About this programme
Profile of the Master's programme The Master of African Studies: Critical Perspectives on Society, Politics, Culture (MA) programme integrates the social science disciplines of social and cultural anthropology, sociology, political science, history and religion into one dynamic programme, while offering ample opportunity to specialise given the extensive Africa-related course selection available in each of the disciplinary areas. Students acquire an in-depth appreciation for diverse knowledge systems, multiple understandings of Africa, key debates in African Studies and current social and political developments on the continent as well as for the global processes and contexts that constitute them. Significantly, the guiding principle of the MA is that the generation of knowledge today can no longer be limited to the old intellectual traditions of Europe. The examination of knowledge production in Africa is exemplary for a decentred view of perspectives from and with the Global South. African Studies in Bayreuth The University of Bayreuth is one of the most important European locations for interdisciplinary African research with more than 40 professors and lecturers who have a research focus on Africa. Students are able to pursue a broad, interdisciplinary range of courses on Africa and Africa-related issues. Successful graduates of the Master in African Studies also have the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree through the Bayreuth International Graduate School of African Studies (BIGSAS). Career Perspectives Graduates are well prepared for academic positions in universities and research institutions as well as for non-academic careers. Graduates of the Master's programme are trained for doctoral studies in the interdisciplinary field of African Studies; in other interdisciplinary areas, such as Global Studies, International Development or Peace and Conflict Studies; and in the disciplines that are the main focus of the Master's programme (social and cultural anthropology, history, politics, sociology, or study of religion). Their experience with international research makes graduates particularly suited to projects involving international and intercultural cooperation, including positions in public and media relations, in non-governmental or international organisations, or in diplomacy. The specialised knowledge acquired in the MA, both the analytical potential and the ability to conceive and critically reflect, is in great demand at national and international institutions, which have a growing need for qualified employees with interdisciplinary, social science training. Three Core Modules (A: total 15 ECTS) The MA programme begins with an introduction to the field of interdisciplinary African Studies, with a focus on the social sciences. A second core module offers an interdisciplinary seminar and a third core module deals with current topics in African Studies. Three Chosen Disciplines (B1/B2/B3: total 15 ECTS) The introduction to basic theoretical concepts and the interdisciplinary approach to African Studies is complemented by a disciplinary introduction to the three disciplines that constitute the programme Sociology & Political Science Social and Cultural Anthropology Religious Studies Four Core Seminars in One Discipline (C/D/E/: total 20 ECTS) Students then select one focal discipline, in which another four core courses are taken. Here you receive in-depth instruction that also includes methods training within your chosen core subject, which can then be applied to your study project and the Master's thesis. Three General Electives (G: 15 ECTS) MA students are also given an elective module, in which additional courses can be selected from the wide range of Africa-related courses available across the university (within or beyond the MA participating disciplines). An overview of Africa-related study programmes at the University of Bayreuth is available here. Two Language Courses (L: 8 ECTS) (African) Language cours
Course details verified 09 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source