Master of Arts in Social and Cultural Anthropology
Research-focused MA programme combining advanced theory, ethnographic methods, and independent fieldwork projects in anthropology.
Best for:Best for students with a Bachelor’s in anthropology or related fields, strong research interests, and proficiency in English (C1 level) who seek to specialise in ethnographic fieldwork and theoretical anthropology.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Social and Cultural Anthropology at the University of Bayreuth is a research-intensive programme designed for students seeking advanced training in socio-cultural theory and ethnographic research. The curriculum emphasises hands-on ethnographic projects, guided by senior faculty, with opportunities for fieldwork and study abroad. Students engage with contemporary debates in anthropology while tailoring their studies through elective courses, including language training. The programme leverages Bayreuth’s strengths in African Studies and global entanglements, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and mentorship.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent ethnographic research projects under faculty supervision, contributing to key debates in anthropology.
- Engage in foundational courses on social and cultural theory, world anthropologies, and ethnographic methods.
- Participate in scaffolded courses covering research design, fieldwork preparation, data analysis, and thesis writing.
- Choose elective courses to specialise in topics such as language training, regional studies, or interdisciplinary themes.
- Develop and execute a research project with mentorship from senior academic staff.
- Present research findings in seminars and potentially publish in academic forums.
- Collaborate with international guest lecturers and participate in study-abroad opportunities during fieldwork.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Social & Cultural Anthropology, Culture and Society (with Social and Cultural Anthropology focus), Culture and Society in Africa (with Social and Cultural Anthropology focus), Interdisciplinary African Studies, or an equivalent degree with at least 150 credit points and a final grade of 2.5 or higher (or equivalent).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English: C1 level (proven via PTE Academic 75, TOEFL iBT 95, IELTS Academic 7.5, or equivalent). German: A1 level (no proof required).
Instruction: English (core courses), German (elective courses), French (thesis, if subject-specific).
- Proven academic background in anthropology or related disciplines.
- Strong research and writing skills for ethnographic fieldwork.
- Ability to conduct independent research with minimal supervision.
- Proficiency in English at C1 level (proven via official certificate).
- Basic German language skills (A1 level, no proof required).
- Applicants must have completed at least 150 credit points of their Bachelor’s degree by the application deadline.
- Conditional admission possible with up to 30 missing credit points.
- No nationality restrictions, but EU and non-EU applicants have different deadlines.
- No age restrictions.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
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- Duration
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- Taught / research mode
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 15 July 2027 (non-EU applicants) / 15 October 2027 (EU applicants)
Applicants must submit a cover letter (max. 2 pages) explaining their suitability for the programme, along with official language certificates and academic transcripts. Applications are submitted via the University of Bayreuth’s online portal. Non-EU applicants have a shorter deadline (15 July) compared to EU applicants (15 October).
- Cover letter (max. 2 pages)
- Official English language proficiency certificate (C1 level)
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts (or proof of at least 150 credit points)
- Proof of German language skills (A1 level, no certificate required)
- Motivation letter (if not included in cover letter)
- CV/resume
Contact
International Office· Admissions Contact
https://www.international-office.uni-bayreuth.de/en/come-to-bayreuth/scholarships/index.html
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