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UCL vs. SOAS

I'm an American student, majoring in Education and Political Science. I'm going to study abroad for a semester in the UK and trying to decide between UCL and SOAS. At UCL I would be studying education and at SOAS I’d take courses in political science. Would love to hear people's thoughts on both!

Some things I'm considering:
Academics - How rigorous/challenging are the courses at both schools? How does the level of difficulty compare.
Social Life - How's the student life, extracurriculars, and general vibe for study abroad?
Is there anything else I should know about either school that could help make this decision?

Reply 1

You should base your choice on which subject you prefer.

Reply 2

Original post
by Anonymous
I'm an American student, majoring in Education and Political Science. I'm going to study abroad for a semester in the UK and trying to decide between UCL and SOAS. At UCL I would be studying education and at SOAS I’d take courses in political science. Would love to hear people's thoughts on both!
Some things I'm considering:
Academics - How rigorous/challenging are the courses at both schools? How does the level of difficulty compare.
Social Life - How's the student life, extracurriculars, and general vibe for study abroad?
Is there anything else I should know about either school that could help make this decision?

Hi, that's exciting! Studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity. I would say to base your choice on your subject interests as these degrees are very different.

In terms of studying at SOAS, I'll provide a little step-by-step approach to help you decide:

Course Content:

SOAS offers a distinctive curriculum that emphasises the political systems, cultures, and histories of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. This focus can provide you with a broader understanding of global political dynamics.

Courses often include unique modules on topics such as post-colonial studies, international relations, and development studies, which are not commonly found in other universities.

The faculty at SOAS includes leading experts in these regions, offering you the chance to learn from and engage with scholars who are actively contributing to their fields.

Cultural Diversity

With students from over 130 countries, SOAS is a melting pot of cultures and ideas. This diversity makes classroom discussions so much more interesting and provides a global perspective on political issues.

The university hosts loads of cultural events, workshops, and seminars that celebrate this diversity, allowing you to engage with different cultures and viewpoints.

Location

Situated in Bloomsbury, the academic heart of London, SOAS is surrounded by many other universities, libraries, and cultural landmarks, which makes it such a great area to study in.

London itself is a hub for political activity, with access to government institutions, think tanks, and international organisations, offering numerous opportunities for internships and networking.

The city's vibrant arts and cultural scene means there's always something to explore, from museums and galleries to theaters and music venues. The British Museum is right next door to us! We are also close to Oxford Street, Leicester Square and Hyde Park. So there are a lot of activities close by to get involved in.

Networking Opportunities

SOAS has strong ties with international organisations, NGOs, and governmental bodies, providing students with opportunities to engage in internships and collaborative projects.

The university regularly hosts guest lectures and events featuring prominent figures in politics and international relations, allowing you to connect with professionals in your field.

Alumni from SOAS often hold influential positions worldwide, creating a global network that can be invaluable for career development. I would recommend reaching out to them on LinkedIn if you are wondering what jobs you can do after graduating from SOAS.

Student Support

SOAS offers a range of support services tailored to international students, including visa advice, language support, and cultural orientation programs.

The university's student union is active in organising events and activities that help international students integrate and make the most of their time in the UK.

Academic support services, such as writing centers and tutoring, are available to help you succeed in your studies.


I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any questions. I would also recommend reaching out to students who are studying the course you are interested in studying on Unibuddies.

Wishing you all the best!
MA
(edited 12 months ago)

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