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 facilitate advanced research and academic growth, providing students with highly specialized knowledge, specific skills, and applied competencies.

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.

• Applicants may only register once they have received confirmation from Unisa.
• Re-registering students (who made sufficient progress during the current academic year) and students who officially deferred their studies must register online during the approved registration period for 2026.
• Should you wish to start a new qualification, please apply for admission during the next application period and check whether the qualification for which you intend to apply is on the list of qualifications that you can apply for until the end of June 2026.

Registration Periods

Registration opens and closes on specific dates for different qualifications:

• Master's & doctoral qualifications: Registration opens on 7 January 2026 and closes on 31 March 2026, with the final date for payment being 31 March 2026.
• MCompt, Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Business Leadership (MBL) qualifications: Registration opens on 7 January 2026 and closes on 21 February 2026, with the final date for payment being 21 February 2026.

Time Limits for Degrees

All master's and doctoral qualifications are structured over a defined period:

• 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.

Both the student and their supervisor are responsible for ensuring that the studies are completed within the approved duration for the qualification.

Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs)

Unisa has identified 10 Catalytic Niche Areas to be operationalized within the colleges:

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

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

PhD by Publication

A doctoral student may elect to complete their doctoral degree by publication. This refers to a doctoral degree that comprises several peer-reviewed publications written as an introduction, discussion, and conclusion that has been put together as separate chapters, contributing to a unified research theme within a specific field. Each academic college has its own criteria for considering such a request, and students must discuss this option with their supervisor from the onset of their registration as a doctoral candidate.

Curriculum

The curriculum for master's and doctoral degrees varies by qualification but typically includes:

• Compulsory modules: Such as a thesis or research proposal.
• Elective modules: Depending on the qualification and the student's area of interest.

Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Linguistics and Literature

This qualification has the following details:

• Qualification stream: Portuguese
• Qualification code: 90041 - PRT
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 10
• Total credits: 360

The curriculum consists of a thesis that incorporates a research proposal, an oral defence (viva voce), and two manuscripts based on the candidate's research, submitted for publication to a recognized accredited journal. Proof of the submission of the manuscripts is a compulsory condition for the degree to be conferred.

The primary purpose of the qualification is to facilitate D Phil graduates in using their highly specialized knowledge, specific skills, and applied competencies in the development of the specific discipline for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity, and valuable contributions to society. A second purpose of the qualification is to provide South Africa (and other countries) with specialists in the discipline to ensure that the leadership base of innovative and knowledge-based economic and scholarly activity is widened. A third purpose of the qualification is to provide South Africa (and other countries) with intellectual leaders.

University of South Africa

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Overview:

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa and the longest-standing dedicated distance education university in the world. It is a public university with a global reach, enrolling nearly one-third of South African students.

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Services Offered:

Unisa offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Online learning platform:

Unisa provides a comprehensive online learning platform, myUnisa, which allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with lecturers, and participate in online discussions.

Student support services:

Unisa offers various support services to students, such as academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and disability support.

Library resources:

Unisa has a vast library collection, accessible both online and through physical branches, providing students with access to a wide range of books, journals, and other research materials.

Regional centers:

Unisa has regional centers across South Africa, offering students access to physical learning spaces, support services, and opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

As a distance learning institution, Unisa's campus experience is primarily online. Students can expect to engage with their studies through online platforms, participate in virtual discussions, and connect with fellow students through online forums. While there are limited opportunities for face-to-face interaction, Unisa offers regional centers and occasional events that provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers and faculty.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Accessibility:

Unisa offers flexible and accessible learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds and locations.

Global reach:

Unisa's online platform allows students from around the world to access its programs and resources.

Wide range of qualifications:

Unisa offers a diverse range of qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, covering various disciplines.

Affordable education:

Unisa strives to provide affordable education options for students, with various financial aid programs available.

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Academic Programs:

Unisa offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting Sciences

Agriculture & Environmental Sciences

Economic & Management Sciences

Education

College of Graduate Studies

Human Sciences

Law

Science, Engineering & Technology

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Other:

Unisa is committed to research and innovation, with a focus on addressing societal challenges and contributing to the development of Africa. The university has several research institutes and chairs, and its researchers are actively involved in various national and international collaborations. Unisa also has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach, working to make a positive impact on the communities it serves.