Social anthropology is the study of people, cultures and societies around the world. It takes cultures on their own terms, and values the importance of culture to helping us understand the world we live in. Social Anthropology gives us the tools that we need to understand human cultural and social difference, and to really start to make sense of how people, groups and organisations think about the world. <br>Social anthropology at SOAS is an introduction to the discipline of anthropology and its history, its theories, and methods. You do not need to have studied anthropology before to get the most out of this programme. It is the perfect introduction to the anthropological way of seeing the world and global problems or would be the perfect way to convert into the discipline if you wish to pursue a research degree later.<br>If you have studied anthropology before, a postgraduate degree at SOAS will allow you to develop your specialisms and research interests even further, including the possibility of learning a new language and delving deeper into a topic through a self-designed research project on our Dissertation module<br>This MA... and Intensive Language (Arabic) 2-year pathway, full-time programme allows students to combine intensive Arabic language with several disciplines, including MA Near and Middle Eastern Studies, making these programmes unique in Europe. <br>The 2-year language pathway is directed at students who want to engage with the Arab Middle East in a professional as well as academic way, as the intensive pathways will enable them to develop a serious competency in Arabic, and achieve an advanced professional level depending on their starting knowledge of the language. Access to the Intensive Arabic language pathway is currently available for students with beginner, intermediate or advanced levels of proficiency. Students’ proficiency levels will be assessed through a placement test during registration week (specific dates will be provided to the applicants).<br>Students taking MA Near and Middle East Studies as their discipline cannot choose additional Arabic language modules from the Languages list, though they are encouraged to take another Middle Eastern language like Persian, Turkish or Hebrew.<br>Students bear the costs of travel to and from their Summer Abroad centre, as well as all living expenses (including accommodation) during the period of their stay.