Research Degrees (MPhil/PhD) in South Asian Studies

Program Overview

SOAS offers research degrees (MPhil/PhD) in South Asian Studies, providing students with the skills and knowledge to conduct original research in diverse areas related to the region. The program fosters a vibrant research environment with leading scholars, comprehensive research training, and opportunities for collaboration. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, research, and various sectors with interests in South Asia.

Program Outline

Research Degrees (MPhil/PhD) in South Asian Studies at SOAS

Degree Overview

SOAS, University of London offers research degrees (MPhil/PhD) in South Asian Studies, providing an opportunity for students to delve into diverse research areas related to the region. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct original research and contribute to the field of South Asian Studies.

Key Features

• Research areas encompass a wide range of topics, including Indian film and screen studies, diaspora studies, postcolonial literature, literary studies in Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, and Sanskrit, classical Hinduism, feminism, translation, and contemporary representations of Muslims, among others.
• The program fosters a vibrant research environment with leading scholars in the field.
• Students receive comprehensive research training through the Faculty-wide first-year research training seminar and specialized training offered by the Centre for Cultural, Literary and Postcolonial Studies (CCLPS).
• Opportunities for collaboration with colleagues in other departments and centers are available.
• The program boasts successful research projects funded by prestigious organizations like the European Research Council (ERC) and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

Outline

• Students admitted to the program are initially registered as MPhil students.
• Students are assigned a supervisory committee consisting of a primary supervisor and two additional supervisors.
• The first year involves intensive research training through the Faculty-wide research training seminar series and specialized training offered by the Centre for Cultural, Literary and Postcolonial Studies (CCLPS).
• Students are encouraged to participate in additional taught courses relevant to their research and training needs.
• During the second year, students dedicate themselves to research activities, including fieldwork and research in libraries and material collection.
• The third year (or part-time equivalent) is dedicated to writing up research for the PhD thesis.
• Students are required to present their research findings in departmental research seminars.
• The PhD thesis must be completed within 48 months from the time of registration.

Assessment

• The upgrade from MPhil to PhD status is based on an assessment of the core chapter by the student's research committee and a 20-30 minute oral presentation.
• The PhD thesis is assessed by two leading authorities in the field.

Teaching

• The program offers comprehensive research training through the Faculty-wide first-year research training seminar series and specialized training offered by the Centre for Cultural, Literary and Postcolonial Studies (CCLPS).
• Students receive guidance and support from their individual supervisory committee.
• Opportunities for collaboration with other departments and centers provide students with exposure to diverse perspectives and research methodologies.

Careers

Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in academia, research, government, non-governmental organizations, cultural institutions, and private sector organizations with interests in South Asia.

Other

• The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds and fosters a stimulating and supportive research environment.
• SOAS Library, one of the world's leading academic libraries for the study of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, provides students with access to a vast collection of resources.
• The program offers scholarships and funding opportunities for eligible students.

Additional Notes

• The provided information is based on the 2023/24 academic year and may be subject to change.

Home student fees (full-time): £4,860 per year Home student fees (part-time): £2,430 per year Overseas student fees (full-time): £22,490 per year Overseas student fees (part-time): £11,245 per year Please note that fees go up each year.