Overview

The African and African-American Studies M.A. at the University of Kansas provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary framework for understanding the historical and contemporary forces shaping African societies. This programme is designed to equip students with the analytical tools necessary for professional roles in both the public and private sectors. By integrating diverse perspectives, the curriculum fosters a deep understanding of the continuity and change within world civilisations.

Why African and African-American Studies at University of Kansas?

The University of Kansas offers a unique intellectual environment that emphasises the integrative focus of Africana studies. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances internal and external influences on the African diaspora, ensuring graduates can adapt to rapid global shifts. The department provides specialised support for members of the Armed Forces, offering accelerated pathways for those focusing on specific regions of the African continent. Furthermore, the institution maintains strong pedagogical resources for a wide variety of African languages, enhancing the research capabilities of every candidate.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 20712 per year
National fee: USD 20712 per year
Local fee: USD 8806 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires 33 credit hours, including core coursework and a choice between a research thesis or a critical creative project. Modules may include:

Africana Studies: African-American
Africana Studies: African
Research Methods in Africana Studies
Seminar in Africana Studies
Arabic
Haitian Creole
KiSwahili
Wolof
Yorùbá

Careers with African and African-American Studies

Graduates are prepared for a variety of professional trajectories, ranging from advanced doctoral research to leadership roles in international organisations. The programme develops a specific skill set that allows individuals to function as self-educators in rapidly changing environments. Career options typically include positions in public policy, non-governmental organisations, and private sector firms that require expertise in cultural dynamics and international relations. The training in research methodologies and language proficiency provides a competitive edge for those entering fields focused on the African continent and its global impact.

Accreditation

Officially accredited/recognized by the The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, University of Kansas (KU) is a very large (enrollment range: 30,000-34,999 students) coeducational higher education institution. University of Kansas (KU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation degrees), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Africana Studies: African American

Africana Studies: African
Research Methods in Africana Studies
Seminar in Africana Studies

Thesis

English

Film and media studies
Geography

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-02 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Lawrence, United States

Disciplines

American and Australasian studies African studies View 131 other Masters in American and Australasian studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A completed Graduate Application
A copy or scan of official transcripts from each college and post-secondary institution you have attended.
Statement of Purpose: A professional narrative explaining your background, academic interests, and reason for applying to the M.A. program in African and African-American Studies.
A resume or curriculum vitae
Three letters of recommendation from qualified individuals, preferring most recent professors
A sample of your writing or creative work that could be an academic paper or a combination of written work and a portfolio of creative work
Demonstrate English proficiency.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

20712 USD / year

≈ 20712 USD / year
Out-of-State

20712 USD / year

≈ 20712 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8806 USD / year

≈ 8806 USD / year

Living costs

Lawrence

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for African and African-American Studies.

Available Scholarships

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On this page

About

Overview

Accreditation

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Lawrence

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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