African Studies

The MA African Studies at SOAS provides an unrivalled programme of advanced modules on Africa - one of the world’s most fascinating and challenging regions.

The opportunity for interdisciplinary study of the continent is a particular advantage of the degree. Our former students have chosen to study Africa at this level for a wide range of reasons. For some a deep interest in the history and culture or political economy of a particular region is sufficient motivation, but for many students the programme has, in addition, been followed with the intention of furthering their career opportunities.

Some go on to work either in Africa or in fields related to Africa. The opportunity to combine study of particular African subjects with an African language is very useful, although some evidence of competence in learning a foreign language is usually required.

Why study MA African Studies at SOAS?

• SOAS is ranked 1st in London and 9th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2023 for Middle Eastern and African Studies.
• SOAS is ranked 6th in the UK for employability (QS World University Rankings 2023).
• SOAS is ranked in the Top 10 in the UK for African and Middle Eastern Studies in the Complete University Guide 2023.
• Modern Languages and Linguistics at SOAS has been ranked 10th in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.
• 4th for research environment - with 100% of our research ranked as 'internationally excellent' and 85% as 'world-leading' - and 8th for research outputs in the REF 2021.
• SOAS is a specialist in the studies of Africa, the Middle East, South Asia and South East Asia.
• Access comprehensive cross-regional expertise and gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of these regions in an increasingly globalised world.
• You will be eligible to apply for internships, available to students starting 2023/24.