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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.
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Mechanical Engineering
The Mechanical 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 conduct 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$361/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Industrial Policy (CW)
The purpose of the Master in Industrial Policy (CW) at University of Johannesburg is to develop the students’ intellectual competencies, intellectual independence and practical skills in the acquisition, analysis, interpretation and application of appropriate industrial policies to support the structural transformation of the economies of the continent.
M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Economics
The objective of the master in Economics 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 Nursing Education (Coursework)
Nursing Education (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
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Classical Studies
Classical 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
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Plant Science
At Plant Science 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 Education Management, Law and Policy
Education Management, Law and Policy 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
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Journalism and Media Studies
The Journalism and Media Studies program of Rhodes University is a NQF 9 level qualification offerred by the School of Journalism and Media Studies full-time over two calendar years.
M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
1½ year$2,097/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Theory of Literature
The master of Theory of Literature 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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Interdisciplinary Arts and Culture Studies
Interdisciplinary Arts and Culture Studies from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg offers an opportunity to engage with the ways in which the worlds of work and artistic practice increasingly reflect dissolving boundaries between traditional disciplines in the arts, humanities, commerce, science and technology.
M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,550/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Assessment and Quality Assurance in Education and Training
Assessment and Quality Assurance in Education and Training 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
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Urban and Regional Planning
Urban and Regional Planning from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to increase the capacity of professional planners and researchers within the profession.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Sociology
The master of Sociology 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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Computer Science
The MSc by Coursework and Research Report in Computer Science from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg offers advanced courses in specialised topics within Computer Science. The variety of topics on offer allows you to customise your curriculum to your interests.
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 School Social Work
Master of Arts in Social Work by Coursework and Research Report is offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg in the field of School Social Work.
M.A. Part-time On-campus
2 years$1,795/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Environmental Management
Environmental Management from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to provide professional training in environmental management through active generation and dissemination of knowledge and skills needed.
Master Full-time On-campus
$211/module
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Online Top 2% in Worldwide Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
The Tropical Medicine and Hygiene Postgrad.Dip from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg extends over one year of full-time study and is highly recommended for medical doctors with an interest in tropical medicine and infectious diseases.
Postgraduate Diploma Full-time Online
1 year$2,790/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Mathematics, Science, ICT, Technical Education
The purpose of the Mathematics, Science, ICT, Technical Education program at University of Johannesburg is to enable qualifying students to develop knowledge and skills to function as critically-reflective, competent and accountable education researchers who can contribute to the development of education knowledge at an advanced level.
M.Ed. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Accounting Sciences (Management Accounting)
The master of Accounting Sciences (Management Accounting) 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
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Critical Care (General)
The Master of Nursing Science in Critical Care (General) from University of Johannesburg serves as a basis for advanced learning.
Master 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.