Postgraduate
studies in
Computer Science
Advance your expertise through research and specialised study. Join our vibrant postgraduate community and contribute to cutting-edge discoveries in computer science.
Join our research community
Honours, Master's, and PhD programmes available
Choose your programme
We offer three postgraduate degree levels, each designed to advance your expertise and research capabilities in computer science.
Honours in Computer Science
1 year full-time (max 2 years part-time)
Deepen your expertise with advanced coursework and a research project. The Honours programme bridges undergraduate study and postgraduate research.
Entry requirements
- CS degree covering the core curriculum
- At least 65% average in final-year CS modules (highly competitive)
- Strong mathematical foundation (Algebra and Calculus)
- At least 32 credits at 2nd/3rd-year level in quantitative modules (Math, Applied Math, Physics, Stats, Bioinformatics, Operations Research, or GIT242/GIT341)
- Practical programming experience
Important note
Meeting minimum requirements ensures consideration but does not guarantee admission due to limited capacity.
Structured MSc in ML and AI
Interested in a structured Master's programme focused on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence?
Visit mlai.sun.ac.za
The application process
Follow these steps to submit your postgraduate application. The process varies slightly depending on your chosen programme.
Find a supervisor
(Master's & Doctoral only)
Browse our Research pages and staff publications to find an area of interest. Contact a staff member to secure agreement for supervision. A face-to-face meeting is strongly recommended.
Browse research areasApply online
(All applicants)
Complete application forms and upload required documents via the SU portal under Prospective Postgraduate Students or the Science Faculty website.
Go to SU portalApplication deadlines
Mark these dates in your calendar. Late applications may not be considered.
Honours
End of October
Master's & Doctoral
End of September
Check the Science Faculty website for exact dates each year
Fees, funding & support
We understand that funding is a crucial consideration for postgraduate study. Explore the various financial support options available to you.
Bursaries
No direct departmental support, but external bursaries are available through the SU portal and Postgraduate Office website. Apply early for the best opportunities.
Teaching assistantships
Honours students are expected to act as teaching assistants for undergraduate modules. This provides supplemental income and helps consolidate your knowledge.
Typically 10-15 hours per week during teaching periods
Research funds
Some supervisors have funds available for Master's and Doctoral students. This must be discussed directly with your potential supervisor during the application process.
Availability varies by research group and project
Study modes & international students
We accommodate various study arrangements to suit your circumstances, whether you're working full-time or joining us from abroad.
Honours
- Can extend to a maximum of two consecutive years
- The project must be completed in year 1 or 2
- All 6 semester-modules are presented during working hours
- No after-hours lectures available
- Employer arrangement required for attendance
Master's
- Extends over 3-4 years part-time
- Flexible research schedule with supervisor agreement
- Regular meetings with supervisor required
Application process
- Foreign students are welcomed to apply
- Must contact the university's Postgraduate Office for administrative details
- Additional documentation may be required for visa purposes
Academic information
- 16 credit modules equal 8 ECTS credits
- All modules are presented in English
- No Afrikaans language requirement
Individual module prerequisites
If you're interested in registering for individual modules, ensure you meet the specific prerequisites for each module.
| Module | Prerequisites |
|---|---|
General Honours modules |
|
Digital Image Processing |
|
Computer Vision |
|
Registration requirements
To register for individual modules, you must have:
- A CS degree (or fulfil requirements for next graduation)
- The same mathematics and programming background as required for the Honours degree
Need clarification?
Contact the postgraduate coordinator for advice on module selection.
postgrad@cs.sun.ac.za