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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 Corrections Management
The master in Corrections Management 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
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide African Languages
The program in African Languages at Rhodes University to promote and advance scholarship in African languages.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Vaccinology
The MSc in Medicine in the field of Vaccinology at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a full time 2 year degree. It aims to capacitate the next generation of African scientists to develop a scientific understanding of different aspects of vaccinology, and aid in the development of new vaccines.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,819/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Structural Engineering
One of the main objectives of the Master in Structural Engineering at University of Johannesburg is to develop an advanced capability to do fundamental structural engineering research independently and, in so doing, promote lifelong learning.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Science Education
At Science Education 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
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Electrical Engineering
The Electrical 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 handle 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$344/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Theology in Old Testament
The master of Theology in Old Testament 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences
The purpose of the Master of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences from University of Johannesburg is to enable successful learners to make a contribution to a chosen field of radiography through independent research, using advanced problem-solving skills and critical, reflective thinking.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Publishing
Publishing 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
University of Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide Theatre
The Theatre programme at the University of Cape Town focuses on the activity of creating theatre pieces in a South African tradition of collective theatre making.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
$2,281/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Oral Pathology
Oral Pathology 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
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Information Technology
The Information Technology programme from Central University of Technology, Free State is aimed primarily, but not exclusively, at learners from CUT who will progress from the Advanced Diploma in Information Technology and who wish to continue with their studies.
Postgraduate Diploma Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$325/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Theology in Pastoral Therapy
The master of Theology in Pastoral Therapy 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 Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Biblical Studies - Old Testament and Hebrew Scriptures
This Biblical Studies - Old Testament and Hebrew Scriptures 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Systems Engineering
The purpose of the Master in Systems Engineering from University of Johannesburg is to develop an engineer with advanced abilities in applying fundamental engineering sciences and/design and synthesis and related principles to specific engineering systems problems of society at large.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Emergency Medical Care
The purpose of the Master in Emergency Medical Care at University of Johannesburg is to provide qualifying students with the ability to display skills in related research methodologies and in proper formulation through a dissertation and to reflect upon decision-making, self-directedness and contributions to medical science.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Technology Education
We offer our students a Master of Science in Technology Education degree at the University of South Africa (UNISA).
M.Sc. Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide English Literature
The English Literature programme at the University of Cape Town is offered by the Department of English which supervises research degrees in a broad range of areas, from Early Modern to contemporary literature and theory.
M.Res. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,281/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture 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
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Applied Science - Metallurgy
Applied Science - Metallurgy from University of Pretoria aims to be internationally competitive while also locally relevant. Advisory boards at both faculty and departmental level promote alignment and excellence in our teaching and research activities.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/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.