UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN · SOUTH AFRICA
MPhil specialising in Financial Technology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 15Maximum students admitted per year
- 60Credits for Minor Dissertation
- InterdisciplinaryApproach drawing from Economics, Computer Science, and Statistics
- Practical FocusEmphasis on project-based learning and industry collaboration
- Entrepreneurial SpiritEncouraged through dissertation projects with commercial potential
This Master's program equips students with essential finance and computer science skills for a career in the financial services industry, which is increasingly reliant on information technology. It addresses the growing demand for graduates skilled in navigating complex regulatory frameworks and competitive pressures from fintech startups. The interdisciplinary degree, convened by the Financial Innovation Hub in collaboration with the Departments of Statistics and Computer Science, and the School of Economics, builds on existing strengths and offers a unique opportunity to study financial technology. The program includes elective courses and a significant dissertation project, encouraging collaboration with fintech startups and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit. The Financial Innovation Hub also serves as a platform for research and innovation in financial technologies across Africa.
Curriculum
The program structure covers core finance and computer science topics relevant to financial technology, culminating in a dissertation. Students can collaborate with fintech startups on their thesis projects.
- Year 1
- Financial EconomicsECO4053S
- Databases for Data ScientistsCSC5007Z
- Statistical & High-Performance ComputingSTA5075Z
- Financial Software EngineeringECO5040S
- Supervised LearningSTA5076Z
- Unsupervised LearningSTA5077Z
- Fintech and CryptocurrenciesECO5037S
- Digital EconomicsECO4131S
- Minor Dissertation in FinTechECO5016W
Careers
The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in the financial services industry, focusing on roles that integrate technology and finance. The curriculum and dissertation projects are designed to foster an entrepreneurial mindset, potentially leading to the development of commercially viable ideas.
- Financial Technology Specialist
- Data Scientist in Finance
- Cryptocurrency Analyst
- Fintech Entrepreneur
- Financial Software Engineer
Entry requirements
Honours degree or equivalentAt least a good 2nd class pass (above 65%). The 65% threshold is not a binding restriction, but admission is competitive.
NQF Level 8 qualificationA four-year degree is required (e.g., Bachelor's + Honours). Work experience cannot substitute for academic qualifications.
A background in computer science or statistics is not strictly required, but a good foundation in mathematics (including basic calculus and statistics) and a strong interest in programming are essential. Candidates are encouraged to brush up on Python coding skills through online courses like Codecademy, Udemy, or Coursera. Resources for self-study are available via the provided GitHub link.
Fees
Tuition (international)Provisional fees are listed in the Fees Handbook.
Tuition (home)Provisional fees are listed in the Fees Handbook.
LivingEstimated living costs are available in the Fees Handbook.
Refer to the UCT Fees Handbook for detailed fee information.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationApply through the UCT online application portal. Applications cannot be accepted via email.
2. Submit Supporting DocumentsEnsure all necessary documents are uploaded with your application. If you forget to submit your CV and cannot edit your application, send it to allan.davids@uct.ac.za with your full name and student number if available.
Scholarships
Postgraduate Degree FundingVaries
Dedicated MPhil in Financial Technology ScholarshipsVaries