Prospective Postgraduate Students

Entry requirements, application procedures, and everything you need to know about joining our postgraduate programme.

Start Your Postgraduate Journey

Postgraduate study in Computer Science at Stellenbosch offers the opportunity to develop advanced skills, conduct meaningful research, and prepare for leadership roles in industry or academia. Our programmes are designed around individual supervision, active research groups, and a supportive academic community.

Postgraduate research

Entry Requirements

Admission is based on selection criteria including academic performance and background alignment. Capacity is limited and admission is competitive — meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.

Honours Requirements

A degree that covers the CS curriculum
Average of at least 65% in final-year CS modules
Strong mathematical foundation (Algebra and Calculus)
At least 32 credits in quantitative modules at 2nd/3rd year level
Practical programming experience

Masters Requirements

Honours degree in Computer Science or approved equivalent. Additional background may be required on a case-by-case basis.

PhD Requirements

A thesis-based Masters degree and the required Computer Science background.

Module Prerequisites

All honours modules require the four core third-year CS modules, Mathematics and Probability Theory & Statistics up to first year, and preferably at least one of Mathematics or Applied Mathematics up to second year.

View all modules
Postgraduate research

How to Apply

1For Masters/PhD: obtain agreement from a supervisor
2Complete the application forms and upload required documentation
3Honours deadline: end of October
4Masters/PhD deadline: end of September
Apply Now

Part-Time & International Students

Part-time study is available. Honours can extend to two years; Masters to three-four years. We welcome international students — our modules are presented in English and are equivalent to 8 ECTS credits each.

Costs & Financial Support

The university offers various bursaries and financial support. Teaching assistant positions can provide supplemental income. Some supervisors have research funds available for Masters/PhD students.

Teaching Assistantships

Most undergraduate modules require teaching assistants. While it won't fully cover your expenses, these positions provide supplemental income and are a wonderful way to consolidate your own knowledge.

Have Questions?

If you have specific questions about postgraduate study, please contact our postgraduate coordinator.

[email protected]

Explore Postgraduate Programmes

Programme Guide Honours Masters PhD Modules Research Groups