Overview
SOAS University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies) is a public research university established in 1916 and based in central London. It specialises in the study of Africa, Asia and the Middle East across arts, humanities, social sciences, languages and law. SOAS aims to expand understanding of global cultures, economies and societies through research-led education.
Mission and focus areas
The university’s mission centres on offering specialist academic insight into regions often under-represented in global discourse, fostering critical perspectives on world challenges. SOAS conducts interdisciplinary research and teaching to address issues including development, politics, culture, economies and sustainability. It has committed to embedding sustainability in operations and curriculum, working towards net zero emissions by 2040 and emphasising ecological and social justice, climate change and sustainable development in research and education.
Structure and governance
SOAS operates as a constituent college of the University of London with a governance framework including a Board of Trustees and senior executive leadership responsible for strategy, academic standards and institutional oversight. Its academic structure groups departments and schools into colleges covering humanities, social sciences and law, supported by research centres and institutes. These include specialist units focusing on sustainable structural transformation, development and environment policy, and regional studies.
Programs and offerings
SOAS delivers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes, including degrees in development studies, economics, law, languages and sustainability-related fields such as Global Sustainability. Its research outputs span interdisciplinary scholarship on cultural, economic and environmental topics. The university also offers public engagement resources including a major specialist library and cultural exhibitions, providing valuable resources for academics and practitioners.
