Program Overview

Master's and Doctoral Degrees

The University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a range of master's and doctoral degrees across various colleges and departments. These programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in specific fields, as well as to develop independent research capabilities.

Master of Education in Educational Management

The Master of Education in Educational Management is a full research qualification that aims to provide advanced knowledge in educational management. The program consists of a dissertation that incorporates a research proposal, which must be completed within the first year of study.

• Qualification stream: General
• Qualification code: 98405 - GEN
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 9
• Total credits: 180
• SAQA ID: 13923

Purpose and Rules

The purpose of the Master of Education in Educational Management is to provide qualifiers with advanced knowledge in some aspect or sub-field of education, and to accredit candidates who demonstrate the capacity to undertake well-founded and independent inquiry in a field of education, training, and development. The curriculum consists of a dissertation that incorporates a research proposal to be completed within the first year of study.

Registration and Time Limits

Applicants may only register once they have received confirmation from Unisa that their application for admission has been accepted. The registration period for master's and doctoral qualifications opens on 7 January 2026 and closes on 31 March 2026. The time limits for completion of the degree are as follows:

• Coursework master's degree: A maximum of three years with an option to apply for one additional year.
• Research master's degree: A maximum of three years with an option to apply for one additional year.
• Doctoral degree: A maximum of six years with an option to apply for one additional year.

Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs)

Unisa has identified 10 Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs) to be operationalized within the colleges, including:

• Marine studies
• Aviation and aeronautical studies
• Automotive
• Energy
• Space study and square kilometer array
• Fourth IR and digitalization
• Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
• Health studies/medicine
• Feminist, womanist, and Bosadi theorizations
• Student support and co-curricular activities

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Master of Education in Educational Management includes a dissertation that incorporates a research proposal. Students are required to discuss their research interests with their supervisor to incorporate one or more of the CNAs into their studies.

Modules

The program includes the following module:

• DFEDU95 - MEd - Education Management