Stellenbosch University MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships 2027

Stellenbosch University is offering fully funded scholarships for its MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair program for the 2027 academic year. This program is designed for emerging researchers interested in exploring the lasting effects of violence, trauma, and memory. The scholarships are funded by South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF) and aim to support students pursuing advanced research in this critical field.

The MPhil program provides a unique academic environment to study the complex legacies of violence, transgenerational trauma, and the processes of healing and social repair. It encourages decolonial approaches to knowledge production and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. This opportunity is ideal for those passionate about understanding and addressing historical injustices and their ongoing impacts.

About the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair

The MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair is a specialized postgraduate degree. It equips scholars with the necessary theoretical, methodological, and practical skills to analyze the deep and lasting consequences of violence across generations. The program focuses on several key areas:

• Decolonial Approaches: Examining knowledge production from perspectives that challenge colonial legacies.
• Violent Histories: Understanding the historical context of violence and its continuing social effects.
• Transgenerational Trauma and Memory: Investigating how trauma is passed down through generations and how societies remember violent pasts.
• Healing and Repair: Studying the psychosocial processes involved in healing from trauma and achieving social repair.
• Social Justice and Restorative Practices: Exploring ways to achieve justice and implement restorative measures.
• Community-Based Research: Engaging in collaborative research that involves affected communities.
• Public Engagement: Contributing to public discourse and understanding of these complex issues.

Students enrolled in this program become part of the Centre for the Study of the Afterlife of Violence and the Reparative Quest (AVReQ) at Stellenbosch University. They will work alongside leading scholars and practitioners focused on violence, justice, memory, and healing.

Scholarship Benefits and Duration

The scholarships cover full-time enrollment in the MPhil program. The funding is provided for two years of study. The program is set to begin in January 2027.

For South African citizens and permanent residents, the NRF scholarships offer full funding. International students who are selected may receive partial scholarship support. This funding aims to enable talented individuals to dedicate themselves fully to their research without financial strain.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair scholarships, applicants must meet specific academic and personal criteria. These requirements ensure that candidates are well-prepared for advanced research and committed to the program’s objectives.

Academic Requirements

• Honours Degree: Applicants must hold an Honours degree or an equivalent qualification before the MPhil program starts.
• Minimum Mark: A minimum final mark of 65% in their Honours degree is required.
• Graduation Date: The Honours degree must have been completed no earlier than 2024.
• Proof of Graduation: Applicants need to provide proof of graduation or a letter from a supervisor confirming expected graduation by the end of the 2026 academic year.

Research and Personal Commitment

Beyond academic qualifications, applicants must demonstrate:

• Commitment to Research: A strong dedication to postgraduate education and research in the field.
• Genuine Interest: A clear passion for exploring issues related to violent histories, trauma, memory, justice, healing, and repair.
• Collaborative Spirit: A willingness to actively participate in a collaborative research community.
• Intellectual Curiosity: Engagement with decolonial scholarship and a desire to learn and contribute new knowledge.

Required Application Documents

The application process involves two main steps: applying for admission to the MPhil program through Stellenbosch University’s online system and submitting a separate scholarship application via email. The scholarship application package must include the following:

1. Academic Qualification Documents

• A copy of your Honours degree certificate.
• Alternatively, a letter from your supervisor confirming your expected graduation date by the end of 2026.

2. Sample of Academic Work

• One example of previous academic writing. This could be an academic essay, a journal publication, a dissertation chapter, or a chapter from an Honours research project. This piece should showcase your research and writing abilities.

3. Scholarship Motivation Letter

• This letter should not exceed three pages.
• It needs to address your academic background and achievements, leadership experience, community engagement, and professional or civic involvement.
• Clearly outline your research interests and how they align with the MPhil program and AVReQ’s focus.
• Describe your intended contribution to AVReQ’s intellectual and public life.
• If applicable, you should also address your financial need.

4. Recommendation Letter

• Submit at least one letter of recommendation from an academic mentor. This person should be familiar with your academic work and capabilities.

5. Declaration Form

• Complete and submit the Declaration of Authorship, Generative AI Use, and Writing Assistance Form.

Submission Process

All scholarship application materials should be sent via email to [email protected]. The subject line of your email must be: MPHIL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION 2027.

Application Deadline

The deadline for all scholarship applications is Monday, 22 June 2026, at 12:00 PM (Noon). Late applications are generally not considered, so ensure you submit all documents well before the deadline.

Interview Process

Candidates who are shortlisted after the initial application review will be invited for an interview. The interview date is scheduled for 25 June 2026. Applicants must ensure they are available on this date if they are selected for an interview. This is an opportunity to discuss your research interests and suitability for the program further.

Why Apply for This Scholarship?

This scholarship presents a significant opportunity for individuals dedicated to understanding and addressing the profound effects of violence and historical injustice. Successful applicants will gain access to NRF-funded postgraduate support, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits. They will benefit from working with leading scholars and researchers in the field and become part of a dynamic, interdisciplinary research community.

The program offers specialized training in decolonial and reparative scholarship. It also provides avenues to contribute to public discourse and social transformation. For emerging researchers committed to making a meaningful societal impact, the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair at Stellenbosch University offers an exceptional platform for academic growth and research excellence.

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