Politics and International Relations (Political Thought)

MSc Politics and International Relations (Political Thought) applicants should apply for MSc Politics and International Relations but can decide to follow the Political Thought pathway upon arrival by choosing the pathway’s required combination of modules.

The Political Thought pathway offers a new approach to the study of political thinking and the ideas that underpin political life. Linked to the SOAS Centre for Comparative Political Thought, this pathway considers political theory as it emerges from everyday political thought, philosophical texts, and cultural production.

Beyond the regions and traditions that have conventionally framed European political theory, this pathway is unique in teaching students to see how concepts ‘travel’ across the world (as a means to examine both political thought and political practice in different times and spaces).

Drawing on SOAS’s unrivalled expertise in the study of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, the pathway introduces students to the key approaches, debates, and questions in the field of Comparative Political Thought. Graduates of this pathway are well placed for careers in media, think tanks, advocacy, international organisations, diplomacy, and the academy.

Why study MSc Politics and International Relations (Political Thought) at SOAS?

• We’re ranked 6th in the UK and 28th worldwide for Politics (QS World University Rankings 2025)
• We’re ranked 3rd globally for Academic Reputation (QS World University Rankings 2025)
• SOAS is unique - our global student body, multi-disciplinary approach, critical and questioning attitude contribute to a vibrant learning environment that stretches students beyond the focus on basic ‘skills training’

Study Tours

In 2025-26, Study Tours across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East will offer opportunities for in-depth engagement and high-level networking in:

• Central Asia (Almaty + Bishkek)
• South Asia (New Delhi + Lahore)
• Southeast Asia (Luang Prabang)
• East Asia (Seoul)
• Africa (Kigali)
• the Middle East (Doha)

In 2025-26, the fee for each tour (events plus room and board) will be £1750 + airfare. Each tour will be subject to minimum/maximum participant numbers.

Recommended Study Tour: Any (options based on space available)