School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London

What you'll study

First-year teaching introduces arts, music and cultural industries of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. In years two and three students deepen critical theory and research abilities and complete a Capstone Project designed by the student. Learning covers visual and literary analysis, cultural journalism, event organisation, media production, sound recording and/or musical performance, with opportunities to shape study around regional or thematic interests across SOAS.

Entry requirements

Typical A level offers are BBB, with a contextual offer of BBC. For joint degrees where the partner subject has higher requirements, the higher offer applies; available combinations span ranges from AAB–BBB. Applicants considering the optional year abroad must achieve 55% or higher in their first year to be eligible; study-abroad selection is by academic merit and personal statement and is subject to availability.

Career prospects

The degree aims to develop transferable skills sought in the creative and cultural industries, including intercultural awareness, project management and media production. SOAS cites recent graduate employers across museums, galleries, arts organisations, diplomacy and the commercial art market, including Christie’s, Design Museum, National Gallery, Somerset House Trust, Sotheby’s, the Royal Collection and various museums and cultural charities.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

SOAS publishes annual fee figures; for 2026/27 entrants the full-time home undergraduate fee is listed as £9,790 and the overseas fee as £23,780. There is a specific fee for a language year abroad and separate guidance on undergraduate fees and funding on the SOAS website. Prospective students should consult SOAS Careers and funding pages for scholarships, bursaries and fee details.