School of Oriental and African Studies

School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS): A Comprehensive Overview

1. Introduction

The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), part of the University of London, is one of the world’s leading institutions for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Founded in 1916, SOAS is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The institution has a unique mission to promote global understanding by focusing on regions and cultures often overlooked by mainstream academic institutions, particularly those in the global South.

This comprehensive report will explore the history, academic programs, notable alumni, research excellence, campus life, and international influence of SOAS, underscoring its importance as a center for the study of global cultures, languages, politics, and economies.

2. History of School of Oriental and African Studies

A. Founding and Early Years

Its primary objective was to train colonial administrators, diplomats, and military personnel in the languages and cultures of the British Empire, particularly in the regions of Asia and the Middle East. At the time, Britain’s empire extended across vast territories in these regions, and there was a growing need for civil servants and professionals who could effectively engage with the local populations.

Initially focused on language training and area studies, the School grew rapidly, expanding its academic scope to include subjects such as history, anthropology, and politics. In 1938, the School was renamed the School of Oriental and African Studies to reflect its growing focus on the study of African cultures and languages.

B. Post-War Expansion and Development

After World War II, School of Oriental and African Studies underwent significant expansion. The post-colonial era brought new challenges and opportunities, with a growing demand for academic expertise on regions that had gained independence. School of Oriental and African Studies responded by expanding its curriculum to include not only the study of languages and cultures but also broader social, political, and economic issues facing these regions.

During this time, SOAS gained an international reputation as a center for excellence in the study of the global South. It attracted students and scholars from around the world, particularly from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, fostering a vibrant, multicultural academic community.

C. Modern Era and Global Influence

In recent decades, School of Oriental and African Studies has continued to evolve in response to global changes. The School has maintained its interdisciplinary approach to education, offering programs that integrate the study of culture, language, politics, and economics. With the rise of globalization, SOAS has become a key institution for understanding global interconnectedness, social justice, and international relations, particularly in the context of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Today, SOAS is recognized as a leading institution for the study of non-Western cultures, and its academic programs attract students from over 130 countries. The School’s commitment to fostering global understanding and promoting social justice remains at the core of its mission.

3. Academic Programs in School of Oriental and African Studies

School of Oriental and African Studies offers a diverse range of academic programs that reflect its interdisciplinary approach to education. The School’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the regions of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as the tools to engage with global issues such as development, human rights, migration, and international law.

A. Undergraduate Programs

At the undergraduate level, SOAS offers Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees in a wide variety of disciplines, including:

• Languages and Cultures: SOAS is known for its extensive language programs, offering instruction in over 40 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Persian, Swahili, and Yoruba. Students in these programs are trained in both language skills and the cultural contexts in which these languages are spoken.
• Politics and International Relations: This program focuses on political systems, international diplomacy, conflict resolution, and the role of global organizations, with a special focus on non-Western political traditions and movements.
• History and Anthropology: SOAS offers courses that explore the histories and social structures of Asian, African, and Middle Eastern societies, from ancient civilizations to contemporary global dynamics.
• Economics and Development Studies: SOAS places a strong emphasis on understanding economic development, inequality, and the role of global institutions in shaping economic policies in the global South.

B. Postgraduate Programs

School of Oriental and African Studies offers a range of Master’s programs across various disciplines, including:

• MA in International Studies and Diplomacy: This program equips students with the theoretical and practical tools needed to engage in diplomacy, international negotiations, and global governance.
• MSc in Development Studies: Focusing on the challenges of economic and social development, this program explores the role of international organizations, government policies, and grassroots movements in shaping development outcomes in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• MA in Gender Studies: SOAS is a leader in gender studies, offering programs that examine gender relations, feminism, and social justice, particularly in the context of non-Western societies.

In addition to its Master’s programs, SOAS offers research degrees at the MPhil and PhD levels, allowing students to pursue advanced study in areas such as cultural studies, international relations, anthropology, and linguistics.

C. Language Programs in School of Oriental and African Studies

One of the unique aspects of School of Oriental and African Studies is its extensive focus on language education. The School offers instruction in over 40 languages, many of which are rarely taught in Western academic institutions. Students can pursue language study as part of their degree program or through short courses and intensive summer programs. These language programs are complemented by cultural courses that provide context for the languages being studied.

SOAS is particularly well-known for its Language Centre, which offers courses in Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Persian, and many African languages. The Language Centre serves both degree students and members of the public, contributing to the School’s mission of promoting cross-cultural understanding.

4. Research Excellence

SOAS is widely recognized for its research excellence, particularly in the fields of development studies, anthropology, law, and linguistics. The School’s faculty members are leading experts in their fields, conducting groundbreaking research on topics such as human rights, migration, environmental sustainability, and conflict resolution.

A. Development Studies

The Department of Development Studies at SOAS is one of the largest and most influential in the world. It focuses on the challenges facing developing countries, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Research topics include poverty reduction, sustainable development, global trade, and the role of international organizations such as the World Bank and the United Nations.

B. Human Rights and Law

School of Oriental and African Studies is home to the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy (CISD), which conducts research on international law, human rights, and global governance. CISD scholars work closely with international organizations, governments, and NGOs to promote human rights and conflict resolution in regions affected by war and political instability.

C. Anthropology and Cultural Studies

The Department of Anthropology at School of Oriental and African Studies is renowned for its ethnographic research, particularly in Africa and Asia. SOAS anthropologists study topics such as migration, identity, religion, and the impact of globalization on local cultures. The School’s interdisciplinary approach allows anthropologists to collaborate with historians, linguists, and political scientists, enriching the scope of their research.

D. Linguistics

School of Oriental and African Studies is a global leader in the study of linguistics, particularly in the context of endangered languages. The Endangered Languages Documentation Programme (ELDP) is one of the most important initiatives at School of Oriental and African Studies, dedicated to preserving and documenting languages that are at risk of extinction. Through fieldwork and linguistic analysis, SOAS researchers are working to ensure that these languages are preserved for future generations.

5. Campus Life and Facilities

A. The Vernon Square Campus and Main Building

SOAS is based in Bloomsbury, central London, with its main building located on Thornhaugh Street. The campus is situated near other prestigious institutions such as the British Museum and University College London, giving students access to a rich intellectual and cultural environment.

In addition to the main campus, School of Oriental and African Studies also has facilities at Vernon Square, which houses the School’s Language Centre and additional teaching spaces. The Brunei Gallery on the main campus is a focal point for exhibitions and public events that highlight the art and cultures of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

B. Library and Resources

The SOAS Library is one of the most comprehensive libraries in the world for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It contains over 1.5 million volumes and archival materials, including rare manuscripts, historical documents, and maps. The library’s resources are invaluable for both students and researchers, offering access to materials that are often unavailable elsewhere.

C. Student Societies and Events

SOAS has a vibrant student community, with a wide range of student-run societies that reflect the School’s commitment to social justice, cultural understanding, and activism. Some of the most popular student societies include the SOAS Feminist Society, SOAS Debating Society, and the SOAS Environmental Movement.

The School also hosts regular events, lectures, and conferences that bring together scholars, activists, and policymakers to discuss global issues. Notable speakers who have visited SOAS include Nelson Mandela, Noam Chomsky, and Tariq Ali.

6. International Influence and Partnerships

SOAS has a significant international presence, with partnerships and collaborations with universities and institutions around the world. These partnerships enable SOAS to facilitate student exchanges, joint research projects, and collaborative academic programs.

A. Student Exchanges

School of Oriental and African Studies participates in the Erasmus+ program, allowing students to study at partner universities in Europe. The School also has exchange agreements with universities in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, giving students the opportunity to gain firsthand experience of the regions they are studying.

B. Global Impact in School of Oriental and African Studies

School of Oriental and African Studies alumni have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields, including diplomacy, journalism, academia, and international development. Notable alumni include:

• Paul Robeson Jr., activist and son of civil rights leader Paul Robeson.
• Zeinab Badawi, BBC journalist and television presenter.
• David Lammy, British MP and former Minister for Higher Education.

SOAS’s commitment to promoting global understanding and addressing the challenges facing the global South has made it a key player on the world stage.

7. Conclusion

The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) is an institution unlike any other in the world. Its interdisciplinary approach, commitment to social justice, and focus on the global South make it a leader in the fields of language, culture, politics, and development. Whether through its academic programs, cutting-edge research, or vibrant student community, SOAS continues to make a profound impact on the global stage. For students interested in understanding the complexities of the modern world and its diverse cultures, SOAS offers a unique and enriching academic experience.

 

In case, if you need help with Homestay and Guardianship for students in order to study in School of Oriental and African Studies or other schools in the UK, please fill in application below or contact us directly.