Universität zu Köln

The Master of Arts in Culture and Environment in Africa (CEA) is a two-year English-medium, interdisciplinary degree programme, focusing on the archaeological, historical and contemporary political ecology of the African continent. Particular attention is given to skills, methods and knowledge of human-environment studies in Africa. The degree will provide students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interrelationships between human agency, socio-cultural dynamics and geobiophysical processes.

CEA combines natural science, archaeological, historical, anthropological and linguistic research approaches, offering graduates enhanced career prospects not only in academia, but also in national and international organizations operating in the field.

The programme provides a thorough knowledge of, and insights into:

• key issues of human-environment research in Africa
• core concepts, theories and applications of human-environment research
• interdisciplinary methodologies (e.g. qualitative and quantitative approaches in social anthropology, geoarchaeology and linguistic fieldwork)
• political and administrative implications of interdisciplinary research

Applicants who hold a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in Archaeology, Social Anthropology, African Studies, Geography, Sociology, Development Sociology, Political Sciences, or other relevant disciplines are well suited for the Culture and Environment in Africa M.A. program. During their studies, applicants should have received at least six ECTS credit points with courses on African-themed topics. Applicants must have achieved a minimum 2.5 grade according to the German grading system. Non-native English speakers must provide proof of proficiency at the C1 level in the Common European Framework system, except for students who graduated in English-speaking universities.

The application deadline is July 15.

Due to visa matters, it is highly recommended that applicants with passports from non-European countries apply earlier, as the visa application process can take several months.

• In Core Module 1 students obtain a common understanding of the field of human-environment relations.
• Core Module 2 provides a sound training in interdisciplinary methodology and research approaches.
• Specialization Modules 1, 2 and 3 introduce students to the core themes of contemporary human-environment research.
• In Specialization Module 4 students prepare and conduct research and present the results.
• For the Complementary Module students can choose to study additional courses on specific topics of human-environment relations or do a study-related internship.

A Master’s of Culture and Environment in Africa (CEA) degree opens a world of opportunities for graduates. Whether pursuing a PhD or embarking on professional endeavours, the CEA programme prepares students for careers in:

• research and academic teaching
• international organizations
• government administrations
• museums
• assessment and management of cultural and natural heritage sites
• tourism planning