SOAS University of London

Overview

The MA in History of Art, Architecture & Material Culture at SOAS University of London offers a comprehensive exploration of the visual arts, architecture, and material culture across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. This programme emphasizes critical thinking and research-led teaching, equipping students with theoretical and methodological skills essential for studying art history, museums, and cultural heritage.

What you'll study

The programme structure encompasses core themes that include art theory, museums and museology, and critical approaches to regional histories. Students will also engage with anthropological methods to support historical analysis of visual culture.

Indicative modules/courses

• Theories of Art
• Museums and Museology
• Decolonising the Arts
• Anthropology Through History
• Theory in Anthropology
• Regional Perspectives in Anthropology
• Careers in the Humanities

Assessment and independent work

Students will be assessed through a combination of essays, critical writing, and research-based coursework. A focus on sustained research and advanced academic argumentation will be expected, along with source-based analysis.

Note: Module titles and availability may vary. For the latest curriculum details, please refer to the official SOAS programme page.

Entry requirements

Applicants should generally possess a relevant undergraduate degree in a related discipline, such as art history, humanities, or social sciences. Specific entry grades and degree equivalencies will be assessed by SOAS.

There is typically no GRE/GMAT requirement for this programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in History of Art, Architecture & Material Culture will be well-prepared for a variety of career paths within the arts and cultural heritage sectors. Potential opportunities include roles in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and academic research, where critical engagement with material culture is increasingly valued.