Hi Riya05
I've been accepted to do an MA in International Studies & Diplomacy at SOAS. I also did apply several others like Goldsmiths and Leeds and was accepted - MA in Political Comm.
Well I cant tell you much about the specific programme you applied for at SOAS (had a look at it before I applied but I wasnt keen on the modules) it very plainly states that its an MA studying the effects of new media, how it is exploding and changing cultures in developing countries, how politics is represented in the media etc etc.
SOAS has an excellent international reputation producing quality graduates with most NGOs, think tanks, gov. agencies, the UN etc etc. Given their original premise when they began was to train British diplomats for their foreign postings they have evolved into a small specialist university that has criticial understanding of languages and of the Asian and African regions. They are often consulted for help by several foreign governments as well as the British gov.
I think firstly you have to ask yourself:-
1) What do I intend to do with my MA? Is it so I can use it in my career, gain a better understanding of specific areas I have interest in? Change jobs (this of course if youve been in the job market)
2) Why did you apply to those specific universities? In terms of rankings (if you follow them) Leeds and Warwick surpass SOAS for media and communication studies given this isnt SOAS's speciality. Both Leeds and Warwick are excellent in their own right, but again it depends on your interest and what you intend to do with yourself post the MA. Looking at what you've been accepted for, all 3 MA's a very different.
3) In terms of job prospects, again all are good universities. SOAS highly rated for its political background and the other 2 for their media.
4) Do you aim to gain employment within specific media routes i.e. work for an international broadcaster, newspaper, public affairs etc?
5) Pros and cons of each university varies, also SOAS is in central London. The other 2 arent.
6) How are these programmes assessed? Coursework or exams? If you do well in both then its not a worry but if you prefer merely coursework then SOAS isnt the place as they do have exams.
So if you can answer the above questions and think about what YOU want to do with yourself (given you are an international student, fees are the same although SOAS is slightly more expensive as is living in London) you'll find it so much easier to make up your mind.
You'd need to hurry because you'll have to start applying for your student visa and get your finances in order etc. I hope this helped somewhat and I wish you luck!