African Studies: Critical Perspectives on Society, Politics, Сulturе
(Starting: Winter Semester)
- Starting
- Winter Semester
- Mode of Admission:
- no admission restriction
- Study Mode:
- Part-time (optional) ・ On campus
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Five Reasons to choose this Master's Program
Course Description
The M.A. African Studies: Critical Perspectives on Society, Politics, Culture at the University of Bayreuth offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Africa through an interdisciplinary lens. With Africa and Africans at the center, the program challenges colonial narratives, promotes diverse perspectives, and encourages critical engagement with social, political, and cultural dynamics. Students benefit from a vibrant academic community, renowned faculty, and a curriculum designed to inspire intellectual growth, making it an ideal choice for globally-minded scholars.
This program is designed for ambitious students passionate about African societies, politics, and cultures, seeking an interdisciplinary education that prepares them for global challenges.
Special Program Features
Stand Out with Unique Studies Expertise
Tap into Bayreuth's renowned African Studies hub, including BIGSAS and a 155,000-volume Africa-focused library—one of Germany's largest academic collections in the field.
Study in one of the most successful young universities in Germany
The University of Bayreuth spans seven faculties and ranks 45th in the THE Young University Ranking, excelling in interdisciplinary research across over 160 degree programs.
Learn from Africa-Focused Scholars
Study alongside over 40 professors and lecturers specializing in Africa, with access to expert mentorship and diverse academic traditions in African and Africanist scholarship.
Info events by the University
18 November 2026, 02:00 PM (CET)
OnlineZSTB: Studying at the University of Bayreuth – Digital information event on the Day of Repentance and Prayer
Have you (soon to be) graduated from high school and still have no idea what you want to study? Would you like to study in Bayreuth, but don't know exactly how to find out about degree programs and how to get a place at university? Or would you like to know what you need to consider when starting a degree program?
Requirements
Qualification Requirements
The application requirements for the study program in "African Studies: Critical Perspectives on Society, Politics, Сulturе" are:
Bachelor's Degree: Minimum grade of 2.5 (German grading scale) in a humanities-, social science- or history-oriented degree program, or an equivalent degree*:
*Equivalency: Equivalency of the completed bachelor's degree is determined by the board of examiners during the application process and cannot be confirmed in advance.
Language Requirements
The following certificates are recognized as proof of your language proficiency.
English
GermanSpecification: Applicants must submit it by the end of the second semester at the latest.
Application & Admission
Application Deadlines
German Students 
Other EU Students 
Non-EU Students Non-EU Students| Intake | Winter Semester |
| Application deadline | 15 Julyin > 9 months |
| Application mode | Uni-assist (VPD) → More info |
| Application fee | uni-assist Fees: €75 for the first application, €30 for each additional application (in the given semester). |
Application Procedure & Selection
Application Documents
The application process is done via the website CAMPUSonline.
As support, the university has developed a handbook for the application via CAMPUSonline.
After registration, the required documents can be uploaded to CAMPUSonline via the link Bewerbung / Applicatiοn.
Applying Without a Degree Certificate: Applications can be submitted before completing the bachelor's degree, provided at least 150 ECTS and a preliminary grade of 2.5 are achieved.
Special Conditions: Conditional admission is possible with additional coursework of up to 30 ECTS (see Examination Regulations § 2 para 2).
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Depending on the country in which you acquired your previous education certificates, you may have to submit additional documents. You can find an overview of country-specific additional documents here.
For example, students from India, Vietnam, and mainland China are required to apply for the APS certificatе.
Testimonials
Our MA in African Studies takes a critical, interdisciplinary approach to exploring Africa’s global connections and perspectives. Combining thematic depth with regional expertise, the program equips students with the analytical tools needed to understand historical and contemporary social and political dynamics.
Beyond the classroom, our students are immersed in one of Europe’s largest hubs for African Studies. Our program allows them to engage continuously with cutting-edge research that directly informs our teaching. From West Africa and the Sahel to the Horn of Africa, the Great Lakes, and Eastern and Southern Africa, our faculty in Bayreuth lead research projects across the continent—offering students the opportunity to get involved.
Location
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