Stellenbosch University Offers MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships for 2027

Stellenbosch University Offers MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships

Stellenbosch University is offering fully funded scholarships for its Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Violent Histories and Repair program for 2027. This specialized program focuses on understanding and addressing the lasting effects of violence and trauma across generations. The scholarships are funded by South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF) and are open to academically strong students interested in research related to violence, memory, healing, and social repair.

The MPhil program provides a unique academic environment for emerging scholars to explore critical questions about violent pasts, transgenerational trauma, and decolonial knowledge. It aims to equip students with the necessary theoretical, methodological, and practical skills to examine the complex consequences of violence.

About the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair

The MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair is designed to prepare scholars to analyze the long-term impacts of violence. The program emphasizes several key areas:

• Decolonial approaches to knowledge production: This involves understanding and challenging Western-centric ways of knowing and creating new frameworks for knowledge that center marginalized perspectives.
• Violent histories and their continuing social impacts: Students will study how past acts of violence continue to shape present-day societies, economies, and political structures.
• Transgenerational trauma and memory: The program explores how trauma experienced by one generation can affect subsequent generations and how collective memories of violence are formed and maintained.
• Psychosocial processes of healing and repair: This includes examining methods and strategies for addressing the psychological and social wounds left by violence.
• Social justice and restorative practices: Students will learn about approaches that aim to achieve fairness and mend societal divisions caused by historical injustices.
• Community-based and collaborative research: The program encourages research that involves and benefits the communities being studied, fostering partnerships and shared understanding.
• Public engagement and intellectual contribution: Scholars will be encouraged to share their research findings and engage with the public to promote dialogue and social change.

Students in this program become part of the Centre for the Study of the Afterlife of Violence and the Reparative Quest (AVReQ) at Stellenbosch University. This center brings together scholars, researchers, and practitioners working on critical issues of violence, justice, memory, and healing.

Scholarship Benefits and Duration

The scholarships cover full-time study for the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair program at Stellenbosch University. The funding is provided for two years. The program is set to begin in January 2027.

The funding structure varies: South African citizens and permanent residents may receive full NRF scholarships. International students who are selected might receive partial scholarship funding.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet specific academic and personal criteria.

Academic Requirements

• Applicants must possess an Honours degree or an equivalent qualification before the MPhil program starts.
• A minimum final mark of 65% in their Honours degree is required.
• The Honours degree must have been completed no earlier than 2024.
• Proof of graduation or a confirmation letter from a supervisor stating expected graduation by the end of the 2026 academic year is necessary.

Research and Personal Commitment

Beyond academic qualifications, applicants must show:

• A strong dedication to postgraduate education and research.
• A genuine interest in topics such as violent histories, trauma, memory, justice, healing, and repair.
• A willingness to actively participate in a collaborative research community.
• Intellectual curiosity and a demonstrated engagement with decolonial scholarship.

Required Application Documents

Prospective students must first apply for admission to the MPhil program through Stellenbosch University’s online system. Following this, a separate scholarship application must be submitted via email.

The scholarship application package requires the following:

1. Academic Qualification Documents

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

2. Sample of Academic Work

• Submit one example of your previous academic writing. This could be an academic essay, a journal publication, a chapter from a dissertation, or a chapter from an Honours research project.

3. Scholarship Motivation Letter

• This letter should be a maximum of three pages.
• It needs to cover your academic background and achievements.
• Include details about leadership experience and community engagement.
• Describe your professional, civic, or academic involvement.
• Clearly state your research interests and how they align with the program.
• Explain your intended contribution to AVReQ’s intellectual and public life.
• If applicable, address your financial need.

4. Recommendation Letter

• Provide at least one recommendation letter from an academic mentor who is familiar with your work and abilities.

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 by email to [email protected]. The subject line of the email must be: MPHIL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION 2027.

Application Deadline

The deadline for all applications is Monday, 22 June 2026, at 12:00 PM (Noon). Late applications are unlikely to be considered.

Interview Process

Candidates who are shortlisted will be invited for interviews. These interviews are scheduled for 25 June 2026. Applicants must ensure they are available on this date if selected.

Why Apply?

This scholarship presents a significant opportunity to study a highly relevant and urgent field of scholarship. Successful applicants will gain access to NRF-funded postgraduate support, work with leading scholars and researchers, and participate in a dynamic interdisciplinary research community. The program offers training in decolonial and reparative scholarship, with opportunities to contribute to public discourse and social transformation. It is an exceptional platform for academic growth, research excellence, and making a meaningful societal impact for those committed to understanding and addressing the effects of violence and historical injustice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair program about?

This program explores the long-term impacts of violence, including transgenerational trauma, memory, and psychosocial healing, using decolonial and reparative approaches.

Who is eligible for the scholarships?

Applicants need an Honours degree (or equivalent) completed no earlier than 2024 with at least 65%, a strong interest in the program’s themes, and a commitment to research.

What does the scholarship cover?

The scholarships are fully funded for two years of full-time study, covering tuition and other expenses, with NRF funding.

What documents are needed for the scholarship application?

You’ll need your Honours degree certificate (or supervisor’s letter), a sample of academic work, a motivation letter, a recommendation letter, and a declaration form.