MA in Anthropology of Food and Intensive Language, SOAS University of London

24 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The MA Anthropology of Food with a 2-year intensive language pathway is designed for students eager to explore the cultural and historical aspects of food across various regions. It combines anthropological insights with the opportunity to achieve proficiency in a regional language, enabling students to apply their knowledge in specific cultural and geographic contexts. The course examines foodways from foraging to industrial agriculture, across continents including Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and South America. Students will analyze issues such as food production, exchange, and consumption, and their societal impacts, including debates on agricultural biotechnology, organic movements, and food safety. The programme encourages understanding how food influences human migration, regional cuisines, food fears, nutritional transitions, and environmental concerns, all from an anthropological perspective that challenges and complements other disciplines.

Why this course is highly recommended

SOAS is highly ranked for its anthropology programmes, being 6th in the UK and 19th worldwide, with strong employer reputation and academic standing. Graduates benefit from a flexible programme structure, optional modules from other departments, and a focus on regional language skills. The course prepares students for careers in government, international organizations, NGOs, and development agencies, thanks to its emphasis on cultural awareness, analysis, and problem-solving skills. The opportunity to study a language intensively and participate in a summer abroad provides a valuable immersive experience, helping students develop the language and cultural skills needed for international work.

Specialisation

The course offers a unique combination of anthropological study and regional language acquisition, allowing students to engage deeply with a specific country or region. The intensive language pathway ensures students reach near proficiency, facilitating academically and professionally engaging with a region's culture and food-related issues.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

27.79L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised bachelor’s degree in a social science or humanities subject, with a minimum classification of 2:2 or equivalent. The university considers applications from various international qualification systems, and additional elements such as a supporting statement and references can enhance applications that fall below the standard requirement.

English language test

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the SOAS University of London admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Department of Anthropology and Sociology at SOAS have gone on to work in prominent organizations such as the BBC, UN agencies, World Bank, NGOs, and private sector companies. The course equips students with cultural awareness, analysis, and communication skills vital for roles in government ministries, media, development agencies, and international organizations involved with food, migration, and cultural topics.

FAQs

What languages can I learn as part of this course?

Students can choose from a variety of regional languages to develop near-proficiency, tailored to their region of interest.

Is there a summer abroad component?

Yes, all students participate in a Summer School abroad to enhance their language skills and cultural understanding.

What kind of research will I do in my dissertation?

The dissertation involves original research on a topic of your own choice, developed with guidance from a supervisor.