School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London

What you'll study

Study begins with research training modules organised by the SOAS Doctoral School and departmental research training seminars. In year 1 students prepare a 5,000-word submission for the Doctoral School Common Core Research Module and, by mid-May (full-time), a core chapter and research proposal of about 10,000 words that forms the basis for upgrade to PhD. That core chapter typically addresses research rationale, main questions, literature review, theoretical and methodological framework, proposed methods, ethics where applicable, dissertation structure, timetable and bibliography. Subsequent years focus on fieldwork and data collection (year 2) and writing up the thesis (year 3). Students complete a data management plan, online Research Ethics training, regular supervisory meetings and present at departmental research seminars. The final thesis must not exceed 100,000 words and must be completed within 48 months of registration (or part-time equivalent); examination is by two external examiners.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires at least a 2.1 bachelor's degree (or equivalent) plus a relevant Masters degree and one reference. Exceptional applicants who do not meet these criteria may be considered if they demonstrate a strong Masters performance and/or substantial relevant work experience. International applicants should consult SOAS Doctoral School English language requirements.

Career prospects

The programme prepares students for research-oriented careers: academic posts, language documentation and descriptive linguistics, comparative linguistics, roles in translation and language teaching/pedagogy, and other positions where advanced research skills in linguistic analysis are needed. The department's strengths in Asian, African and Middle Eastern languages support projects with regional and typological specialisms.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Funding is not detailed on this page; prospective applicants should review SOAS Doctoral School funding pages and external doctoral scholarships. Consider university studentships, national research councils and fieldwork grants to support data collection and living costs; check eligibility and deadlines early.