Master of Philosophy (MPHIL) in Management Sciences at Central University of Technology, Free State

Programme overview

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Management Sciences is a rigorous, research-based qualification designed to equip learners with the advanced knowledge and methodological skills required to produce a full dissertation in a specialist topic. Possession of this qualification signifies that the candidate has successfully completed research training, can carry out independent research, and can critically analyse results within an ethical framework.

Faculty: Management Sciences | Department: Entrepreneurship Development Unit | Duration: 1 year full-time (minimum), 4 years full-time (maximum); 2 years part-time (minimum), 4 years part-time (maximum) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa

What you will study

Degree Type & Delivery: This is a research-only Master’s degree (MPhil) (180 SAQA credits, NQF Level 9). The current delivery mode is Full-time & Part-time Blended – Modular.

Career pathways

Career pathways listed by the programme page include Doctoral Pathway & Academia; Specialised Research & Analysis; Strategic Business Consultancy; Research & Development Leadership.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification: A recognised NQF Level 8 qualification in business, management, or a related field, specifically: A cognate Postgraduate Diploma, OR: A cognate Honours degree, OR: A cognate Professional degree (or equivalent). Required Academic Performance: A minimum average mark of 60% in the preceding NQF Level 8 qualification. A minimum score of 60% in a 24-credit Research Methodology course at NQF Level 8. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Highly experienced professionals who do not meet the minimum academic requirements may be required to undergo a rigorous RPL process to establish their potential to participate in the programme. Programme Regulations & Admission Process: Degree Type & Delivery: This is a research-only Master’s degree (MPhil) (180 SAQA credits, NQF Level 9). The current delivery mode is Full-time & Part-time Blended – Modular. Competitive Review Process: Admission is highly competitive and subject to a rigorous review process, as well as the availability of supervisory capacity within the chosen field of specialisation. Research Proposal: In conjunction with CUT, the candidate is required to present a suitable research project in their chosen field of specialisation prior to formal registration. Available Specialisations: Entrepreneurship, Small Enterprise Management, Agricultural Business Management, Fashion Business Management, and Finance. Contact: For more information regarding this programme and its specialisations, please contact the Entrepreneurship Development Unit.

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Applications for research master's degrees close at the end of March.

Applications for the 2027 academic year opened in April 2026 and closed on 30 September 2026 for undergraduate, advanced diploma, honours and structured master's programmes; no late or walk-in applications are accepted.

There is no application fee and no residence application fee; applications are made through the online portal.

Apply through the official page: https://www.cut.ac.za/application-process

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