Rhodes University Postgraduate Prospectus 2025-2026

Embark on a journey to academic excellence with the distinguished Honours programmes at the Science (BScH) and Commerce (BComH) faculties.

The Department of Statistics invites aspiring scholars to delve into the intricate world of Mathematical Statistics Honours and Joint Mathematical Statistics Honours. Qualification prerequisites include a minimum average of 65% in undergraduate third-year Mathematical Statistics courses, with no individual module or component dipping below 60%. Additionally, candidates are advised to complete Mathematics II during their undergraduate tenure.

For the Mathematical Statistics Honours track, students must successfully complete five core modules accounting for 70% of the degree and engage in a research project contributing the remaining 30%. The modules in multivariate analysis and generalized linear models are mandatory. With faculty availability, students may select three additional modules from an array of subjects such as computational statistics, sampling methods, risk theory, Bayesian statistics, and stochastic processes, although availability may vary annually. The degree culminates in an oral presentation of the research project to the department’s staff and postgraduate students. With the Department Head’s consent, modules from Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, or other approved disciplines may be incorporated for a joint honours degree, with a limit of 40% of the final mark from these courses and a departmental supervisor for the research component.

Discover more about the honours programmes offered by the Department of Statistics here: [Honours Programme Information Link]

Progressing to the Masters level, within the Science (MSc) or Commerce (MCom) faculties, is encouraged for students achieving at least a 65% in their Honours degree. This advanced degree focuses on a thesis-based approach (100%). Due to faculty limitations, a combination of coursework and a thesis is not currently offered. An oral examination may also be a part of the degree requirement.

Explore further details about the Department of Statistics’ Masters degrees here: [Masters Programme Information Link]

Prospective Masters candidates must submit a preliminary research note highlighting their research interests to [Department Email] for an assessment and supervisor assignment.

Doctoral candidates, post-Masters, should engage with a potential supervisor or the Department Head to discuss PhD aspirations. External PhD candidates must provide a research draft, academic records, and a CV to [Department Email] for supervisor allocation and research proposal development.

For comprehensive information on postgraduate study at Rhodes University, including fees, application processes, and forms, visit the Rhodes University Postgraduate Gateway page.

Apply online here: [Online Application URL]. Rhodes students can log in with their existing credentials, while new applicants must register first.

Applicants must upload academic transcripts and, for Masters and PhD students, project proposals through the online platform. Communication regarding the application outcome will be via a formal letter or email from the Registrar’s Division.

Information on postgraduate funding opportunities is available here: [Postgraduate Funding Information Link].

International students can find tailored information on the International Students page.

Recent Highlights:

The Honours cohort showcased their research with compelling presentations to the department’s community.

Celebrating Success:

Our graduates, like Ms Olwethu Dlangamandla, Ms Lulama Gcakasi, Mr Likhaya Fanga, Ms Bonelwa Sidumo, and Mr Baba Njongwezintle, exemplify the Department’s commitment to fostering statistical expertise and academic distinction.