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607 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Insurance Law
The master in Insurance 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Mathematics
The vision of the master in Mathematics at University of South Africa (UNISA) is to “develop world class, futuristic, African science, engineering and technology leaders, who aspire to extend the frontiers of innovation”.
M.Sc. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Sport Science
The Master in Sport Science at University of Johannesburg student should be able to reflect on his/her research decisions and applications to assess the effect thereof in the holistic context of the sport science industry.
M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Education in Socio-education
The master in Education in Socio-education at University of South Africa (UNISA) is committed to reaching out to all of humanity by providing scholarship, service, learning and continuous professional development opportunities to aspirant and serving educators, managers and policy makers, and other practitioners in education at home and abroad.
Master Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Governance (Governance and Management)
Learn to critically engage with complex issues in the field of Governance and Management with the Governance (Governance and Management) programme offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
Master Part-time On-campus
2 years$2,666/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering from University of Pretoria aims to be internationally competitive while also locally relevant. Advisory boards at both faculty and departmental level promote alignment and excellence in our teaching and research activities.
M.Eng. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Food Science
At Food Science 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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
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(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Surgery
Surgery from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.
Master Full-time On-campus
5 years$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medical Nuclear Science
Medical Nuclear Science from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Anthropology
The Anthropology program of Rhodes University is research based which requires the completion of a written thesis on a topic which makes a contribution to the field of Anthropology.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,840/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Labour Law
The master in Labour 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 Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medical Microbiology
Medical Microbiology from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture 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 Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Forest Science
At Forest Science 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science
The Master of Nursing Sciences in Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science from University of Johannesburg serves as a basis for advanced learning.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Energy
Energy from Cape Peninsula University of Technology equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct independent research in electrical engineering.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Sport Management
Sport Management from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to provide academic excellence; operating at the cutting edge of our disciplines; creating and disseminating knowledge through high level research.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Plant Pathology
At Plant Pathology 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.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,842/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Human Kinetics and Ergonomics
If you are interested in pursuing the Human Kinetics and Ergonomics program of Rhodes University, you should contact the academic staff member with whom you would like to study, since we offer these qualifications by thesis only.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/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.