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The MA Traditions of Yoga and Meditation degree programme explores the origins and historical development of yoga and meditation in India and Tibet from ancient times to the modern world.

The core module, ‘Yoga and Meditation: Perspectives, Context and Methodologies’, is designed to provide students with a broad intellectual grasp of the fascinating thematic components and cross-regional perspectives.

The MA Traditions of Yoga and Meditation degree programme is attractive to students who:

• are experienced practitioners of yoga and meditation who wish to gain deeper knowledge of the historical and cultural contexts that shaped their traditions
• have a background in psychology seeking to gain knowledge of meditation and mindfulness for their clinical work
• are planning to pursue further research which may involve, at a subsequent stage, the acquisition of a doctoral degree and a career in higher education
• wish to pursue a career or professional activity for which advanced knowledge of the yoga and meditation traditions of Asia is required
• seek the academic study of these traditions as a complement to their personal experience.

Why study MA Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS?

• SOAS is ranked 15th in the UK for Arts and Humanities (QS World University Rankings 2023)
• Theology and Religious Studies scored above sector in the following categories: research culture, community, progression, research skills, and professional development (2023 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey)
• All of our Theology & Religious Studies impact case-studies were world-leading/internationally excellent (REF 2021)
• 85.4% of our Theology & Religious Studies research outputs were world-leading/internationally excellent – 56.3% of our submitted outputs were deemed world-leading (REF 2021)
• Our Theology & Religious Studies research environment score was 85% world-leading/internationally excellent.

In addition to an understanding of global faiths, histories and cultures, graduates from the Department of Religions and Philosophies develop the skills to analyse and communicate ideas in a clear, rational and comprehensive manner. These key proficiencies are valuable in many careers and are transferable to a wide range of sectors and roles.