Master in Slavery Studies

The University of Bonn, established in 1818 and located in the city of Bonn, Germany, is a major public research university known for its strong research profile and international reach. Enrolling over 41,000 students including about 6,400 international scholars, Bonn combines a long academic tradition with modern research infrastructure. The university is recognized for research excellence and is one of Germany's Universities of Excellence, distinguished by multiple Clusters of Excellence.

Students can choose from a broad portfolio of more than 50 programs spanning the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and professional fields. Teaching is research-led and interdisciplinary, enabling learners to engage with leading researchers and to participate in cutting-edge projects. A global network of partners facilitates study abroad and collaborative research, and the university's location in a city known for international institutions supports intercultural exchange and professional opportunities.

Campus life at Bonn blends rigorous academics with cultural vibrancy and a high quality of life in the Rhineland. The university provides robust student services, career support, and numerous student organizations that foster both academic growth and personal development. For international applicants seeking a top-tier, research-intensive German education with strong global connections, the University of Bonn offers a compelling combination of academic prestige and practical pathways to careers and further study.

The Master in Slavery Studies at the University of Bonn is a research-oriented program for students interested in interdisciplinary research on slavery and slavery-like phenomena. This master's degree takes 4 semesters to complete and is taught in English. It helps students develop a broad perspective on the subject and create an individual research profile.

The curriculum includes introductory courses that provide an overview of the history and variety of slavery and slavery-like phenomena, as well as methodological and theoretical basis to research them. Students also take courses on case studies, which allow them to apply their knowledge to specific examples and develop their research skills. The program focuses on text-based scholarship, material culture studies, and social sciences.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as historians, social scientists, or researchers, working in museums, universities, or non-profit organizations. They can also work as policy analysts, helping to inform decisions on human rights and social justice issues. Other potential job titles include cultural resource manager, human rights advocate, or academic researcher.