A young university student researching in a library with a large map of Africa on the wall, surrounded by open books and academic materials, representing the scholarly exploration of African histories and cultures

DEGREE GUIDE

African Studies

What do African Studies degrees involve?

African Studies degrees teach you about the diverse histories, cultures, politics, and societies of Africa, exploring the continent’s global influence. You will study key areas such as African history, literature, languages, anthropology, development, and international relations. These courses help you develop strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills while examining themes like colonialism, migration, identity, and economic growth. You will also have the opportunity to learn African languages, engage with contemporary African issues, and explore the role of Africa in global affairs. Through interdisciplinary study, research projects, and potential study abroad opportunities, you’ll gain a deep understanding of Africa’s past, present, and future, preparing you for careers in international development, policy, education, and cultural research.

Example
Modules

Anthropology of Africa: Study the diverse cultures and social systems across the continent, focusing on kinship, religion, gender, and everyday life in African communities.

Religion and Belief in Africa: Learn about traditional belief systems, Islam and Christianity in Africa, and how religion shapes politics, education, and everyday practices.

African History: Trace the histories of African societies from ancient kingdoms & trade routes to colonisation, independence movements, and post-colonial change.

Common Degree Names

💼 Placement options are available on some courses, often in NGOs or heritage organisations.
🌍 Study abroad — often in Africa — is a core part of many African Studies degrees.

BA (Hons) African Studies
BA (Hons) African Studies with Development
BA (Hons) African Studies and History
BA (Hons) African Studies and Anthropology

African Studies is typically offered as a BA with strong language and cultural components.

Traditional African kente textiles and carved wooden figures alongside an open academic book, illustrating the cultural and scholarly focus of African Studies

Level 3 (A-level / IB Diploma (HL) / Scottish Highers)

African Studies explores the history, cultures, politics, and societies of Africa. There are no required subjects – universities want to see that you can think critically, write clearly, and engage with global ideas.

Subjects that could strengthen your application:

History or Geography – great for understanding societies and development
Politics, Sociology, or Economics – useful for contemporary Africa and international relations
English Literature, Religious Studies, or a Modern Language – show strong analytical and writing skills

✨ At least one essay-based subject shows you're ready for the analytical and written aspects of the degree. You don't need to have studied an African language – courses typically teach languages like Swahili or Arabic from beginner level.

Many universities also welcome:

BTEC Nationals in Travel & Tourism, Public Services, or similar subjects—especially if combined with an academic A-level
IBCP or Cambridge Pre-U with relevant subjects

✨ Tip: Entry requirements can vary widely between universities—always check the course page on the university’s website to be sure you meet their specific criteria.

Level 2 (GCSE / MYP / Nat 5)

You’ll typically need:

GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or National 5 passes, or MYP equivalents

📘 These core subjects are important for developing your communication and reasoning skills—both of which are key in this degree.

If you’ve taken subjects like History, Geography, or a language at this level, they’ll help build a good foundation.

If your current qualifications don’t match the typical entry requirements, there are other ways to access an African Studies degree:

🌱 Foundation Year
If you haven’t taken the standard subjects or you’re returning to education, some universities offer a foundation year in Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences. Completing this successfully can lead straight into an African Studies degree.

🎓 Access to HE Diploma
A great option for mature students or those without A-levels. Look for Access courses in Humanities or Social Sciences.

💼 Level 3 Apprenticeships
While there aren’t apprenticeships directly linked to African Studies, a Level 3 apprenticeship in Community Work, Cultural Heritage, or Public Services could show relevant interest. Combined with strong written work or a foundation year, it may help you enter the degree.

Is this degree right for you?

Members can explore whether this degree fits who they are:

Skills you'd develop and whether they match your strengths
How this aligns with your interests, motivators and values
Career paths and where graduates end up

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Skills you would develop in an African Studies degree

Linguistic & Intercultural Fluency: Gain an in-depth understanding of African cultures, histories, languages, and societies.
Research & Data Analysis: Learn to explore sources critically and analyse social, historical, and political data related to Africa.
Communication (Written, Verbal, Digital): Clearly articulate complex ideas and insights about African contexts and global issues.
Analytical & Critical Thinking: Evaluate different perspectives, arguments, and historical interpretations effectively.
Social & Civic Engagement: Understand social issues and become equipped to participate thoughtfully in community and global discussions.
Emotional Intelligence & Empathy: Build sensitivity towards diverse experiences, challenges, and viewpoints.
Adaptability & Resilience: Navigate evolving discussions, debates, and changing global contexts regarding Africa.
Problem-Solving: Learn to address complex social and political issues through thoughtful and informed approaches.

Is this a good fit for you?

Use the tabs to explore the kind of person that this would be a good fit for. Do you share the Interests, Motivations and Values that people who thrive in this course tend to have? How does it compare to your Holland code?

Not sure what your Holland Code is? Want to get a better understanding of yourself to help you understand if this would fit you? Explore our pages on Self-Knowledge here.

Interests that would make an African Studies degree a good match for you

Careers an African Studies degree could lead you to