Master of Education in Education Policy Studies at Stellenbosch University

Programme overview

The Master of Education in Education Policy Studies is a two-year full-research degree at Stellenbosch (Stellenbosch campus) that develops critical understanding of education policy in the context of democratic transformation and prepares graduates to research educational policy and for doctoral study.

Faculty: Education | Department: Education Policy Studies | Duration: Two years | Intake: Applications for 2027 open 1 Apr 2026; close 30 Sep 2026 (South African and international) | Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

What you will study

A 100% full-thesis master's (180 credits, 66524-872): a research thesis of about 40 000 to 50 000 words presenting a substantiated argument, supervised independently. Research themes include: democratic praxis and educational transformation, values in education, globalisation, centralisation and decentralisation, international comparative studies of learner achievement, and funding and organisation building.

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Application information

Entry requirements

Admission is based on one of: a BEdHons degree from Stellenbosch University or another four-year bachelor's degree in Education approved by Senate; an NQF level 8 honours degree approved by Senate plus an approved education diploma/certificate; another academic and professional combination deemed appropriate by Senate; or a standard of competence deemed adequate by Senate (supplementary Education studies may be required). An overall average of at least 60% in the BEdHons or equivalent is required, and the department must have capacity. A research methodology module at honours level is compulsory for the full-thesis master's. A departmental form is submitted with the application.

The application fee is R100 for South African citizens, permanent residents and refugee, asylum seeker and diplomatic status holders, and R400 for international applicants. Stellenbosch Business School applicants pay R1050 for the MBA and R850 for other SBS programmes. Some applicants are exempt; application fees are non-refundable.

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