Politics and International Relations (Southeast Asia)

MSc Politics and International Relations (Southeast Asia) applicants shoud apply for MSc Politics and International Relations but can decide to follow the Southeast Asia pathway upon arrival by choosing the pathway's required combination of modules.

The Southeast Asia pathway offers a multi-faceted exploration of politics in a dynamic and crucial global region. In conjunction with the SOAS Centre for Southeast Asian Studies, the pathway encourages a detailed analysis of Southeast Asian domestic and international politics, not just from a macro-level perspective, but also with reference to the intricacies that shape political life in individual states.

The interplay of historical experience, cultural ethos, and evolving social and global paradigms is highlighted to show how particular nations have charted their own unique political journeys. Special attention is paid to the effect of increasing global interconnectivity on local political dynamics, from nationalism and urban development to the politics of ethnicity, culture, gender, and religion. Pulling away from a broad-brush approach, the curriculum delves deeply into the experiences of Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines, and Timor Leste.

This ensures that learners gain a holistic understanding of social and political practice, policy formulation, and international affairs across the region, as well as a nuanced appreciation for key political trends, both formal and informal, within individual states.

Why study MSc Politics and International Relations (Southeast Asia) 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)
• We're ranked 6th in the UK for Asian Studies (Complete University Guide 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: Luang Prabang