Programs

Bachelor of Social Science Degree Majoring in Economics

BCom Honours in Economic Analysis of Financial Markets

This Bachelor of Commerce Honours programme focuses on the Economic Analysis of Financial Markets, designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful career in the financial sector. You will gain a strong understanding of economic principles applied to finance, learn to analyse and interpret financial statements, and master quantitative methods for financial decision-making. The programme prepares you to analyse complex financial situations, utilize advanced economic modelling and econometrics, and develop financial strategies by bridging different disciplines.

BCom Honours in Economics

The BCom Honours in Economics is a one-year, full-time programme designed for graduates with a strong interest in economics who wish to deepen their understanding and refine their skills for research and professional careers. The programme begins in January. The first semester focuses on core economic theory and empirical techniques, while the second semester allows students to apply these concepts through a range of elective specialisations. You will be taught by experienced faculty members who are also involved in the policy environment.

BCom in Economics and Finance

The Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Economics and Finance at the University of Cape Town provides a solid foundation in economic principles and equips students with the skills needed to understand and operate in the financial world. This program delves into both microeconomic topics, such as firm behavior and profit maximization, and macroeconomic issues, including unemployment, inflation, and economic growth. Students will develop a deep understanding of economic policy challenges and the complexities of economic crises. This analytical ability is highly valued by employers, particularly in fields like asset management, stock-broking, merchant banking, investment guidance, and management consulting. A background in economics signals strong analytical thinking capabilities, making graduates attractive for further training and career development.

BCom in Economics and Statistics

The Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) specialising in Economics and Statistics is a degree designed to equip students with a strong foundation in economic principles and quantitative analytical methods. The programme focuses on using statistical techniques to analyse and interpret economic and financial data. You will gain a deep understanding of both microeconomic concepts (like firm behaviour and profit maximization) and macroeconomic issues (such as unemployment, inflation, and economic growth). This degree goes beyond core economics by offering a more in-depth look at quantitative economics and statistical methods, enabling you to critically engage with complex economic policy dilemmas and financial crises. The ability to think clearly and logically about the broader economic environment is highly valued by employers. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for postgraduate studies at Honours, Master's, or Doctoral levels in Economics or Business. The analytical skills developed are also beneficial for direct entry into various business roles and further professional training.

BSc (Honours) Physics (PHY4000W)

The BSc (Honours) Physics is an advanced undergraduate degree typically pursued in the fourth year of study, following the completion of a BSc in Physics. This program serves as a crucial stepping stone for students aspiring to pursue further postgraduate studies, including Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. This honours program provides a deeper understanding and specialization within the field of physics, preparing graduates for advanced research and academic pursuits. It is designed to build upon the foundational knowledge gained in the undergraduate BSc degree, offering specialized coursework and potentially research opportunities.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The University of Cape Town offers doctoral degrees by research, overseen by the Doctoral Degrees Board. Senior doctorates, awarded based on published works, are managed by individual faculties. Prospective PhD candidates are admitted based on previous academic qualifications, typically requiring a master's degree or an advanced bachelor's degree with significant postgraduate registration. The application process involves formal submission through the relevant faculty, with provisional registration granted until the research proposal is approved. Upon admission, candidates are assigned a supervisor to guide their research journey.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in Public Health at the University of Cape Town offers a rigorous research experience, typically completed within 3 to 5 years. This programme is designed for individuals committed to undertaking a substantial, original piece of work that will contribute significantly to their chosen field within public health. The focus of your PhD research is a critical choice, as it is likely to shape your future research career. Prospective candidates will engage in an in-depth exploration of a specific public health challenge, working closely with expert supervisors. The programme emphasizes developing independent research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to disseminate research findings effectively. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to lead research initiatives and contribute to policy and practice in public health.

Doctor of Philosophy specialising in Business Administration

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration at the University of Cape Town's Graduate School of Business (GSB) is a rigorous research degree designed for students who wish to make an original and significant contribution to the field of business research. This program requires independent study under the guidance of a supervisor, focusing on advanced research methodologies and practices. It is a highly competitive program, accepting only a limited number of candidates each year who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and a clear alignment of their research interests with their master's level work. Prospective students will engage in in-depth research, culminating in a doctoral dissertation that pushes the boundaries of current knowledge in business administration. The program is structured to develop advanced analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or high-level management and consultancy roles. Successful completion of the PhD signifies a profound understanding of a specialized area within business and the ability to conduct independent, high-quality scholarly work. The minimum duration for this research-focused degree is two years, though the actual time to completion can vary based on the nature of the research and the student's progress. The GSB emphasizes the importance of a well-defined research proposal and a strong academic background, particularly in research methodology, to succeed in this demanding program.

Economics Programmes

The University of Cape Town's School of Economics offers a range of programs designed to address South Africa's significant development challenges, including unemployment, inequality, and poverty. Economics is presented as a foundational social science relevant to understanding and tackling these issues. The School emphasizes both theoretical understanding and the application of analytical and empirical tools to real-world data. Graduates are well-regarded locally and internationally, finding opportunities in diverse sectors such as finance, government, consulting, and academia. The School attracts students from across Africa and is committed to contributing to both student and societal development.

General Household Survey 2024

The General Household Survey (GHS) 2024 is an annual survey conducted by Statistics South Africa that provides valuable insights into the living conditions of South African households. This dataset captures information across key areas such as education, health, social development, housing, access to essential services and facilities, food security, and agricultural activities. It serves as a crucial resource for researchers, policymakers, and students interested in understanding socio-economic trends and household dynamics in South Africa. This publicly accessible dataset is distributed by DataFirst at the University of Cape Town. It covers all de jure household members and residents in workers' hostels across the nine provinces of South Africa, offering a national perspective. The GHS 2024 uses a robust sampling methodology based on a Master Sample frame to ensure representativeness at provincial and metropolitan levels.

Honours Degree

Master of Commerce in Economics

The Master of Commerce in Economics is a 12-month program designed to provide students with the advanced theoretical and technical skills needed to excel as professional economists. It combines core coursework with a research component, focusing on both theoretical and empirical applications relevant to public and private sector roles. The curriculum aims to equip graduates with practical knowledge and analytical capabilities.

Master of Science (Nursing) by coursework and minor dissertation

The University of Cape Town offers a Master of Science (Nursing) program designed for registered nurses and midwives seeking to advance their knowledge and skills through a combination of coursework and a minor dissertation. This postgraduate qualification aims to equip students with the theoretical understanding and research capabilities necessary to contribute to the field of nursing and midwifery, particularly within the Sub-Saharan African context. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and leadership potential, preparing graduates for diverse roles in clinical practice, education, research, and management.

Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics

The Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of Cape Town is an intensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced skills in quantitative health sciences research. This program is structured around a series of compulsory semester-length courses, culminating in a minor dissertation. It is ideal for students seeking to deepen their understanding of disease patterns, health determinants, and statistical methods in health research. Students can complete the program in a minimum of 18 to 24 months, with options for both part-time and full-time study to accommodate diverse schedules. Upon admission, a program convenor will assist students in identifying a suitable supervisor for their dissertation research. The curriculum is tailored to develop expertise essential for careers in public health, clinical research, and academic settings.

Master's by Dissertation Only

The Master's by Dissertation Only is a research-focused postgraduate degree offered by the School of Management Studies at the University of Cape Town. This program allows students to delve deeply into an advanced topic within their chosen field, working closely with a dedicated supervisor. The degree is awarded based on the submission and examination of a dissertation, comprising 180 NQF credits.

Master's by full thesis

Masters by Dissertation only

Masters Programme in Economics by Coursework and Dissertation specialising in Applied Economics

Masters Programme in Economics by Coursework and Dissertation specialising in Economic Science

Masters Programme in Economics by Coursework and Dissertation specialising in Economics

MPhil in Sustainable Mineral Resource Development

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.