WHY THIS MASTER’S DEGREE?
If you are aspiring to be a Chief Financial Officer, Audit Partner, Board Member, Regulator or Academic, this qualification will equip you with the skills that will both help prepare you for those roles, but also set you apart from others. This qualification focuses on real world applications and enhances the skills required to achieve leadership in accounting, corporate financial analysis, and corporate governance decision making.
All course content also explores different approaches to research with a view to helping you understand the logic and rationale of different research perspectives. This enables you to undertake demanding investigations, collect, organise and analyse data, and effectively progress in the writing of your research dissertation. These are value-adding skills in all areas of business.
Entrance requirements
An HEQSF level 8 qualification in Accounting/Finance or relevant work experience in Accounting/Finance or a CA(SA). Applicants may be required to present themselves for an interview.
Application deadline
30 September
RESEARCH METHODs
The aim of this course is to equip students with a range of skills to prepare them for writing their dissertations. During the course, students will write their research proposal, under the guidance of a supervisor, and present it to a panel of academics and students. In doing so, they will develop the skills to conceive a research idea and acknowledge earlier research in the field. The course will offer guidance for students to undertake intricate investigation, and enable the ability to collect, organise and analyse data.
CORPORATE FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
Students will be enabled to analyse a company effectively within its respective industry, market and macroeconomic environment. Key insights into monetary policy, financial analysis and both technical and fundamental analysis will be employed. Concurrently, an evaluation of the role of manager and investor sentiment on perceived company performance and financial statement presentation will be discussed.
FINANCIAL AND EXTERNAL REPORTING
Understanding how external reporting meets the needs of the public interest and contributes towards the reporting entity’s value creation process is the aim of this course. Students will be exposed to different types of reports and will be required to develop an understanding of the basis on which they are prepared, including critical analysis of their content.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
This course equips students to identify and exploit opportunities while reducing risks (strategic, operational, financial, marketing, legal, environment, etc.) in pursuit of an entity’s overall objectives. Students will analyse the leadership process of the board or other governing body, analyse the role of the audit committee and review the role of the internal audit function.
Duration
Students will register for and complete all the compulsory coursework in year 1. The preferred option is to register concurrently for and complete the research dissertation in year 1. As an exception, students may elect to register for the dissertation in year 2.
Assessment
Assessment will include individual and group work assignments (submissions and presentations). There are no separate written examinations.
Fees and Funding
The approximate tuition fee for all compulsory courses and the dissertation component is R82 000. You can find the latest fee information (including fees for international students) in UCT’s Student Fees Handbook:
For funding information, you can contact the postgraduate centre and funding office.
Boitumelo Mokgoko
“The MCom FRAG programme was not just academic, but a masterclass in real-world application through an African lens. It integrated local and international research into everyday scenarios, enhancing critical thinking. The diverse cohort, paced modules, and feedback from lecturers enriched personal and academic growth. The course's supportive convenors encouraged open-mindedness and tenacity, allowing students to apply their learnings in their professional careers. You will be surprised at how much you’ll grow!”
EwayneLe Roux
“I reached a point in my life where I craved a new challenge. The MComFRAG programme at UCT was exactly what I needed, combining academic rigour with research opportunities that reignited my purpose. The programme improved my academic writing, time management, and multitasking abilities. I found a supportive supervisor who held me accountable, promoted critical thinking, and encouraged me to accept feedback in a positive manner.”
Phenyo Motlhasedi
“The MCom Programme was an eye-opening experience, enhancing my abilities and professional passions. It taught me to find reliable sources for report writing and synthesise materials for contrasting views. The programme also improved my writing style. I enjoyed working, interacting, and studying with people from diverse career paths. Learning from people who think and reason differently is invaluable. I recommend that prospective candidates approach the journey with an open mind. The reward is definitely worth the journey.”
ZeenatKumandan
“My experience in the MCom programme was profoundly positive. It rekindled my love for academics and allowed me to showcase my creativity through writing. Engaging with classmates during intensive block weeks was a rewarding aspect, as it allowed me to interact with diverse CAs. I advise prospective students to fully embrace the experience, as time passes quickly, and to take advantage of the moments to connect and immerse themselves in interesting, relevant, and meaningful content.”
Gerhard Louw
“The MCom programme not only helped me land a new role but also pushed me to grow personally. It involved working with diverse CAs from different industries, engaging lectures, and group activities. The course is intense, requiring careful time management and a balance of reading and writing. I recommend choosing a supervisor who matches your style, personality, and way of working. Enjoying the process, staying open, and being disciplined are key to success. It’s a challenge, but absolutely worth it!”