Stellenbosch University campus

Arts & Humanities

Master of Philosophy in Violent Histories and Repair at Stellenbosch University

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

Programme overview

The MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair is an interdisciplinary coursework programme that trains emerging scholars to research the multi-dimensional and transgenerational legacies of violent histories such as genocide, slavery, colonial-era violence and apartheid, and to critically examine reparative practices and peacebuilding approaches. It uses critical decolonial and intersectional approaches.

Faculty: Arts and Social Sciences  |  Department: Centre for the Study of the Afterlife of Violence and the Reparative Quest (AVReQ)  |  Duration: Two years  |  Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

What you will study

Three compulsory theoretical modules and a research methodology module: Afterlife of Violence, Research Methodology and Ethics for Violent Histories, Contextual Perspectives on Trauma Testimonies, Historical Trauma and Redress (15 credits each), plus a 120-credit thesis.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A professional (480-credit) Bachelor's degree, Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma at NQF level 8 in the Social Sciences, Arts or Law, or another NQF level 8 equivalent (including international equivalents), with a minimum average of 65% for the preceding qualification. Applicants must show they conducted qualitative research or had a theoretical research component, are proficient in academic English writing, and have a community engagement or social responsibility orientation. Documents: CV, evidence of prior academic work, 500-word motivational letter, referee report. Admission to postgraduate programmes is competitive; meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

The application fee is R100 for South African citizens, permanent residents and refugee, asylum seeker and diplomatic status holders, and R400 for international applicants. Stellenbosch Business School applicants pay R1050 for the MBA and R850 for other SBS programmes. Some applicants are exempt; application fees are non-refundable.

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