African Language Studies

African Language Studies at the University of Bayreuth offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse languages, cultures, and societies of the African continent. Designed for students who are passionate about understanding Africa's rich linguistic and cultural landscape, this program combines language acquisition, cultural studies, history, and sociopolitical analysis to provide a comprehensive education. Students will have the opportunity to learn one or more African languages, such as Swahili, Hausa, or Zulu, through advanced coursework that emphasizes proficiency and cross-cultural communication skills. The curriculum integrates theoretical and practical components, enabling students to engage critically with African texts, oral traditions, and contemporary issues facing various African communities today. Through interdisciplinary modules, learners will explore topics such as African history, politics, economic development, and societal transformations, fostering a nuanced understanding of the continent's diverse realities. The program also emphasizes research skills and encourages students to undertake individual and group projects, including fieldwork and internships, to gain practical experience and deepen their insights. With access to expert faculty members specializing in African studies, language pedagogy, and cultural analysis, students will be well-equipped to pursue careers in international development, diplomacy, academia, journalism, or cultural exchange. The interdisciplinary approach of the African Language Studies program at the University of Bayreuth aims to cultivate knowledgeable, culturally sensitive graduates who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to global understanding and interactions with Africa. Graduates will possess language competence, cultural awareness, and analytical skills necessary for engaging effectively in various professional and scholarly contexts related to African languages and societies.

Educational organisation

The MA African Language Studies programme is organised in modules. These include language courses that provide students with African language knowledge for both academic and communicative usage. Advanced course modules offer detailed insights into language in its linguistic and literary contexts. Applied course modules add practical and methodological aspects to the students' basic knowledge and broaden their theoretical competence. A skills interface is offered through a comprehensive seminar which brings the above aspects in relation to each other and correlates them with the individual academic foci of the students.

Forms of assessment

Types of exams to be passed:

• language course modules
  • written examinations of 45 minutes, final written examination of 90 minutes, relevant for Master's grade
• advanced course modules
  • active participation, work on a topic of suitable scope in written form, grades relevant for final Master's grade
• research colloquium
  • regular attendance, presentation of topic of Master's thesis of 45 minutes
• applied course modules
  • active participation, completion of individual tasks (written assignment, short oral presentations), oral examination (20 minutes)
• skills interface
  • oral examination (60 minutes)
• Master's thesis
  • submission of Master's thesis

Course objectives

The Master's programme will enable students to successfully deal with the academic analysis of problems and issues in (African) linguistics and literary studies. They will acquire competence in academic work routines, in the adequate understanding of up-to-date research issues, and in writing research-oriented seminar papers. Students will show their learning progress by conducting original research and presenting its results, and by taking examinations. In a final Master's thesis, they will deal with an individually chosen research topic and prove their professional and methodological competence.

Language requirements

English proficiency (equivalent to level B2+ European Framework of References for Languages).
For the special area Swahili Studies, a good command of Swahili is compulsory (equivalent to B1 European Framework for Reference for Languages).
Language skills can also be proven through a final dissertation or equivalent written papers in English (or Swahili).

Academic requirements

• Bachelor of Arts (good success) in linguistics or in non-European languages
• English (equivalent to level B 2+ European Framework of Reference for Languages)
• For the special area of Swahili studies, a good command of Swahili is compulsory (equivalent to B1 European Framework of Reference for Languages).
• Language skills can also be proven through a final dissertation or equivalent written papers in English or Swahili.

Enrolment fees

Social fee: approx. 65 EUR per semester

Costs of living

Approx. 750 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Due to the intensive nature of the programme, students will have only limited time for part-time jobs.

Funding opportunities within the university

Students coming to Bayreuth from a partner university may have the opportunity to receive some financial support from the University of Bayreuth.
http://www.international-office.uni-bayreuth.de/en/05_Grants/index.html

Arrival support

The International Office with its Service for International Students (SIS) assists students before and upon arrival (mailing of information, pick-up service from the station). It offers assistance in all administrative matters including registration and enrolment.

Services and support for international students

The International Office with its Service for International Students (SIS) offers administrative, academic, and social support before and during the semester.

Accommodation

The International Office offers assistance in finding accommodation in a student residence (rent approx. 120 EUR to 200 EUR per month) or private accommodation (250 EUR to 400 EUR).
However, a search on the private market as a backup is advisable. You can find links to the private market on our website.