Masters by Dissertation

For those who have a strong academic background and a good honours, the Masters by research is a good option to pursue.

The minimum period of study for MM-Research is one year in the case of full-time study, and two years in the case of part-time study. The degree itself is awarded on the basis of a thesis and successful fulfilment of an attendance requirement that may include prerequisite courses depending on your background.

A regular seminar of research with doctoral students is part of the attendance requirement, and this provides an opportunity for you to share knowledge, receive informed feedback, and practice presenting your work. Assistance is provided by P&DM staff in all aspects of the thesis experience, particularly academic writing, networking (locally and internationally), and practical skills associated with research methods and publications.

The MM thesis typically ranges from 50,000 – 60,000 words.  It is examined by your supervisor, one internal examiner and one external examiner. In terms of the University rules, the key criterion for the award of the MM Research degree is appropriate scholarship in the area under study.

For the first year of study, you should reside in or near Johannesburg, so that you can attend the methodology seminars and the prescribed courses (if you are required to do so), contribute to the seminars, and consult with your supervisor in preparing the long proposal or thesis.