Where everything connects - Undergraduate Prospectus 2022 entry - SOAS University of London
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Where everything connects Undergraduate Prospectus 2022 entry
A dynamic, We live in a historical moment,
when all of our big challenges
diverse and – pandemics, climate change,
thriving student inequality, political and social
polarisation – are transnational in
environment character and require local and
global knowledge, multidisciplinary
perspectives, critical thinking, and
practical engagement if they are to
Discover a lively social hub be sustainably addressed. This is what
that’s home to music, debate, the SOAS education is about.
clubs, societies and strong
At SOAS, we use our expertise in Africa, Asia and the Middle East
student support for everyone. as a lens through which to interrogate and understand the major
challenges of our time. We believe that building a better world
requires all of us to work together. We are therefore committed
Students’ Union to building bridges within the human community and forging
Our Students’ Union (SU) is known around the equitable global partnerships.
University of London and the wider community in
Bloomsbury as the place to be. There are several With an explicit mandate of social justice, we bring the diversity
reasons why: of the world to our campus in central London. Here, our staff
• It’s famous for its music scene – amplified by the and students engage in the robust debate and academic rigour
fantastic SOAS Radio (www.soasradio.org). required to produce future leaders who are capable of making
Why SOAS?
• For decades, our bar has served as the go-to place an impact in a changing world. At SOAS, you will learn not only
Afor dynamic, diverse
after-hours and and discussion.
lively debate the professional skills required by your chosen field, but also the
soft skills required to be an engaged and effective global citizen.
•thriving
It’s one of the most politically
student environment active in the UK,02
.................. with
the largest proportional turnout in SU elections in
Academic We look forward to welcoming each of you to our community.
the country.excellence ................................. 04
•London
We have.........................................................
around 160 clubs and societies covering 06
sport, political debate, cultural issues and everything
London map ................................................ 08
in between. For more information, visit: Adam Habib
Our campus ................................................ 10
� www.soasunion.org Director
A world-class library .................................. 12
Clubs and societies
The
All ourBrunei Gallery
clubs and societies.....................................
are free, and include anime, 14
beekeeping, circus, cycling, dance, drama, feminism, film
Accommodation ......................................... 16
making, hiking, journalism, music, origami, photography,
Study abroad
SOAS Radio, SOAS..............................................
Spirit newspaper, taekwondo, 18
vegetarian, ventures and yoga. There is also a wide
A global alumni network ........................... 20
range of religious, cultural and political societies.
Careers support and advice .................... 22
Enough is Enough
Support services ......................................... 24
‘Enough is Enough’ is an SU initiative that aims to
Widening
tackle participation
potential gender-based ..............................
violence on campus 25
through consent training workshops, events and
Scholarships ................................................ 26
online campaigns. All new students are required
to take part in Enough is Enough. If you have any
questions, or would like to get involved, please email:
SOAS Stories ............................................... 28
su-consent@soas.ac.uk
Degree programmes ............................... 42
What you need to know........................... 90
2 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 1
A dynamic, diverse and thriving student environment Discover a lively social hub that’s home to music, debate, clubs, societies and strong student support for everyone. Students’ Union Our Students’ Union (SU) is known around the University of London and the wider community in Bloomsbury as the place to be. There are several reasons why: • It’s famous for its music scene – amplified by the fantastic SOAS Radio (www.soasradio.org). • For decades, our bar has served as the go-to place for after-hours lively debate and discussion. • It’s one of the most politically active in the UK, with the largest proportional turnout in SU elections in the country. • We have around 160 clubs and societies covering sport, political debate, cultural issues and everything in between. For more information, visit: � www.soasunion.org Clubs and societies All our clubs and societies are free, and include anime, beekeeping, circus, cycling, dance, drama, feminism, film making, hiking, journalism, music, origami, photography, SOAS Radio, SOAS Spirit newspaper, taekwondo, vegetarian, ventures and yoga. There is also a wide range of religious, cultural and political societies. Enough is Enough ‘Enough is Enough’ is an SU initiative that aims to tackle potential gender-based violence on campus through consent training workshops, events and online campaigns. All new students are required to take part in Enough is Enough. If you have any questions, or would like to get involved, please email: su-consent@soas.ac.uk 2 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 3
Academic
excellence 6th
—————
In the UK for
teacher-student
ratio*
We're immensely proud of our QS 2021 World University Rankings
• Global Top 50 for Arts and Humanities
global reputation and our lively • 10 subjects among the world’s top 100
environment, where curious • 6 subjects among the world’s top 50
minds come to debate, discover Top ranking subjects include:
and develop. • 5th in the world for Development Studies
• 21st in the world for Politics and International Studies
• 45th in the world for History
Our respected academics, alumni and current
students are shaping thinking and policy around the Other notable awards
economic, political, cultural, security and religious • Top 20 European institution in the QS rankings
challenges in society. Unravelling pressing issues such and a top 20 UK institution in the Times Higher
as human rights, migration, identity, legal systems, Education (THE) World University Ranking for
poverty, religion, and social change through a non- Arts and Humanities.
Western lens, our programmes offer the scope to
• Silver ranking in the Teaching Excellence
explore your passions – and build the capability,
Framework 2018.
confidence and understanding of contemporary issues
to make a meaningful impact on a multicultural world. • Top 20 in the UK for 2021 THE Impact Rankings for
UN Sustainable Development Goals ‘Sustainable
Cities and Communities’ and ‘Peace, Justice and
Strong Institutions’.
• Top 10 courses in The Complete University Guide
2020 include our South Asian and South East Asian
Studies; and Middle Eastern and African Studies.
x5
—————
The proportion of
international students
is around five times the
national average
*Guardian University League Table 2021
4 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 5
Live and study in the
best student city in
the world: London
There’s nowhere better to
be a student than London.
And SOAS is right at its heart.
London is home to influential graduate
employers – and with 350,000+ students,
there are more international students here
than any other city. Over 100,000 in fact,
from more than 200 countries. With as many
as 300 languages spoken, the capital is a
colourful fusion of cultures – and never dull,
whatever your budget:
• More than 170 museums, many being free.
• Iconic art galleries.
• Legendary nightlife.
• Student Central access.
• NUS extra card for hundreds of discounts.
We’re close to several Underground stations
(you’ll be eligible for 30% off Transport for
London (TFL) travelcards and passes), and
London has six major airports too.
� studentcentral.london
350,000
—————
Students in London
6 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 7
Electric Ballroom
Haggerston
Jewish Museum London
Camden Town ISLINGTON
KEY CAMDEN HAGGERSTON
SOAS Kings Place
KOKO
Galleries & Museums
Angel
Theatres
King’s Cross
Music Venues Regent’s Park Hoxton
The British Library
Scala HOXTON
Columbia Road V&A Museum
Point of interest of Childhood
Open Air Theatre
Tube Station Euston
CLERKENWELL HACKNEY
Rail Link Wellcome Collection
The Foundling Museum
Old Street XOYO
Village Underground
Baker Street
SOAS BLOOMSBURY
Marylebone
FARRINGDON Brick Lane
FITZROVIA
Barbican Centre
Edgware Road The British Museum Farringdon Whitechapel
MARYLEBONE Museum of London
Sir John Soane’s Museum Liverpool Street
Holborn Whitechapel Gallery
Tottenham
Court Road
Oxford Circus SOHO Aldgate East
Royal Opera House
Bond Street
City Thameslink
WHITECHAPEL
St. Paul’s Cathedral
COVENT
Blackfriars CITY OF
MAYFAIR GARDEN
Somerset House LONDON
Covent Garden
The National Gallery
Royal Academy of Arts Tower of London
Hyde Park
Charing Cross National Theatre
Serpentine Galleries Green Park
Royal Festival Hall Tate Modern
Shakespeare’s Globe The Shard
Houses of Parliament Hayward Gallery Tower Bridge
Green Park Southwark
London Bridge
St. James’s Park
The Old Vic SOUTHWARK
Knightsbridge
London Eye Waterloo
Fashion and Textile Museum
Westminster Abbey White Cube Bermondsey
Natural History Museum
BELGRAVIA
V&A Museum
WESTMINSTER Imperial War Museums
Victoria Elephant & Castle
BERMONDSEY
PIMLICO LAMBETH
Tate Britain
8 soas.ac.uk Saatchi Gallery soas.ac.uk 9
King’s Cross ¾
Dinwiddy House ¾
¾
Ev
Our campus Paul Robeson House
e rs
ho
Euston
500m
lt St
Hughes Parry Hall
Rd
s ton
Eu
Canterbury Hall
Commonwealth Hall
Wellcome Pl
isto ck
Collection Tav
SOAS is a place for people Euston Square
with an interest in global issues,
Ta
vis
University
to
Tavistock
College
ck
who want to gain a more Square
Sq
London
Gardens
profound understanding of
the world, whilst having their Gordon Curzon Bloomsbury
assumptions challenged – Square
alongside a diverse student Sq
Wo
Petrie Museum on
rd
b
Go
body that does too.
ur
Grant Museum of Egyptian Institute of
n
of Zoology Archaeology Education
Pl
d St
The Warburg nar
Ber International Hall
Institute
Russell Square
Located in cosmopolitan Bloomsbury, our Library and lecture theatres
Russell Square campus is at the heart of it all. The SOAS Library houses over 1.3 million volumes, Pl University
ng
It has everything you need – including the warm and provides quiet study spaces, as well as printing, By of London
Union Main Building
atmosphere our students tell us makes SOAS feel photocopying and scanning facilities. We also have SOAS Library
like a home away from home. five lectures theatres:
Ru
ss
l
nP College Hall
ell
• Khalili Lecture Theatre – Main Building Birkbeck
to
Sq
The Paul Webley Wing ng University
• Kamran Djam Lecture Theatre – Main Building rri Brunei
The Paul Webley Wing in our iconic Senate House To of London
Gallery
Go
• Alumni Lecture Theatre – Paul Webley Wing Russell Square
building is home to the Weston Student Hub, which is
we
Senate House
rS
your first port of call for any enquiries related to study, • Wolfson Lecture Theatre – Paul Webley Wing
t
accommodation, course registration, student finance, Paul Webley Wing
• Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre - Brunei Gallery
careers and enterprise. You’ll also find state-of-the-art
So
Senate House
ut
formal and informal learning facilities, various student Other facilities
ha
meeting spaces, cafés and breakout spaces.
m
We have open-access computer labs, and specialist
pt
on
multimedia, AV, video, music and language labs. Goodge Street
Ro
Eating and entertainment Multimedia and IT training is available, and every Malet Street
w
A large refectory and several coffee shops mean student has their own account with email, 2GB Garderns
you’ll be well catered for. In our lively Students’
To
storage, and WiFi. SOAS is also home to two KEY
tte
Union, you’ll also find a popular bar, and a shop exhibition areas: the Brunei Gallery, hosting changing
n
ha
selling snacks, stationery and other essentials. A tree- SOAS
m
contemporary and historical exhibitions from Asia,
Co
lined pedestrianised area, our precinct links several Africa and the Middle East; and the smaller Wolfson
urt
The British Museum
buildings, and is often the scene of impromptu music Gallery within the SOAS Library. Halls of residence
Rd
performances, alfresco food, and lively debate.
Point of interest
Blo
Tube Station
om
sb
ur
Rail Link
yS
t
10 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 11
Tottenham Court Road ¾ Holborn
A world-class library
3km
—————
Of archives
and manuscripts
The SOAS Library is one of Our resources are always expanding, with an ever-
growing digital library complementing more than
the world’s most important 1.3 million printed volumes and a major collection
of archives, manuscripts and rare books.
academic resources for
We actively source materials in the languages of Asia,
the study of Asia, Africa Africa and the Middle East, and Western European
and the Middle East. language materials relating to those regions.
Collections on global concepts such as migration and
diaspora, gender, food studies, film, media, financial
management, law, international politics and diplomacy
Our library is at the heart of our School – and attracts
are also covered, to inform, illuminate and inspire the
scholars from all over the world. Providing unrivalled
global focus of our students and staff. It offers:
information resources, services and systems, it further
strengthens our standing as a leading international • Various study environments, including silent
centre of excellence for research, learning and teaching. and group areas.
• More than 40,000 electronic journals, 100,000
eBooks and 100 research databases.
• Extensive archival collections, manuscripts and rare
books relating to Asia, Africa, the Middle East, the
South Pacific, and Australasia.
• Wide-ranging training sessions, delivered by experts.
• Additional facilities for students with disabilities.
As one of only five National Research Libraries in the
UK designated by HEFCE, our library also enjoys extra
funding to support UK higher education research in
Asian, African and Middle Eastern studies.
Opening times
Monday – Friday, 8am – 11:30pm
Saturday/Sunday, 10:30am - 11:30pm
� soas.ac.uk/library
1,000+
—————
Seats for readers
12 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 13
The Brunei Gallery
SOAS has its very own Dedicated to promoting a better understanding of
the art, culture, history and contemporary contexts of
respected gallery right here Africa, Asia and the Middle East, it’s convenient too –
sitting opposite the main SOAS building.
on campus, hosting an exciting
Visiting and permanent collections
programme of international The galleries have exhibition space on three floors
exhibitions and events. which can be used combined to present major
exhibitions, or independently for smaller projects.
We also have our own collections of art and artefacts,
For more than 25 years, The Brunei Gallery has
which are managed by the gallery and used for study
presented stunning artworks and events that reflect
and teaching. A selection of these collections is on
the diverse subjects and regions being studied at
rotating display or themed to relate to key temporary
SOAS. It’s a rich source of inspiration and information,
exhibitions in the Foyle Special Collection Gallery.
allowing our students to get close to some truly
influential concepts and craftmanship.
Many exhibitions have provided the first opportunity
for artists, collections and exhibitors, including those
working with non-governmental organisations and
charities, to be shown in this country.
Opening times
Open: Tuesday – Saturday, 10.30am – 5pm
(late night Thursday until 8pm).
Closed: Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays.
Admission: FREE.
� soas.ac.uk/gallery
12+
—————
Exhibitions a year
Images from the 2020 exhibition
'Ancient Vessels', a joint project between
SOAS and the Museum of East Asian Art, Bath.
14 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 15
Accommodation
Finding a place to live in London can be
confusing. But don't worry - we provide
all the help you need, including our own
Accommodation Office and a dedicated
Housing Adviser to offer information,
advice and support.
Halls of residence Students with families
We offer a range of catered and self-catered rooms, If you’re moving with a family or partner, there
studios and flats. These start at £156.49 per week, are family-friendly studios and flats available
going on to our most common room type at £173.73 in SOAS halls of residence, and with housing
and up to £307.53 per week at Urbanest St. Pancras. associations, privately run halls and privately rented
Once you have firmly accepted a place at SOAS, accommodation. Our website has more information.
we will send you information about applying
for accommodation. Accessibility
We have accessible rooms in most of our hall
We’ve a range of halls, some with a mix of students options. Please email for advice and assistance.
at other London universities, some SOAS only – all
within 5-30 minutes’ of our Bloomsbury campus and Contact
near to transport links. We also have rooms with the • Disability Advisors: disabilities@soas.ac.uk
University of London Intercollegiate Halls, with the • SOAS Housing Adviser: accommodation@soas.ac.uk
option of catering and starting from £162.83 for a
single room. � soas.ac.uk/accommodation
Private rented accommodation
Privately rented accommodation can offer more
privacy, independence and, depending on location,
value for money than halls of residence. We can also
help you to rent privately, through our housing events
from May to October, one-to-one support, contract
checks and house hunting resources.
16 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 17Study abroad
With such a diverse community
in the heart of London, we
While I had always liked learning
offer students a uniquely rich Japanese and studying languages,
environment in which to study, trying to make friends using a
newly-acquired second language
develop and live alongside makes the learning process so
people from different much more meaningful. Going to
countries, communities Japan not as a tourist, but a would-
be member of society, I finally
and cultures. experienced a culture I had only
previously observed through media
However, we understand the importance of and the internet. On one hand,
experiencing these regions first hand, to see the I felt that Japan really was like a
challenges, breathe in the air and get a true feel for living, breathing anime. However,
what life is like there as a local.
its culture was so complex and
That’s why more than 40% of our degree programmes nuanced that many of my ideas
offer you the chance to spend a year studying a about Japan before coming were
language in another country. This normally involves completely blown away.
at least half of your modules being in language study.
Our partners Isabella Lau
We currently have exceptional 4th Year, BA Japanese
links with study partners in:
• China • Myanmar
• Egypt • Nepal
• India • Palestinian Territories
• Indonesia • South Korea
• Israel • Tanzania
• Japan • Thailand
• Jordan
• Kenya
• Turkey
• Vietnam
40%—————
Of degree
programmes offer
a year abroad
18 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 19A global alumni network
SOAS is home and it will always be the place where
I was able to explore the concept of identity. I arrived
here when I was 18, wanting something very
heterodox, very vibrant and very rich – and it didn’t
disappoint. And I received a scholarship to study
here, so I’m just incredibly grateful for everything
SOAS has done for me in terms of my education and
development of my character."
A SOAS education is highly valued and
Fatima Zaman, well respected by employers.
BA Politics.
CVE Advocate at Fatima studied a BA Politics degree, and was a student
After graduating, you’ll join a You can also find out more about notable
alumni from a community that includes: the Kofi Annan ambassador, and President of the United Nations
society. She was recently recognised at The Asian
distinguished community and • Former Turkish prime minister, Bülent Ecevit Foundation Women of Achievement Awards for her work with the
global network of over 54,000 • Shadow Secretary of State for Justice, David Lammy Kofi Annan Foundation, helping to prevent girls from
becoming radicalised.
• TV comedian, Dom Joly
SOAS alumni across over 200 • Director of V&A East, Gus Casely-Hayford
countries. Wherever life takes • Previous director of BBC News, James Harding
• Crown Princess of Norway, Mette-Marit
you, stay connected through • England national rugby player, Maro Itoje
our alumni family. • Singer and civil rights activist, Paul Robeson
• Musical artist, Poppy Ajudha
• Former President of Ghana, John Atta Mills
On our dedicated alumni website, you’ll enjoy
access to alumni benefits, careers information,
Events
news and events across the globe.
Receive invitations to SOAS events taking place on
campus and around the world, including lectures, SOAS is a prime environment to widen one's horizons
� soasworld.org
exhibitions, social gatherings and guest presentations. and perspectives on a variety of issues, topics and
debates - you meet people from all walks of life and
Professional networking hear stories of some phenomenal experiences.
Benefit from the professional knowledge and
experience of other SOAS alumni, as well as continued As far as a fully comprehensive experience
access to career services, alumni mentoring and our
alumni LinkedIn groups.
of academia, debate, culture, friendships
and extra-curricular goes - SOAS is the
International alumni place to be.
We’ve hosted events in over 120 global cities. If you’re Hussain Hilli,
returning home or travelling abroad during or after I studied Economics and Chinese:the dual honours
your studies at SOAS, you can get in touch with your
BA Economics
course was invigorating and engaged different sides of
regional alumni group – a valuable resource for social the brain. Understanding markets, general economic
and Chinese.
and professional networking. frameworks and financial modelling has always been Entrepreneur
a great asset in the business world - and my Chinese
Philanthropy at SOAS comes into play at times when negotiating a deal
Our generous alumni provide valuable financial or investment.
support to the next generation of students through
190
—————
scholarships, the SOAS Library, hardship grants and
entrepreneurial student projects.
The degree I achieved in Economics and Chinese
has always been a big part of my career journey.
Economics will always provide a fundamental
Countries SOAS students In the news grounding in understanding the world better, and as
have reached Stay connected with news from in and around for Chinese - well it's the future.
SOAS with dedicated e-bulletins and event
invitations. Follow SOAS Alumni on Instagram,
Facebook and Twitter.
20 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 21Careers support
and advice
Our education can equip you with the knowledge
A job. An internship. Further and skills to be successful in the career you want.
study. Our Careers Service Our careers service can help you to identify, apply
for and secure it.
can help you, whether you • Online resources include our website, tailored
emails, our intranet ‘MySOAS Student’, and
know what you want to do ‘CareersZONE’ – a site dedicated to careers
after graduation – or whether events, curated jobs, internships and
volunteering opportunities.
you are still deciding. • Events including skills sessions, careers fairs,
careers-themed weeks, and events with
employers such as The Red Cross, Teach First,
Water Aid, PwC and the Civil Service.
• Alumni panel events are very popular, where SOAS Visit the Careers Service
graduates share their career paths, inspire ideas and Once you start, come and visit us in room SL62 in
help you explore unexpected career options. the Paul Webley Wing or make an appointment to
• Regular workshops on key topics such as decision talk to a careers practitioner. You can also get in
making, job applications and social media. touch with us now on:
• We know how useful internships are: we offer T: +44 (0)20 7898 4115
guidance and advice about finding an internship, E: careers@soas.ac.uk
and only promote paid opportunities for our
students. Our internships officer runs weekly � soas.ac.uk/careers
drop-in sessions too.
• Application support such as one-to-one careers
advice on the application process, including CVs,
covering letters and practice interviews.
• Volunteering opportunities available in the UK
and abroad.
• Further study support means you can talk to our
careers consultants or attend events on what
doing a Masters or PhD involves, funding,
applications and more.
• Part-time or temporary work to help you gain vital
skills, as well as an income. Opportunities are posted
on CareersZONE alongside other vacancy sources.
• Not sure what to do next? We can help you pinpoint
a firm and fresh direction, plan your next step,
research options, get relevant experience, access
resources and develop your CV.
22 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 23Support services Access,
Participation and
Student Success
We pride ourselves on Disability and neurodiversity support
We can offer information, advice and support, as
We believe everyone should
providing a friendly and well as negotiate adjustments to exam arrangements have the chance to realise their
and library services, loan equipment such as digital
stimulating environment for recorders and laptops with specialist software, and potential. Our aim is to enable
create study inclusion plans which make staff aware of
everyone, and helping to make recommended adjustments. students with the potential to
your SOAS experience warm, Our Learning advisors offer support and advice on
succeed at SOAS – irrespective
welcoming, and healthy. Specific Learning Differences, including dyslexia, of social, financial or personal
dyspraxia, AD(H)D and dyscalculia.
circumstances. That’s why we
Accessibility
Our support services are your safety net,
and on-hand for everyone: The majority of SOAS buildings are accessible for ensure our doors remain firmly •S
tudent Success conference which aims to equip
participants with the skills for success
wheelchair users and we can change timetables to
ensure all rooms are accessible to students unable
open to people from all walks
Finance, immigration and accommodation For more information, visit:
We can provide impartial, confidential advice on to use stepped access. There is also some Braille and of life. �s
oas.ac.uk/see/student-success/student-success-
non-academic issues such as visas, immigration, tactile signage. at-soas
finance, accommodation, childcare, benefits and
money management. Contact Improving access through outreach Providing financial support
T: +44 (0)20 7074 5015 We run a number of interactive programmes that help We aim to enable students with potential to succeed
Wellbeing and mental health E: studentadviceandwellbeing@soas.ac.uk to increase ambition, attainment, and accessibility at SOAS – irrespective of social, financial or personal
Our student counselling team, which consists E: disabilities@soas.ac.uk to university. These are designed to support young circumstances. We support students with the cost
of professionally trained psychotherapists and @SOASWellbeing people and adult learners to explore study options. of university study in a number of different ways,
psychologists, can offer confidential support, � soas.ac.uk/support including:
•T aster days for primary school children
groups and workshops, as well as online support. •T he SOAS Bursary for students with household
•Y ear 12 summer schools, offering subjects including
We can also offer professional mentoring to income of less than £25,000
Law and Anthropology
students who may be struggling with their wellbeing
•M asterclasses in subjects such as Development •H ardship funds for students experiencing
or mental health, supporting them to manage
Studies, History, Politics and Art unexpected financial difficulties
their academic workload.
•C ommunity outreach for adults returning
For more information, visit:
Multi-faith chaplaincy to education
� soas.ac.uk/registry/scholarships
We have a group of Chaplains from different faiths
and personal backgrounds who can provide pastoral For more information (including eligibility), visit:
Discover more at:
support to students of any faith or none. � soas.ac.uk/widening-participation/outreach
� soas.ac.uk/widening-participation
Contributing to student success
or email: wpteam@soas.ac.uk
We deliver a range of programmes designed to
add value to, and make the most of, the university
experience. We support students to achieve their
aspirations through initiatives including:
• Pre-entry preparation activities for offer holders
• A range of peer-to-peer mentoring schemes
24 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 25Scholarships
180
—————
SOAS Bursaries
awarded 2019/20
Curious minds shouldn’t • The Rahim Lalji ‘14 Development Studies Bursary is
designed to support students with financial need.
be hemmed in by financial The bursary is worth £2,500 and is for new and
continuing BA Global Development students.
barriers. That’s why we offer • SOAS Bursary: We believe strongly that all students
a range of scholarships should have the opportunity to fulfill their potential.
The SOAS Bursary offers additional financial support
and awards to support for students with the greatest need.
• There may also be a number of external scholarships
undergraduate students. available to you.
To find out more about external funding
Naturally, the application for these is competitive, opportunities visit:
and based on academic merit. But we can offer �soas.ac.uk/registry/scholarships/external
the support you need to give you the best possible
chance of success. For more information on our scholarships, including
the eligibility criteria and application process, Muhammad was born in Syria into a liberal Kurdish
please visit: family. After the outbreak of civil war, he was forced
� soas.ac.uk/registry/scholarships to leave, along with an estimated 5.8m others. In late
2015, after a long, risky journey, he sought refuge
Alumni and Family discount in the UK. Then in 2017, he was accepted onto our
If you or a family member graduates from SOAS, we MA Translation course. For Muhammad, translation
will offer you a 20% discount on your tuition fees provides a method through which he can “pass on an
should you wish to start or continue your studies accurate and true picture of vulnerable people in the
with us. Middle East and the world.”
A 10% discount in tuition fees is available to all
At SOAS, Muhammad received a Sanctuary
students who have an IFCELs ICC or FDPS
Scholarship. “Scholarships are vital because life can
Pre-Masters.
sometimes be unjust for people who need our help.
There will always be good times and bad ones, but Muhammad Issa
Find out more: I must thank Sanctuary Scholarships for making my Sanctuary
� soas.ac.uk/alumni-tuition-fee-discounts life full of pleasure again. Sanctuary Scholarship was Scholarship
a new start for my life. It meant that no matter how
hard life is, good-hearted people were by my side.”
Since starting his course Muhammad has begun to
look to the future. “With an MA in Translation, I will
help as many fellow Syrians and Kurds as possible to
communicate and give a positive view of our tolerance
towards other people in the world. One day, I will go
back home and help rebuild Syria.”
26 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 27SOAS Stories
Above all else, we are an
intimate single community:
one that celebrates diversity
and is respectful and tolerant.
Emmanuel Adringa������������������������������������������� 30
Aisha Seriki����������������������������������������������������������32
Alvin Carpio������������������������������������������������������� 34
Zoha Rahman���������������������������������������������������� 36
Dr. Richard Williams����������������������������������������� 38
Dr. Sîan Hawthorne������������������������������������������ 40
28 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 29SOAS Stories
Emmanuel Adringa
BA Development Studies
and Politics
Emmanuel had some big I’m from the Ivory Coast and growing up, I could see
challenges, and how politics is affecting everyone.
questions about the shape I wanted to improve people’s lives. And gain the
knowledge I need to do that.
of Africa today, and knew
It made me question a lot of things.
that studying at SOAS could As a high school student, I looked at African countries –
help to secure its future. a continent that’s the wealthiest in terms of natural
resources, but has some of the poorest countries.
Why are some countries so rich? Why is the population
rising at an amazing rate? People are willing to study
hard, so why is the continent still struggling with
poverty? Something was lacking in leadership. And
the answer is in politics and development. So, for
me to be an effective agent of change, I needed
an understanding of them. In a world that’s ever
changing, the future is no longer sustainable.
If we want to survive, things need to change.
The staff are leading thinkers, and as diverse
as the students.
There’s no agenda at SOAS – it’s not Eurocentric
or generalised. There’s an emphasis here on context,
and seeing the African continent from a different
perspective. I’ve been taught by British, African, Indian,
Canadian, and Latin American people. The world is
neither black nor white. It’s blue, green, purple, silver.
If you take a narrow, reductionist view, this can lead to
conflict. So, the broader your perspectives, the better
you see the world.
Be open minded.
Everything is challenged at SOAS! My first day though,
I’m planning on doing a Masters I felt I’d been here my entire life. It’s so easy to access
too, either in Diplomatic Studies or London, and full of memories, friendly people…
Politics. I want to focus on policy whatever you need.
development, ideally in Africa.
Eventually, I plan to go back to my
country as a full-time politician. It’s
entirely realistic, because of what
I’m studying here at SOAS.
30 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 31SOAS Stories
Aisha Seriki
BA Global Liberal Arts
Sanctuary Scholar Aisha I’ve always wanted to study at SOAS. The global
aspects of the modules, the chance to learn about
describes what has made her all different things in the world and because SOAS
doesn’t take the Eurocentric model. I also knew it
SOAS experience so rewarding. would give me freedom and flexibility. SOAS has
definitely met my expectations.
I wouldn’t be at SOAS without their support.
Even though I moved to the UK from Nigeria
when I was eight, it meant I wasn’t eligible for
student finance. And I just couldn’t pay for it all.
But because of amazing support from alumni,
SOAS and students – both financially and with
my application – I was awarded a Sanctuary
Scholarship. As I’d always wanted to go to SOAS,
it just seemed right. Everything worked out.
It feels like home.
The location of the campus and my student halls
makes me so happy. It’s so central. Living in halls
gives me that ‘student experience’ and helps me
meet loads of people from different places. SOAS is
somewhere for people who are interested in global
issues and learning new things. They’re genuinely
kind, and positive, and help in so many ways. When I
was looking for unis, I wanted that support. I wanted
somewhere smaller, and a relationship with lecturers
who knew me. Here, I see people I know all the time.
It’s like a little bubble, and inspires me to be better.
Come to an open day and My advice is throw yourself in the deep end. There
see what SOAS is about. are lots of student societies, for example. There’s a
social side to it, as well as being part of a group of
Everyone’s nice – don’t people who want to change the world!
be scared! Be open to
chatting to new people.
The connections you make
here will be really beneficial.
People are doing all sorts of
cool things. You never know
what you’ll find.
32 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 33SOAS Stories
Alvin Carpio –
Human Rights Campaigner
History and Politics alumnus
Alvin channelled the Once you graduate from SOAS, you never really leave.
You stay in touch through events – and of course, that
confidence, skills, and certain way of being open to the world. It’s amazing
how many people you meet in your first week become
knowledge he gained at lifelong friends. Even now, when I meet someone from
SOAS, there’s an immediate connection and sense of
SOAS into setting up the unity. One of the beauties of SOAS is the feeling of
UK's first non-profit safety, trust, and belonging.
organisation dedicated to Even to this day, I use all of those lessons from SOAS.
They’ve impacted on my career and influenced my
addressing the racism faced way of thinking. The anti-racism work I do now is
made possible through the educational underpinning
by people of East and from SOAS – having the confidence to present an
Southeast Asian heritage. argument, think critically, and come from a
different perspective.
Since graduating, I’ve worked as a Community
Organiser, campaigning for a living wage for
migrants and amending laws to support those who
are marginalised. I’ve set up a think tank. And now
I’m focused on anti-racism work. Since the start of
Coronavirus, there’s been a 300% increase in hate
crimes towards people of East and Southeast Asian
heritage in the UK. But there were no non-profit
organisations here. I was instrumental in setting up
the first, to tackle these issues at the highest levels.
SOAS encourages you to get involved in causes. Had it
not been for the knowledge of Asia’s political history,
confidence to influence democracy, and ability to
articulate myself in key conversations on behalf of
those who can’t that I gained at SOAS, I wouldn’t be
doing what I’m doing.
SOAS is so diverse and open to lots The SOAS library is one of my favourite places
of personalities. The people who in the world.
thrive are proactive, and challenge The amount of resources and knowledge at SOAS is
amazing. Plus the fact SOAS is spread over the city
themselves and their opinions. You means they become your life, those streets of London.
need to open your mind to what you You meet great friends, life partners, and mentors. The
might learn. Your time at SOAS goes history of the SOAS bar, the debates around current
very fast. So make the most of it. affairs in the café, and the stories – they all stay
with you.
34 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 35SOAS Stories
Zoha Rahman
LLB Law alumna
Zoha graduated in Law in SOAS could offer courses and modules nowhere
else could. Then when I visited the campus, I just
2017, but now she’s leveraging knew I wanted to be there. I really enjoyed my law
degree, but my passion has always been acting.
her SOAS experience to raise So for me, gaining the qualification itself wasn’t
everything. It was about the experience. I knew
the bar for diversity in the SOAS would help me grow as a person. There are
film industry. protests, talks, events, societies… you learn something
new every day. I was quite shy. But because SOAS is
more compact and there’s always something going
on, it’s easy to get involved and make friends.
You can go on to do whatever you want.
University doesn’t have to be about what you thought.
Learning transferable skills, extra-curricular activities,
the people you meet, the inclusivity – they’re all
important to your experience. My advice would be to
embrace the SOAS spirit. Enjoy your Freshers' Week!
Get involved in different societies. Be open to what
comes your way. Being here will help to broaden your
horizons. So, have the confidence to speak up about
your values – there’ll be someone else here who
shares them.
I want to become the first Muslim female
actor to win an Oscar.
I’m working on it! I’ve already been in films – including
the latest in the Spider-Man franchise. In fact, I was
the first featured hijab-wearing person in a Marvel
movie. Being at SOAS gave me that strength to speak
out about diversity and have the platform I have today.
It enabled me to dig much deeper into those cultural
norms. When you learn why something has happened,
you can start to change it.
It was a comfortable environment,
and I could see people of all cultures,
ages and backgrounds. It seemed
very inclusive. And when I started,
I was right. It was more than the
people though – there was a real
diversity of thought there too.
36 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 37SOAS Stories
Dr. Richard Williams
Lecturer in Ethnomusicology
Richard loves teaching a SOAS had been a dream destination of mine long
before I started teaching here. Since I research Indian
passionate community of music and South Asian cultural history, there really is
no better setting for my work. Everyone comes here
students that is both incredibly for a reason and this creates a really strong sense of
community: we all take it for granted that the world
diverse, whilst sharing a broad is a very large place and worth exploring with an
global outlook. open mind and a willingness to challenge our own
assumptions. When I visit other universities and say
I teach Indian classical singing or Urdu poetry, I’m
often faced with surprise. By contrast, there is
nothing unusual about wanting to explore these
deep and rich subjects at SOAS.
It feels like a cosy village within a very large city.
I’m particularly struck by the advantages of the
scale of SOAS. We are a small community, but far
from parochial: my students come from all around
the world, from Chile to Japan, and even everyday
conversations in class can turn into eye-opening
exchanges, enriched by personal and global insights.
My students reap the benefits of some
exceptional facilities.
These include a state-of-the-art recording
studio, a radio station, an internationally-renowned
museum gallery, and an extremely eclectic musical
instrument collection. Most of our visitors ask to see
our gamelan – a percussive ensemble from Southeast
Asia – but often end up entranced by the koras from
Mali or the Korean kayakeums.
As a lecturer, I relish learning something new every
day, just by hearing what my colleagues and students
SOAS is a genuinely unique are working on, from Cambodian sculpture to popular
institution, and we offer courses music in the Congo.
that you simply will not find
anywhere else. I recommend
coming here with a very open mind
and finding your own path through
the world as seen by SOAS.
38 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 39SOAS Stories
Dr. Sîan Hawthorne
Senior Lecturer – Philosophy,
Religion and Politics
Sîan studied at SOAS as an I was offered jobs elsewhere, but SOAS was more
cutting edge. The student body is very open and the
undergraduate, then as a level of discussion is much deeper. It’s a really lively
campus, and the lack of hierarchy between students
postgraduate, and is now a and staff lends itself to a better environment – one
where I’m always challenged. Everyone benefits.
senior lecturer here. Read Students have a huge amount of input in how I think
what sets SOAS apart for her. about things. They’ll say something that provokes or
gives a different perspective.
I find graduations incredibly moving.
I often sit on the stage to see my students graduate.
They may come from difficult backgrounds, so then to
see them triumph with a huge smile on their face and
making their families proud, is such a moving thing.
I keep in touch with lots of students from across the
globe. They’re making a difference in the world. It
helps me see what’s possible. Not just talking about
ideas, but seeing the real-life application of what we
learn about. Everything in the classroom affects what
you do outside it. It’s part of what makes our students
highly employable.
The SOAS Library is special.
There’s nothing like it anywhere in the world. The
Student Union is a jewel too. There’s so much going
on, with workshops, seminars, and music events.
SOAS is quite small, so there are lots of opportunities
to meet. There’s a collegial feel, and staff aren’t distant
to students. Everyone’s much more connected.
My advice is to visit the campus, and don’t feel you
can’t approach or email people. You can get a feel
for whether it’s the right place for you by talking to
If you’re interested in the wider people. Just ask!
world, different cultures and new
ways of looking at things, come to
SOAS. I’m proud that people are
impressed I work here. As SOAS is
considered a world leader, it really
marks you out if you’ve been there.
It’s an accolade.
40 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 41Degree programmes
Our degrees are taught by dedicated
and passionate academics. Discover
the degree that suits you best from
our wide range of expertise.
Africa������������������������������������������������������������������� 44
Anthropology and Sociology������������������������� 46
China������������������������������������������������������������������� 48
Creative Arts������������������������������������������������������ 50
Development Studies���������������������������������������52
Economics��������������������������������������������������������� 54
Finance and Management������������������������������ 56
Foundation Year������������������������������������������������ 58
History���������������������������������������������������������������� 60
History of Art and Archaeology��������������������� 62
Japan������������������������������������������������������������������ 64
Korea������������������������������������������������������������������� 66
Law���������������������������������������������������������������������� 68
Liberal Arts��������������������������������������������������������� 70
Linguistics�����������������������������������������������������������72
Music��������������������������������������������������������������������74
Near and Middle East����������������������������������������76
Politics and International Studies�������������������78
Religions and Philosophies����������������������������� 80
South Asia���������������������������������������������������������� 82
South East Asia�������������������������������������������������� 84
University of London Joint
Degree with BA French����������������������������������� 86
Degree combination table����������������������������� 88
42 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 43Africa
Study an African language with Courses:
• BA Languages & Cultures
teaching staff who have unrivalled • BA Languages and Cultures and…
(see pages 88-89)
expertise, first-hand experience,
and an infectious passion for Duration:
• 3 years (OR)
their subject. • 4 years with a language
You’ll need:
Learn from the very best, as you study a fascinating African • AAB-ABB (excluding General Studies)
language of your choice, including Swahili, Zulu, and Yorùbá. • IB:35 (6/6/5 in Higher Level subjects)
This will open the door for you to gain a richer understanding
of the diverse cultures of Africa, such as literature in English You’ll gain:
and African languages, as well as African film and philosophy. • The practical skills of careful listening
Our aim is for you to develop a breadth of knowledge and
Global
and acquiring languages.
new perspectives. That’s why we also offer a choice of options
• The intellectual skills of examining
from an unparalleled range of other disciplines, such as
and evaluating cultures and theories.
religious studies, anthropology, art, archaeology, performance,
and history. By the end of your programme, you’ll be delighted • Highly employable skills such as being
able to confidently research, analyse,
Top 100
at your language fluency, inspired by the diverse African —————
culture, and poised for success in a range of careers or communicate and solve problems in For Languages*
further study options. a range of scenarios.
Where our graduates go:
• UNDP
• The Black Curriculum
• BBC World
• Ernst & Young
• Cafod
• Edelman
More information:
� soas.ac.uk/africa
*QS 2021 World University Rankings
44 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 45Anthropology
and Sociology
Help to change the world by Courses:
• BA Social Anthropology
gaining a deep understanding • BA Social Anthropology and…
(see pages 88-89)
of its cultures, communities
and complexities. Duration:
• 3 years (OR)
• 4 years with a language
Join one of the UK’s most respected social and cultural
anthropology departments, and benefit from the world-class You’ll need:
expertise of our anthropologists – all focused on widening your • AAB-ABB (excluding General Studies)
horizons. Learning from experts in Asian, African and Middle • IB:35 (6/6/5 in Higher Level subjects)
Eastern cultures, you’ll gain a broad education in anthropology,
an infectious curiosity about the world and the tools you need You’ll gain:
to engage with urgent global issues. Developing alongside • Knowledge of anthropological concepts,
academics and students who are passionate about social justice data collection methods and analysis.
and climate change, you’ll grow at the heart of a like-minded, • Understanding of the peoples, cultures and
international community. societies of Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
• Lateral thinking, critical reasoning, research
Flexibly structuring your course through a wide choice of
and presentation skills.
16TH
compelling modules, including languages, you’ll thrive on an
interesting blend of theory-based teaching, with practical and
Where our graduates go:
research-led elements too.
• Deloitte —————
In the world for
• The New York Times
Anthropology*
• Hackney Migrant Centre
• Saatchi Gallery
• The Week
• BBC Media Action
More information:
� soas.ac.uk/anthropology
*QS 2021 World University Rankings
46 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 47China
7th in
UK
—————
For East Asian Studies*
Study Chinese languages and Courses:
• BA Chinese
cultures on courses that are more • BA Chinese and…
(see pages 88-89)
thorough, extensive and immersive • BA East Asian Studies
than anywhere else in the UK. • BA East Asian Studies and...
Duration:
Our incredibly diverse range of expertise in the languages • 4 years (OR)
and literatures in China, Tibet and other Asian regions is • 3 years - BA Chinese Studies
unique in the UK. With more than 50 wide-ranging China
experts, unrivalled library resources and the country’s largest You’ll need:
choice of China-related language and discipline modules, • AAB-ABB (excluding General Studies)
you’ll lay the best possible foundations for success. • IB:35 (6/6/5 in Higher Level subjects)
To give you a solid grounding, your first year will be more No prior knowledge of Chinese is required.
structured – with greater freedom and a huge choice in the
following years. Language modules focus on practical skills, You’ll gain:
whilst others, such as literature, film and cultural studies, •L anguage, listening, research,
centre more on theory. Chinese is a fascinating language – communication and critical
and one which you’ll be able to read, speak, understand thinking skills.
and write fluently.
• The ability to examine and evaluate
cultures and theories.
•K nowledge of language, translation,
East Asian civilisations, Chinese-language
literatures, cinema, theatre and
popular culture.
Where our graduates go:
• Google
• UNDP
• Bloomberg LP
• Nanjing Museum
• ITN
• PwC
• KPMG
More information:
� soas.ac.uk/cia
*Complete University Guide 2021
48 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 49Creative Arts
Discover the freedom of creativity Course:
• BA Creative Arts and Cultural Industries
across an array of disciplines,
Duration:
underpinned by fascinating theory • 3 years
around global history, society You’ll need:
and culture. • A AB-ABB (excluding General Studies)
• IB:35 (6/6/5 in Higher Level subjects)
Creative Arts here is unique. You’ll thrive in a creative You’ll gain:
environment that offers huge scope to hone your craft, whilst • Knowledge and expertise across
developing the critical thinking, communication and vocational disciplines including art history,
skills needed for a successful career in the creative industries. music, performing arts, film,
media, and literature.
We combine a heady mix of theoretical teaching, creative • Employable skills and a creative portfolio.
expression and deep subject knowledge – all across your
choice of disciplines, styles and regions that include Africa,
• Exposure to notable academics.
• Work placement opportunities.
Global
Asia and the Middle East. The range of modules we offer is
exceptional – and rare. Choosing a broad selection of arts,
Where our graduates go:
Top 50
or focusing on one, you’ll produce anything from a musical —————
• Christine Park Gallery
performance, film, podcast or piece of creative writing, to For Arts and
exhibition and festival designs. • Hydrogen Humanities*
• Japanese Gallery
• KUONI Global Travel Services
• Somerset House Trust
More information:
�s
oas.ac.uk/soasoas/programmes/
ba-creative-arts
*QS 2021 World University Rankings
50 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 51Development Studies
International politics, economics, Courses:
• BA Global Development
migration, climate change and • BA Global Development and...
(see pages 88-89)
conflict are all pressing global
issues, ever changing – and at Duration:
• 3 years (OR)
the core of our programme. • 4 years with a language
You’ll need:
Focused on power, inequality and change, we do more than • A AA-AAB (excluding General Studies)
support our students to identify some of the biggest challenges • IB:37 (6/6/6 in Higher Level subjects)
facing today’s global community. We’ll equip you to address
them head on, through specialist knowledge, robust policies You’ll gain:
and nuanced responses. By the time you graduate, you’ll • Professional knowledge and experience
have a deep understanding of the causes of social, political
5TH
through innovative learning techniques
and economic transformation around the world. Presenting on campus and online, internships,
an authentic and refreshingly global view, we ensure that placements and more.
you are able to critique mainstream and Western theories of —————
• The chance to choose ‘open option’ In the world
development, and crucially, offer alternatives. Here, you’ll be
modules in other departments, for Development
informed and inspired by academics with experience of shaping
including languages. Studies*
policy, and research in areas such as politics, anthropology,
sociology, economics, conflict and the environment – often • The ability to debate contemporary
focused on Africa, Asia or the Middle East. global development and present
concepts and arguments.
Where our graduates go:
• UNICEF
• Sunday Times
• BBC World Service
• CAFOD
• Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi
• Room to Heal
• The CIFA Trust
• The Fostering Network
• United Nations High Commissioner
for Refugees
More information:
� soas.ac.uk/development
*QS 2021 World University Rankings
52 soas.ac.uk soas.ac.uk 53You can also read
