UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN · SOUTH AFRICA
MPhil in Sustainable Mineral Resource Development
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€4k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsProgram Duration
- Trans-disciplinaryApproach
- 180 creditsTotal Credits
- 67% research-basedProgram Focus
- African Mining ContextSpecialisation
- Hybrid deliveryFlexibility
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Sustainable Mineral Resource Development is a two-year trans-disciplinary program offered by the University of Cape Town's Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, through the Department of Chemical Engineering. This program is designed to equip graduates with an advanced understanding of sustainable development within the context of the African mining industry. It addresses the complex interplay of safety, health, environmental protection, economic development, and stakeholder management in mineral resource extraction. The curriculum combines advanced coursework (60 credits) with a substantial research dissertation (120 credits), promoting an interdisciplinary approach. It aims to develop professionals who can contribute to responsible and sustainable practices in the mining and minerals processing sector across Africa. Graduates will gain an appreciation for integrated technical skills, ethical considerations, and global citizenship, fostering progressive approaches to managing communities, environmental challenges, and regulatory frameworks.
Curriculum
The MPhil program consists of core coursework completed in the first year, using a combination of face-to-face and online delivery, followed by a full-time research dissertation in the second year. Interdisciplinary research is encouraged through joint supervision across faculties and universities.
- Year 1
- Mineral Resources and Sustainable Development
- Strategic Social Engagement Practice
- Environmental Stewardship in Mining & Minerals Beneficiation
- Research Communication and Methodology
- Sustainable Development in Africa Internship
- Year 2
- Dissertation
Careers
This MPhil program aims to develop graduates capable of advanced knowledge and research in the African mining industry, preparing them for roles that integrate sustainable development principles into mineral resource management. Graduates will be equipped to address complex challenges related to safety, health, environment, economic development, and stakeholder engagement.
- Geologist
- Engineer
- Economist
- Planner
- Lawyer
- Regulator
- Health & Safety Specialist
- Environmental Officer
- Social Scientist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MPhil in Sustainable Mineral Resource Development?
- You need a four-year Bachelor's degree, an Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field. The program also considers candidates with a Higher National Diploma and appropriate relevant experience. Admission is competitive and based on your academic record and work experience.
- What is the tuition fee for international students?
- The estimated tuition fee for the two-year program is R 76,542.00, split into R42,221.00 for Year 1 and R34,321.00 for Year 2. This estimate excludes any specific international student fees. Fees cover the cost of a field trip in Year 1 but not internship or research expenses.
- How long is the MPhil program and what is the structure?
- The MPhil program is two years long and consists of 180 credits. Year 1 involves core coursework with a hybrid delivery (face-to-face and online), and Year 2 is dedicated to a full-time research dissertation.
- How do I apply for the MPhil program?
- To apply, you must email a 1000-word statement of interest and your CV to the program convener at jennifer.broadhurst@uct.ac.za. Your statement should detail your motivation and proposed research area.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MPhil?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in the African mining industry, focusing on sustainable development. Potential career paths include Geologist, Engineer, Economist, Planner, Lawyer, Regulator, Health & Safety Specialist, Environmental Officer, and Social Scientist.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers full scholarships for academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa. This scholarship covers all costs, including travel, tuition, living expenses, and more, for eligible candidates.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA four-year Bachelor's degree in any relevant field
Honours degreeAn Honours degree in any relevant field
Higher National Diploma (HND) or equivalentConsidered with appropriate relevant experience
Applicants are targeted from diverse disciplines including geology, engineering, economics, planning, law, regulatory affairs, health & safety, environmental science, and social sciences. Admission is competitive and based on academic record, work experience, and the availability of a suitable supervisor and research project. Selection aims to promote diversity in student backgrounds. In addition to academic qualifications, candidates must submit a 1000-word statement of interest, a CV, and a short statement on their proposed research dissertation area to the program convener.
Fees
Tuition (international)Estimated at R 76,542.00 for the two-year program (R42,221.00 in Year 1 and R34,321.00 in Year 2), excluding any international student fees.
Tuition (home)Estimated at R 76,542.00 for the two-year program (R42,221.00 in Year 1 and R34,321.00 in Year 2).
Living—
Fees include the cost of a field trip in Year 1. They do not cover expenses related to internships (transport, accommodation, subsistence) or research (fieldwork, laboratory costs, analytical costs). Transport to and from lecture venues is also at the candidate’s own expense. Funding is available on a competitive basis to assist with fees, living, and research costs; applicants should contact the course administrator or prospective supervisors for details.
How to apply
1. Prepare your application documentsGather your academic record, a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV), and write a 1000-word statement of interest for the Master's program. This statement should include your motivation for attending the course and a brief outline of the area(s) you are considering for your research dissertation.
2. Submit your applicationEmail your statement of interest and CV directly to the program convener, Associate Professor Jennifer Broadhurst, at jennifer.broadhurst@uct.ac.za.
3. Await selection decisionAdmission is competitive and based on your academic record, duration and level of work experience, and the availability of a suitable program and research project supervisor. Diversity in fields of study and experience is also considered.
Scholarships
Mastercard Foundation Scholars ProgramFull-cost scholarship (includes visa applications, travel, tuition, living expenses, medical aid, accommodation)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC) of South Africa.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MPhil in Sustainable Mineral Resource Development?
+
You need a four-year Bachelor's degree, an Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field. The program also considers candidates with a Higher National Diploma and appropriate relevant experience. Admission is competitive and based on your academic record and work experience.
What is the tuition fee for international students?
+
The estimated tuition fee for the two-year program is R 76,542.00, split into R42,221.00 for Year 1 and R34,321.00 for Year 2. This estimate excludes any specific international student fees. Fees cover the cost of a field trip in Year 1 but not internship or research expenses.
How long is the MPhil program and what is the structure?
+
The MPhil program is two years long and consists of 180 credits. Year 1 involves core coursework with a hybrid delivery (face-to-face and online), and Year 2 is dedicated to a full-time research dissertation.
How do I apply for the MPhil program?
+
To apply, you must email a 1000-word statement of interest and your CV to the program convener at jennifer.broadhurst@uct.ac.za. Your statement should detail your motivation and proposed research area.
What are the career prospects after completing this MPhil?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in the African mining industry, focusing on sustainable development. Potential career paths include Geologist, Engineer, Economist, Planner, Lawyer, Regulator, Health & Safety Specialist, Environmental Officer, and Social Scientist.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers full scholarships for academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa. This scholarship covers all costs, including travel, tuition, living expenses, and more, for eligible candidates.