MA Social Anthropology

The Master of Arts (MA) in Social Anthropology at SOAS University of London is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of human societies, cultures, and behaviors. SOAS, a prestigious institution located in the heart of London, is renowned for its focus on global studies, and this program uniquely emphasizes anthropological perspectives with a focus on the social, cultural, and political dynamics of societies around the world. The MA Social Anthropology offers an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from the rich and diverse academic strengths of the university, including history, politics, and area studies. The program is ideal for students who wish to develop critical thinking, research skills, and a comprehensive understanding of how societies function in various global contexts.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Social Anthropology at SOAS combines both theoretical and practical learning, equipping students with essential tools to analyze and interpret social and cultural phenomena. The program offers core modules on anthropological theory and methods, providing foundational knowledge. Students have the flexibility to specialize in regional areas such as Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, or focus on specific themes such as politics, development, or globalization. Elective modules also allow students to tailor their studies, enhancing their expertise in particular areas of interest. The combination of compulsory and optional modules ensures that students gain a broad and balanced understanding of social anthropology while pursuing their own academic passions.

Research Focus: Research at SOAS is at the core of the MA Social Anthropology program. SOAS is globally recognized for its interdisciplinary research in the fields of anthropology, politics, economics, and area studies. The university encourages students to engage in research projects that address contemporary global issues such as migration, inequality, conflict, and development. SOAS also supports innovative research methodologies, enabling students to combine ethnographic fieldwork with critical analysis of global trends. Students are guided by leading academics who are experts in their fields, ensuring that their research projects are both academically rigorous and socially relevant.

Industry Engagement: SOAS University of London has strong links with industry partners, government organizations, NGOs, and cultural institutions, providing students with valuable opportunities for practical engagement. The university's location in London, a global hub for policy-making, international organizations, and the arts, allows students to connect with professionals from various sectors. Internship opportunities and collaborative projects with NGOs and social organizations are integral to the MA program, offering students the chance to apply their academic knowledge in real-world contexts. Additionally, the program fosters a network of alumni who work in various sectors, providing graduates with long-term career support and connections.

Global Perspective: The MA in Social Anthropology at SOAS emphasizes a global perspective, making it a distinctive program for students interested in understanding the complexities of contemporary societies. The university’s diverse international student body and faculty create an inclusive environment for discussing global issues from multiple viewpoints. Through its extensive regional expertise, SOAS allows students to explore anthropology with a particular focus on Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. The program integrates a global approach by addressing issues such as colonialism, migration, human rights, and social justice, encouraging students to view local cultures in the broader context of global challenges.

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 of Arts in Social Anthropology from SOAS University of London opens doors to a diverse and dynamic range of career opportunities across sectors. Known for its global outlook and academic excellence, SOAS equips students not just with theoretical knowledge, but also with critical, analytical, and research skills that are highly valued in today’s interconnected world. Whether you're aiming for a role in international development, academia, policy-making, or the creative industries, a degree in social anthropology from SOAS prepares you to navigate complex cultural and social landscapes with confidence.

International Development and NGOs: Many SOAS graduates go on to work with international organizations, charities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as UNICEF, Oxfam, Amnesty International, and Médecins Sans Frontières. With a strong foundation in cultural sensitivity and fieldwork, social anthropology graduates are well-suited for roles involving community outreach, humanitarian aid, social justice, and sustainable development projects.

Government and Policy Making: MA Social Anthropology graduates are also valued in public service and governmental roles. Their ability to analyze social systems and understand cultural dynamics makes them ideal candidates for careers in foreign affairs, migration policy, education reform, and social welfare. SOAS’s strong focus on regional studies gives students an edge when working with governmental bodies on issues that require cultural and geopolitical understanding.

Academic and Research Careers: For those passionate about knowledge production and teaching, an MA in Social Anthropology can be a stepping stone to a PhD program and a career in academia. Graduates may become researchers, lecturers, or consultants, contributing to academic institutions, think tanks, and policy research organizations. SOAS’s reputation as a research-intensive university ensures graduates are well-prepared for such paths.

Media, Journalism, and Publishing: Social anthropology graduates possess excellent communication and storytelling skills, making them strong candidates for roles in journalism, documentary filmmaking, publishing, and digital media. Their ability to interpret human behavior and convey complex cultural narratives is invaluable in reporting on global issues, creating educational content, or curating cultural publications.

Corporate Sector and Cultural Consultancy: Anthropological insight is increasingly valued in the corporate world, particularly in areas like market research, diversity and inclusion, user experience (UX) design, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Social anthropologists from SOAS often work as cultural consultants, helping companies navigate international markets, design culturally appropriate products, or enhance workplace inclusion.

Museums, Heritage, and Cultural Institutions: Graduates from the MA Social Anthropology program may also pursue careers in museums, galleries, archives, and heritage organizations. Roles in curation, exhibition planning, cultural preservation, and community engagement benefit from the anthropological knowledge and cross-cultural sensitivity gained at SOAS.

Human Rights and Advocacy: SOAS is particularly known for its commitment to social justice, and many graduates find fulfilling work in the fields of human rights, refugee support, indigenous rights, and environmental justice. Anthropology graduates are uniquely positioned to advocate for marginalized communities and influence change on a global scale.