Religions of Asia and Africa

The BA in Religions of Asia and Africa at SOAS University of London offers an in-depth exploration of the rich religious landscapes across two of the most diverse and historically significant continents. This interdisciplinary programme enables students to engage critically with traditional and contemporary religious practices, beliefs, texts, and institutions originating from Asia and Africa. Through a multidisciplinary approach combining history, anthropology, theology, and cultural studies, students will gain a nuanced understanding of how religion shapes societies, influences politics, and interacts with issues of identity, globalization, and social change within these regions. The curriculum covers a wide array of religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, Christianity, indigenous faiths, and new religious movements, providing a comprehensive overview of their historical development and contemporary relevance. Students will have opportunities to study sacred texts, rituals, philosophical doctrines, and religious art, as well as examine the role of religion in issues such as gender, minorities, and human rights. The programme emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and ethnographic research methods, preparing students to critically analyze religious phenomena and contribute to academic debates on cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue, and religious tolerance. Located in the vibrant academic environment of SOAS, renowned for its specialization in Asian and African studies, the programme also encourages language acquisition and fieldwork, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Graduates of the BA in Religions of Asia and Africa are equipped for careers in academia, international development, policy analysis, religious counselling, intercultural communication, and beyond. Whether you are interested in understanding the spiritual foundations of Asian and African societies or exploring the complex ways religion intersects with contemporary global issues, this programme offers a unique platform to develop your knowledge and critical thinking skills in a dynamic international setting.

The BA in Religions of Asia and Africa is a comprehensive program designed to explore the rich spiritual, cultural, and historical traditions of two of the most diverse regions in the world. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will examine the diverse religious landscapes, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Indigenous beliefs, and new religious movements that have shaped societies across Asia and Africa. The program emphasizes critical engagement with primary sources, contemporary debates, and fieldwork opportunities, providing students with a nuanced understanding of how religion influences social, political, and economic life in these regions.

Students will gain expertise in the key texts, rituals, practices, and ethical frameworks of major religious traditions. They will also study the historical development of religions within their cultural and geographical contexts, analyzing how religions have transformed over time and interacted with local customs, political institutions, and global processes. The program encourages interdisciplinary methods, combining insights from anthropology, history, theology, and political studies to foster a holistic understanding of religious phenomena.

The curriculum includes core modules on the history and doctrines of Asian and African religions, alongside options for specialized study in areas such as religious art and architecture, gender and religion, contemporary religious movements, and religious conflict and peacebuilding. Students are encouraged to engage with practical research methods and develop their analytical skills through essays, presentations, and independent projects.

Study trips, guest lectures by leading scholars and practitioners, and access to extensive library resources enhance the learning experience. The program also offers opportunities for fieldwork and internships, allowing students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Graduates will be equipped with the analytical tools and cultural insights necessary for careers in academia, international organizations, cultural heritage management, NGO work, journalism, or further postgraduate research.

By the end of the program, students will possess a comprehensive understanding of the diverse religious traditions of Asia and Africa, their historical trajectories, and their contemporary significance. They will be prepared to engage thoughtfully with religious issues in both scholarly and practical contexts, contributing to cross-cultural understanding and intercultural dialogue worldwide.

Program requirements for the BA/MA in Religions of Asia and Africa typically include a combination of core modules, elective courses, and independent research components. Students are expected to complete foundational courses in the history, literature, and practices of Asian and African religions, which may cover topics such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, indigenous religions, and philosophical traditions. Advanced modules often involve detailed case studies, methodological approaches, and thematic investigations into religious movements, rituals, and societal impacts within diverse cultural contexts.

In addition to coursework, students usually undertake a research dissertation or final project, demonstrating their ability to conduct independent scholarly investigation on a specific topic related to Asian or African religions. Language proficiency requirements may be part of the program, with students encouraged or required to study relevant languages such as Sanskrit, Pali, Arabic, or other regional languages to access primary sources and deepen their understanding of religious texts and practices. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating perspectives from anthropology, history, theology, and philology.

Attendance and participation in seminars, workshops, and discussion groups are essential components of the program, fostering critical thinking and engagement with current scholarly debates. Students are often required to pass assessments including essays, presentations, and exams, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the material covered. Prerequisites may include previous coursework in religious studies or related fields, depending on the student's background.

Overall, the program aims to equip students with a thorough knowledge of the religious traditions studied, analytical skills to interpret religious phenomena, and the capacity to engage critically with contemporary issues related to religion in Asian and African societies. Successful completion of the program prepares graduates for careers in academia, cultural consultancy, intercultural dialogue, or further postgraduate research.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Religions of Asia and Africa program at SOAS University of London is primarily structured through a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, and financial support options available to students. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with international students typically paying higher rates compared to home/EU students. The university offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities aimed at supporting postgraduate students, including those enrolled in religious studies programs. These scholarships can significantly offset the cost of tuition and living expenses, making the program more accessible to a diverse student body. In addition to scholarships, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government grants, private foundations, and international organizations focused on education in religious studies. The university's financial aid office provides guidance on application processes and eligibility criteria for various funding options. For students requiring financial planning, SOAS offers various student loans and payment plans to facilitate manageable tuition fee payments over the course of the program. International students may also consider specific scholarships tailored to their regions or countries of origin, which are advertised on the university's official website. The total cost of attendance includes tuition fees, accommodation, books, supplies, and personal expenses, with estimates provided to help students plan their budgets accordingly. The program's structure and ongoing financial support aim to ensure that students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial hardship. As financial circumstances vary widely among students, the university encourages early application for funding and proactive financial planning to make participation in the Religions of Asia and Africa program feasible and sustainable.

The Religions of Asia and Africa program at SOAS University of London offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse religious traditions that have shaped the continents of Asia and Africa throughout history and into the modern era. This programme provides students with the opportunity to study a wide range of religious practices, beliefs, texts, and institutions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, traditional African religions, and other indigenous faiths. The curriculum is designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the historical developments, cultural contexts, theological concepts, and social influences of these religions, encouraging critical thinking and intercultural awareness.

Students engaged in this programme are introduced to key concepts in religious studies, including ritual practices, religious philosophy, sacred texts, and ethical frameworks. They also examine the role of religion in shaping societies, politics, art, and literature across regions. The programme emphasizes comparative analysis, allowing students to identify similarities and differences between different religious traditions, as well as their interactions and syncretic developments over time.

Fieldwork and internships may be included to give students practical experience and insight into contemporary religious communities. The programme also explores contemporary issues such as religious identity, reform movements, globalization, and interfaith dialogue, equipping graduates with relevant skills to work in academic, cultural, diplomatic, or NGO contexts. Assessment methods typically involve essays, examinations, presentations, and research projects, with opportunities for specialization in specific regional or thematic areas.

The programme is suitable for students interested in history, anthropology, theology, politics, or cultural studies, and aims to produce graduates with a nuanced understanding of the religious fabric of Asia and Africa. The faculty comprises experts in various religious traditions and offers robust academic support to help students develop their research interests and academic careers. Overall, the Religions of Asia and Africa programme at SOAS provides a rigorous and enriching academic experience for those eager to explore the spiritual and cultural landscapes of these vibrant regions.