African Studies (Research)

African Studies (Research) at Leiden University is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for students who wish to gain an in-depth understanding of the diverse and dynamic continent of Africa. This program is aimed at those interested in exploring Africa's rich history, cultures, contemporary societies, political systems, and economic development. Through rigorous academic coursework, extensive research opportunities, and engagement with current African issues, students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to academic, policy, and development fields related to Africa.

The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from history, anthropology, political science, economics, and area studies. Students will develop strong research skills, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies, enabling them to carry out independent research projects and contribute original insights to the field. The curriculum includes a combination of core courses, elective subjects tailored to students' research interests, and specialized modules that reflect Leiden University’s expertise in African Studies.

Participants will have access to Leiden University’s vast resources, including a rich library collection focused on African studies and opportunities for collaboration with leading scholars and institutions. The program is structured to support students in preparing for careers in academia, research institutes, governmental agencies, NGOs, and international organizations working on African issues.

Research is a central element of this program, with students undertaking a substantial research project, often including fieldwork, under supervision from experienced faculty members. The program also encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and critical engagement with contemporary African developments, emphasizing both theoretical frameworks and practical implications.

Graduates of the African Studies (Research) program will be well-positioned to advance knowledge and policy related to Africa, armed with a comprehensive understanding of its complexities and opportunities. The program fosters analytical thinking, research competence, and cultural awareness, preparing students for impactful careers that require nuanced understanding of the African continent.

The Master's programme in African Studies (Research) at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the diverse cultures, histories, languages, and societal developments across the African continent. Designed for students who wish to acquire advanced research skills and a profound understanding of Africa's complexities, this programme provides an interdisciplinary approach by integrating perspectives from history, politics, anthropology, linguistics, and other social sciences. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a wide array of African societies, from ancient civilizations to contemporary political and social movements, gaining insights into issues such as development, globalization, identity, and conflict.

The curriculum emphasizes rigorous research training, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies, data collection techniques, and analytical skills essential for academic and policy-oriented research. Students will undertake a specialisation track tailored to their interests, choosing from themes such as African history, politics and governance, languages and linguistics, or societal transformations. The programme also encourages critical engagement with current debates about Africa’s role in the global context, fostering a nuanced understanding of the continent's internal diversity and regional differences.

Learning is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects, supported by Leiden University’s extensive resources and expert faculty. Students will have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects, further enriching their practical experience. The programme culminates in a Master's thesis, where students demonstrate their ability to conduct original research and contribute to scholarly debates on African issues.

Graduates of the African Studies (Research) programme are equipped with advanced research capabilities, analytical thinking, and specialised knowledge, preparing them for careers in academia, research institutions, NGOs, governmental agencies, and international organizations involved with Africa. The programme’s rigorous academic environment and emphasis on a multidisciplinary approach ensure that students graduate as well-rounded experts ready to address the complex challenges and opportunities faced by the African continent today.

Admission requirements

See website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details.

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Zie www.unileidenmasters.nl voor meer informatie.
2. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) See website www.unileidenmasters.nl for details.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelor in African Studies of een andere studie met een specialisatie in Afrika.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in African Studies or in a different discipline with a specialization in Africa. See www.mastersinleiden.nl for details.

The financing options for the African Studies (Research) master's program at Leiden University are designed to support international students in pursuing their academic goals. Dutch and EU/EEA students can often benefit from statutory student grants and loans, which are administered through the Dutch government, subject to eligibility criteria. These domestic funding schemes are intended to cover tuition fees and living expenses during the course of study. For non-EU/EEA international students, financial support options may include scholarships, grants, or external funding sources, although these are more limited compared to domestic students. Leiden University offers several scholarship programs, such as the Leiden Excellence Scholarships (LEX), which are highly competitive and intended for outstanding students from around the world. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek funding from their home countries or international organizations that support African studies or academic exchange programs. The tuition fee for the program varies depending on the student's nationality; Dutch and EU/EEA students pay a lower fee compared to non-EU/EEA students. Besides scholarships, students may explore external funding opportunities from organizations such as the Netherlands Fellowship Programmes (NFP), the Orange Knowledge Program, and various bilateral agreements. Additionally, students often finance their studies through part-time work, subject to visa regulations for international students. It is advisable for prospective students to thoroughly investigate each funding source early in their application process to ensure eligibility and to meet application deadlines. Students should also contact the university's student financial support office for detailed guidance on available scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities tailored specifically to the African Studies (Research) program. Overall, while financial support options are available, their accessibility depends on the student's nationality, academic excellence, and the timely submission of complete applications for scholarships and grants.

The Research Master's in African Studies at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the diverse cultures, histories, societies, and political dynamics of the African continent. Designed for students with a strong academic background and a keen interest in African issues, the program emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical research methods. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of disciplines such as anthropology, history, political science, and development studies, enabling them to develop a multifaceted understanding of Africa’s complex realities. The program encourages critical thinking and independent research, culminating in a master’s thesis that contributes original insights to African Studies. Leiden University’s rich academic environment and its extensive network of African experts provide students with unique opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaborations with research institutes and African partners. The program also prepares students for further academic pursuits, including PhDs, or for careers in policy, development, journalism, and international organizations working in or on Africa. Students benefit from a diverse student body and faculty, offering a broad range of perspectives and expertise. The curriculum combines core courses, specialized electives, and research seminars, fostering a thorough understanding of themes such as governance, identity, migration, conflict, and socio-economic development across African countries. By integrating theoretical knowledge with empirical research, the program aims to produce graduates capable of critically analyzing African affairs and contributing informed solutions. The Leiden African Studies Research Master's is distinct for its interdisciplinarity, research orientation, and international character, making it a leading choice for those seeking advanced expertise in African issues within a global context.