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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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Computer Science
The MSc by Coursework and Research Report in Computer Science from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg offers advanced courses in specialised topics within Computer Science. The variety of topics on offer allows you to customise your curriculum to your interests.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Agriculture
Agriculture from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct research in agriculture.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Engineering Management
Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers you the chance to study Engineering Management at the Faculty of Engineering and the Build Environment.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Mechanical Engineering
The Mechanical Engineering programme from Central University of Technology, Free State is a research-based postgraduate qualification at NQF Level 9 aiming towards the development of a candidate’s ability to conduct independent scientific and technological investigations and to interpret the results to lead to problem-solving capabilities in practice.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$361/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Teaching and Learning
Teaching and Learning is the study of ancient cultures; their art, literature, thought and history. The focus of Classics is the ancient Mediterranean – Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Near East – but our courses also include modules on ancient Africa, India and China. The Classics program of Rhodes University is designed to stimulate, inform, and encourage reflection.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Complementary Medicine
The purpose of this MHS in Complementary Medicine from University of Johannesburg is to develop a graduate competent in the knowledge, attitudes, insight and skills required for diagnosing and treating patients in the field of CM as well as formulating comprehensive management plans for health promotion.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Food Science and Technology
At Food Science and Technology from Cape Peninsula University of Technology graduates will be able to conduct independent applied and fundamental research in the field of food technology, including: food product development, food production, food chemistry, food microbiology, food quality assurance, food analysis, food biotechnology and nutrition.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Environmental Education
The master in Environmental 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.
M.Ed. Part-time Online
$350/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Drama
The Drama programme of Rhodes University has been in operation since 1988, offering possibilities of study via thesis only, or by coursework and half thesis.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medical Physics
The Medical Physics by coursework and research report programme offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is taken full-time over one year or part-time over two years.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Molecular and Cell Biology
The MSc by dissertation in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered in the School of Molecular & Cell Biology, with focus areas including Applied Bioinformatics, Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Genetics & Developmental Biology, and Microbiology & Biotechnology.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$1,738/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Commerce
The Master of Commerce by research offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a supervised dissertation on an approved topic within the areas of Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Insurance and Risk Management, and Industrial Organisation.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$1,917/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Corporate Law
The master in Corporate 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 Linguistics
The master of Linguistics 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 Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Law
Law from University of Pretoria is increasingly becoming multifaceted and in certain areas more global.
LL.M. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
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.Sc. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Applied Science - Mechanics
Applied Science - Mechanics 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.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medical Genetics
The Master of Medicine in the field of Medical Genetics offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a four year, full time degree.
Master Full-time On-campus
4 years$593/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
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
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.