Skip to Content

Search: {{$root.lsaSearchQuery.q}}, Page {{$root.page}}

MIRS: African Studies Specialization

The African studies specialization of the Masters in International and Regional Studies (MIRS) is designed for students seeking to gain advanced, interdisciplinary knowledge in the field of African studies. The specialization offers courses in African languages, literature, arts, history, politics, law and economics but also public health, environmental studies, and development from across the university's many schools and colleges. The comprehensive but flexible curriculum of the specialization provides a solid foundation for those students wishing to volunteer or work on the African continent, to serve in government, or to pursue a doctoral degree.

Anchored in the African Studies Center (ASC) and the Department of Afroamerican and African Studies (DAAS), the MIRS African studies specialization draws upon their strategic guidance and coordination for Africa-related research and programming on campus, and on the continent. DAAS offers a diverse curriculum of enriching and rigorous courses taught by award-winning faculty. Founded in 2008, ASC serves as a conduit for the university’s many Africa initiatives in the sciences, arts, humanities, social sciences, engineering, medicine, and related fields. With the support of ASC, the university’s prestigious faculty who specialize in the study of Africa have formed institutional and individual partnerships with faculty based in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Mozambique, Ethiopia and many other African countries; they have hosted seminars and conferences on Africa related topics as diverse as politics, public health, the arts, medicine, engineering and more; and conducted research with graduate students on the continent of Africa.

Curriculum (36 credits)

MIRS students will complete a total of 36 credits, distributed over at least two academic disciplines, at the 400-level or above. 27 of these credits are determined by the specialization. The remaining 9 credits are required for all MIRS students. MIRS requirements include two core courses and a graduate colloquium. In addition, MIRS students will have access to a graduate professional development workshop.

For more information, contact MIRS-info@umich.edu.