The Catto MSc and PhD Scholarships, Centre of African Studies – University of Edinburgh is pleased to announce the availability of one full scholarship for suitable female applicants from Africa to study for an MSc in Africa and International Development and subsequent PhD in African Studies.
About Scholarship
This Catto MSc and PhD Scholarships is made possible through generous funding from the Stephen Gordon Catto Charitable Trust.
As a key goal of the scholarship is to diversify the scholars from the African continent who contribute original and important research to African Studies, this scholarship is only open to scholars normally domiciled in African countries.
This scholarship has been designed to offer a combined package in order to enable those who may not feel they have sufficient research experience to embark on a PhD to get that grounding with an MSc. The MSc year helps build a bridge between undergraduate studies and the PhD.
Moreover, the scholarship is to diversify the scholars from the African continent who contribute original and important research to African Studies.
Scholarship Benefits
- The funding covers four years of support in either case.
- It will cover full fees as well as an annual stipend of £15,840 during the one-year MSc and in the subsequent three years of PhD study or throughout four years of PhD study.
- Successful applicants will receive upfront support of £4000 to cover UK visa application costs, travel costs to Edinburgh and any other expenses before arriving in Edinburgh.
- Where appropriate, we are also able to offer direct admission into the PhD African Studies Programme.
General Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Identify as women, including cis and trans people and non-binary or gender fluid people who identify in a significant way as women or female who is normally domiciled in an African country listed here.
- Have received an excellent undergraduate degree (minimum of a high 2.1) in the social sciences from an accredited university in Africa (a Masters degree achieved with distinction will be an advantage for those wishing to go directly into a PhD).
- If you are applying directly to the PhD, note that you must have received an excellent Masters Degree. In this case, four years of full funding towards the PhD would be awarded.
- Not have previously received a degree from a university outside Africa (with the exception of current or former students of The University of Edinburgh).
- Demonstrate commitment to studying for a PhD in African Studies.
- Demonstrate leadership potential (broadly defined), and intention to maximize the impact of their research.
- Have submitted an application to study for the MSc in Africa and International Development and/or the PhD in African Studies at the University of Edinburgh.
- Note: Preference will be given to those studying conflict resolution, elections, technology, peace building, gender and/or governance in African contexts, although the selection panel may consider other areas in the field of politics and international development.
- Applicants are responsible for ensuring that they can meet the English Language requirements of the University of Edinburgh: English Language Requirements.
How to Apply for Catto MSc and PhD Scholarships
However, suitably qualified applicants are advised to submit:
- A summary of your research proposal (maximum 2 pages).
- A cover letter indicating your motivations and future plans (maximum 1 page).
- An academic CV, clearly showing class of degree and previous educational achievements (maximum 2 pages).
- A letter of reference from an academic familiar with your work.
- The PDF document must be named as follows: First Name Surname_CATTO APPLICATION_year-of-application
Example: Jasper Victor_CATTO APPLICATION_2024 - All applications must use the email subject line: CATTO SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION Year-of-Application
- Applications must be submitted in a single pdf document on or before the closing date to admissions.phdafricanstudies@ed.ac.u
Note:
- All applications will be assessed after the closing date and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an online interview.
Additionally, please keep an eye on our website for more updates on Catto MSc and PhD Scholarships. Kindly use the comment section below if you have any question.
