MA African Studies (research)

The Research Master's program in African Studies at Leiden University is unique in continental Europe for the interdisciplinary range of subjects offered and the variety of perspectives.

Why study African Studies (research) at Leiden University?

The two-year research master’s program in African Studies at Leiden University bridges the often artificially drawn boundaries between the humanities and the social sciences, combining perspectives from history, literary studies, anthropology, political science, and economics, among others. As a result, you have the opportunity to develop in-depth knowledge about different aspects of the African continent and its peoples, while being challenged to go beyond the boundary constraints of any of the more traditional disciplines focusing on Africa. Small classes ensure that you have plenty of direct contact with your lecturers and a high level of guidance and support throughout your studies.

Fieldwork research

An important aspect of this program is developing your ability to conduct original and interdisciplinary fieldwork research. You have the opportunity to spend six months doing fieldwork research in Africa or an Africa-related setting elsewhere, and six months to analyze, write, and publish your own research project. For your fieldwork research in Africa, you will have access to two university funds to get financial support, the Ulhenbeck and Lustra+ funds.

Academic fields

Leiden has faculties in the fields of:

• Archaeology
• Governance and Global Affairs
• Humanities
• Medicine
• Law
• Science
• Social and Behavioural Sciences

Student support

International student advisers

The international student advisers are a good place to go when you need assistance during your stay in the Netherlands. Students in both locations of Leiden University have access to these specialised advisers. In many cases they will be able to provide the information you need, or will refer you to the relevant services. You can consult the advisers on a variety of matters, ranging from financial concerns, settling down issues, academic issues and health insurance to dealing with external housing agents or finding a family doctor.

Student counsellors

We have a number of specialised student counsellors available. They can help in legal and financial matters, but can also assist you in developing study-related skills. The skills package that is offered involves individual counselling and workshops designed to support you in your academic performance. Topics covered include thesis writing, time management, stress management and planning. Additionally, our counsellors are available to help resolve study and personal problems, should this be needed.

Departmental study advisers and coordinators

Each department has its own study advisers/coordinators who can answer questions about matters that are related to the study programme of your choice. You can consult the study adviser/coordinator on issues such as timetables, exam grades, choice of subjects and application for graduation.