Master in Ocean Sciences Scholarship refers to the South African Master in Ocean Sciences (AOS-SAMOS), an interdisciplinary postgraduate programme that trains ocean professionals across oceanography, marine biology, data analysis, law and sustainability. The 2027 cohort accepts up to 30 students and has an application deadline of 31 August 2026.
The programme brings together nine South African universities, national research institutions and European academic partners and is supported through the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education framework, co-funded by the European Union under Grant Agreement No. 101179091.
Master in Ocean Sciences Benefits
- Apply a whole-systems approach to sustainability in an ocean sciences context.
- Understand regional marine ecosystems and their dynamics.
- Collect and analyse Ocean Sciences data using quantitative techniques.
- Develop and conduct research projects addressing theoretical or practical problems.
- Apply advanced analytical and computational tools.
- Work with models and data relevant to Ocean Sciences.
- Use emerging technologies and tools in marine research.
- Monitor environmental change and assess the impacts of human activities.
- Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
Master in Ocean Sciences Eligibility Criteria
- A four-year Bachelor’s degree that includes a research project; or
- An Honours degree; or
- Another equivalent NQF Level 8 qualification;
- The qualification must include a 30-credit research component and demonstrate disciplinary alignment with the AOS-SAMOS curriculum;
- An average of at least 65% in science subjects, or above 70% in other pertinent subjects;
- A strong academic record;
- A demonstrated interest in marine science;
- Good numeracy skills are strongly recommended.
How to Apply for Master in Ocean Sciences
- Reviewing the eligibility requirements.
- Preparing a suitable CV of no more than two pages.
- Obtaining proof of the highest qualification.
- Preparing complete academic transcripts.
- Writing a strong motivation letter.
- Clearly explaining academic and professional experience.
- Describing research interests.
- Selecting preferred study streams.
- Identifying a prospective supervisor and research project if applying for SAMOS-NRF funding.
- Submitting the application through the University of Cape Town’s application system.
- Ensuring all supporting documents are submitted.
- Completing the application before the 31 August 2026 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Master in Ocean Sciences Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, funding and how to apply based on the official programme information.
What is the Master in Ocean Sciences (AOS-SAMOS) programme?
The AOS-SAMOS is an interdisciplinary postgraduate Master’s programme designed to strengthen Ocean Sciences education, research capacity and professional opportunities in South Africa. It integrates ocean science, marine biology, oceanography, quantitative analysis, digital technologies, social sciences, law, humanities and sustainability and is supported through Erasmus+ and EU co-funding.
Who manages applications for the programme?
Applications for the 2027 programme are managed through a single-entry point at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The coursework for the programme is delivered at the Nelson Mandela University Ocean Sciences Campus in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, and the minor dissertation is undertaken at a participating partner university.
What are the academic entry requirements?
Applicants should generally have a four-year Bachelor’s degree with a research project, an Honours degree, or an equivalent NQF Level 8 qualification that includes a 30-credit research component and disciplinary alignment with the AOS-SAMOS curriculum. Minimum averages of 65% in science subjects or above 70% in other pertinent subjects are indicated.
Can applicants without a science degree apply?
Yes. Applicants from social sciences and humanities can be considered provided they meet academic requirements and explain in their motivation letter how they will address gaps in natural science and numerical knowledge. Preference is given to applicants with a strong science background and demonstrated numerical skills.
What are the English language requirements?
English is the language of instruction. Applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency. Acceptable evidence includes South African school qualifications for local applicants, and for international applicants recognised tests such as TOEFL, IELTS or the National Benchmark Test Academic Literacy. The published IELTS minimum is an overall band of 7.0 with no component below 6.0.
Is funding included with admission?
Admission to AOS-SAMOS does not automatically guarantee funding. The programme provides information on potential funding sources, including the DSTI-NRF Master’s Student Funding and other postgraduate opportunities. Some South African applicants may be eligible for full or partial funding, while international students may qualify for limited partial funding.
What is the application deadline for the 2027 cohort?
Applications for the 2027 AOS-SAMOS cohort are open and close on Sunday, 31 August 2026. Applicants seeking specific DSTI-NRF funding should note the separate UCT internal funding deadline of 26 June 2026 for that bursary call.
How competitive is admission?
The 2027 cohort has a maximum intake of 30 students, so admission is competitive. Applicants should submit strong applications demonstrating academic achievement, interest in Ocean Sciences, relevant experience, research interests, quantitative ability and clear career objectives. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
What is the programme structure and duration?
The AOS-SAMOS degree is a full-time taught Master’s worth 180 credits: 90 credits of coursework and a 90-credit minor dissertation. The programme is scheduled to start in February 2027. Depending on funding and pathway, it can be completed over one or two years; SAMOS-NRF funded students typically follow a two-year curriculum.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants must prepare a CV (max two pages), proof of highest qualification, academic transcripts, a motivation letter, information on academic background and experience, research interests, and, where applicable for funding, an identified supervisor and research project. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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