ASH Module Series: Introduction to the African Studies

The “Introduction to African Studies” programme offered by the African Science Hub Graz (ASH Graz) addresses a structural gap at the University of Graz, where African Studies have not yet been institutionally established as an independent field of study. At the same time, in an increasingly interconnected world, there is growing academic and public interest in engaging with the African continent in a more differentiated and forward‑looking way.

Our course offerings place a particular emphasis on linguistic perspectives. In addition, we explore approaches to working with data and materials from colonial contexts and address topics from literary, art, cultural studies and global history.

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All modules with continuous assessment can be taken individually, and without any specific prior knowledge, or as a complete series with the option of obtaining a certificate. The language of instruction is English.

Modul Series: Developed by Angelika Heiling (treffpunkt sprachen – Centre for Language, Plurilingualism and Didactics) and Jennifer Brunner (Department of Linguistics)

Information

Target group: Students of all fields of study (BA, MA, doctoral studies), interdepartmental and interdisciplinary teaching and external participants who are interested in Africa
Grading parameters: 80% attendance, active participation, presentations and written elaboration of a topic
Per seminar: 15 units (1 hr) – 3 ECTS credits, credited as free subject
Certificate: On completion of all courses in the module series (24 ECTS)

Seminar Overview and Registration

REGISTRATION
 

Registration for students, staff of the University of Graz and external participants:
Monday, 21 September 2026 to Monday 28 September 2026

► online platform

 

935.160 An Introduction to the Languages of Africa | 1 hr
935.161 African Languages in Context: Plurilingualism and Language Contact | 1 hr
935.162 Africa Discourse: Introduction to Postcolonial Theories | 1 hr
935.163 Practical Module: Cooperation with Associations and Institutions | 1 hr

REGISTRATION

Registration for students, staff of the University of Graz and external participants:
Monday, 15 February 2027 to Monday, 22 February 2027

► online platform

 

935.370 The Languages of Africa: Sociolinguistic Theories and Models | 1 hr
935.371 African Languages in Context: Local and Translocal Voices in Literature and Film | 1 hr
935.372 Africa Discourse: Decolonial Practice and Colonial Continuities | 1 hr
935.373 Practical Module: Working with Data and Artifacts from Colonial Contexts & Africa in Austria | 1 hr
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