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610 Affordable Master's degrees in South Africa
When considering an affordable master's degree, it's essential to understand what qualifies as 'affordable'. In our system, any master’s programme with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 2,500 euros per year is considered affordable. This range makes it accessible for many international students who are budget-conscious. In South Africa, affordable master's programmes can start from €0, meaning some universities offer tuition-free options. This makes South Africa an appealing destination for students searching for budget-friendly master's programmes. With a variety of cheap master's in South Africa available, international students can find quality education without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for a cheap master degree in South Africa or an affordable master's degree in South Africa for international students, there are numerous options to explore. To get started, check out the top universities in South Africa offering affordable programmes.
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Mathematics
The MSc by dissertation in Mathematics is a 1 year full-time or 2 year part-time degree. This course is offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg .
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Computer Science
Computer Science from University of Pretoria focuses on research to drive innovative and enquiry-led teaching for educating and positioning our students to be leaders in their professions.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Applied Mathematics
At Applied Mathematics from University of Pretoria we strive to continuously improve our high impact research and significantly address the national shortage of PhD graduates that respond to global and local challenges.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide Architecture
The Master of Architecture is offered at University of Cape Town. The qualification introduces a master's degree within a succession of qualifications leading towards professional qualification in architecture.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,499/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Portuguese
The master of Portuguese at University of South Africa (UNISA) offers high-quality general academic and career-focused distance education tuition in the arts, humanities, social sciences, religion and theology.
M.A. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Public Health
The Public Health Postgrad.Dip from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered in the fields of Exposure and Health, Health Systems and Policy, Maternal and Child Health, Rural Health, and Social and Behaviour Change Communication
Postgraduate Diploma Part-time On-campus
2 years$1,610/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Programme with Languages Specialisation
Take your education career to the next level with our Programme with Languages Specialisation course offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
M.Ed. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,469/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Informatics
Informatics from University of Pretoria aspires to be at the cutting edge of economic, financial and management education.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Professional Industrial Psychology (CW)
The purpose of the Professional Industrial Psychology (CW) program from University of Johannesburg is to develop applied competence at an advanced level, specifically in the analysis, interpretation and application of industrial psychology principles and methods.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Physiotherapy
The Master of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered y coursework and research report in a range of speciality areas.
M.Sc. Part-time On-campus
2 years$1,728/yr
University of Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide Project Management
Project Management at the University of Cape Town is a key growth area. It is recognised as the most appropriate form of management for the new generation of managers who are asked to handle multi-disciplinary projects in a rapidly changing business environment.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
3 years$2,499/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Information Science
Information Science from University of Pretoria focuses on research to drive innovative and enquiry-led teaching for educating and positioning our students to be leaders in their professions.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Laws
The Master of Laws by dissertation from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg gives candidates the opportunity to conduct their own research into a specific area of the law.
LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$1,549/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Health Economics
The Master of Public Health in the field of Health Economics from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a part-time degree.
M.P.H. Part-time On-campus
3 years$1,491/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide International Economic Law
The master in International Economic Law at University of South Africa (UNISA) provides comprehensive open distance learning in a socially responsible and distinctive manner that produces excellent scholarship and research, provides quality tuition and fosters active community engagement.
LL.M. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of the Free State4,4(23)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Business Administration
The Business Administration programme content of the University of the Free State MBA enhances and develops managers and leaders, broadly covering all aspects and challenges which managers and leaders might face in today's ever-changing business environment.
M.B.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,025/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Accounting Sciences (Management Accounting)
The master of Accounting Sciences (Management Accounting) signals University of South Africa (UNISA)'s commitment to contribute towards the advancement and transformation of the accounting profession in South Africa and to support positive growth and development of the financial and economic sectors.
M.Phil. Part-time Online
$350/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Horticultural Sciences
The aim of the Horticultural Sciences course at Cape Peninsula University of Technology is to develop skilled graduates who will be competent in conducting applied and fundamental research principles in any of the fields of plant propagation, production and development, landscape, environmental, retail management and maintenance.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Emergency Medicine
Emergency Medicine from University of Pretoria aims to to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.
Master Full-time On-campus
4 years$2,878/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Management (Research)
This Master of Management (Research) degree offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a pure (100%) research degree. In contrast to the Master’s degree by coursework and research, this degree involves developing a conceptual or theoretical framework and a more wide ranging literature review.
Master Part-time On-campus
2 years$1,205/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
To qualify for a Master's programme in South Africa, you typically need a relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum of a second-class honours. Some programmes may require a specific grade point average (GPA) or additional qualifications such as a postgraduate diploma. International students must also provide proof of English proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Additionally, a well-written statement of purpose and letters of recommendation are often required. It's important to check the specific requirements of the programme you are interested in, as they can vary between institutions and disciplines.
South Africa is home to several prestigious universities that offer high-quality Master's programmes. The top universities in South Africa include the University of Cape Town, the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, and Stellenbosch University. These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and affordable tuition fees. They offer a wide range of Master's programmes across various fields, making them attractive options for international students seeking affordable yet high-quality education.
Master's degrees in South Africa are notably affordable due to several factors. Firstly, the South African government provides substantial funding to public universities, which helps keep tuition fees low. Additionally, the cost of living in South Africa is generally lower than in many Western countries, which contributes to more economical education. Furthermore, many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to both local and international students, making it even more accessible. This combination of government support, lower living costs, and available financial aid makes South Africa an attractive destination for affordable Master's degrees.
For cheap master's degrees in South Africa, most universities require proficiency in English. This is typically demonstrated through standardised tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum score requirements can vary depending on the programme and institution, but generally, a score of 6.5 on IELTS or 80 on TOEFL is common. Some programmes may accept alternative English proficiency tests or consider other evidence of English language skills, such as previous studies conducted in English. It's essential to check the specific language requirements of the programme you are applying to.
Yes, international students in South Africa are allowed to work part-time while studying. The South African government permits students on a study visa to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university holidays. This provides an opportunity for students to gain work experience and help cover living expenses. However, it's important to ensure that part-time work does not interfere with your academic responsibilities. Additionally, students should be aware of any specific regulations or restrictions that may apply to their visa type.
While tuition fees for affordable Master's programmes in South Africa are low, there are other costs to consider. These include living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare. On average, international students should budget between ZAR 8,000 to ZAR 15,000 per month for living costs, depending on the city and lifestyle. Additionally, there may be costs associated with obtaining a student visa, such as application fees and medical examinations. It's also advisable to budget for textbooks, study materials, and occasional social activities. Planning ahead and budgeting carefully can help manage these additional expenses effectively.