Selected filters
AffordableSouth Africa
Field of Study
Location
University
Tuition Fee
Duration
Format
Attendance
Degree Type
Special Programme
- Home
- Programmes
- Affordable
- South Africa
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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Visual Art
Having obtained this MA in Visual Art from University of Johannesburg, students will be able to conduct advanced independent research in a particular area of the visual arts, demonstrating complex analytical and practical skills and knowledge in writing a dissertation and, where applicable, an exhibition of original work or artefacts appropriate to the research mode
M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Linguistics and Applied Language 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 the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Social Work (Occupational)
The Master of Arts by Coursework and Research Report in the field of Social Work (Occupational) is offered part-time only at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
M.A. Part-time On-campus
2 years$1,795/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Exposure and Health
The Master of Public Health in the field of Exposure and Health at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg focuses on the relationship between occupational and environmental exposures and the potential impact(s) on the health of workforces and communities.
M.P.H. Full-time +2 On-campus
3 years$1,491/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Business Management (CW)
The purpose of the Business Management (CW) program from University of Johannesburg is to develop future-fit managers with the knowledge, skills and capabilities required to critically engage within businesses, challenging current paradigms through applied research.
Master Full-time On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science
The Master of Nursing Sciences in Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science from University of Johannesburg serves as a basis for advanced learning.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Architecture
Architecture 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.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Accounting Sciences (Auditing)
The master of Accounting Sciences (Auditing) 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
Durban University of Technology3,9(148)
Durban, South Africa Somatology
The Somatology program at Durban University of Technology is divided into theoretical and practical components.
Master Full-time On-campus
1 year$305/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Dogmatics and Christian Ethics
This Dogmatics and Christian Ethics 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Education in Socio-education
The master in Education in Socio-education at University of South Africa (UNISA) is committed to reaching out to all of humanity by providing scholarship, service, learning and continuous professional development opportunities to aspirant and serving educators, managers and policy makers, and other practitioners in education at home and abroad.
Master Part-time Online
$350/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Radiological Diagnostics
Radiological Diagnostics 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 Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Engineering Management (CW)
The purpose of the Engineering Management (CW) program at University of Johannesburg is to develop an engineer with advanced abilities in applying fundamental engineering management sciences and/design and synthesis and related principles to specific management systems problems of society at large.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$2,858/yr
University of Johannesburg4,1(219)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Financial Engineering
The Financial Engineering at University of Johannesburg will provide qualifying students with the opportunity to study at New NQF Level 10 on a doctoral degree programme in Economics.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Business Administration
The Business Administration of Rhodes University is a course-work degree together with a dissertation of fifteen thousand (15 000) words. The dissertation accounts for 30% of the total credits.
M.B.A. Full-time Blended
2 years$2,097/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Applied Science - Industrial Systems
Applied Science - Industrial Systems 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 Accounting Sciences (Financial Intelligence)
The master of Accounting Sciences (Financial Intelligence) 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 Tax Law
The LLM in Tax Law from University of Johannesburg is a structured qualification intended to provide candidates with an in-depth understanding of the tax core as well as developing tax laws in South Africa and in the international community.
LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$1,429/yr
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Accounting Sciences (Taxation)
The master of Accounting Sciences (Taxation) 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
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Ichthyology and Fisheries Science
The Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science (DIFS) offers the Ichthyology and Fisheries Science program of Rhodes University.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
2 years$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.