SOAS University of London
United Kingdom
SOAS University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies) is a unique public research university and a constituent college of the University of London. It is globally renowned as a leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, offering expertise in languages, cultures, law, politics, economics, and arts of these regions. SOAS is known for its critical, specialist scholarship and highly international community.
University Overview
Founded in 1916 as the School of Oriental Studies, it was established to train British administrators and commercial agents for overseas postings, initially focusing on Asia. It expanded its remit to include Africa in 1938, becoming the School of Oriental and African Studies. Its iconic Brutalist building in Bloomsbury opened in 1973. While its origins were linked to colonial administration, SOAS has evolved into a world-leading centre for critical and post-colonial studies, promoting a deep understanding of the Global South. It was granted a Royal Charter in 1976.
