role in political and social life. Teaching positions may also be available at secondary schools, especially for those with additional qualifications in education.
Government and Public Policy: Graduates can also pursue careers in government and public policy, advising policymakers on issues at the intersection of religion and governance. This may include work in public administration, policy advisory roles, or government-backed agencies focused on religious affairs, multiculturalism, or immigration. Understanding how religion influences political decisions and public opinion is crucial in shaping effective and inclusive policies, especially in countries with diverse religious populations.
Social Research and Development: For graduates interested in working within social research or community development, this MA provides the tools to address issues such as religious pluralism, conflict resolution, and social integration. Working in international development organizations or community outreach programs, graduates may help design projects aimed at promoting peace, interfaith dialogue, or conflict resolution in regions affected by religious tensions. Their ability to conduct research and apply theories of religion and politics to real-world scenarios is highly valued in this field.
Religion and Politics Consultancy: An increasingly popular career path for graduates of this program is to work as a consultant for private firms, international institutions, or government agencies, providing expertise on the relationship between religion, politics, and society. Consultants might advise on the potential impacts of religious movements on political stability, recommend strategies for managing religious diversity, or assess the role of religion in public policy formation. This role allows graduates to leverage their knowledge of religion’s role in political life to help shape strategies for organizations and governments worldwide.
