BA South Asian Studies and... is a 3-year degree, and 120 credits are taken each year. The first year features the core module Introduction to South Asia (155906005), which introduces aspects of the languages and cultures of the subcontinent. This is taken alongside an introductory language module in Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, Sanskrit, or Urdu, which in turn leads to further modules in the same language and its literature in Years 2 and 3. (Pali and Punjabi may also be available, but in a more limited range of modules.)<br><br>Not all language modules are available every year, and all modules are subject to quorum, current availability can be checked by contacting the South Asia Department. Further modules relevant to South Asia are selected from options taught in other departments. Given the range of modules available, the Department is careful to offer appropriate advice to each student in making his or her selection, in order to ensure an overall coherence of coverage.<br><br>Introductory language modules taught in Year 1 assume no previous knowledge of the chosen language or its script: they start completely from scratch. Modules in modern languages concentrate on all four linguistic skills – understanding, speaking, reading and writing, classes are small and interactive, with students being encouraged to use the language actively from the outset. Many of our introductory language modules have been written especially for our needs by members of the Department staff, and Intermediate and advanced language modules feature a wide range of ‘real world' teaching and study materials. The formal teaching is complemented by the frequent open lectures, seminars and cultural events on South Asian themes that are held regularly in SOAS.<br><br>Final-year options include an Independent Study Project, which gives the student an opportunity to pursue a subject of personal interest (in language, literature, politics, culture, religion, the arts and media, or any other aspect of contemporary or historical India), leading to the writing of a 10,000-word dissertation under tutorial supervision.<br><br>Students with a specific interest in Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, Sanskrit or Urdu may like to consider, as an alternative to the 3 year degree, the 4 year full or half degree featuring these languages as a named pathway, these degrees have a more specific focus on the respective language itself, and include a year abroad in South Asia.