Masters of Management Sciences at Central University of Technology, Free State

Entry requirements

As these are research-intensive qualifications, admission is highly competitive. The following minimum requirements apply across all Master's programmes in the faculty: Minimum Prior Qualification: An appropriate qualification at NQF Level 8, specifically: A cognate Postgraduate Diploma, OR: A cognate Honours degree, OR: A cognate professional degree. Required Academic Performance: A minimum average 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. Experience Exception: Candidates with a 55% average but more than five years of managerial experience may be considered, subject to a suitability interview. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): May be considered for applicants who do not meet the minimum academic requirements. Programme Regulations & The Research Process: Degree Type & Duration: These are research-only Master’s degrees (180 SAQA credits, NQF Level 9) with no formal coursework. Duration is typically 1–4 years (full-time) or 2–4 years (part-time). Provisional Admission & Proposal Development: Students are provisionally admitted and given a maximum of 6 months (full-time) or 12 months (part-time) to prepare a research proposal. During this time, they are exposed to three optional research modules (A, B, and C) in a seminar format. Proposal Approval Process: The research proposal must first be presented at the departmental level, and subsequently to the Faculty Research and Innovation Committee (FRIC). Only upon acceptance by FRIC will the student be formally registered to proceed with empirical research. Research Methodology Support: Students who scored below 60% in prior research methodology components may be required to attend special research seminars organised annually on campus for postgraduate students. Termination of Admission: Failure to fulfil the proposal submission conditions within the allotted time may lead to the termination of provisional admission, unless an acceptable extenuating motivation is provided.