Global Studies with a Special Emphasis on Peace and Security in Africa

Joint doctoral programme (PhD) between Leipzig University's Global and European Studies Institute and the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. Candidates research peace, conflict and security in Africa through interdisciplinary social-science and area-studies lenses. The programme requires two study periods in Leipzig and one at Addis Ababa University. Programme fee: approx. 5,000 EUR/year (2,500 EUR/semester) for the Leipzig component; additional fees at Addis Ababa University side (approx. 200 USD/semester). Stipends and scholarships are available for selected candidates.

Academic requirements

Deadline: The application deadline for admission to the winter semester is the end of February each year. The exact dates can be found on our website: https://www.sozphil.uni-leipzig.de/en/global-and-european-studies-institute/research/doctoral-studies/phd-peace-and-security-in-africa.

Minimum GPA

None stated. Competitive, merit-based selection via research proposal, academic record, and two academic letters of support.

English requirements

Proficiency at CEFR C1 level required. No specific standardised test score is published; proficiency is assessed through the application documents and interview process.

Accepted bachelor fields

Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as political science, international relations, African studies, peace and conflict studies, or social sciences. Research proposal and two academic references required at application.

APS Certificate

No

Thesis required

Yes

Tuition fee

No state tuition (Saxony public university). A programme participation fee of approx. 2,500 EUR/semester applies for the Leipzig component of this joint doctoral programme. Additional fees of approx. 200 USD/semester apply at the Addis Ababa University side. Stipends are available for selected candidates. Fee structure identical for EU and non-EU students.

Semester contribution

Approx. 250 EUR per semester at Leipzig University (includes transport ticket and student services). Identical for EU and non-EU students.

ECTS credits

60

Funding info

Tuition: No state tuition (Saxony public university). A programme participation fee of approx. 2,500 EUR/semester applies for the Leipzig component of this joint doctoral programme. Additional fees of approx. 200 USD/semester apply at the Addis Ababa University side. Stipends are available for selected candidates. Fee structure identical for EU and non-EU students. Semester contribution: Approx. 250 EUR per semester at Leipzig University (includes transport ticket and student services). Identical for EU and non-EU students.

Graduates pursue careers in academic research, international organisations (UN, AU, IGAD), NGOs, think tanks, government ministries, and diplomatic services specialising in African affairs and peace and security policy.