African Studies (MA)

Why Leiden University

A top-ranked university

Leiden University's Faculty of Humanities is consistently ranked among the top 30 humanities faculties worldwide in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Ranking. At Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, learning incorporates the latest research and resources found nowhere else in the world, such as those of the famous Leiden University Library and its collections of original manuscripts, periodicals, and photos.

A centre of expertise on languages and cultures of the world

When it comes to languages and cultures, Leiden University is the university. The global expertise present places our university at the top. In Leiden and The Hague, we study languages and cultures from all regions of the world and from prehistory to the present day. In this way we create a broad view of the world; the key to mutual understanding.

Benefit from our unique resources and expertise

You will have access to the Africa Studies Centre (ASC) and its research library. The ASC is a unique multidisciplinary academic institute in the Netherlands focused on the study of Africa. You will also be guided and supervised by ASC and Leiden University staff with various area and disciplinary expertise, including history, literature and film studies, anthropology, economy, geography and politics.

Leading expertise in African Studies

At Leiden University we have a dedicated team of international researchers in the field of African Studies. All classes are taught by accomplished scholars at Leiden or by scholars from our international network of universities and research institutes. Small classes give students valuable time interacting with their lecturers and the necessary support to reach their full potential.

An outstanding start to your career

Our graduates are known for their broad and global mindset, their relevant skills and experience, and their strong analytical and critical thinking skills. They are equipped to handle and solve the challenges facing society now and in the future. Your qualification will open new doors and pave the way to new opportunities.

Diversity and inclusion

We are convinced that our education can only flourish if everyone within the programme feels supported, respected and empowered to do their best work. We find it important to offer a learning environment that allows for different perspectives and points of view that students bring with them, depending on their ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, health, religion, age or socio-economic background. Every new generation sees the world from a new perspective – and our students are the newest generation. We look forward to hearing more about your perspective. Leiden University has been pursuing diversity policy since 2014, with the aim of creating a diverse and inclusive learning and working environment for all staff and students.