International Master program “African Studies” (M.A.)

The Master of African Studies offers students a uniquely interdisciplinary social sciences approach to the study of Africa. The programme critically engages the social, political and cultural dynamics shaping the region, its history and its entanglements in a globalized world.

The need for critical, interdisciplinary perspectives has become more pressing than ever. As global connections intensify, examining Africa’s diverse knowledge systems, social structures, and political landscapes is essential for fostering new ways of thinking and engaging with the world.

The Master’s programme “African Studies: Critical Perspectives on Society, Politics, Culture” is designed to provide precisely this interconnected understanding. Integrating social and cultural anthropology, sociology, political science, history, and religion, the programme offers a dynamic and research-driven approach to African Studies. It challenges traditional perspectives, emphasizing knowledge production from and with the Global South.

Key facts:

English-taught study programme led by leading researchers in the field
Interdisciplinary and practice-oriented education with a wide range of Africa-related courses
Emphasis on critical engagement with knowledge production and global processes
Personalized mentoring and small class sizes
No tuition fees

Why University of Bayreuth?

The program: We offer you the freedom to choose your own individual disciplinary and regional focus, after giving you the opportunity to explore and develop your research interests through an interdisciplinary and critical approach in the first semester.
Location: As a medium-sized campus university founded less than 50 years ago, we place a strong emphasis on maintaining the highest quality of our infrastructure. In doing so, the University of Bayreuth truly embodies both disciplinary and interdisciplinary focus areas, securing its position among the best universities internationally.
Internationality: The University of Bayreuth has long-standing partnerships with international universities and offers 13,500 students from all over the world the ideal place to launch their career. Our modern campus with short paths and the award-winning International Office provides an ideal environment for the international Master programme in African Studies.

Application deadline

15th July 2025 (for winter term, start in October 2025)
For more information on how and where to submit you documents visit our website: https://www.uni-bayreuth.de/en/master/african-studies#
Please note: We encourage prospective students to apply early (especially if they need a visa). Applicants from outside the EU who have obtained their degree abroad have to first upload the application documents via uni-assist (possible at any time of the year) and undergo a fee-based special procedure. This needs to be done at least 6-8 weeks BEFORE the annual July 15 deadline.
Website: https://www.ma-african-studies.uni-bayreuth.de/en/