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 enhance the capacity of individuals working in their respective fields, providing them with the skills and expertise necessary to excel in their careers.

Registration and Admission

To register for a master's or doctoral degree, applicants must first receive confirmation from Unisa that their application for admission has been accepted. Returning students must check their myLife emails for confirmation, while new Unisa students will receive confirmation via the email address provided during the application process. Re-registering students and those who have officially deferred their studies must register online during the approved registration period.

Time Limits for Completion

All master's and doctoral qualifications have defined time limits for completion.

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

1. Marine studies
2. Aviation and aeronautical studies
3. Automotive
4. Energy
5. Space study and square kilometer array
6. Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and digitalization
7. Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
8. Health studies/medicine
9. Feminist, womanist, and Bosadi theorizations
10. Student support and co-curricular activities

Students interested in any of these areas should discuss incorporating one or more CNAs into their studies with their supervisor.

Curriculum

The curriculum for each program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of their field of study. For example, the Master of Public Health program consists of a dissertation that incorporates a research proposal to be completed within the first year of study.

Master of Public Health

The Master of Public Health program is designed to enhance the capacity of people working in the health field to practice public health, improving the health status of the people of South Africa. The program consists of a dissertation and has the following details:

• Qualification code: 90010
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 9
• Total credits: 180
• SAQA ID: 94866

The purpose of the Master of Public Health program is to provide graduates with the skills and expertise to manage the decentralized health system at district, provincial, and national levels.

Registration Period

The registration period for master's and doctoral qualifications opens on January 7, 2026, and closes on March 31, 2026. The final date for payment is also March 31, 2026. For MCompt, Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Master of Business Leadership (MBL) qualifications, the registration period opens on January 7, 2026, and closes on February 21, 2026, with the final date for payment being February 21, 2026.