Master Your Potential With Regent’s Master’s Degrees

Are you a recent honours graduate or an experienced professional looking to further your career?

Master’s degrees are highly esteemed programmes in South Africa and worldwide—creating significant opportunities for career growth and promotions. 

Regent’s master’s degrees are great options for those pursuing further studies while working full-time. 

In this article, we will look at the differences between master’s and bachelor’s degrees, the length of a master’s degree, and the different programmes you can consider. 

What is a master’s vs bachelor’s?

A master’s and bachelor’s degree are two distinct levels of higher education. A bachelor’s degree is considered an undergraduate degree (and one of the first layers of study), while a master’s degree is a postgraduate programme that comes later. 

Bachelor’s degree

Depending on the institute, these degrees take about 3-4 years to complete and usually focus on broad and foundational education in a specific field. 

Students need a high school diploma or equivalent to enrol in this degree. A bachelor’s degree often prepares students for entry-level careers. 

Master’s degree

On the other hand, a master’s degree is typically 1-2 years long and provides students with specialised knowledge in a specific field of interest, such as business, finance, or healthcare. 

It focuses on more in-depth studies and can only be pursued after students have attained a degree. These advanced degrees give graduates a competitive advantage in the job market. 

Key differences between bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes

There are several significant differences between these two types of degrees, including: 

• Level of specialisation: Master’s degrees are more specialised and advanced. 

• Duration and depth: Bachelor’s degree programmes take longer to complete. However, master’s programmes are far more in-depth and often considered “harder” to complete than bachelor’s degrees. 

• Career impact: Bachelor’s degrees open the door to entry-level positions, while master’s degrees offer high-level job opportunities, which can increase income potential.

• Research component: Master’s degrees have a significant research component, whereas bachelor’s degrees do not. 

How long is a Masters degree in South Africa?

In South Africa, a master’s degree typically takes 1-2 years to complete. However, this can differ based on the college and the mode of study. 

• Most full-time master’s degrees are designed to be completed in 1-2 years. 

• Part-time study can take 2-4 years, depending on your pace. 

You can also consider distance learning, where you can study remotely while working full-time. This mode of study allows for more flexibility and focuses on independent study, interactive study tools, and assessment and feedback.  

How do you qualify for a master’s degree?

Entry requirements for a master’s degree differ based on the specific school. At Regent, the entry requirements are as follows: 

• A relevant bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification from an accredited institution. 
• An excellent academic record with a minimum mark determined by the specific programme. 
• Relevant work experience determined by the programme. 
• English proficiency. 
• Supporting documentation, including an application form, academic transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose or motivation letter, and letters of recommendation. 

Regent’s master’s degrees

Regent Business School offers two main MBA degrees with flexible programme delivery options. Here’s a more in-depth look at Regent’s master’s degrees:  

1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The Master of Business Administration is a top-tier qualification that equips students with the expertise to attain managerial positions within small, large, and multinational companies.

With this degree, you have several career opportunities, including: 

• Leadership roles within multinational corporations and progressive companies
• Entrepreneurial venture 
• Academia

The degree is recognised worldwide, with several industries, including business, engineering, education, and healthcare, holding an MBA in high regard.

Several modules are covered in depth, including strategic change management, managerial economics, governance and sustainability, research and statistical methods, leadership and human capital development, and much more. 

Learn more about the MBA here. 

2. MBA in Healthcare Management

The MBA in Healthcare Management is another top-tier qualification that provides trained and experienced healthcare managers with more advanced skills so they can lead health services and systems. 

Graduates can lead the way in several healthcare departments, including: 

• Health and preventative care
• Primary healthcare
• Emergency healthcare
• Hospital services
• And more

Modules covered in-depth in this programme include strategic and change management, health economics, healthcare operations management, human resource management, contemporary health systems, and much more. 

Learn more about the MBA in Healthcare Management here. 

FAQ

Can you finish your masters in 2 years?

Yes, you can finish a master’s degree in two years. However, the specific duration depends on the mode of study (e.g., full-time, part-time, or distance learning), the institution, and the specific programme structure. 

Can I skip honours and do a master’s?

In South Africa, it is generally required to complete an honours degree before enrolling in a master’s degree. But there are exceptions. 

For example, significant and relevant work experience can sometimes be considered instead of an honours degree. Some institutions also offer bridging or pre-master’s programmes for students without an honours degree. 

Which masters degree is most in demand in South Africa?

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most popular degrees in South Africa because it is applicable across various industries. It equips students with advanced skills in their specialised field and leadership, strategic thinking, and research abilities. 

Learn more about Regent’s master’s degrees

Now that you understand the significance of pursuing a master’s degree and what you can expect from these courses, you can learn more about our MBA and MBA in Healthcare Management to see if these programmes work for your needs and career aspirations. 

• Find out more about the MBA here.
• Find out more about the MBA in Healthcare Management here.