African Studies: Language, Arts, Philosophy, Master of Arts (M.A.)

The programme incorporates Linguistics, Literary Studies, Islamic studies, Global African Arts and Afrophone philosophy into a comprehensive study of African verbal and visual arts. It treats languages and diverse media as unique entry points to African traditions and knowledge systems. A multilingual perspective reflects the diversity of global societies, engaging students with cutting-edge research on themes like translation, digital narratives, and the aesthetics of African film.

This four-semester course guides students from broad foundations to specialized research.

•  Semesters 1 & 2: Compulsory Interdisciplinary Lecture Series, Academic Writing, and three Disciplinary Seminars (e.g., Language Work in Africa, African Literature, Philosophy).
• Semester 3: Independent Project (fieldwork or practical curation/festivals), Pre-Thesis Research Methods, and an "Open Window" elective from other MA programmes.
• Semester 4: MA Thesis writing supported by a Thesis Development Seminar.

The degree provides the necessary foundation for pursuing a PhD and a career in research.

Graduates possess interdisciplinary thinking and intellectual independence. The degree opens doors to high-qualified fields:

• Intercultural Cooperation: Roles in NGOs, foundations, or the Goethe-Institut.
• Culture & Media: Positions in museums, galleries, and management of international film/literature festivals.
• International Consulting: Expert roles in the private sector focusing on Africa and its diaspora.

It is the only programme in Germany to combine African linguistics and literatures with Global African Arts, Curatorial Critique, and Afrophone Philosophy. Instruction is directly informed by high-level research, including the Cluster of Excellence "Africa Multiple". Students benefit from the Iwalewahaus, the university’s renowned collection and research centre for contemporary African and Diaspora art.

The university does not charge tuition fees; students pay only a semester fee that includes a regional public transport ticket. Small class sizes allow for individualized support. The programme is taught entirely in English. It features an "Open Window" elective allowing for interdisciplinary specialization across different university faculties.

The module handbook provides an overview of the various modules that must be taken in a degree programme. It contains all the important explanations on the requirements and types of module examinations as well as on the intermediate or final examinations and serves as a kind of study guide for orientation.

Examination regulations lay down the content and structure of a specific degree programme in a legally binding manner. They must be approved by the Ministry of Science or accredited by an accreditation agency.