MA South Asian Area Studies
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This master's program delves into the multifaceted aspects of South Asia, encompassing countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, with additional insights into Bangladesh and Bhutan. Students have the flexibility to focus on either pre-modern or modern South Asia, tailoring their studies to align with their academic interests and career aspirations. The program encourages the acquisition or enhancement of language skills pertinent to the region, fostering a deeper connection with the cultural and social fabric of South Asia.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a holistic understanding of South Asia through various disciplines, including politics, economics, anthropology, law, literature, cinema, culture, religion, and history. Students can choose from a wide array of modules, allowing them to concentrate on specific areas of interest. Language instruction is an integral part of the program, offering courses in languages such as Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, Nepali, and Sanskrit, catering to both beginners and those seeking advanced proficiency.
Research Focus: SOAS is renowned for its research excellence, and the MA South Asian Area Studies program reflects this through its emphasis on critical analysis and original research. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to the academic discourse on South Asia. The program's interdisciplinary approach equips students with the analytical tools necessary to examine complex issues within the region.
Industry Engagement: Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including international organizations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia, and the private sector. The program's emphasis on cultural understanding, linguistic proficiency, and critical analysis makes its alumni valuable assets in roles that require nuanced perspectives on South Asian affairs. SOAS's strong reputation and global network further enhance employment prospects for its graduates.
Global Perspective: Situated in London, SOAS provides a vibrant, multicultural environment that enriches the academic experience. The university's commitment to global perspectives is evident in its diverse student body and faculty, fostering an inclusive learning atmosphere. The MA South Asian Area Studies program's integration of language studies, cultural immersion, and interdisciplinary scholarship prepares students to navigate and contribute meaningfully to an 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.
The Master of Arts in South Asian Area Studies at SOAS University of London equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the South Asian region, encompassing its cultures, languages, politics, and economies. This interdisciplinary program opens doors to a variety of career paths across multiple sectors.
International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates often find roles in international bodies such as the United Nations, World Bank, and various non-governmental organizations. Their deep understanding of South Asian dynamics and language proficiency make them valuable assets in development, humanitarian aid, and policy implementation.
Government and Public Policy: The analytical and research skills developed during the program are highly applicable in government and public policy sectors. Alumni may engage in policy analysis, cultural consultancy, or diplomatic services, contributing to the development and evaluation of policies that consider diverse cultural perspectives.
Academia and Research: For those inclined towards academia, the program provides a strong foundation for pursuing doctoral studies or research positions. Graduates contribute to scholarly work in anthropology, sociology, and related fields, often focusing on cross-cultural studies and ethnographic research.
Private Sector and Consultancy: The private sector values the cultural insights and communication skills of area studies graduates. Opportunities exist in market research, cultural consultancy, and corporate social responsibility roles, where understanding consumer behavior and cultural contexts is crucial.
Media and Communication: With their storytelling abilities and cultural awareness, graduates can pursue careers in journalism, documentary filmmaking, and media production. Their skills are particularly useful in creating content that resonates with diverse audiences and addresses global issues.
