Master of Arts in African Languages and Culture
An advanced interdisciplinary Master's programme focusing on African linguistics, philology, and cultural studies.
Best for:Best for students with a background in African or Semitic studies seeking advanced training in linguistics, philology, or cultural analysis.
Overview
The Master of Arts in African Languages and Culture at the University of Hamburg is a full-time, four-semester programme designed to provide advanced academic training in African studies. Students can choose from four specialized profiles: Applied African Linguistics, Linguistic Analysis and Language Documentation, Ethiopian and Eritrean Studies, or Language in Culture. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with methodological skills, including field methods, philological analysis, and the study of multilingual communication. Graduates are prepared for professional roles in education, international organizations, media, and cultural documentation.
What you'll do
- Engage in advanced coursework within a chosen specialization profile.
- Develop methodological skills in linguistic elicitation, transcription, and data annotation.
- Apply philological methods to the analysis of historical manuscripts and oral traditions.
- Participate in research-oriented seminars focusing on multilingual communication and social meaning.
- Complete a Master's thesis demonstrating independent research capabilities.
- Optionally undertake a semester abroad at a partner institution in Europe or Africa.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor's degree in African Studies, Semitic Studies, or a closely related field.
Degree offered: Master of Arts
Language: English (B2 CEFR or equivalent).
Instruction: English
- Academic proficiency in English (B2 level or equivalent).
- Foundational knowledge in phonetics, phonology, morphology, and syntax (45 ECTS).
- Documented competence in an African language (16 ECTS) or relevant Semitic/Philological studies (45 ECTS) depending on the profile.
- Basic knowledge of Geez (Ancient Ethiopic) for the Ethiopian and Eritrean Studies profile.
- Hold a recognized Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
- Meet specific ECTS credit requirements in linguistics or philology based on the chosen profile.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-15
Applications must be submitted through the university's online application portal. Ensure all required academic transcripts and language certificates are prepared according to the guidelines provided on the official programme website.
- Bachelor's degree certificate
- Transcript of records
- English language proficiency certificate
- Proof of specific linguistic or philological competencies
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.