Why an MBA?

Hone your skills. Master new knowledge. Create impact. Change the world.

The right MBA can be genuinely transformative, changing the way you think about yourself, your potential and the view ahead.

Whether you're looking to pivot industries, advance to senior leadership, launch your own venture, or expand your impact, an MBA provides:

  • Strategic and analytical thinking
  • Leadership and decision-making capabilities
  • Global business insight with local relevance
  • An MBA can also refocus your career objectives, uncover new opportunities and identify paths to success you may have never thought of.

At UCT GSB, the MBA goes beyond theory – it's a transformative experience rooted in real-world challenges, African context, and global ambition.

Discover-MBA

Which MBA Is Right for Me?

With an entire suite of MBA programs, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. Whether you’re looking to maximize your time on campus or earn your degree as you continue to work, you’ll find the perfect program to take your career to the next level.

What are you looking for in an MBA program? 

MBA-FT-choose
I want to eat, sleep, and breathe the full experience

Full-Time MBA

In our top-ranked Full-Time MBA at the UCT GSB, you’ll engage with real-world business challenges alongside a diverse and high-performing cohort. This intensive one-year, Cape Town based programme is rooted in action-based learning, collaboration, and access to an influential African and global network.

  • Duration 1 year
  • Delivery Format On-campus (Cape Town)
  • Ideal Candidate Mid-career professionals
  • Work Experience Required 3+ years
  • Time on Campus Full-time residency
  • Career Support Full support from Career Services
  • Ranking Highlights Top 100 in QS Global MBA
MBA-Mod-choose
I want flexibility as I continue working

Modular MBA

A flexible, two-year part-time programme ideal for professionals seeking international business insight with a strong African and South African focus. Students are required to take a maximum of 40 days’ leave over two years – no more than 20 days per year. Students must be available for these days, regardless of how they attend.

  • Duration 2 years
  • Delivery Format Block release + online
  • Ideal Candidate Working professionals
  • Work Experience Required 3+ years
  • Time on Campus Approx. 20 days/year
  • Career Support Full support from Career Services
  • Ranking Highlights Top-ranked in Africa (QS)
Emba choice
I want to lead with deeper insight

Executive MBA

The EMBA spans two years, structured around five modular courses (each typically two weeks) delivered in a hybrid format, combined with a research report

It’s designed for experienced professionals who wish to study part-time while continuing full-time work.

  • Duration 2 years
  • Delivery Format In person
  • Ideal Candidate Senior execs
  • Work Experience Required 3+ years
  • Time on Campus Approx. 20 days/year
  • Career Support Full support from Career Services
  • Ranking Highlights Top-ranked in Africa (QS)

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Live and study in Cape Town
  • Achieve your MBA in just one year
  • Graduate visa scheme
  • Gain friendships and experience in a diverse class
  • Study at your own pace
  • Continue to work alongside your studies
  • Apply your knowledge to your current role
  • Minimal disruption to your career
  • Deepen strategic insight and leadership impact
  • High-level peer learning with experienced cohort
Drawbacks
  • Career break needed
  • Lost income
  • High pace & pressure
  • Demanding time management
  • Less immersive
  • Less frequent campus networking
  • Not for early-career
  • Fewer career switch tools
  • Higher tuition cost

WIB: Rushka Ariefdien

What our students say

“The UCT GSB MBA isn't just a degree, it's a catalyst for both personal and professional transformation. Within the first three weeks, I had my mind blown, my worldview challenged and built lifelong connections. The diverse network and exceptional support team create an almost curated learning experience for working professionals. It delivers immediately applicable, real-world skills taught by knowledgeable lecturers. I truly believe that if everyone enrolled in the MBA program, we would be living in a more inclusive, thriving and sustainable world. Ten out of ten, I would recommend it to everyone.”

– Sunir Goven 
Full-time MBA '24/25 

AFRICA'S PREMIER MBA

A transformative learning experience for aspiring leaders, impactful innovators and individuals who want to enhance their management skills.