African Studies: Language, Arts, Philosophy

The MA African Studies: Language, Arts, Philosophy is an internationally-oriented, interdisciplinary programme that provides a unique, humanities-driven approach to African studies. Designed around the study of African languages, the curriculum integrates Afrophone philosophy, literatures, Islamic studies, and Global African Arts. Located at a world-class research hub, it equips students with advanced methodological and practical skills for high-level careers in academia, cultural curation, and international cooperation. The programme incorporates Linguistics, Literary Studies, Islamic studies, Global African Arts and Afrophone philosophy into a comprehensive study of African verbal and visual arts. It treats languages ​​and diverse media as unique entry points to African traditions and knowledge systems. A multilingual perspective reflects the diversity of global societies, engaging students with cutting-edge research on topics like translation, digital narratives, and the aesthetics of African film. This four-semester course guides students from broad foundations to specialised research.  Semesters 1 & 2: compulsory interdisciplinary lecture series, academic writing, and three disciplinary seminars (e.g. language work in Africa, African literature, philosophy) Semester 3: independent project (fieldwork or practical curation/festivals), pre-thesis research methods, and an "Open Window" elective from other MA programmes Semester 4: MA thesis writing supported by a thesis development seminar