University profile

SOAS, University of London

Edition
2023/24 edition

About SOAS, University of London

Attracting the brightest minds from all over the world, SOAS University of London specialises in the study of Africa, Asia and the Near and Middle East, creating a community that is diverse, vibrant and multinational.

A global outlook

Encouraged to seek a truly global perspective, SOAS students are taught by respected specialists engaged in fieldwork and research who are confronting contemporary issues such as human rights, development, migration, identity, legal systems and policy changes. Shaping the culture, economics and politics of societies all around the world.

SOAS students benefit from a wide range of professional and academic links with governments, business, NGOs, and other international organisations, creating a global network of research and enterprise. Many also take up the opportunity to study abroad or complete a summer internship.

Passionate students

A SOAS student is typically passionate about their subject; opts to learn a second language; loves to learn, to travel, to be surprised; and is interested and engaged with the world around them.

SOAS aims to add and enhance these attributes by offering courses which give students the opportunity to look at their subject(s) from multiple perspectives; to challenge preconceived ideas through debate with fellow students and tutors; and to overturn unexamined assumptions.

Postgraduate programmes

Postgraduate degrees are offered in the following subjects:

  • Africa
  • Anthropology and Sociology
  • China and Inner Asia
  • Development Studies
  • Economics
  • Film and Media Studies
  • Financial and Management Studies
  • Gender Studies
  • History
  • History of Art and Archaeology
  • Japan and Korea
  • Law
  • Linguistics and Translation Studies
  • Music
  • Near and Middle East
  • Politics and International Studies
  • Religions and Philosophies
  • South Asia
  • South East Asia

Online and Distance Learning

Alongside it’s on campus taught degrees, SOAS runs an extensive programme of online and distance learning qualifications.

These programmes provide, flexible, cost-effective study opportunities, allowing students to pursue their academic training alongside a career.

Online and distance learning programmes

  • Climate Change and Development
  • Finance and Financial Law
  • Finance (with specialisms)
  • Global Corporations and Policy
  • Global Diplomacy (with regional focus)
  • Global Energy and Climate Policy
  • Global Security and Strategy
  • Humanitarian Action
  • International Business Administration
  • International Development
  • Muslim Minorities
  • Public Financial Management
  • Public Policy and Management
  • Sustainable Development

SOAS has also developed several Massive Open Online Course (MOOCs).

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance studying at university, so it is important to begin researching funding opportunities as early as possible.

SOAS offers a diverse range of scholarships which are awarded through a competitive application process. For more information, please visit our webpages.

Accommodation

SOAS offers a variety of accommodation options in halls of residence, student homes and privately rented houses. From self-catered, mixed residences, en-suites, postgraduate only and rooms for couples there is something for everyone. All located within 20-minute walk of SOAS and close to a great choice of culture, nightlife, bars and restaurants. Find out more about your accommodation options.

Careers Service

The Careers Service at SOAS is part of the wider Careers Group run by the University of London. It offers students one-to-one careers advice on the application process, including CVs and covering letters, career paths and interview techniques. You can attend a wide range of events such as Careers Fairs, Alumni Works hops and Skills Sessions and gain access to information resources on further study, internships, jobs, and volunteering.

SOAS graduates aspire to varied and ambitious goals. Whether developing a career as a UN diplomat, dreaming of staging a kabuki play, or championing human rights, SOAS develops the skills for students to excel in their chosen area.

Contact details

Email
study@soas.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0) 207 898 4700
Address
10 Thornhaugh St
Russell Square
London
WC1H 0XG