Course summary

The BA Creative Arts and History combined degree at SOAS University of London offers a rich, interdisciplinary education that explores the connections between global creative practices and historical narratives across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This innovative programme allows students to engage deeply with the cultural and historical contexts that shape creative industries, while developing analytical and practical skills that prepare them for dynamic careers in the arts and cultural sectors. In the Creative Arts component, students study the visual, performing, and musical arts, as well as the broader cultural industries of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The curriculum includes topics such as arts management, cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation, and creative entrepreneurship, encouraging students to explore the diverse ways in which culture is produced, represented, and experienced. With an emphasis on professional skills and industry partnerships, this component equips students with practical training in areas such as project design, curation, and arts consultancy, fostering a nuanced understanding of the creative arts on a global scale. The History component provides students with a strong foundation in historical analysis and interpretation, with a focus on political, social, and cultural history. Through the study of primary and secondary sources, students gain critical skills in contextual analysis and historical research, examining how past events shape contemporary identities and influence cultural narratives. Key themes include representation, memory, and the impact of historical events on present-day society, allowing students to engage thoughtfully with contemporary discussions on identity and heritage. By combining these two disciplines, the BA Creative Arts and History programme offers graduates a distinctive blend of critical thinking, creative insight, and historical awareness. This interdisciplinary approach equips students for diverse career paths in arts management, cultural consultancy, heritage organisations, journalism, and international relations, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to global cultural and historical discourse.