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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.
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide German Studies
German Studies 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 Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medical Physics
Medical Physics 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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medicine
The Master of Medicine from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a full-time degree offered in a range of specialties over 3 to 5 years, depending on the specialty.
Master Full-time On-campus
3 years$791/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Governance (General)
Learn to critically engage with complex issues in the field of Governance and Management with the Governance (General) 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 Anaesthesiology
Anaesthesiology from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.
Master Full-time On-campus
4 years$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Neurosurgery
Neurosurgery 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 Radiological Diagnostics
Radiological Diagnostics 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Constitutional and International Law
The master in Constitutional and International 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.
M.Sc. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Maternal and Child Health
The Master of Public Health in the field of Maternal and Child Health from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a part-time programme.
M.P.H. Full-time +2 On-campus
3 years$1,491/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Electrical Engineering
Electrical Engineering from Cape Peninsula University of Technology equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct independent research in electrical engineering and to contribute to knowledge production through the understanding, application and evaluation of existing and new knowledge.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Education
The Master of Education by dissertation or by coursework and research report offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time degree.
M.Ed. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,469/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Old Testament Studies
This Old Testament Studies programme from University of Pretoria offers the student with a four-year BDiv, a BThHons or equivalent qualification, the opportunity of theological specialisation and research at master’s level.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Drafting and Interpretation of Contracts
The lecturing style in this Master in Drafting and Interpretation of Contracts at University of Johannesburg is interactive.
LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Community-based Counselling
The Master of Arts in Community-based Counselling offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a full-time degree taken over 2 years.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,564/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Nursing Education
Nursing Education from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,842/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Business Management - Supply Chain Management-Purchasing
The objective of the master in Business Management - Supply Chain Management-Purchasing of College of Economic and Management Sciences at University of South Africa (UNISA) is to provide relevant and functional qualifications of a high standard, quality tuition and a professional caring and valued customer service to all its stakeholders.
Master Part-time Online
3 years$185/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Musicology
The master of Musicology 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
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Hospitality Management
All the departments within the Faculty have extensive laboratory and computer facilities, and are well equipped to support a practical, project-oriented approach to learning. The Hospitality Management programme is offered at Central University of Technology, Free State.
Postgraduate Diploma Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$163/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Environmental Management
Environmental Management from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to provide professional training in environmental management through active generation and dissemination of knowledge and skills needed.
Master Full-time On-campus
$211/module
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(151)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Contemporary Curatorial Practice (Research)
The Contemporary Curatorial Practice (Research) is offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg full-time over one year or part-time over two years.
M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$1,876/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.