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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 Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Construction Management
The Construction Management program 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
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Microbiology
At Microbiology 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 Metallurgical Engineering
Metallurgical Engineering 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.Eng. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Mechanical Engineering
The Mechanical Engineering program at the University of Pretoria is a leading source of graduates in the engineering, built environment and information technology professions.
M.Eng. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,842/yr
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Construction Management
The purpose of the Construction Management programme from Central University of Technology, Free State is to provide knowledge and skills required for the practice of construction management and provide vertical articulation to relevant higher degrees in the built environment.
Postgraduate Diploma Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$420/yr
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Biotechnology
At Biotechnology 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Classical Studies
The master of Classical Studies 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
Durban University of Technology3,9(148)
Durban, South Africa Commercial Administration
The Commercial Administration program at Durban University of Technology allows the office administrator to show his/her creative and innovative abilities by fully utilizing all the advanced functions of computer software programs and allied administrative duties.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$305/yr
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg4,1(152)
Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Maternal and Child Health
The Master of Public Health in the field of Maternal and Child 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
Central University of Technology, Free State4,5(15)
Bloemfontein, South Africa Civil Engineering
The Civil 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$2,750/yr
University of Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide Dance
The major in Dance Master's program is offered at University of Cape Town.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
$2,281/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Public Administration
Public Administration 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
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Business and Management Sciences
The aim of the Business and Management Sciences qualification at Cape Peninsula University of Technology is to develop business-oriented graduates to manage and lead organisations through the utilisation of management concepts and strategies for success and sustainability.
Master Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Transport Economics
The objective of the master in Transport 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.
Master Part-time Online
$350/yr
Rhodes University4,2(28)
Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide Drama
The Drama programme of Rhodes University has been in operation since 1988, offering possibilities of study via thesis only, or by coursework and half thesis.
M.A. Full-time On-campus
1 year$2,097/yr
University of Cape Town4,1(160)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 1% in Worldwide Clinical Pharmacology
Welcome to the division of Clinical Pharmacology at University of Cape Town.
M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus
2 years$2,336/yr
University of the Western Cape4,1(90)
Cape Town, South Africa Top 4% in Worldwide Restorative Dentistry
At Restorative Dentistry from the University of the Western Cape, you'll use the knowledge and research to impact society.
M.Sc. Full-time On-campus
3 years$2,319/yr
Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)
Cape Town, South Africa Engineering - Mechanical
Graduates in the Engineering - Mechanical at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology will make a contribution, through research, to understanding the application and evaluation of existing knowledge in a specialised area of technology.
M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus
1 year$211/module
University of Pretoria4,2(327)
Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide Sports Science
Sports Science 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 South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)
Online Top 5% in Worldwide Tax Law
At the University of South Africa (UNISA) we offer our students a master degree programme in Tax Law.
LL.M. Part-time Online
$350/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.