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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 Environmental Science
This department has a number of core focus areas: environmental management and environmental science, nature conservation and horticulture and landscaping. You can learn more with this master in Environmental Science at University of South Africa (UNISA).
M.Sc. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Mathematics
At Mathematics 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 Divinity
The Divinity programme from University of Pretoria builds on the BDiv programme or the previously four year BTh programme. It is a coursework master’s degree programme in general theology covering all six theological disciplines.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
Stadio Higher Education4,0(10)
Online Management
The focus of the Master of Management programme from Stadio Higher Education is the formulation, design, conducting and completion of a research project in the field of management.
Master Part-time Online
2 years$1,383/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Food Science and Technology
At Food Science and Technology from Cape Peninsula University of Technology graduates will be able to conduct independent applied and fundamental research in the field of food technology, including: food product development, food production, food chemistry, food microbiology, food quality assurance, food analysis, food biotechnology and nutrition.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Human Kinetics and Ergonomics
If you are interested in pursuing the Human Kinetics and Ergonomics program of Rhodes University, you should contact the academic staff member with whom you would like to study, since we offer these qualifications by thesis only.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Modern Fiction
Modern Fiction 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
Nelson Mandela University4,4(75)
Port Elizabeth, South Africa Top 8% in Worldwide Maritime Management
In line with its institutional vision (Nelson Mandela University vision) in becoming a dynamic African University that provides cutting edge knowledge for a sustainable future, the Business School aspires to be the regional leader in terms of Maritime Management education and research at Nelson Mandela University.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$2,246/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Retail Business Management
The aim of this Retail Business Management programme from Cape Peninsula University of Technology is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct independent research in retail business management, and to contribute significantly to the industry through the understanding, application and evaluation of new and existing knowledge.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Biomedical Sciences
The purpose of the MHS in Biomedical Sciences from University of Johannesburg s to produce graduates that are competent in conducting scientific research under minimal guidance in a chosen field, and to contribute to knowledge production in that field.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Science Education
We offer our students a Master of Science in Science Education degree in University of South Africa (UNISA).
M.Sc. Part-time Online
$350/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Management Accounting
Management Accounting from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to provide academic excellence; operating at the cutting edge of our disciplines; creating and disseminating knowledge through high level research.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide French
The master of French 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
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Business Administration - Entrepreneurship
Business Administration - Entrepreneurship from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to equip candidates with skills to produce interesting and innovative learning programmes and business initiatives, which encourage the development of entrepreneurial skills.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
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
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
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(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Sports Science - Biomechanics
Sports Science - Biomechanics from University of Pretoria is an international role-player focusing on healthcare in Africa.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Human Physiology
Human Physiology 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Development Studies (CW)
The Faculty of Humanities is offering a Master of Arts in Development Studies (CW) at University of Johannesburg.
M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/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.