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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.
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Computing
The vision of the master in Computing 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 Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide Fine Art
Michaelis School of Fine Art at University of Cape Town offers a vibrant mix of Fine Art study with courses in Studiowork, Foundation, Discourse of Art, Theory and Practice of Art in addition to a range of Humanities electives.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,281/yr
Durban University of Technology3,9(148)
Durban, South Africa Tourism and Hospitality
The mission of the Tourism and Hospitality program at Durban University of Technology is to produce independent creative and responsible thinkers through the creation of a space for experiential, practical, real world learning with programs that are versatile, useful and relevant.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$305/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Comparative Education
We offer a Master of Education in Comparative Education programme at the University of South Africa (UNISA).
M.Ed. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Science Education (CW)
The primary purpose of the Science Education (CW) program at University of Johannesburg is to enable qualifying students to develop knowledge and skills at an advanced level to function as critically-reflective, competent and accountable curriculum specialists and researchers in their fields of specialisation.
M.Ed. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Literary Studies in English
Literary Studies in English 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 Virtual Augmented Reality in STEM Education
The Virtual Augmented Reality in STEM Education program at University of Johannesburg requires students to conduct independent research into the development, testing, and teaching and learning efficacy of applications for virtual and augmented reality within STEM.
M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Geology
The aim of the Geology program of Rhodes University is to help students develop appropriate mathematical tools necessary to represent and interpret information quantitatively. It also aims to develop certain skills and meaningful ways of thinking, reasoning and arguing with quantitative ideas in order to solve problems in any given context.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing
The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing programme offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a 1 year full-time degree.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Artificial Intelligence
The MSc by Coursework and Research Report in the field of Artificial Intelligence from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg offers topics ranging from computational intelligence, machine learning, multi-agent systems through to computer vision and natural language processing.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Education
Education from University of Pretoria continues to develop into one of the largest and most diverse units in South Africa for the initial and advanced training of education professionals from across the world.
M.Ed. Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,842/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide e-Science
The Master of Science in e-Science (M.Sc) at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, is an 18-month programme designed to equip postgraduate students with essential computational, mathematical, and statistical skills for tackling data-driven challenges. This full-time course combines coursework and a research report, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the field.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1½ year$1,694/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Microelectronic Engineering
Microelectronic 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
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Applied Science - Water Utilisation
Applied Science - Water Utilisation 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.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Physics Education
The vision of the master in Physics Education 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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Digital Arts
Become a Digital Arts expert with the Digital Arts programme offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The degree can be taken part-time over two years or full-time in one year.
M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$1,876/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Drama
Drama from University of Pretoria provides a holistic education, transferable skills, critical thinking, and communication and problem-solving.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Applied Science - Geotechnics
Applied Science - Geotechnics 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.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide International Law
The Master in International Law at University of Johannesburg takes an interdisciplinary approach and assesses international legal questions from the perspective of international law as well as from a regional and subregional African perspectives.
LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing
The Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing MSc programme from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg provides a pathway into further studies at doctoral level.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,673/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.