610 Affordable Master's degrees in South Africa | Mastersportal
Selected filters
AffordableSouth Africa
Field of Study
Location
University
Tuition Fee
Duration
Format
Attendance
Degree Type
Special Programme

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.

2
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Local Economic Development

The purpose of the Master in Local Economic Development at University of Johannesburg is to develop an advanced level of knowledge,skills and applied competence in the field of Local Economic Development(LED).

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

Afrikaans and Netherlandic Studies

The program in Afrikaans and Netherlandic Studies at Rhodes University to promote and advance scholarship in African languages.

Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Bioinformatics

At Bioinformatics 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 Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Clinical Pathology

Clinical Pathology from University of Pretoria aims to 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(327)
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 Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Structural Engineering

The Structural Engineering programme at the University of Pretoria is a leading source of graduates in the engineering, built environment and information technology professions. 

M.Eng. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Geosciences

The Master of Science in Geosciences by dissertation from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered in Geology, Geophysics or Palaeontology.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/yr
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa +1

Language Practice

The main purpose of this Language Practice programme from Central University of Technology, Free State is to develop research competence in students so that they can make a significant academic contribution in their disciplines or fields

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$498/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Environmental Health

The Environmental Health program at University of Johannesburg will provide students with the knowledge and skills to conduct independent research through advanced scientific problem solving skills, and the application of critical and reflective thinking in the field of Environmental Health. 

Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
Durban University of Technology3,9(148)
Durban, South Africa

Environmental Health

The Environmental Health program at Durban University of Technology is offered as a full research qualification. Students wishing to enroll for the MHSc: Environmental Health must comply with Rule G24 of the DUT General Handbook

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$305/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Medical Immunology

Medical Immunology 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(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Multimedia

Multimedia 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
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa

Information Technology

The aim of this Information Technology programme at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct independent research in information technology and information systems (IT/IS).

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of the Western Cape4,1(90)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 4% in Worldwide

Occupational Therapy (Structured)

At Occupational Therapy (Structured) from the University of the Western Cape, you'll use the knowledge and research to impact society.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
3 years$2,319/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa

Dental Technology

At Dental Technology from Cape Peninsula University of Technology students will conduct independent research under the guidance of an appointed supervisor who also is a authority in that specific area in which the intended research will be conducted.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Commercial Law

Many large corporate and commercial transactions take place in Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub. The UJ Law Faculty is thus well placed to offer a highly relevant LLM in Commercial Law, drawing students from leading commercial firms. The faculty is offering a Master in Commercial Law at University of Johannesburg.

LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Online Top 2% in Worldwide

Information and Communication Technology Education

The purpose of the Master of Information and Communication Technology Education from University of Johannesburg is for students to acquire, strengthen and deepen specialist advanced theoretical knowledge of ICTs in educational environments. 

M.Ed. Full-time Online
$2,858/full
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide

Accounting Sciences (Financial Governance)

The master of Accounting Sciences (Financial Governance) 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
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa

Consumer Science in Food and Nutrition

At Consumer Science in Food and Nutrition from Cape Peninsula University of Technology graduates will be able to conduct research in the consumer science (food and nutrition) fields, to enhance the quality of life of the consumer. 

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

International Accounting (CW)

The Master in International Accounting (CW) at University of Johannesburg is offered by the College of Business and Economics.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/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.

Wishlist