African Studies (MA)

Why study African Studies at Leiden University?

This multidisciplinary programme offers you the opportunity to learn about Africa from a wide range of perspectives: historical, anthropological, literary, socio-linguistic, cultural, geographical socio-economic and political. At Leiden, relevance and real-world issues are at the fore, which means that you get to critically analyse current events as they unfold from a broad, comparative and global perspective. Multi-modal research methods and mixed methods will also be introduced to you.

Focus on your interests

At Leiden University we see the benefits of focusing on your own interest. Within the Africa Studies programme, therefore, you are able to study the subject areas that interest you most. You are able to do so by choosing electives project topics and ultimately in the focal area of your thesis. In addition, you will gain access to the African Studies Centre Leiden’s extensive international network and high-profile events that will connect you to the leading researchers in the field. The African Studies programme is therefore designed to help you become an expert in the area of your interest.

Learn more about the study programme

What are your career prospects?

This Master’s programme in African Studies offers outstanding preparation for high-level positions in the international job market. Your degree prepares you for roles in cultural organisations, education, policy-making, business, development, publishing, public relations, and journalism.

Find out more about the career prospects

Is African Studies the programme for you?

Are you interested in African culture and societies and do you want to dive into the history, literature, socio-economical and political state of this continent? Then this might be the programme for you. Do you want to find out if you are eligible for this Master's Programme? 

Check the admission requirements