Museum Studies (Joint Degree with IAU) SOAS University of London

Overview

Museum Studies (Joint Degree with IAU) at SOAS University of London offers insight into museum studies and contemporary curatorial practice. It builds an understanding of current museum approaches while developing essential skills for interpreting collections, creating meaningful narratives, and designing engaging displays. Drawing on real-world case studies, the programme deepens students’ understanding of how art, culture and society intersect within curatorial work.

Why SOAS?

• SOAS is ranked among the global top 100 for Arts and Humanities (THE World University Rankings 2026).
• SOAS has five subjects ranked in the global top 40 and 13 in the global top 100 (QS World University Rankings 2026).
• SOAS is ranked 2nd in the UK for International Faculty (QS World University Rankings 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’.
• SOAS is home to one of the UK’s five National Research Libraries, specialising in the rich collections of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• The SOAS History of Art research environment was rated 100% 4* in REF 2021.
• School of Arts modules frequently score top across SOAS in teaching, academic support and student voice.

Why IAU?

• Globally recognised institution: ranked top 500 in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
• Regionally recognised excellence: ranked among the top 15 in the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2026.
• One of Saudi Arabia's major research universities, with 21 colleges and more than 45,000 students across the Eastern Province.
• Comprehensive academic environment with strong research activity and modern facilities.