South Asian Studies and Intensive Language

The MA South Asian Studies and Intensive Language 2-year programme (or part-time, 4-year) is directed at students with a professional and academic interest in South Asia.

It provides students with exceptional opportunities for advanced study of one of the world’s most diverse and important regions, with an opportunity for an intensive training in a South Asian language (Bengali, Hindi, Urdu and Sanskrit) as well as studying a range of modules across the disciplines.

Knowledge of a South Asian language is not a pre-requisite for admission to this programme which is designed primarily for ab initio language study. Students with intermediate or advanced language levels are advised to contact the programme convenor before applying. If necessary, proficiency levels will be assessed.

This MA South Asian Studies programme includes a summer of intensive language which is currently only offered in India (students must note that SOAS cannot take responsibility for obtaining visas for travel to India). Students bear the costs of travel to and from India, as well as all living expenses (including accommodation) during the period of their stay.

Students come from a wide range of backgrounds: some will have acquired an interest in South Asia during their undergraduate career or as a result of travelling in the region, while others will be keen to explore personal connections. The programme will also attract mature students: some may take the MA as a partial preparation for employment in the region; others, having lived in South Asia for a number of years, may seek to place their experience and impressions into a more structured, analytical framework.

You can view all the intensive language options available in the combined courses tool below.

Why study South Asian Studies and Intensive Language at SOAS?

• SOAS is ranked 6th in the UK for Asian Studies (Complete University Guide 2025)
• SOAS is ranked 13th in the UK for Modern Languages (QS World University Rankings 2025)
• Modern Languages and Linguistics at SOAS has been ranked 10th in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021