Postgraduate

Explore our postgraduate programmes.

Postgraduate Programmes

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AgriSciences

47 programmes

Bachelor of Agriculture Honours in Agri-business Management

The Bachelor of Agriculture Honours in Agri-business Management is designed to equip prospective expert agricultural managers and agricultural economists with high level skills in the use of agricultural economics and agricultural management techniques, including the analysis of the limitations and potential of the agricultural sector. After the successful completion of the programme you will be able to analyse more complex problem situations and to create more sophisticated farming or agribusiness systems and/or make sophisticated agricultural policy recommendations. This expertise is necessary in order to ensure the international competitiveness of South African agriculture and related industries, and also to enable South Africa to play its rightful role in the agricultural sector in Africa.

Agricultural Economics forms the central component of the programme. The programme focuses on the management of agriculture-related enterprises.

Bachelor of Science Honours in Applied Plant Physiology

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Applied Plant Physiology is designed to strengthen your knowledge and competencies in the discipline of Horticultural Science, with emphasis on plant physiological, biochemical and molecular mechanisms, which is relevant to production and quality systems within horticultural crops.

You will also be equipped in research methodology, whilst your writing and presentation skills will also be developed. These skills will enable you to apply for further postgraduate studies offered in Horticulture (MScAgric).

Bachelor of Science Honours in Plant Pathology

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Plant Pathology consists of further specialised study in Plant Pathology. The modules and study tasks add greater depth of learning, building further on a bachelor’s programme with Microbiology, Genetics, Botany or Biotechnology as major subject. The programme is research and career oriented and is based on modern technology and the most recently available research in Plant Pathology. It links up with research projects carried out in the Department.

Bachelor of Science Honours in Wine Biotechnology

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Wine Biotechnology consists of further study in one of the majors for the degree BScAgric, BSc or BEng; supplementary study is sometimes required. The modules and study assignments add depth to the study and form a continuation of the bachelor’s programme. The programme is research and career-oriented and is based on modern technology and the most recently available research in the field of wine production systems.

The programme comprises formal lectures, as well as seminars, self-study and experimental work in Wine Biotechnology. The following topics are covered:
• genetic properties and improvement of wine yeasts;
• grape-based beverages;
• alcoholic fermentation;
• chemical compounds of grapes and wine;
• techniques in wine and grapevine biotechnology;
• malolactic fermentation and microbial spoilage;
• enzymes in preparation of wine;
• grapevine structure and functions; and
• grapevine biology, biotechnology and improvement.

You must carry out self-study on the South African wine industry as well as independent research in grapevine and wine biotechnology.

Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics

The Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics focuses strongly on research and is designed to develop high-level skills in the use of Agricultural Economic and Agricultural Management techniques, including the analysis of the limitations and potential of the agricultural sector, in students who wish to become agricultural economists or management experts in the private or public sector. This expertise is necessary to ensure the international competitiveness of South African agricultural and related industries, and to enable South Africa to play its rightful role in the development of the agricultural sector in Africa. See section 2.4 in this chapter for general information on the PhD degree in the Faculty of AgriSciences.

Doctor of Philosophy in Agronomy

The Doctor of Philosophy in Agronomy is a practically oriented research project in Agronomy, leading to innovation or problem-solving through high-level research in Agronomy and in the industry concerned. This will equip you at the highest academic level with the knowledge and expertise you need for entering the research industry or professional field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science

The Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science focuses strongly on research and aims to discover new insights and knowledge in the field of Animal Production Systems. This knowledge increases your general intellectual and professional skills and promotes your adaptability to carry out advanced research in a specific field of study that links up with other fields of study. The programme will equip you at the highest academic level for entering the research industry or professional field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology is offered as a multidisciplinary programme within the Faculties of AgriSciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, and Science. You enrol in the faculty where your research focus and supervisor(s) are situated, and will graduate with the degree from that faculty. A publication-ready dissertation containing the results of your independent research is required.

Doctor of Philosophy in Conservation Ecology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Conservation Ecology is a practically oriented research project in Conservation Ecology, leading to innovation or problem-solving through high-level research in Conservation Ecology and in the industry concerned. This will equip you at the highest academic level with the knowledge and expertise you need for entering the research industry or professional field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Entomologyis a practically oriented research project in Entomology, leading to innovation or problem-solving through high-level research in Entomology and in the industry concerned. This will equip you at the highest academic level with the knowledge and expertise you need for entering the research industry or professional field.

Arts and Social Sciences

128 programmes

Doctor of Philosophy in Creative Writing

The Doctor of Philosophy in Creative Writing consists of two parts, each contributing 50% to the final mark of the module.

The first part is a complete literary work, such as a novel, drama text(s) or a collection of short stories or poems,
and the second part is an academic scholarly thesis of 35 000-50 000 words.

You may be required to do additional background reading.

Doctor of Philosophy in Decision-making and Knowledge Dynamics

The Doctor of Philosophy in Decision-making and Knowledge Dynamics consists of the design, planning, execution, assessment and publication of an independent and original research project, in line with the general requirements for doctoral dissertations set by the University.

Doctor of Philosophy in Drama and Theatre Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Drama and Theatre Studies is a research degree culminating in a dissertation.

The study as a whole can consist of theoretical work or it can be the result of an integrated study of the creative processes and
theoretical work which are reported in a dissertation.

The unique nature of the integrated option is derived
from the coherence and interdependency of the study of the creative process and theoretical dimensions of
the research leading to an original contribution to knowledge and insight into the arts.

Doctor of Philosophy in English Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in English Studies involves the completion, to the satisfaction of internal and external examiners, of a dissertation of 80 000 words on a topic selected by the student in consultation with the Department. The dissertation is written under the supervision of members of the Department. Students structure their programmes individually, in consultation with supervisors, and according to the demands of the research topic. Note that the PhD may also take the form of an original creative work, plus a reflective scholarly component.

The Department has identified a number of strategic Research Focus Areas, and all graduate students are encouraged to situate their research within these foci. However, they are also enabled by our wide staff expertise to undertake research within the broad field of literary and cultural studies in English. Prospective students should consult the departmental research page for the full range of staff research and supervision areas.

Doctor of Philosophy in Evaluation Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Evaluation Studies has been designed for those who are tasked with the design, management, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of public programmes and interventions.

More specifically, the following people will find the course of value:
Researchers and consultants tasked with evaluation studies
M&E officers in government, industry and civil society
Project managers in government research and planning units and directorates
NGO employees involved in social, health and educational research activities
Social policy analysts and advisers
Social science methodology lecturers

Doctor of Philosophy in French

The Doctor of Philosophy in French requires at least two years of research resulting in a dissertation (with an oral defence). In close consultation with the Department, the student selects a research topic and submits a research proposal which meets the requirements set by the Faculty.

Doctor of Philosophy in General Linguistics

The Doctor of Philosophy in General Linguistics focuses on one or more general linguistic theories and the linguistic methodology associated with these theories. The work is structured on an individual basis in the form of a carefully
planned research project.

Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Environmental Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Environmental Studies entails research on a human-environmental problem from a spatial perspective, culminating in a dissertation that makes an original contribution to knowledge or that reinterprets existing knowledge.

The programme focuses on the study and resolution of human-environmental problems and urban or tourism-related phenomena from a spatial perspective.

Doctor of Philosophy in German

The Doctor of Philosophy in German takes at least two years of research resulting in a dissertation (with an oral defence). In close consultation with the Department, the student selects a research topic and submits a research proposal as required by the Faculty.

Doctor of Philosophy in History

This Doctor of Philosophy in History entails research culminating in the writing of a dissertation. It takes three or four years to complete.

School for Data Science and Computational Thinking

12 programmes

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Mathematical Statistics: Focal Area in Data Science

The Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Mathematical Statistics: Focal Area in Data Science program is presented jointly by the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science and the Department of Computer Science. Consequently students have to be admitted to postgraduate study by both these departments. A bachelor’s degree with an average mark of at least 65% in Mathematical Statistics 3 is required, together with a satisfactory mark of at least 65% in Computer Science up to at least second year level.

Bachelor of Science Honours in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology aims to meet the growing demand from molecular biology, systems biology, bioinformatics, ecology, and biomedical science for students and researchers with solid mathematical skills. The course aims to train mathematicians to formulate and analyse precise models for experimental data arising from real-life research problems within the fields of biology and medicine.

Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science has been designed to prepare students for either MSc studies or careers in industry, the programme emphasises problem-solving, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently. Through a balance of core Computer Science theory and up-to-date application-focused coursework, students develop in-demand technical skills and practical experience, culminating in a significant project that demonstrates their ability to design, implement, and evaluate complex computing solutions.

Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology is a research-intensive programme comprising an independent research project and dissertation under academic supervision, aimed at making an original contribution to the field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology is an advanced research degree centred on the completion of a doctoral dissertation. The programme involves independent research conducted under the supervision of an experienced academic, focusing on a specialised topic. You will develop and apply advanced research methodologies, critically engage with current scientific literature, and generate new knowledge that contributes to the field.

Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering: Focal Area in Data Science

Full Time

The Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering: Focal Area in Data Science by coursework employs innovative approaches and algorithms, most notably machine learning algorithms, for processing and analysing data. Data Science technologies can be applied to both small and big data, of various types such as relational, images, video, audio, and text. Big data constitutes extremely large data sets that may be analysed computationally to reveal patterns, trends and associations, especially relating to human behaviour and interactions. The data science programmes focus on enabling students to develop innovative optimisation and machine learning techniques to produce novel, efficient and robust data science technologies, for use in Industrial Engineering, Engineering Management and related applications.

Master of Science in Biostatistics

The objectives of the Master of Science in Biostatistics programme are to:
• develop highly qualified and skilled biostatisticians with the technical competence to contribute significantly to addressing the public health problems and challenges of their communities;
• prepare you, if you are aspiring to move to a higher level of academic research work, for doctoral studies and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics;
• contribute to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure advancement in the field of biostatistics and to fulfil the need in the country for a skilled scientific workforce of the highest calibre;
• prepare you to apply principles of statistical reasoning in addressing critical questions in public health and biomedical science; and
• educate and train you to be an independent thinker and lead the data management and statistical analyses of research studies to advance knowledge and guide policy.

Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology

Clinical Epidemiology is the science of applying the best available research evidence to patient care. It uses the methods of epidemiology to find scientifically valid answers to questions concerning diagnosis, prevention, therapy, prognosis and aetiology, thus improving the evidence base for the care of individual patients.

The Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology offers rigorous methodological training for those with a background or experience in a health related discipline who wish to pursue a career in clinical research or evidence-based practice. The programme would also be of interest to potential researchers who require robust training in research techniques, including advanced concepts and methods of epidemiology.

Master of Science in Epidemiology

The Master of Science in Epidemiology is a completely thesis-based master’s programme. It builds competency in epidemiology – the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, and the application of the study to the control of health problems.

Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Full Time

The Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence s a one-year structured master’s programme at Stellenbosch University, designed for students with a strong mathematical and computational background. It will equip you with the fundamentals of ML and AI, plus a suite of sophisticated techniques and concepts at the research forefront of these fields.

The programme is presented in-person on Stellenbosch campus, from January to December each year.

Economic and Management Sciences

76 programmes

Master of Commerce in Transport Economics

The Master of Commerce in Transport Economics consists of a full thesis option.

This field is a branch of economics pertaining to the optimal distribution of scarce resources between the transport sector and other sectors, as well as within the transport sector itself. Within the transport sector transport economics will, for example, look at the equity of travel and freight charges, and also at subsidisation as an instrument for the redistribution of income. Transport economics is also involved in the economic evaluation of various transport projects.

Master of Philosophy in Environmental Management

The Master of Philosophy in Environmental Management by full thesis programme entails independent research conducted under a supervisor. Students may apply after successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma (Environmental Management). This is a one-year programme with a research component offered on the Stellenbosch Campus.

Master of Philosophy in HIV/AIDS Management

The Master of Philosophy in HIV/AIDS Management is a one-year or two-year programme presented through hybrid learning. It includes a workshop in Stellenbosch as well as interactive online sessions during the year and is offered in English.

The degree consists of four compulsory course work modules (25 credits each) and a research assignment (80 credits). It makes use of continuous assessments by means of individual assignments for the course work. The research assignment is assessed by internal examiners. Students must pass all four modules and the research assignment to obtain the necessary 180 credits.

Master of Philosophy in Sustainability Transitions

The Master of Philosophy in Sustainability Transitions is an interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enhance their ability to tackle complex social, environmental, and governance challenges.

The programme welcomes students from diverse academic disciplines who are keen to explore issues of sustainability and societal transitions in more theoretical and methodological depth. Given the complex nature of these challenges, we strongly encourage applications from candidates with varied expertise in both the natural and social sciences.

Through in-depth exploration of relevant frameworks and theories, students will be adept at formulating research questions, designing effective methodologies during structured coursework and independent research.

By fostering a comprehensive and transdisciplinary perspective, the MPhil in Sustainability Transitions equips students to become leaders in sustainability, capable of navigating and influencing local and international industries and organisations.

Master of Public Administration

The Master of Public Administration by coursework consists of taught lectures.

Master of Public Administration

The Master of Public Administration by full thesis entails independent research conducted under a supervisor.

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting

The School of Accountancy focuses on the education of professional accountants. Its programmes therefore meet the requirements of various professional bodies. The School is ranked among the top producers of chartered accountants in South Africa on the basis of the number of its students who pass the professional examinations of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants each year.

Postgraduate Diploma in Actuarial Science

The Postgraduate Diploma in Actuarial Science is intended for students who have completed an Honours degree in Actuarial Science and wish to continue working towards an actuarial qualification, but who do not yet wish to enrol in a Master’s degree programme with a significant research component.

Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management

The Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management is a one-year, full-time programme and is equivalent to an honours-level degree programme at 120 credits.

The programme comprises eight (8) modules (7 core modules and 1 elective) which is taught during scheduled contact sessions at the University's Stellenbosch Campus.

Postgraduate Diploma in HIV/AIDS Management

The Postgraduate Diploma in HIV/AIDS Management provides people with the skills to address the intersection of HIV/Aids and public health challenges, offering modules on:
Epidemiology and research: Understanding HIV trends and developing evidence-based interventions
Policy and advocacy: Designing policies that promote equity and systemic change
Programme management and leadership: Leading HIV/Aids initiatives in diverse organisational contexts

Future direction
The diploma includes an elective stream in inclusive health management, preparing leaders to address the broader determinants of health through:
Critical management praxis: Leadership strategies to navigate systemic barriers
Intersectionality and design: Creating inclusive, context-sensitive programmes
Political economy of health: Addressing funding and policy gaps to achieve equity

Education

23 programmes

BEdHons (Curriculum Inquiry)

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Inquiry is designed to introduce you to curriculum inquiry as a dynamic and evolving field of study, while developing your scholarly capacity within this area. The programme provides a strong conceptual and theoretical foundation for engaging with key international curriculum debates and critically examining how these discussions shape and influence the South African educational context.

BEdHons (Education Development and Democracy)

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Education Development and Democracy allows you to make and explain conceptual links between theoretical perspectives and the professional environment, and to further develop a critical understanding of the current policy context and the signifiers of change.

BEdHons (Educational Support)

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Educational Support promotes an approach to addressing diverse learner needs within inclusive education systems and environments, with a strong emphasis on ensuring meaningful participation for all learners. The programme integrates theory and practical application to equip you, as an education specialist, with the knowledge and skills to teach, assess, and support learners with diverse needs effectively.

BEdHons (Foundation Phase Education)

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Foundation Phase Education focuses on further study within the field of Foundation Phase Education. The programme aims to develop your capacity as an education leader in both Literacy Education and Mathematics Education in the Foundation Phase, strengthening your theoretical knowledge and professional practice in these key learning areas.

BEdHons (Language Education)

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Language Education deepens your knowledge of language education in Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa. In addition, it focuses on multilingual education, creative writing and lexicography.

MEd (Curriculum Studies)

The Master of Education in Curriculum Studies entails independent research conducted under a supervisor. The primary aims of the programme is to:
• Assist in the development of a critical understanding of curriculum theory, design and implementation in diverse educational contexts;
• Analyse, critique and improve curriculum design and implementation through evidence-based research;
• Enhance research skills to drive curriculum transformation; and
• Develop innovative curriculum leadership in response to learners’ evolving needs.

A secondary aim is to equip you with the necessary research skills to undertake further advanced studies at doctoral level and to conduct rigorous curriculum research. These aims include the competence to function as curriculum researcher and transformative leader in professional educational contexts.

The programme explores the following research themes, among others:
• Curriculum theory and frameworks in modern-day educational contexts (both local and global)
• Critical analysis of curriculum theories and implications for pedagogy
• Research design and methodology for curriculum studies employing qualitative and quantitative methods
• Data analysis and interpretation techniques for curriculum improvement
• Pedagogical strategies for improving school and learner performance
• Curriculum renewal and innovation in 21st-century learning spaces
• Decolonisation of curriculum content and pedagogical practices in African and South African contexts
• Social justice, equity and transformation in curriculum design for inclusive educational environments

MEd (Education Policy Studies)

The Master of Education in Education Policy Studies by full research, aims to assist you as an educator to
• develop your critical understanding of education policy in the context of democratic transformation;
• challenge you to analyse, reflect on and question educational theories, policies and practices;
• enhance your skills and leadership to enact change; and
• encourage you to explore creative responses to diversity.

A secondary aim is to equip you with the necessary research skills to undertake further advanced studies at doctoral level and to do research on Education Policy Studies. These aims include the competence to function as researchers of educational policy in professional contexts.

The research themes that are explored include:
• Democratic praxis and educational transformation, including policy developments within the South African political context
• Values in education, including equality, liberty, diversity, justice, shared compromise, practical reasoning and community
• Globalisation, internationalisation and free market ideology
• Centralisation/decentralisation dynamics
• International comparative studies on learner achievement and school effectiveness
• The learning institution and the nurturing of quality within instructional change
• Developing supportive processes, systems (organisation building) and funding

MEd (Educational Psychology)

The Master of Education in Educational Support serves as requirement for registration as psychologist (in the category Educational Psychology) with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

The Board for Psychology of the HPCSA has implemented revised requirements for the educational psychology programme. To comply with these changes, we have incorporated a full one-year internship into the curriculum, which has implications for the minimum duration of the programme. You will be required to complete the entire coursework component of the programme and obtain faculty approval for your research proposal before commencing the internship. The internship and research components of the programme can be completed concurrently within the same academic year.

MEd (Educational Support)

The Master of Education in Educational Support aim is:
• to equip educators to identify the potential of any learner with special education needs in his unique context (formal and informal school communities), and
• to prevent, identify and support learning barriers in schools and communities.

MPhil (Education and Training for Lifelong Learning)

The Master of Philosophy in Education and Training for Lifelong Learning equips you with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to be able to function effectively in adult and/or community education and training institutions as a lecturer, learning facilitator or adult-education professional.

The secondary aim is to equip you with the research skills to do further advanced study at doctoral level and to be able to undertake research in the field of adult-education studies. This aim includes the capacity to function as a researcher in your professional context.

Engineering

89 programmes

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering

Full Time

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering prepares the candidate for a research, academic, or high-level consulting career. It requires that a candidate to undertakes independent research at the most advanced academic levels. Biomedical Engineering is the application of science, technology, engineering and mathematics to provide for health-related needs. Biomedical Engineering is inherently multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary.

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering

Part Time

Note: If you want to enrol part time, you must obtain approval from the departmental chairperson of your prospective home department. To get this approval, you must show that you will be a bona fide part-time student. Follow your prospective home department’s procedures for submitting your application to study part time.

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering

Full Time

The Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering is for ambitious innovators ready to make a novel contribution to the field. As the highest academic qualification, this research-based degree offers an opportunity to lead research and develop innovative approaches to position you at the forefront of scientific and industrial advancements.

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering

Part Time

Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering

Full Time

The Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering is a research-intensive programme comprising an independent research project and dissertation under academic supervision, aimed at making an original contribution to the field. Research spans key areas within civil engineering, including construction engineering and management, fire engineering, water and environmental engineering, structural engineering and civil engineering informatics, as well as geotechnical and transportation engineering.

Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering

Part Time

Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering

Full Time

The Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering is a research-intensive programme comprising an independent research project and dissertation under academic supervision, aimed at making an original contribution to the field. The department's research interests spans four key areas:
• Computer and Control Systems: Control, automation, and system identification for platforms such as UAVs, satellites, and underwater vehicles; real-time computing, FPGA-based architectures, biomedical electronics, and process control.
• Electrical Energy Systems: Electric energy conversion and control, multi-level power converters, permanent magnet machines, high-voltage insulators, power system dynamics, with applications in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and energy efficiency.
• Electronics and Electromagnetics: High-frequency electronics, RADAR, antennas, superconductors, electromagnetic interference, filters, and nonlinear circuits. Includes computational electromagnetics and contributions to South Africa’s Square Kilometre Array.
• Signal Processing and Machine Learning: Pattern recognition, automatic speech processing, digital radar and broadcasting systems, statistical decision-making, and sensor data analysis using hardware and software platforms.

Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering

Part Time

Doctor of Philosophy in Electronic Engineering

Full Time

The Doctor of Philosophy in Electronic Engineering is a research-intensive programme comprising an independent research project and dissertation under academic supervision, aimed at making an original contribution to the field. The department's research interests spans four key areas:
• Computer and Control Systems: Control, automation, and system identification for platforms such as UAVs, satellites, and underwater vehicles; real-time computing, FPGA-based architectures, biomedical electronics, and process control.
• Electrical Energy Systems: Electric energy conversion and control, multi-level power converters, permanent magnet machines, high-voltage insulators, power system dynamics, with applications in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and energy efficiency.
• Electronics and Electromagnetics: High-frequency electronics, RADAR, antennas, superconductors, electromagnetic interference, filters, and nonlinear circuits. Includes computational electromagnetics and contributions to South Africa’s Square Kilometre Array.
• Signal Processing and Machine Learning: Pattern recognition, automatic speech processing, digital radar and broadcasting systems, statistical decision-making, and sensor data analysis using hardware and software platforms.

Doctor of Philosophy in Electronic Engineering

Part Time

Law

15 programmes

Doctor of Laws in Mercantile Law

The Doctor of Laws in Mercantile Law requires a comprehensive dissertation in a chosen area of legal specialisation, contributing to the field at the highest academic level.

Doctor of Laws in Private Law

The Doctor of Laws in Private Law requires a comprehensive dissertation in a chosen area of legal specialisation, contributing to the field at the highest academic level.

Doctor of Laws in Public Law

The Doctor of Laws in Public Law requires a comprehensive dissertation in a chosen area of legal specialisation, contributing to the field at the highest academic level.

Master of Laws

The curriculum for the general Master of Laws by coursework is not formally organised by department, and there is no uniform set of prescribed modules. Instead, students are invited to compile a curriculum from modules offered by the Faculty. Selections must meet the formal degree requirements and are subject to approval by the Faculty Board. The timetable also restricts the options available to the student, which is inevitable. While the timetable leaves room for inter-disciplinary choices, it permits student specialisation by the selection of modules within the broad areas of either Private, Mercantile, or Public Law. Take note that the degree certificate for the general LLM by coursework does not reflect an area of specialisation. A research paper must be completed in addition to the modules.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 September (International applicants) and 30 October (South African applicants).
July intake: Applications close on 31 March for both South African and International applicants, as indicated on this page.

Master of Laws in Alternative Dispute Resolution

The Master of Laws in Alternative Dispute Resolution is a specialised LLM programme in Alternative Dispute Resolution.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 September (International applicants) and 30 October (South African applicants).
July intake: Applications close on 31 March for both South African and International applicants, as indicated on this page.

Master of Laws in Intellectual Property Law

The Master of Laws in Intellectual Property Law is a specialised LLM programme in intellectual property law.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 September (International applicants) and 30 October (South African applicants).
July intake: Applications close on 31 March for both South African and International applicants, as indicated on this page.

Master of Laws in International Trade Law

The Master of Laws in International Trade Law is a specialised LLM programme that focuses on international business transactions, commercial arbitration and carriage agreements.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 September (International applicants) and 30 October (South African applicants).
July intake: Applications close on 31 March for both South African and International applicants, as indicated on this page.

Master of Laws in Labour Law

The Master of Laws in Labour Law is a specialised LLM programme in advanced labour law.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 September (International applicants) and 30 October (South African applicants).
July intake: Applications close on 31 March for both South African and International applicants, as indicated on this page.

Master of Laws in Mercantile Law

The Master of Laws in Mercantile Law entails independent research on a chosen topic conducted under a supervisor.

Master of Laws in Private Law

The Master of Laws in Private Law entails independent research on a chosen topic conducted under a supervisor.

Medicine and Health Sciences

190 programmes

Master of Speech-Language Therapy

The Master of Speech-Language Therapy programme comprises a research project (100% of credits) with no theoretical modules.

Master of Therapeutic Nutrition

This Master of Therapeutic Nutrition programme provides dietitians with specialist, in-depth, evidence-based knowledge and training in clinical nutrition. The course furthermore provides important insights into contemporary developments in specific fields in the clinical nutrition arena.

Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Care

The Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Care aims to enrich, broaden and consolidate your knowledge and expertise as a professional working within the field of addiction care, by providing you with a review of the current evidence-based literature relevant to this field. The purpose of the diploma programme is to improve your care for patients with substance use disorders, rather than to provide basic knowledge or research capacity. The curriculum covers the most important areas within the field of addiction care and will help mould wellrounded addiction-care practitioners.

This qualification, however, does not entitle you to provide professional counselling unless your registration with a professional body or the scope of practice of your previous qualification(s) permit you to do so.

Postgraduate Diploma in Critical Care Nursing (Adult)

The Postgraduate Diploma in Critical Care Nursing (Adult) will equip you with the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills to be a competent critical care nurse. It will teach you to assess and diagnose the critically ill adult patient in a critical care unit, plan and implement treatment for the patient, and evaluate the progress of the patient.

Postgraduate Diploma in Disability and Rehabilitation Studies

The Postgraduate Diploma in Disability and Rehabilitation Studies focuses on strengthening and deepening knowledge and theoretical understanding of disability and rehabilitation, with the aim of promoting the development of current thinking, response and practice in disability and rehabilitation studies. In addition, it facilitates in-depth, advanced reflection on the latest international and national instruments and policies for disability, rehabilitation, and health, as well as other social justice related policies. Students are taught skills to analyse and examine how these instruments and policies affect disability and rehabilitation practitioners in their scope of work, and how such practitioners can develop sustainable disability and rehabilitation models of best practice to effectively respond to national needs in this regard.

Postgraduate Diploma in Emergency Nursing

The Postgraduate Diploma in Emergency Nursing aims to develop you into a critically thinking, creative and reflective practitioner who not only takes the lead in providing emergency nursing care, but also serves as a resource on emergency nursing services in South Africa. It will equip you with an in-depth knowledge and therapeutic skills to diagnose, treat, care for and manage critically or injured patients in a variety of emergency settings. The programme will also help you to understand the context and dynamics of our health services system, and how this affects emergency nursing service delivery.

Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine

The Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine aims to provide a course of study for doctors wishing to expand their knowledge and skills in areas relevant to family medicine and general practice. The programme aims to enhance the quality of family/general practice, and satisfy the desire of doctors for continuing professional development.

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Care Management

The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Care Management prepares you for advanced and specialised professional employment within the health system, and to develop your knowledge and skills in healthcare management at an advanced level in an applied work setting. The curriculum is based on workplace leadership and managerial roles.

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Services Management

Full Time

The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Services Management studies the role of the nursing manager in ensuring efficient management at the various levels of healthcare services. This includes applying managerial and leadership principles in an ethical way, managing human capital, evaluating and drawing up of policies, managing public health and finances and risks and disasters, and utilising research and technological skills to improve healthcare outcomes and quality of work life for nursing staff.

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Services Management

Part Time

Military Sciences

28 programmes

Master of Military Science in Security and Africa Studies

The Master of Military Science in Security and Africa Studies by full thesis is designed to develop advanced research, analytical, and problem-solving competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme entails independent research conducted under the guidance of a supervisor.

Master of Military Science in Strategic Studies

The Master of Military Science in Strategic Studies by coursework is designed to develop advanced analytical, strategic, and research competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme provides specialised knowledge in contemporary military strategy, irregular warfare, operational theory, and the application of military power across land, sea, aerospace, and cyber domains.

Master of Military Science in Strategic Studies

The Master of Military Science in Strategic Studies by full thesis is designed to develop advanced research, analytical, and problem-solving competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme entails independent research conducted under the guidance of a supervisor.

Master of Military Science in Technology

The Master of Military Science in Technology by coursework is designed to develop advanced analytical, strategic, and research competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers.

Master of Military Science in Technology

The Master of Military Science in Technology by full thesis is designed to develop advanced research, analytical, and problem-solving competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme entails independent research conducted under the guidance of a supervisor.

Master of Philosophy in Defence Studies

The Master of Philosophy in Defence Studies by coursework is designed to develop advanced research, analytical, and strategic competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme provides specialised knowledge in defence policy, international politics, and the historical and organisational dimensions of defence, enabling students to conduct rigorous research and contribute to evidence-based decision-making in defence and security environments.

Postgraduate Diploma in Defence Studies

The Postgraduate Diploma in Defence Studies is designed to develop advanced analytical, strategic, and operational competencies in commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme provides specialised knowledge in defence management, contemporary security challenges, and African security dynamics, enabling informed decision-making in complex military and defence environments.

Postgraduate Diploma in Military Legal Studies

The Postgraduate Diploma in Military Legal Studies is designed to develop legal, analytical, and operational competencies for commissioned and selected non-commissioned officers. The programme provides specialised knowledge in military law, and operational legal frameworks, enabling informed decision-making in complex military and peacekeeping contexts.

Science

59 programmes

Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Part Time

The Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence The Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence s a one-year structured master’s programme at Stellenbosch University, designed for students with a strong mathematical and computational background. It will equip you with the fundamentals of ML and AI, plus a suite of sophisticated techniques and concepts at the research forefront of these fields.

The programme is presented in-person on Stellenbosch campus, from January to December each year.

Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences

Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences by coursework is a one-year programme which is formally accredited by the Universities of Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and the Western Cape. The programme is taught at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in association with the Universities of Cambridge, Oxford and Paris Sud XI.

Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences

The Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences by full thesis entails independent research conducted under a supervisor. The department's research activities span a range of subject areas, including Combinatorics, Lattice Theory, Algebraic Number Theory, Arithmetic Algebraic Geometry, Algebra, Topology and Category Theory, Functional Analysis, Discrete Mathematics, Wavelets and Subdivision Analysis, Mathematical Finance, Mathematical Biology.

Master of Science in Microbiology

The Master of Science in Microbiology is an advanced research degree. Independent research on an approved topic as determined by the supervisor(s) and leading to a thesis is required.

Master of Science in Physics

The Master of Science in Physics combines thesis research with advanced seminar and/or coursework, supported by a department-appointed supervisor and guided independent research and literature review. You complete the degree by submitting a thesis for examination and undertaking an oral examination.

Master of Science in Physiological Sciences

The Master of Science in Physiological Sciences involves independent research culminating in a thesis. Students work with a supervisor to address a specific topic in physiological sciences.

Master of Science in Plant Biotechnology

Master of Science in Plant Biotechnology involves independent research culminating in a thesis.

Master of Science in Polymer Science

The Master of Science in Polymer Science is a research-focused postgraduate programme involving independent study under a supervisor.

Master of Science in Zoology

Master of Science in Zoology is a research-intensive programme for MSc graduates in biological sciences. Admission requires supervisor approval and departmental endorsement. Students engage in advanced research, contributing to scientific knowledge and innovation within their chosen field.

Theology

30 programmes

Doctor of Philosophy in Missiology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Missiology is a research-intensive doctoral programme that entails the undertaking of an independent, supervised research project culminating in a dissertation that makes an original and significant contribution to the field.

Doctor of Philosophy in New Testament

The Doctor of Philosophy in New Testament is a research-intensive doctoral programme that entails the undertaking of an independent, supervised research project culminating in a dissertation that makes an original and significant contribution to the field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Old Testament

The Doctor of Philosophy in Old Testament is a research-intensive doctoral programme that entails the undertaking of an independent, supervised research project culminating in a dissertation that makes an original and significant contribution to the field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Practical Theology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Practical Theology is a research-intensive doctoral programme that entails the undertaking of an independent, supervised research project culminating in a dissertation that makes an original and significant contribution to the field.

Doctor of Philosophy in Systematic Theology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Systematic Theology is a research-intensive doctoral programme that entails the undertaking of an independent, supervised research project culminating in a dissertation that makes an original and significant contribution to the field.

Doctor of Theology: Focal Area in Church History and Church Polity

The Doctor of Theology: Focal Area in Church History and Church Polity is a research-intensive doctoral programme that entails the undertaking of an independent, supervised research project culminating in a dissertation that makes an original and significant contribution to the field.

Master of Divinity

The Master of Divinity by coursework is a structured, practice-oriented programme that integrates theological knowledge with ministerial formation and research development. The curriculum is presented through a block teaching approach, allowing for the integration of multiple theological disciplines across three core themes: pathos (church in society), logos (church identity in Scripture, history, and tradition), and ethos (discipleship, spirituality, and ministry practice).

Master of Philosophy in Religion and Culture

The Master of Philosophy in Religion and Culture by coursework is an interdisciplinary postgraduate programme offered by the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University in collaboration with Humboldt University in Berlin. The programme explores the dynamic relationship between religion and contemporary cultural, social, and political contexts, equipping students with advanced analytical and research skills.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 October for both South African and International applicants.
July intake: Applications close on 30 March, as indicated on this page.

Master of Theology in Missiology

Master of Theology in Missiology by full thesis provides advanced theological training with a focus on mission, church engagement, and contemporary societal contexts. The programme is a research-focused involving independent study conducted under a supervisor.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 October for both South African and International applicants.
July intake: Applications close on 30 March, as indicated on this page.

Master of Theology in Missiology

The Master of Theology in Missiology by coursework provides advanced theological training with a focus on mission, church engagement, and contemporary societal contexts.

There are two intakes for this programme: January and July.

January intake: Applications close on 30 October for both South African and International applicants.
July intake: Applications close on 30 March, as indicated on this page.