MA Migration and Diaspora Studies

Program Overview

The MA Migration and Diaspora Studies at SOAS University of London offers an interdisciplinary exploration of migration, borders, and diasporas, with a focus on the Global South. Through a combination of theoretical and practical approaches, the program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to engage with critical issues related to migration and diasporas in a professional context.

Program Outline

Key Objectives:

• Critically analyze frameworks and approaches to migration, borders, and diasporas.
• Develop an understanding of the diverse experiences and perspectives of migrants and diasporas.
• Cultivate a strong foundation in research methodologies and theoretical frameworks.
• Equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to engage with critical issues related to migration, borders, and diasporas in a professional context.

Program Description:

This unique program offers:

• Global South Perspective: Emphasizes the experiences and perspectives of the Global South in understanding migration, borders, and diasporas.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Draws upon various disciplines such as Anthropology, Migration Studies, Diaspora Studies, Critical Race Theory, and Decolonial Theory.
• Practice-Oriented: Offers the opportunity to gain work experience in migration-related organizations through dedicated modules.
• Innovative Assessment: Introduces students to diverse assessment formats, including creative and conventional approaches.

Outline:

Program Structure:

The program consists of 180 credits in total:

• 120 credits of taught modules
• 60 credits dissertation

Compulsory Modules:

• 724 Migration, Borders and Space: Decolonial Approaches (15 credits): Explores the conceptualization of "migration," examines decolonial approaches, and analyzes the relationship between migration, borders, and space.
• 725 African and Asian Diasporas: Culture, Politics, Identities (15 credits): Investigates the formation of diasporas and their cultural politics, focusing on the interplay of gender, aesthetics, performances, and identity formation in diasporic communities.
• 702 Ethnographic Research Methods (15 credits): Introduces students to the philosophy and practice of ethnographic research methods, equipping them with skills to design and conduct research effectively.

Guided Options:

Students choose 60 credits from various lists:

• List A - Interdisciplinary Approaches to Migration and (Im)Mobility: Includes modules like "Food, Place and Mobility," "Borders and Development," and "Queering Migrations and Diasporas."
• List B - Interdisciplinary Approaches to Bodies, Race, Diaspora, and Identity: Includes modules like "Race, Segregation, and Apartheid in Twentieth-century South Africa" and "Transnational Communities and Diasporic Media: Networking, Connectivity, Identity."
• List C - Theory, Method, Practice: Includes modules like "Contemporary Anthropological Theory" and "How to Change Things."
• Open Options: Students may choose modules from other departmental offerings, relevant school options, or a language course.

Dissertation:

All students complete a 10,000-word dissertation on a chosen topic, supervised by a faculty member.

Assessment:

The program employs various assessment methods:

• Essays
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Reflective exercises
• The dissertation
Assessment criteria will vary depending on the specific module and assessment format.

Teaching:

Teaching methods:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Independent study
Faculty:
• Highly qualified specialists in the field of migration, borders, and diaspora studies
• Diverse range of expertise and perspectives
Unique approaches:
• Emphasis on critical thinking and dialogue
• Encourages students to engage with contemporary debates and challenges
• Utilizes guest speakers and industry experts

Careers:

Graduates of the MA Migration and Diaspora Studies are equipped to pursue a variety of careers:

• Research
• Policy and advocacy
• NGOs and international organizations
• Development and humanitarian aid
• Media and communications
• Education
• Social justice organizations
• Location: London's diverse environment provides unique possibilities for learning and research, especially with access to migrant and diaspora communities.
• Internship/Placement Module: The program offers "From Theory to Practice & Back: Work Placements in Migration Research," providing valuable work experience in London-based migrant or refugee organizations.

Conclusion:

The MA Migration and Diaspora Studies is a comprehensive program that offers a rich learning experience for those interested in understanding the complex realities of migration and diasporas in today's world. Its interdisciplinary approach, strong faculty, diverse coursework, and exceptional connections to a renowned research center equip graduates to excel in a wide range of professional endeavors.

Home student fees: £12,220 per year Overseas student fees: £25,320 per year Please note that fees go up each year.