The MPhil in African Studies at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth interdisciplinary exploration of the history, politics, culture, and societies of the African continent. This program is designed for students who wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of Africa's diverse regions, peoples, and issues, combining rigorous academic inquiry with critical analysis. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of topics, including contemporary political developments, social transformations, economic changes, and cultural expressions across Africa. The program emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and empirical research, encouraging students to analyze existing scholarship while also conducting their own original research projects.

Students benefit from the expertise of leading academics in African Studies, drawing on the extensive resources of the University of Cambridge, including its libraries, archives, and research centers dedicated to African topics. The program is structured to include seminars, lectures, and tutorials tailored to individual research interests, fostering a supportive academic environment. Furthermore, students are encouraged to participate in conferences, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, enabling practical experience alongside academic study. The diverse cohort of students from around the world provides a vibrant intellectual community that enriches discussions and broadens perspectives on African issues.

The MPhil in African Studies prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, policy-making, development work, and international organizations. It also serves as an excellent foundation for further postgraduate research, including doctoral studies. Admission requirements typically include a strong academic background in area studies, social sciences, humanities, or related fields, along with a demonstrated interest in African affairs. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their coursework and research towards specific regions or themes within Africa, facilitating personalized academic development. Overall, the MPhil in African Studies at Cambridge offers an exceptional opportunity for students committed to understanding and engaging with Africa's complex and dynamic realities.

The MPhil in African Studies is a taught postgraduate course, structured by four key elements. These are the Core Course, the Option Course, the Dissertation, and African Language Training.

Formal assessment consists of two parts: coursework essays (submitted for the Core Course and the Option Course) and a dissertation (submitted at the end of the course). You are also required to submit a ‘practice essay’ on a topic related to your dissertation research, and also a formal dissertation proposal, but these are not formally assessed. African Language Training is also not a formal part of the degree assessment, but all students are required to demonstrate that they have attended language teaching and have made good progress at language acquisition. The language element of the MPhil course is jointly managed by the University of Cambridge Language Centre and the Centre of African Studies. All students are enrolled for Swahili Basic 1 at the University of Cambridge Language Centre, which is taught over 15 weeks during Michaelmas and Lent terms.

Assessment

Thesis

The dissertation must be submitted on the last Wednesday of Easter full term, and should be between 15,000 and 20,000 words (including footnotes but excluding bibliography). It counts for 60% of the final mark. If the examiners consider it necessary, they may conduct an oral examination on the dissertation before the final MPhil Examiners' meeting in late June.

Essays

The Core Course is assessed by means of an essay of no more than 5,000 words (including footnotes but excluding bibliography) on a topic chosen from a prescribed list of questions, which is distributed by the MPhil Office in the first week of Lent Term. The Option Courses are also assessed by means of an essay of not more than 5,000 words (including footnotes but excluding bibliography). The Core Course essay and Option Course essay each count for 20% of the final mark and are submitted in Lent Term.

A compulsory practice essay on a topic related to the dissertation is to be submitted in Lent term. This essay does not count towards the final mark but a 'pass' mark is a progression requirement.

Written examination

Swahili:

All students are enrolled for Swahili Basic 1 at the University of Cambridge Language Centre, which is taught over 15 weeks during Michaelmas and Lent Terms. Formal assessment consists of coursework (2 pieces of homework, 10% each) and two exams at the end of the course in Reading Comprehension (30%) and Listening Comprehension (20%) as well as one Oral Presentation (30%).

Other

Progression requirement to proceed to examined coursework essays: 'Pass' mark for the compulsory practice essay submitted in Lent term (candidates are permitted one resubmission of the practice essay).

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Research Proposal 
• Sample of Work 
• Personal Reference

The University of Cambridge offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the African Studies programme, designed to support both domestic and international students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for the programme vary depending on the student's place of residence and their specific course components. For UK students, the tuition fees are generally aligned with the standard university rates, while international students may encounter higher fees, reflective of the university’s fee structure. To assist students in managing these costs, the university provides numerous scholarships, grants, and bursaries specifically aimed at supporting students studying African Studies or related disciplines. These financial awards are often based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the university’s central funding database, which lists available scholarships, including those sponsored by external organizations with an interest in African studies and development.

In addition to scholarships, students can access government-funded loans and financial aid schemes, which may be available to UK residents. International students are advised to investigate funding options available through their home countries, as well as external organizations that support international education. The university’s financial aid office offers counseling and guidance on applying for funding, helping students understand the eligibility criteria and application procedures. Moreover, Cambridge provides work-study opportunities and part-time employment on campus to help students supplement their income while studying.

Students should also consider the costs associated with living in Cambridge, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. The university provides estimates of living costs to assist students in planning their budgets accordingly. Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, and loans. Overall, the Cambridge African Studies programme benefits from a comprehensive financial support framework that aims to make postgraduate education accessible to deserving students from diverse backgrounds. Applicants are advised to start their funding applications early and to consult the university’s official financial aid resources for the most accurate and updated information.

The University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive program in African Studies that provides students with an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, politics, and economics of the African continent. This interdisciplinary course allows students to explore the diverse regions of Africa through a variety of perspectives and methodologies, including anthropology, history, political science, development studies, and language acquisition. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and a nuanced understanding of contemporary issues facing African nations and communities.

Students enrolled in the African Studies program benefit from a rich academic environment facilitated by expert faculty members with extensive research backgrounds in African affairs. The curriculum includes core modules that introduce major themes such as colonialism and post-colonial development, social change, conflict and peacebuilding, economic transformation, and cultural identities. Elective modules enable specialization in specific areas such as African languages, archaeology, religious practices, or regional studies focusing on East, West, Central, Southern, or North Africa.

The program emphasizes practical experience alongside theoretical learning. Opportunities include field research, internships with relevant organizations, and participation in seminars and conferences dedicated to African issues. This blend of academic rigor and practical engagement prepares students for careers in academia, international development, policy analysis, journalism, or work with NGOs and governmental agencies involved in African affairs.

The course duration typically spans one to two years depending on the level of study (Masters or Doctorate). Cambridge’s world-class library resources, dedicated African Studies research center, and collaborative partnerships with African institutions and organizations enhance the academic experience. Graduates of the program often go on to influential roles within international organizations, contribute to academic research, or engage in policy development aimed at promoting sustainable development and social justice across Africa.

The program is tailored to students interested in gaining a thorough understanding of African societies, histories, and contemporary challenges. It offers a unique opportunity for immersive learning in a global academic environment, preparing graduates to become informed and effective contributors to discussions and initiatives related to Africa on the international stage.