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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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Exposure Science
The Master of Science in Medicine by coursework and research report in the field of Exposure Science from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered by both coursework and research, or by research (dissertation) only.
M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,819/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide History
History 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 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
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Governance (Development and Economics)
The Governance (Development and Economics) programme is offered on a part or full time basis at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
Master Part-time On-campus
2 years$2,666/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Information Systems
The Information Systems program of Rhodes University is offered through the Faculty of Commerce and is currently by thesis submission only.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Sport Science
The Master in Sport Science at University of Johannesburg student should be able to reflect on his/her research decisions and applications to assess the effect thereof in the holistic context of the sport science industry.
M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Computer Auditing (CW)
The purpose of the Computer Auditing (CW) program from University of Johannesburg is to develop applied specialized competencies in the mastering, interpretation, understanding, analysis and application of Computer Auditing principles in the Computer Auditing field.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Criminology
The master in Criminology 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.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
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Higher Education (Teaching and Learning)
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 Higher Education (Teaching and Learning) programme is offered at Central University of Technology, Free State.
Postgraduate Diploma Part-time On-campus
2 years$646/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Intellectual Property Law
The Master in Intellectual Property Law at University of Johannesburg aims to provide the student with the necessary tools to navigate the IP landscape, and to create awareness of pitfalls or opportunities that may present themselves. In fact, in given situations, the holder of an advanced degree in IP might be preferred for a specific task over someone that does not have such a qualification.
LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Plastic Surgery
Plastic Surgery 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(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Neurology (Coursework)
Neurology (Coursework) 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
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
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 Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine 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(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Mining Engineering
Mining 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
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Data Science
The MSc in Data Science at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, is a comprehensive programme designed to provide an interdisciplinary perspective on data science. This full-time course spans two years, combining coursework and a research report to equip students with essential skills in data analysis and interpretation.
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 Rural Health
The Master of Public Health in the field of Rural 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
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Political and International Studies
Political and International 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
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.