MA African Studies: Critical Perspectives on Society, Politics and Culture
An interdisciplinary Master's programme exploring African societies, politics, and cultures through a decolonial lens.
Best for:Best for students with a social science or humanities background seeking an interdisciplinary, research-oriented Master's degree focused on Africa.
Overview
The Master of African Studies at the University of Bayreuth offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding Africa, integrating social and cultural anthropology, sociology, political science, history, and religious studies. The programme emphasizes a decentered perspective, moving beyond traditional European intellectual frameworks to engage with knowledge production from the Global South. Students benefit from the university's extensive expertise in African research and have access to a wide range of Africa-related courses. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in academia, international organizations, diplomacy, and non-governmental sectors.
What you'll do
- Complete three core modules covering interdisciplinary African Studies and current research debates.
- Select and specialize in one focal discipline from sociology, political science, anthropology, or religious studies.
- Participate in four core seminars within the chosen focal discipline to develop advanced analytical and methodological skills.
- Conduct an independent study project under faculty supervision.
- Complete a Master's thesis and participate in the associated colloquium.
- Engage in elective modules to broaden knowledge across Africa-related courses offered by the university.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, humanities, or history with a final grade of 2.5 or better (German grading scale).
Degree offered: Master of Arts
Language: English; B2 level required (e.g., IELTS 7.5, TOEFL Essentials 9.5, or Cambridge B2 First).
Instruction: English
- Academic proficiency in English (B2 level or equivalent).
- Foundational knowledge in social sciences or humanities.
- Ability to engage with interdisciplinary research methods.
- Applicants must hold a relevant Bachelor's degree.
- Non-EU applicants must apply by 15 July.
- EU applicants must apply by 1 October.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Applications must be submitted through the official university portal. Applicants should ensure they meet the language and academic requirements before the specified deadlines for EU and non-EU students.
- Bachelor's degree certificate
- Official language proficiency certificate
- Academic transcripts
Contact
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