MPhil in African Studies

The MPhil in African Studies at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the diverse and dynamic continent of Africa. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating history, politics, economics, anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies to give a well-rounded perspective on African societies, their histories, contemporary issues, and future prospects. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including colonial and post-colonial developments, indigenous traditions, development challenges, security concerns, and regional integration.

The program is highly research-oriented, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework, seminars, and independent research. It prepares scholars for careers in academia, policy analysis, international development, and diplomatic service, among others. The curriculum includes core modules that establish foundational knowledge of African history and society, as well as elective options that allow students to specialize in areas such as economic development, political theory, African languages, or cultural studies.

Throughout the course, students benefit from the expertise of renowned faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields, providing mentorship and guidance for individual research projects. The program also emphasizes practical skills such as research methodologies, data analysis, and academic writing, equipping graduates with the capabilities necessary for advanced research, policy formulation, or further study at doctoral levels.

Participation in seminars, workshops, and networking events facilitates engagement with a global community of scholars and practitioners dedicated to African studies. The MPhil in African Studies at Oxford is ideal for motivated individuals seeking an intellectually rigorous program that balances theoretical frameworks with real-world applications. With access to extensive resources, including university libraries and research centers focused on African issues, students are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to understanding and addressing the continent’s complex challenges.

Completion of this program typically spans one academic year, during which students produce a substantial dissertation based on original research. Graduates exit with a thorough understanding of African socio-political contexts, advanced research skills, and the ability to analyze and interpret issues affecting the continent. The MPhil program not only enriches students’ knowledge of Africa but also prepares them to make impactful contributions in academia, government, NGOs, or international organizations dedicated to African affairs.

The MSc in African Studies at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the African continent, its histories, cultures, societies, politics, and economies. The programme is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of Africa’s diverse landscapes, peoples, and issues, equipping them with critical analytical skills and knowledge relevant to academia, policy-making, and development practice. Throughout the course, students engage with a range of disciplines including history, anthropology, politics, economics, and literature, allowing for a multidisciplinary perspective on African studies.

The programme comprises core modules that introduce key themes and debates in African studies, as well as optional courses that allow students to tailor their studies to their specific interests. Topics covered include the legacy of colonialism, contemporary political dynamics, economic development, social change, conflict resolution, and cultural expressions across the continent. Students benefit from interactions with leading scholars and practitioners through lectures, seminars, and workshops, providing opportunities for rigorous academic discussion and professional networking.

Research methods form a cornerstone of the MSc in African Studies, ensuring students develop the skills necessary to undertake independent research projects. The programme culminates in a dissertation that allows students to investigate a topic of their choice in depth, applying theoretical and methodological approaches learned during their studies. The dissertation is supported by supervision from experts in the field, encouraging original research and critical analysis.

Students in the programme also have access to Oxford’s extensive resources, including the Bodleian Library and dedicated African Studies collections, as well as opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in conferences with scholars and policymakers from around the world. Graduates of the MSc in African Studies go on to careers in academia, international development, journalism, government, and NGOs, contributing to the understanding and sustainable development of Africa. The programme aims to foster a nuanced, responsible, and informed engagement with one of the most dynamic and diverse regions of the world.

The Master of Studies (MSt) in African Studies at the University of Oxford requires applicants to hold a good undergraduate degree, typically a first-class or strong upper second-class honours degree in a relevant subject such as history, politics, anthropology, or related disciplines. Applicants with other qualifications, including relevant professional or research experience, may also be considered. The application process involves submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest and suitability for the programme, and references from academic or professional referees. Interested candidates must also meet the University’s English language proficiency standards, usually requiring a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall with no individual component below 6.5. The programme spans one academic year, beginning in October and ending the following September, and includes a combination of taught coursework, a research methods component, and a significant dissertation of approximately 15,000 words that addresses a focused research question related to African Studies. Students are expected to attend lectures, participate in seminars, and engage in independent research activities. The curriculum covers interdisciplinary topics such as African history, politics, economics, geography, cultures, and languages. Students also have access to extensive library resources, archives, and faculty expertise specialized in African affairs. To complete the degree successfully, students must meet all assessed coursework deadlines, pass examinations where applicable, and submit the dissertation by the specified deadline. The programme offers opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaboration with African Studies research centres affiliated with the University. It aims to prepare students for careers in academia, policy-making, international organizations, or fields related to African development, governance, and culture.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Oxford offers various funding options for students enrolled in its African Studies programmes. For home students, the university provides access to a range of scholarships, bursaries, and grants designed to support postgraduate study. These include the Clarendon Fund, which offers full or partial scholarships based on academic excellence and potential, and specific departmental awards that may be available to students demonstrating financial need or outstanding academic achievement. International students are encouraged to apply for externally sponsored scholarships such as Chevening, Rhodes, or Commonwealth Scholarships, which can significantly offset tuition fees and living expenses. The university also has a system of graduate student loans, which are available depending on the applicant’s country of residence and financial circumstances, facilitating access to funding with manageable repayment conditions. Furthermore, many funding opportunities are department-specific, including research grants, travel grants for conferences, and project funding that support students engaged in fieldwork or specialized research related to African Studies. Students are advised to explore funding options early in their application process and to consult the Oxford Student Funding Search tool, which provides comprehensive information about available awards. Additionally, financial aid may be available through external organizations partnering with the university for specific regional or thematic research areas. Many students also find part-time work on or near the university campus to help cover expenses, though this is subject to visa regulations for international students. Overall, financing a degree in African Studies at the University of Oxford involves leveraging a combination of university-provided scholarships, external funding opportunities, government-supported schemes, and personal or family resources, aiming to make postgraduate education accessible irrespective of financial background.

The MSt in African Studies at the University of Oxford is a distinctive postgraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history, cultures, politics, and societies of the African continent. This programme is part of the Department of Politics and International Relations or the School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, depending on the specific focus of the course. It is aimed at students who have a strong interest in Africa’s diverse social and political landscapes, and who seek to develop advanced research skills and critical understanding of contemporary and historical issues facing African countries.

The program typically involves a combination of taught modules and a substantial research component culminating in a dissertation. Students can choose from a variety of modules that cover topics such as African history, political economy, development studies, anthropology, and regional studies. The curriculum is designed to foster interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to engage with academic literature and fieldwork methods across different disciplines relevant to African studies.

Students benefiting from this course will have access to Oxford’s extensive resources, including special collections, academic conferences, and close collaboration with leading scholars in the field. The university also promotes an active research community, providing opportunities for networking with academics, policymakers, and practitioners working on African issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research, preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, NGOs, international organizations, and private sector entities involved in Africa-related affairs.

Admission requirements for the MSt in African Studies typically include a strong academic background in social sciences, humanities, or related disciplines, evidence of previous research experience, and a demonstrable interest in African issues. Applicants are often required to submit a personal statement, academic transcripts, and references. The duration of the course is generally one year full-time, with options for part-time study.

Graduates of the program will be equipped with in-depth knowledge of African contexts, sophisticated research skills, and the ability to critically analyze complex issues affecting the continent today. This program aims to produce graduates who can contribute meaningfully to academic scholarship, policy analysis, and development practice related to Africa. Overall, the Oxford African Studies program is highly regarded for its interdisciplinary approach, rigorous curriculum, and the prestige of the University of Oxford.