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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 Research in Computer Science offered by University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg allows you to work with leading researchers in Computer Science. You will be trained as a researcher, allowing entrance into PhD programmes in Computer Science, and will be expected to produce work of a high standard that can contribute to the field.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$978/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Development Studies
The master of Development Studies 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 Applied Science - Metallurgy
Applied Science - Metallurgy 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Transport Economics
The Master in Transport Economics at University of Johannesburg student should be able to reflect on managerial decisions and applications to assess the effect thereof in the holistic context of transport economics, management and regulation and his/her research skills.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Emergency Medical Care
Emergency Medical Care from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to facilitate development of a researcher to be competent in primary and/ or secondary research in the context of emergency medical care.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Engineering - Mechanical
Graduates in the Engineering - Mechanical at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology will make a contribution, through research, to understanding the application and evaluation of existing knowledge in a specialised area of technology.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Public Administration
The objective of the master in Public Administration 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.
M.A. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Electrical Engineering
Electrical Engineering from University of Pretoria is a leading source of graduates in the engineering, built environment and information technology professions. We achieve this by a focus on research to drive innovative and enquiry-led teaching for educating and positioning our students to be leaders in their professions.
M.Eng. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Civil Engineering
The Civil 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 handle 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$2,750/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Electronic Engineering
Electronic Engineering 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.Eng. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Communication and Media
Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers you the chance to study Communication and Media at the Faculty of Informatics and Design.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Art History
The master of Art History 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Sustainable Urban Planning and Development (Sustainable and Smart Cities and Regions)
The Master in Sustainable Urban Planning and Development (Sustainable and Smart Cities and Regions) from University of Johannesburg's purpose is to develop an intellectual with advanced abilities in applying fundamental engineering sciences or related inter-disciplinary principles to specific problems of society at large.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide New Testament Studies
This New 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 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Competition and Economic Regulation (CW)
The purpose of the Competition and Economic Regulation (CW) program at University of Johannesburg is to equip students with the specialist knowledge and skills required to undertake rigorous economic analysis in competition and regulatory matters, contributing to the sub-field of applied economics.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Nanoscience (CW)
The coursework Master of Science in Nanoscience (CW) at University of Johannesburg consists of six modules and a minor dissertation.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(326)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Dogmatics and Christian Ethics
This Dogmatics and Christian Ethics 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Accounting Sciences (Financial Intelligence)
The master of Accounting Sciences (Financial Intelligence) at University of South Africa (UNISA) is a principal branch of the College’s SAICA-endorsed CTA programme. It incorporates the disciplines of Financial Accounting and Auditing – divisions of learning that assist the various systems of management and report on progress, hence the term ‘financial governance’.
M.Phil. Part-time Online
$350/yr
South African Theological Seminary3,6(5)
Online Theology
Our Master of Theology from South African Theological Seminary is a research-based degree that is fully accredited and completely online.
M.Sc. Part-time Online
2 years$402/module
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.