SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES (SHSS) CALL FOR APPLICATIONS – 2026/2027 ACADEMIC YEAR

The University of Malawi invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for admission into the following programmes offered in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, commencing in September 2026.

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME

Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Development (BARD)

(Economic Fee Paying)

Programme Overview

This interdisciplinary programme examines the role of religion in shaping social, economic, political, and cultural development processes, with a strong focus on African contexts. It integrates religious studies, development theory, ethics, and indigenous knowledge systems.

Entry Requirements

  • Level 1 Entry: MSCE or equivalent with at least 6 credits including English

  • Mature Entry (Level 3): Relevant diploma in theology, religious studies, development studies, or related fields with 6 credits including English or 4 credits including English plus 2 years post-qualification work experience.

  • International applicants must have equivalent qualifications (e.g., A-Level, GCSE)

Duration

  • Level 1 Entry: 4 years

  • Level 3 Entry: 2 years

Mode of Study

  • Full-time

Key Areas of Study

  • Religion and Development

  • Religion and Ethics

  • Religion and Gender

  • Religion and Peacebuilding

  • Development Theory

  • Indigenous Knowledge Systems

  • Religion and Governance

Practical Learning

  • Fieldwork and community research

  • Internships (NGOs, FBOs, development agencies)

  • Applied development projects

Career Opportunities

  • NGOs and Faith-Based Organizations

  • Public Policy and Governance

  • Community Development

  • Research and Academia

  • Advocacy and Human Rights

Fees

  • Malawian: MWK 3,500,000 per academic year

  • SADC: USD 1,200 per year

  • International: USD 1,500 per year

Required Documents

  • Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts

  • Curriculum Vitae (for postgraduate and mature entry applicants)

  • Personal statement (postgraduate applicants)

  • Two reference letters (postgraduate applicants)

  • National ID/Passport (for international applicants)

  • Proof of English proficiency (where applicable)

CONTACT INFORMATION

  • Undergraduate Coordinator (Theology and Religious Studies):
    Email: ljuttah@unima.ac.mw | Tel: 0991360363

POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES

1. Master of Arts in Religion and Leadership (MARL)

Programme Overview

An advanced interdisciplinary programme exploring the relationship between religion, leadership, and social transformation. It equips students with skills in ethical leadership, governance, and institutional management.

Entry Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (credit or above) in:

  • Theology

  • Religious Studies

  • Leadership or Management

  • Social Sciences, Humanities, or related fields

  • Those with a high pass and 2 years post-qualification experience in a relevant field may also apply.

Duration

  • 2 years (1 year coursework + 1 year research)

Mode of Study

  • Full-time

Key Areas of Study

  • Leadership Theory

  • Religion and Governance

  • Financial Management in Faith-Based Organizations

  • Religion and Constitutionalism

  • Gender and Political Leadership

Fees

  • Malawian: MWK 4,500,000

  • SADC: USD 3,000

  • International: USD 3,500

Required Documents

  • Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts

  • Curriculum Vitae (for postgraduate and mature entry applicants)

  • Personal statement (postgraduate applicants)

  • Two reference letters (postgraduate applicants)

  • National ID/Passport (for international applicants)

  • Proof of English proficiency (where applicable)

CONTACT INFORMATION

  • Postgraduate Coordinator (Theology and Religious Studies):
    Email: jmawerenga@unima.ac.mw | Tel: 0991918897

 

2. Master of Arts in Work and Organizational Psychology

Programme Overview

This programme focuses on human behaviour in workplace settings, equipping students with skills to improve employee performance, organizational effectiveness, and workplace well-being.

Entry Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree (credit) in: 

    • Psychology

    • Human Resource Management

    • Business Administration

    • Organizational Behaviour

    • Social or Behavioural Sciences

    •  

  • Those with a high pass and 2 years post-qualification experience in a relevant field may also apply.

Duration

  • 2 years

    • Year 1: Coursework (block release)

    • Year 2: Research and dissertation

Key Areas of Study

  • Organizational Development and Change

  • Leadership and Employee Engagement

  • Psychological Assessment and Selection

  • Training and Development

  • Research Methods (Qualitative & Quantitative)

  • Work Ethics and Corporate Governance

  • Workplace Health and Well-being

Fees

  • Malawian: MWK 4,500,000 per year

  • International: USD 5,000 per year

APPLICATION PROCESS

Application forms can be obtained from:

  • The University of Malawi official website

  • University Registry Offices

  • Due date for applications: 27th April 2026

Required Documents

  • Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts

  • Curriculum Vitae (for postgraduate and mature entry applicants)

  • Personal statement (postgraduate applicants)

  • Two reference letters (postgraduate applicants)

  • National ID/Passport (for international applicants)

  • Proof of English proficiency (where applicable)

CONTACT INFORMATION 

  • Postgraduate Coordinator (Psychology):
    Email: dkokota@unima.ac.mw