Stellenbosch University MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships 2027
The Stellenbosch University MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships for 2027 offer fully funded opportunities for emerging researchers. This program, based at the Centre for the Study of the Afterlife of Violence and the Reparative Quest (AVReQ), is funded by South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF). It aims to support students pursuing advanced research into the lasting effects of violence, trauma, memory, healing, and social repair. The MPhil program provides a unique environment for scholars to explore critical questions about violent pasts, transgenerational trauma, psychosocial healing, and decolonial knowledge.
About the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair
The MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair is a specialized postgraduate program. It equips scholars with the necessary theoretical, methodological, and practical skills to study the complex and long-term consequences of violence across generations. The program emphasizes decolonial approaches to knowledge production, the ongoing social impacts of violent histories, and transgenerational trauma and memory. It also focuses on psychosocial processes of healing and repair, social justice, restorative practices, and community-based research. Students become part of the AVReQ intellectual community, working with experts on violence, justice, memory, and healing.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship covers full-time enrollment in the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair program at Stellenbosch University. The funding is for two years of study, with the program set to begin in January 2027. South African citizens and permanent residents can receive full NRF scholarships. International students who are selected may receive partial scholarship funding.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet specific academic and personal criteria.
Academic Requirements
Applicants need to hold an Honours degree or an equivalent qualification before the MPhil program starts. They must have achieved a minimum final mark of 65% in their Honours degree. The degree should have been completed no earlier than 2024. Proof of graduation or a supervisor’s confirmation of expected graduation by the end of the 2026 academic year is also required.
Research and Personal Commitment
Beyond academics, applicants must show a strong dedication to postgraduate education and research. A genuine interest in violent histories, trauma, memory, justice, healing, and repair is essential. Applicants should also be willing to actively participate in a collaborative research community and demonstrate intellectual curiosity, particularly in decolonial scholarship.
Required Application Documents
Prospective students must first apply for admission to the MPhil program through Stellenbosch University’s online system. Following that, a separate scholarship application must be submitted via email.
Academic Qualification Documents
This includes a copy of the Honours degree certificate or a letter from a supervisor confirming expected graduation by the end of 2026.
Sample of Academic Work
Applicants are asked to provide 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.
Scholarship Motivation Letter
A motivation letter, with a maximum of three pages, is required. It should detail the applicant’s academic background and achievements, leadership experience, community engagement, and professional or civic involvement. The letter should also explain their research interests and how they align with the program, their intended contributions to AVReQ, and any financial needs.
Recommendation Letter
At least one recommendation letter from an academic mentor who is familiar with the applicant’s work and capabilities must be submitted.
Declaration Form
Candidates must complete and submit a Declaration of Authorship, Generative AI Use, and Writing Assistance Form.
Submission Process
All scholarship application materials should be sent via email to AVREQINFO@sun.ac.za. The email subject line 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
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, which are scheduled for 25 June 2026. Applicants should ensure they are available on this date if selected.
Why Apply?
This scholarship presents a significant opportunity to study a highly relevant area of contemporary scholarship. Successful applicants will receive NRF-funded postgraduate support, access to leading scholars, and training in decolonial and reparative scholarship. They will also have the chance to contribute to public discourse and social transformation, engaging with critical questions about trauma, healing, justice, and memory. For students dedicated to understanding and addressing the effects of violence and historical injustice, this MPhil program offers an excellent platform for academic development and societal impact.
