MSc in Modern South Asian Studies at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A nine-month taught MSc offering an interdisciplinary approach to South Asia, examining the region's history and contemporary societies from politics, anthropology, international relations and development studies perspectives. It is taught by South Asia specialists from the Social Sciences Division and administered by the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies.

What you will study

A core course introducing modern South Asia across the disciplines, a research methods module combining qualitative and quantitative methods (no prior training required), two option papers (for example Politics of South Asia, The Anthropology of South Asia, International Relations of South Asia or Decoding Development in South Asia) and a thesis of up to 12,000 words.

Career pathways

Graduates pursue careers in the civil service and policy-making bodies, development NGOs, the charitable sector, journalism, public and private sector research and consultancy, law and academia; the MSc also prepares students for doctoral research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong (top third) upper second-class UK undergraduate degree with honours in any discipline, or equivalent; most successful applicants have a first-class degree or equivalent, and qualifications beyond the bachelor's degree such as a master's are considered. US bachelor's applicants normally need a minimum GPA of 3.6/4.0 (most successful applicants higher). No GRE/GMAT. Prior interest in South Asia, including research or work experience in the region, is an advantage. Application includes three referees (academic preferred; one professional allowed), transcripts, a statement of purpose (maximum 500 words) and two written essays (maximum 2,000 words each). Interviews are not normally held. English (higher level, international applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 overall (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall with 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall with 155 per component. Deadlines for 2027-28 entry: 12:00 midday UK time on 13 November 2026 (applications more likely to receive earlier decisions) and final deadline 26 January 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 26,280 a year (2027/28). Home fee Source

International applicants: GBP 40,730 a year (2027/28). Overseas fee Source

Intake: 4 October 2027

Duration: 9 months full-time

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