BSc African and Development Studies

The Bachelor of Science in African and Development Studies at SOAS University of London offers students an in-depth understanding of the diverse social, political, economic, and cultural dynamics shaping the African continent. This comprehensive programme combines multidisciplinary approaches to explore Africa's history, contemporary challenges, and opportunities for development. Students will engage with a wide range of subjects, including political economy, anthropology, history, and environmental studies, tailored specifically to African contexts. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of development theories and practices, preparing graduates for careers in policy, research, international development, NGOs, or further academic study. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork, internships, and research projects that deepen their engagement with real-world issues affecting Africa today. The programme also encourages linguistic and cultural immersion, offering language modules and opportunities for regional specialization. With its global reputation and diverse academic community, SOAS provides a vibrant learning environment that fosters intercultural dialogue and a comprehensive perspective on African development issues. The BSc in African and Development Studies aims to produce graduates who are informed, critically engaged, and equipped with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and social justice across Africa and beyond.

The African Studies program at SOAS University of London offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse societies, cultures, histories, and contemporary issues across the African continent. Designed for students interested in understanding Africa’s complex dynamics, the program provides an interdisciplinary approach that combines history, politics, anthropology, economics, and linguistics to deliver a well-rounded education. Students will have the opportunity to study indigenous African languages, engage with primary sources, and analyze contemporary social and political developments. The program emphasizes critical thinking and encourages students to examine issues such as development, governance, identity, migration, and conflict within African contexts.

Throughout the coursework, students will explore themes related to pre-colonial history, colonial impacts, and post-independence trajectories, gaining insights into Africa’s rich cultural heritage and ongoing transformations. The curriculum includes modules on African political systems, economic development, cultural expressions, arts, and literature, as well as environmental challenges and health issues facing the continent today. Fieldwork, research projects, and seminars with leading scholars provide practical experience and foster a deeper understanding of African societies.

The program is designed for students aiming to pursue careers in international development, policy analysis, academia, journalism, or non-governmental organizations working with or within Africa. With a combination of rigorous academic training and real-world applications, graduates of the African Studies program will emerge equipped with critical analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of Africa’s place in the global context. Students have the opportunity to participate in exchange programs, internships, and research collaborations, enhancing their practical experience and professional networks. The program prepares students not only to contribute to academic discourse but also to make meaningful impacts in development and policy arenas related to Africa.

Students enrolled in the BA African Studies programme are expected to complete a combination of core modules, optional modules, and a dissertation to achieve the required credits for graduation. The core modules typically include introductory courses that cover the history, culture, politics, and society of African countries, providing students with a foundational understanding of the continent's diversity and dynamics. Students are also encouraged to engage with language modules; proficiency in a relevant African language such as Swahili, Hausa, or Arabic is highly recommended and often a required part of the degree pathway, depending on the specialization chosen.

In addition to core modules, students select from a range of optional modules that allow them to tailor their studies to specific regions, themes, or disciplines within African Studies. These may include modules on African economics, development studies, gender and sexuality, religious traditions, or contemporary politics. To develop research skills, all students are required to undertake a dissertation project, which involves independent research under supervision. The dissertation typically explores a specialized topic related to African Studies and is expected to demonstrate critical engagement, analytical skills, and a solid understanding of relevant methodologies.

Assessment methods in the programme include essays, presentations, examinations, and the dissertation. The degree programme usually spans three years for full-time students, with part-time options available that extend the duration accordingly. Prerequisites for admission generally include a strong academic record and interest in African topics. Certain modules may have additional prerequisites or recommended background knowledge, such as previous study in politics, history, or languages. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in seminars,講座, and internships that complement their academic learning with practical experience and engagement with African communities and institutions.

The programme also emphasizes intercultural competence, critical thinking, and awareness of contemporary issues facing African nations. Graduates of the BA African Studies programme are equipped with a multidisciplinary understanding and analytical skills suitable for careers in academia, international organizations, NGOs, government, journalism, or further postgraduate study. The full requirements for completion, including the precise number of modules, credits, and assessment criteria, are detailed in the official programme handbook provided at registration.

The financing of the African Studies program at SOAS University of London is primarily supported through a combination of internal university funding, scholarships, bursaries, and external financial aid options. Students enrolling in this program are encouraged to explore a variety of funding opportunities to support their academic journey. SOAS offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for students pursuing their studies in African Studies, which may include merit-based awards, need-based bursaries, and country-specific scholarships aimed at students from African nations or those with a focus on African issues. Additionally, students can access government-funded student loans available through the UK Student Finance system, which provides tuition fee loans and maintenance loans to eligible students.

Prospective students are advised to apply early for scholarships and financial aid to maximize their chances of securing funding. The university also provides information and support on external funding sources, including grants from charitable organizations, research councils, and international aid agencies that support African-focused academic pursuits. Costs associated with the program include tuition fees, which are set annually by the university and vary depending on the student's domicile and residency status, as well as living expenses in London. Students are recommended to budget for accommodation, books, supplies, and other personal costs.

The university has dedicated financial aid officers who assist students with their funding applications and provide guidance on financial planning. International students should also consider visa requirements and associated costs, which can be significant. SOAS actively encourages diversity and accessibility, offering various financial assistance options to ensure that talented students from diverse backgrounds can participate in the African Studies program without undue financial burden. Overall, the program's financing structure is designed to support students throughout their academic careers, ensuring both financial accessibility and the opportunity to engage deeply with African issues and knowledge.

The BA in African Studies at SOAS University of London offers students a comprehensive understanding of the diverse cultures, histories, political systems, and societies across the African continent. The program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills and a nuanced perspective on contemporary issues facing Africa, including development, conflict, migration, and globalization. Students have the opportunity to study a range of topics such as African history, politics, economics, languages, and societies, often engaging with specialist modules that focus on specific regions, countries, or themes within Africa.

The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary learning, combining methods from history, anthropology, politics, and economics to provide a well-rounded academic experience. Students may also have the chance to study African languages, including Swahili, Hausa, Yoruba, or Amharic, which enhances their cultural understanding and employability in international fields. The program often includes opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and study abroad exchanges with partner institutions across Africa, fostering practical experience and global networking skills.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in international development, transnational organizations, journalism, diplomacy, academia, and other fields that require specialized knowledge of Africa. The program emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, research skills, and cultural sensitivity, preparing students for diverse professional environments. The faculty supporting the course are experts in African studies, bringing extensive research and field experience to their teaching.

Students can tailor their studies through a variety of elective modules and projects, enabling them to focus on regional, thematic, or methodological interests related to Africa. The program also encourages participation in seminars, conferences, and community engagements, which enrich academic learning and foster a deeper understanding of contemporary issues. Overall, the BA in African Studies at SOAS provides a rigorous and dynamic academic environment for students passionate about Africa and committed to making an impact in their future careers.