This guide provides essential information for students pursuing master’s and doctoral studies at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). It outlines the academic expectations, supervisory processes, research requirements, and administrative procedures that support successful enrolment, progression, and completion of postgraduate qualifications. Students are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with this document, together with the relevant faculty prospectus, departmental guidelines, and the CPUT Postgraduate Policies available on the university website.
CPUT upholds the highest standards of academic integrity and research ethics. Students must ensure that all submitted work is original and produced in accordance with institutional policies on plagiarism, authorship and the appropriate use of generative AI tools. A dissertation or thesis previously rejected by any university may not be resubmitted to CPUT for a postgraduate qualification. Similarly, work rejected at CPUT may not be submitted to another institution. This principle safeguards the integrity of postgraduate education and protects the reputation of CPUT’s research programmes.
Postgraduate studies at CPUT are grounded in excellence, transformation, responsible scholarship and innovation. Students are expected to take ownership of their research journeys, to work proactively with their supervisors, and to remain aware of key timelines, ethical requirements and academic obligations. The Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS), together with faculties and departments, provides extensive support to enable postgraduate students to produce impactful, original research that contributes to knowledge creation and societal advancement.
2. Admissions Principles and Selection Criteria
At CPUT, postgraduate admissions are guided by principles that uphold academic excellence, promote national transformation, and ensure inclusive access to advanced scholarship. This section outlines the principles, minimum requirements and selection criteria applied across master’s and doctoral programmes.
2.1 Guiding Principles
Postgraduate admissions at CPUT are informed by the following core principles:
• Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability and research readiness based on prior qualifications and performance.
• Transformation and Equity: CPUT aims to transform the postgraduate landscape by addressing historical inequalities and advancing inclusive excellence. This includes increasing enrolment of women in STEM fields, black South Africans and first-generation postgraduate students.
• Strategic Alignment: Where relevant, applications may be assessed in relation to institutional research strengths or faculty niche areas.
• Supervisor Fit and Capacity: Admission may depend on the availability of appropriately qualified supervisors in the broad area of interest, where such information is provided.
• Integrity and Originality: All applicants are expected to uphold academic integrity, and only original research contributions will be accepted for postgraduate study.
2.2 Minimum admission requirements
Applicants must meet the following academic qualification thresholds. Additional documentation or steps (e.g. proposed research interests) may be required only where specified by the relevant faculty:
• For master’s degrees: An NQF Level 8 qualification (e.g. Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma) in a relevant discipline, typically with an overall average of 60% or above, subject to faculty-specific requirements.
• For doctoral degrees: An NQF Level 9 qualification (e.g. master’s degree) in an appropriate field, typically with an overall average of 60% or above, subject to faculty-specific requirements.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL may be used to access postgraduate study in cases where formal qualification requirements are not met but the applicant can demonstrate equivalent learning. RPL applications must be submitted through the faculty and reviewed according to the institutional RPL Policy. Applicants are required to submit a portfolio of evidence, including prior research, publications or professional experience.
• International applicants: International qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Applicants should also demonstrate language proficiency where required. Recognition and equivalence are managed via the Application and Registration Centre (ARC) in collaboration with faculties.
2.3 Selection criteria
Admission to postgraduate study is not automatic upon meeting minimum requirements. Where selection applies, applications are evaluated holistically and in accordance with approved faculty and institutional criteria, using the following considerations:
• Academic record:
Overall performance in prior qualifications, especially in research-related modules.
• Research alignment (where applicable):
Where applicants are asked to indicate a broad research area or topic at application stage, alignment with institutional or departmental research strengths may be considered for planning and supervisory allocation purposes only. Such information may not be used as a sole or exclusionary basis for admission, unless its use as a formal admission or selection criterion has been approved through Senate processes.
• Motivation and potential:
Consideration of the applicant’s academic motivation, prior research exposure (if any), and potential for independent inquiry. A formal research plan is not required at application stage unless explicitly stipulated in approved faculty admission guidelines
• Supervisor availability:
Confirmation of the availability of a willing, suitably qualified supervisor.
• RPL and alternative access:
Where applicable, assessment of equivalent learning or experience in line with institutional RPL processes.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate) Approval date: 16 February 2026
• Equity and access:
Consideration of demographic transformation, geographic background, institutional history, and other equity-linked factors, in support of inclusive access to postgraduate study.
Clarification on institutional alignment:
In line with the Student Rules and Regulations and Senate-approved admissions processes, applicants may only be excluded on the basis of published minimum admission requirements and formally approved selection criteria as reflected in the prospectus or rules. Where a research concept note is not explicitly stated as part of these approved criteria, it may not be used as a basis to disadvantage or exclude an applicant.
2.4 Selection process
• Applications are reviewed by departmental or faculty selection panels in consultation with prospective supervisors.
• Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed, especially for doctoral programmes.
• Recommended applicants are approved by the Departmental Selection Committee, ratified by the Faculty Executive.
• Unsuccessful candidates will be formally notified by the relevant faculty.
Appeals may be lodged in writing within 10 working days of notification, addressed to the relevant Assistant Dean Research.
2.5 Distinction between coursework and research-based pathways
Table 1: Overview of postgraduate study pathways and associated application considerations at CPUT.
Pathway Description
Coursework
Master’s Combines coursework modules with a mini-thesis
100%
Research
Master’s
Full research degree culminating in a dissertation
Application considerations
Applications are submitted via the University’s online application system. A research topic or proposal may be requested at application stage for planning purposes, but is not required for admission and may not be used to exclude applicants.
Applications are submitted via the online system. Faculties may request an indication of a broad research area or interest at application stage to support supervisory planning. Such information may not be used as an exclusionary criterion, unless formally approved through Senate processes.
Doctorate Full research degree making an original contribution to knowledge
Faculties may request a concept note or conduct an interview as part of the application process for planning or advisory purposes. Such information may only be used as a basis for admission, selection, or exclusion where this has been formally approved through Senate processes.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
2.6 Admissions calendar (general)
Table 2: Key dates and indicative deadlines for postgraduate applications and registration.
Activity
Indicative deadline
Applications open (online system) 1 May (preceding year)
International student application deadline 31 August (preceding year)
Coursework Master’s application deadline 30 September (preceding year)
100% Research Master’s and Doctoral application deadline
Mid-March (of the current year)
Final registration date (new M&D students) 31 May (current year)
Final registration date (returning students) Early March (current year)
Supervisor allocation deadline
Topic registration deadline
Within 6 weeks of registration
As per HDC guidelines
Students should note that registration within a calendar year is recorded as a full year of registration. Progress milestones and supervisory expectations in the first year are applied with due consideration of the actual registration date.
Note: All applicants should verify faculty-specific deadlines and requirements via the CPUT website and the faculty prospectus.
3. Financial and Funding Information
3.1 Fees
Postgraduate students are required to pay a combination of registration fees and tuition fees each academic year. These fees apply to all master’s and doctoral programmes and remain payable until the dissertation or thesis has been submitted and successfully examined.
3.1.1 Annual registration and tuition fees
Registration fees and dissertation/thesis tuition fees are charged on a yearly basis and must be paid at the start of each academic year in which the student is registered. These fees recur annually for the duration of the student’s studies, irrespective of mode of study (full-time or part-time).
3.1.2 Responsibility to re-register annually
Students must re-register every academic year during the official registration period and settle the prescribed fees. Failure to re-register will result in the loss of student status, including:
• access to supervision,
• access to research and laboratory facilities,
• access to university systems (including HDC Digital), and
• interruption of progress monitoring.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate) Approval date: 16 February 2026
Re-registration also enables the University to monitor academic progress and ensure compliance with institutional timelines for postgraduate study.
3.1.3 Variation in fees across faculties
Fee structures may differ across faculties and programmes. Students are therefore advised to consult the relevant faculty office for accurate programme-specific fee schedules. Differences may arise due to:
• coursework vs. full dissertation programmes,
• laboratory, fieldwork, or equipment-related costs,
• local vs. international student fees,
• duration and mode of study (full-time/part-time).
3.1.4 Contact and information sources
Faculty offices can provide detailed information on:
• annual tuition and registration fees,
• additional course-specific costs,
• deadlines for payment,
• procedures for financial clearance.
The most up-to-date tuition fee information is also available on the CPUT website
3.1.5 Fees and graduation timelines
Students should note that financial responsibility for fees is linked to the graduation period:
• April graduates remain liable for the previous calendar year’s fees.
• December graduates remain liable for the current calendar year’s fees
3.2 Bursaries
A limited number of institutional bursaries are available each year to support master’s and doctoral students at CPUT. These bursaries are highly competitive and are awarded in line with the CPUT Postgraduate Bursary Policy. Financial assistance is not guaranteed, and acceptance into a postgraduate programme does not imply eligibility for funding.
3.2.1 Availability of bursaries
Calls for bursary applications are issued periodically and are published on the CPUT Postgraduate Funding webpage: https://www.cput.ac.za/research-technology-and-innovation/postgraduate/funding
Each call outlines the categories of funding available, the application requirements, eligibility criteria, supporting documentation, and closing dates. Students should consult the website regularly to ensure they do not miss funding opportunities.
3.2.2 Eligibility
To be considered for the CPUT postgraduate bursaries, applicants must:
• be registered or intending to register for a full-time or part-time Master’s or Doctoral qualification at CPUT;
• meet all requirements specified in the bursary call;
• submit a complete application with all required supporting documents before the closing date.
Important:
CPUT staff members enrolled for postgraduate studies are not eligible for these bursaries, as they qualify for Human Resources incentives instead.
3.2.3 Policy framework
All bursary decisions are made according to the CPUT Postgraduate Bursary Policy, which governs:
• eligibility and selection criteria,
• evaluation processes,
• funding priorities,
• award amounts and duration,
• student obligations and reporting requirements, and
• conditions for renewal or continuation of funding.
The policy is available through the CPUT Policy Library.
3.2.4 Obligations of bursary recipients
Students who receive institutional postgraduate funding are required to:
• maintain satisfactory academic progress;
• adhere to all requirements outlined in the bursary agreement;
• participate in monitoring processes administered by the Centre for Postgraduate Studies;
• complete and submit required progress reports;
• acknowledge CPUT support in all research outputs where appropriate.
Failure to meet these obligations may lead to the withdrawal of funding in accordance with the bursary policy.
3.2.5 External funding
In addition to CPUT-funded bursaries, postgraduate students are encouraged to apply for external sources of financial support such as:
• National Research Foundation (NRF) bursaries,
• Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) postgraduate programmes,
• industry or private scholarships,
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
• international mobility and exchange funding.
Information on external bursaries is also regularly shared through the CPGS website and faculty offices.
4. Registration and Enrolment
All postgraduate students must be formally registered with CPUT each academic year to access supervision, academic resources, and university systems. Registration is governed by institutional deadlines and faculty-specific requirements. Students are responsible for familiarising themselves with these timelines and completing all steps on time.
4.1 Application and Admission Requirements
4.1.1 Submitting an application
All prospective postgraduate students must apply online via the CPUT application portal: http://www.cput.ac.za/study/postgraduate-applications
Applicants should upload all required documents as specified in the institutional application guidelines and relevant faculty prospectus. Incomplete applications may not be processed.
4.1.2 Research topic and supervisor (Important clarification)
Some faculties may request applicants for full research master’s or doctoral studies to indicate a provisional research interest or to make preliminary contact with potential supervisors prior to or during the application process. This information is used primarily for planning and supervisory allocation purposes.
Where requested, a research interest or concept note at application stage does not constitute a formal research proposal and may not be used as a basis to exclude or disadvantage applicants, unless such use has been formally approved through Senate processes.
Applicants are advised to consult the faculty prospectus and departmental guidelines to determine whether an indication of research interest or preliminary supervisor engagement is requested for planning purposes.
4.1.3 International applicants
Students with international qualifications must have their qualifications evaluated by SAQA. International applicants should contact the Applications and Registration Centre (ARC) for guidance on equivalence and documentation requirements.
4.2 Registration Procedure
4.2.1 Annual registration requirement
All postgraduate students – new and returning – must register every year during the designated registration periods and pay the prescribed fees. Failure to register will result in the loss of student status and access to supervision.
4.2.2 Registration periods
Registration dates may differ by faculty and programme. Students must regularly check the CPUT website and faculty notices for updates.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
General institutional guidelines:
• Coursework master’s students: Typically register from mid-January to early March.
• New research master’s and doctoral students (100% thesis):
o Applications close around mid-March.
o Final date for registration is 31 May of the current year.
• Returning master’s and doctoral students:
o Final date for registration is (normally) end Feb / early March of the current year.
4.2.3 Confirmation of enrolment and access
Once registered, students will gain access to:
• their appointed supervisors,
• HDC Digital (for uploading topics, proposals, ethics documents),
• learning and research facilities,
• library and online resources.
4.3 Appointment of a Principal Supervisor
Supervisor allocation is completed at departmental and faculty level, normally shortly after the student has met admission requirements.
Key principles for supervisor appointment:
• Supervisors must have appropriate qualifications, expertise, and capacity.
• Students may express a preference for a supervisor, but the final allocation rests with the HoD and faculty committees.
• Where more than one supervisor is appointed, one must be designated as the principal supervisor.
• Co-supervisors may be appointed for mentorship, interdisciplinary support, or capacitybuilding.
• External supervisors may be appointed under specific conditions and require FHDC/HDC approval.
Supervisor qualification requirements:
• Doctoral supervision:
o The principal supervisor must hold a doctoral degree and have demonstrated supervisory experience at doctoral level.
o A person who holds a master’s degree may be appointed as a co-supervisor to a doctoral candidate only, where their expertise is relevant to the research. Such a co-
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
supervisor may contribute to specific aspects of the study (for example, disciplinary, methodological, professional, or practice-based components), but may not act as principal supervisor.
o Overall academic responsibility for the doctoral study, including supervision quality, progression, and readiness for examination, rests with the principal supervisor.
o Doctoral supervisors are ordinarily expected to have supervised at least four master’s candidates and to have co-supervised at least two doctoral candidates before supervising a doctoral study independently
o Where this experience threshold has not yet been met, doctoral supervision may proceed through co-supervision or mentorship arrangements, subject to faculty and HDC approval.
• Master’s supervision: Preferably a doctoral-qualified principal supervisor; master’s-qualified supervisors may serve under mentorship.
Responsibilities arising from appointment:
Upon appointment, the principal supervisor assumes responsibility for:
• providing academic guidance and feedback in accordance with institutional policies;
• monitoring the student’s progress against approved milestones and registration timeframes;
• initiating early intervention where progress risks are identified; and
• endorsing, where appropriate, applications relating to progression, extensions, or appeals.
4.4 Registration on the HDC Digital Portal
All registered postgraduate students must activate and use the HDC Digital system: http://hdcdocs.cput.ac.za
Students must:
• activate their digital accounts immediately after registration;
• ensure their personal and academic details are accurate;
• upload topics, proposals, ethics documents, and progress reports;
• engage with submission workflows as required by HDC, FHDC, and Senate processes.
Hard-copy HDC documentation is no longer accepted.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
5. Nature and Duration of Postgraduate Study
This section provides an overview of the expected duration and progression of master’s and doctoral studies at CPUT. Detailed progression rules, academic block criteria, and maximum registration periods are governed by the Student Rules and Regulations and are not restated here.
Students are expected to familiarise themselves with both this Guide and the applicable Rules, as progression is monitored throughout the period of registration.
5.1 Master’s Degrees
Master’s qualifications at CPUT may be completed via either a coursework-based pathway (which includes a mini-thesis) or a 100% research pathway.
The expected duration of Master’s studies varies by:
• pathway (coursework or full research); and
• mode of study (full-time or part-time).
In general:
• full-time Master’s studies are expected to be completed within a shorter timeframe than parttime studies; and
• coursework-based programmes have additional milestones linked to the completion of modules.
Students must ensure that required academic milestones – such as registration of a research topic, approval of a research proposal, and submission of the dissertation or mini-thesis for examination – are met within the prescribed timeframes.
5.2 Doctoral Degrees
Doctoral qualifications at CPUT are research-intensive degrees requiring an original contribution to knowledge. The expected duration of doctoral study depends on the mode of registration (full-time or parttime), with clearly defined minimum and maximum registration periods approved by Senate.
Doctoral candidates are required to demonstrate sustained academic progress through:
• timely approval of a research topic and proposal;
• completion of required research activities; and
• submission of the thesis for examination within the approved timeframe.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
5.3 Interruption of Studies
Postgraduate students who are unable to continue their studies for a defined period may apply for an interruption of studies.
• Applications must be submitted in advance and may not be granted retrospectively.
• Interruptions are considered and approved through faculty and institutional Higher Degrees Committee processes.
• Approved interruptions are recorded as part of the official postgraduate record.
An interruption of studies does not remove the requirement to complete the qualification within the maximum allowable registration period, unless otherwise provided for in the Student Rules and Regulations.
5.4 Maximum Registration Period and Progression
Each postgraduate qualification has an approved minimum and maximum registration period, which differs by qualification type and mode of study.
Progression within these periods is conditional on the student meeting prescribed academic milestones and maintaining satisfactory progress, as monitored through institutional and faculty processes.
Failure to meet required milestones or to demonstrate satisfactory progress may result in academic block or termination of registration, in accordance with the Student Rules and Regulations.
5.5 Exceeding the Maximum Registration Period
Continuation of studies beyond the maximum registration period is not automatic and may be considered only through a formal appeal process, as set out in the Student Rules and Regulations.
An appeal to exceed the maximum time must demonstrate:
• exceptional and compelling circumstances;
• evidence of substantive academic progress; and
• a realistic, time-bound plan for completion, endorsed by the principal supervisor.
Approval of such an appeal constitutes a conditional allowance to continue registration and does not amend the approved maximum duration of the qualification.
Failure to comply with the conditions attached to an approved appeal may result in termination of registration.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
5.6 Institutional Expectation
CPUT expects postgraduate students to complete their qualifications within the prescribed minimum and maximum registration periods.
Continuation beyond the maximum period is regarded as exceptional, subject to strict conditions, and is managed in accordance with the Student Rules and Regulations.
6. Registration and Approval of Milestones
This section outlines the formal registration and approval requirements that apply during the course of a postgraduate candidature. The indicative timeframes outlined in this section are aligned with Senateapproved postgraduate progression rules and reflect current institutional expectations for postgraduate progression. Detailed milestone requirements, academic block criteria, maximum registration periods, and progression consequences are formally governed by the Student Rules and Regulations and Senate-approved progression frameworks and are therefore not reproduced in full in this Guide.
6.1 Registration of Research Title / Topic
• The postgraduate student must upload the proposed research title/topic to the HDC online system, together with the academic record of previous qualifications, in accordance with prescribed procedures.
• The research title/topic must be finalised and submitted for approval through the relevant faculty structures and the HDC.
• The approved research title/topic is ordinarily expected to be finalised within the following timeframes, calculated from the date of first registration:
o Master’s (100% research)
§ within six (6) months of first registration for full-time study;
§ within six (6) months of first registration for part-time study.
o Master’s (coursework)
§ within eighteen (18) months of first registration for full-time study;
§ within two (2) years of first registration for part-time study.
o Doctoral studies
§ within twelve (12) months of first registration for full-time study;
§ within twelve (12) months of first registration for part-time study.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
6.2 Approval of Research Proposal
All postgraduate students are required to submit a research proposal for approval in accordance with prescribed institutional and faculty procedures.
Research proposals are evaluated within the faculty and approved as follows:
• proposals for master’s studies are approved by the FRC / FHDC
• proposals for doctoral studies are approved by the HDC.
Doctoral candidates are required to present and defend their research proposal to the relevant faculty research committee prior to institutional approval.
The research proposal is ordinarily expected to be finalised within the following timeframes, calculated from the date of first registration:
• Master’s (100% research): within twelve (12) months (full-time or part-time);
• Master’s (coursework): within eighteen (18) months (full-time); within two (2) years (part-time);
• Doctoral studies: within twelve (12) months (full-time); within two (2) years (part-time).
6.3 Research Ethics Clearance
• Postgraduate students whose research involves human participants, animals, sensitive data, or other ethically regulated activities must obtain research ethics clearance prior to commencing data collection.
• Ethics approval must be obtained through the relevant faculty ethics committee and in accordance with approved ethics procedures.
• Where required, proof of ethics clearance must be submitted as part of the institutional postgraduate record.
• Research ethics clearance is approved for a specified period, as determined by the relevant faculty ethics committee. Students are responsible for ensuring that ethics approval remains valid for the duration of data collection, and for submitting applications for renewal or amendment where required.
6.4 Amendments to Approved Title, Proposal or Methodology
• Any substantive amendment to an approved research title, proposal, or research methodology must be formally submitted for approval through the prescribed institutional process.
• Amendments may be required where changes materially affect the scope, design, ethical considerations, or outcomes of the research.
• Approved amendments must be recorded on the institutional postgraduate management system.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
6.5 Student–Supervisor Agreement (SSA)
• A Student–Supervisor Agreement (SSA) must be completed by the postgraduate student and the appointed principal supervisor on the HDC Digital platform within the first six (6) months of initial registration.
• The SSA serves as a formal agreement outlining mutual expectations regarding supervision, communication, progress monitoring, feedback, and planned research outputs.
• The SSA replaces Form HDC 1.1A and must be maintained as part of the official postgraduate record.
• The detailed content and requirements of the SSA are governed by the Postgraduate Supervision Policy (NQF Levels 9 and 10) and relevant HDC-approved procedures.
7. Postgraduate student responsibilities (General Code of Conduct)
• Postgraduate students are required to conduct themselves in accordance with the Student Rules and Regulations, including the General Code of Conduct applicable to all registered students.
• Students are responsible for engaging with their studies in a professional and ethical manner, including compliance with institutional policies governing academic integrity, research ethics, and postgraduate conduct.
• Failure to comply with the Student Rules and Regulations or related institutional policies may result in disciplinary or academic action in accordance with approved procedures.
8. Academic Information and Research Resources
8.1
Research support
• The University provides dedicated research information support for postgraduate students and academic researchers through the Research Information Support Centre (RISC).
• RISC offers specialist support in research information literacy, including guidance on literature searching, research strategies, referencing, literature reviews, and the use of bibliographic management tools.
• Access to RISC services and resources is available through the CPUT Library, including an online research support platform hosted on the Library website.
• Postgraduate students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with available research information support services and to make appropriate use of these resources throughout their candidature.
• The University provides access to a range of institutionally licensed software platforms to support postgraduate research and scholarship.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
• These include, but are not limited to:
§ statistical data analysis software (e.g. STATISTICA, SPSS);
§ qualitative data analysis software (e.g. ATLAS.ti);
§ an online survey design platform (e.g. LimeSurvey);
§ a similarity detection platform (Turnitin).
• Access to certain platforms may require activation or oversight by supervisors or academic departments in accordance with approved institutional procedures.
• Postgraduate students and supervisors are expected to make appropriate use of institutional software tools in support of research integrity, data analysis, and scholarly writing.
8.2 Use and Interpretation of Similarity Reports
• The University does not prescribe an institution-wide similarity index threshold for postgraduate submissions, recognising disciplinary differences in academic writing conventions.
• Similarity reports generated through approved platforms (e.g. Turnitin) are intended as developmental and diagnostic tools to support academic integrity.
• Where faculties apply internal indicative similarity benchmarks, these serve as screening tools only and do not replace qualitative academic judgement of the similarity report.
• Postgraduate students and supervisors are expected to review similarity reports critically and contextually, taking into account legitimate scholarly practices such as correctly cited quotations, standard terminology, and methodological descriptions.
• Interpretation of similarity reports must be qualitative rather than purely numerical, and should inform academic judgement and supervisory guidance.
• Detailed procedures relating to the use of similarity detection tools are governed by institutional policies, guidelines, and approved standard operating procedures.
8.3 Progress Reporting and Monitoring
• Effective postgraduate supervision requires regular communication and progress reporting between the student and the appointed supervisor throughout the period of registration.
• Expectations regarding the frequency, format, and scope of progress reporting means of communication are to be agreed upon and recorded in the Student–Supervisor Agreement (SSA).
• Supervisors are required to submit formal progress reports at prescribed intervals in accordance with institutional and faculty processes, to support monitoring of postgraduate progression.
• Progress reporting mechanisms form part of the University’s broader framework for tracking academic development and supporting timely completion.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
8.4 Progression Monitoring and Academic Support
Progress monitoring forms part of CPUT’s approach to supporting postgraduate students to complete their studies timeously and successfully.
• Postgraduate progress is monitored through faculty-level processes, including supervisor reports, progress reviews, and formal milestone approvals.
• The purpose of progress monitoring is to:
o identify potential academic or practical challenges early;
o enable timely academic support or intervention; and
o support realistic planning towards completion within the approved registration period.
• Where concerns about progress are identified, students may be required to engage with additional academic support measures, such as revised work plans, increased supervisory engagement, or faculty-level review processes.
• Persistent lack of progress may result in further academic actions being considered, in accordance with the Student Rules and Regulations. Students are encouraged to engage proactively with supervisors and faculty postgraduate structures if challenges arise, rather than waiting until formal intervention is required.
8.5 Preparation and Structure of the Dissertation / Thesis
• The structure and presentation of a dissertation or thesis may vary across faculties and departments, subject to approved disciplinary conventions and faculty guidelines.
• Postgraduate students are required to ensure that their dissertation or thesis complies with faculty-specific requirements, as set out in relevant faculty handbooks and guidance documents.
• Supervisors play a key role in advising students on the appropriate structure, scope, and presentation of the dissertation or thesis within the applicable disciplinary framework.
• All postgraduate theses and dissertations must comply with the institutional bibliographic and referencing guidelines approved by the University, to ensure consistency and academic integrity.
• Prior to submission for examination, dissertations and theses are expected to meet appropriate standards of academic writing, presentation, and technical accuracy, recognising that approved research outputs form part of the public scholarly record.
• The University provides access to academic writing, referencing, and editing support services for postgraduate students through approved institutional support structures.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
9. Pre-Examination internal checks and submission for examination
• Prior to submission for examination, postgraduate dissertations and theses are subject to internal readiness checks in accordance with approved institutional and faculty procedures.
• These checks may include confirmation of compliance with:
o formatting and presentation requirements;
o approved referencing and bibliographic standards;
o similarity and academic integrity screening;
o required declarations relating to authorship and use of generative or assistive tools.
• Submission for examination requires formal supervisor certification that the dissertation or thesis is ready for examination, in accordance with prescribed Higher Degrees Committee processes.
• Faculties are responsible for administering the hand-in and submission workflow for examination through approved faculty and institutional systems.
• Detailed procedures, templates, and checklists applicable to pre-examination processes are governed by approved policies, standard operating procedures, and faculty guidelines.
10. Submission Dates and Graduation Cycles
• Indicative submission deadlines for consideration in specific graduation cycles are determined in line with Senate-approved postgraduate progression and maximum duration rules and are published annually by the University. Students are required to consult official graduation notices and faculty communications for the applicable deadlines in a given academic year.
As a general guide, and subject to Senate confirmation, the following timeframes have typically applied:
• Candidates who wish to be considered for April graduation are normally required to submit the dissertation or thesis for examination by September of the preceding year. Submissions after this date may not be processed in time for April graduation and may be considered for December graduation instead.
• Candidates who wish to be considered for December graduation are normally required to submit the dissertation or thesis for examination by June of the same year. Submissions after this date may not be processed in time for December graduation and may be considered for April graduation of the following year.
• Graduation remains subject to the completion of examination processes and approval through the relevant institutional structures.
• Candidates graduating in April are liable for fees for the preceding calendar year, while candidates graduating in December are liable for fees for the current calendar year, in accordance with the University’s fee rules.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
11. Similarity and Generative AI Checking Requirements
This section explains how similarity checking and the responsible use of generative and assistive AI apply to postgraduate theses and dissertations at CPUT, and what is expected of postgraduate students.
11.1 Generative and Assistive AI: What This Means for Research
• Generative AI refers to predictive large language models (LLMs) and related tools (for example, ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude) that are capable of generating text, images, code, or other outputs based on user prompts.
• Assistive AI tools refer to tools that support the research and writing process without independently producing substantive academic content, such as grammar or language correction, formatting support, transcription, reference management, or coding assistance.
• The responsible use of generative and assistive AI tools is permitted, provided such use is transparent, academically justified, and aligned with institutional expectations of academic integrity.
• Any content generated or influenced by AI tools must be critically reviewed, edited, and integrated by you, and the final submission must reflect candidates’ own academic judgement and intellectual contribution.
11.2 Declaring AI Use
• Candidates are required to declare the use (or non-use) of generative AI tools during the development of your thesis or dissertation.
• AI disclosure is required at the following stages:
o when submitting your research proposal (via HDC Form 1.11, where applicable);
o in your Student–Supervisor Agreement (SSA);
o at final submission, through completion of the Standard Generative AI Declaration, which forms part of the examination documentation.
• The declaration requires candidates to disclose:
o the specific AI tools used, if any;
o the purpose and extent of their use (for example, idea generation, outlining, drafting, summarising, grammar correction, data visualisation, or code assistance);
o confirmation that all AI-generated or AI-assisted content was critically reviewed, edited, and integrated by you;
o confirmation of supervisor awareness and approval of appropriate and disclosed AI use.
• Failure to disclose AI use, or presenting material created by an external system as your own without acknowledgement or review, may constitute a breach of academic integrity.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
11.3 Similarity Checking Before Examination
• Before the thesis or dissertation can be submitted for examination, a similarity report must be generated using an institutionally approved system.
• Similarity checking is undertaken as a developmental quality assurance process, not as a punitive measure.
• There is no fixed similarity percentage threshold. Similarity reports are interpreted academically, with attention to:
o appropriate citation and referencing practices;
o disciplinary norms;
o evidence that the work reflects your own scholarly voice and engagement.
• Where faculties apply internal indicative similarity benchmarks (for example, percentage guides used for screening purposes), these do not constitute fixed thresholds and may not be applied mechanically. Submissions must be assessed on the nature and academic significance of the matches, not the percentage alone.
• Your thesis or dissertation may not proceed to examination if substantive concerns relating to plagiarism or undisclosed generative AI use remain unresolved.
11.4 Student Responsibilities
Postgraduate students are responsible for:
• ensuring that their thesis or dissertation reflects their own academic judgement and intellectual contribution;
• using generative and assistive AI tools responsibly, transparently, and in accordance with institutional guidance;
• completing and submitting all required AI declarations and similarity documentation timeously;
• retaining key records of AI use (such as prompts or representative outputs) where feasible, as a developmental and reflective resource;
• engaging with their supervisors to address any concerns relating to similarity or AI use before examination.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
11.5 Supervisor’s Role
The supervisor will:
• discuss the responsible use of generative and assistive AI tools with their candidates during the research and writing process;
• review similarity reports and AI declarations prior to approving submission for examination;
• confirm, using academic judgement, that the final submission reflects their candidates’ own scholarly work and academic voice;
• endorse the declaration of ethical and transparent AI use or escalate unresolved concerns through faculty or HDC processes where necessary.
11.6 Further Guidance and Support
• Faculties and the Higher Degrees Committee may issue additional procedural guidance on similarity checking and AI use through approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• If you are unsure whether a particular AI tool or use is acceptable, you are encouraged to discuss this with your supervisor early, preferably during proposal development.
• Training and guidance on interpreting similarity and AI reports may be offered by the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS), faculties, or relevant institutional units.
12. Examination and Examiner Appointment
This section explains the process and responsibilities relating to the appointment of examiners, the conduct of postgraduate examinations, and post-examination requirements. The academic rules governing assessment outcomes, including pass requirements and the awarding of cum laude or summa cum laude, are set out in the Student Rules and Regulations and are not restated here.
This section is particularly relevant to students approaching examination and to supervisors involved in examiner nomination and examination processes.
12.1 Appointment of Examiners
• The Principal Supervisor initiates the nomination of examiners once the dissertation or thesis is ready for examination.
• Examiner nominations must be supported by:
o a current curriculum vitae (CV) for each nominee; and
o confirmation of the absence of a conflict of interest, in accordance with University requirements.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
• Examiners must be external to CPUT and independent of the candidate and supervisory team. Examiners may not be former supervisors, recent collaborators or co-authors, or have any relationship that could reasonably be perceived as a conflict of interest.
• Examiner nominations follow this approval process:
§ Recommendation by the Principal Supervisor
§ Review by the Head of Department (HoD)
§ Recommendation by the Faculty Higher Degrees Committee (FHDC)
§ Approval by the Higher Degrees Committee (HDC)
• For examination purposes:
o Master’s degrees are examined by two external examiners, with up to three names submitted for approval.
o Doctoral degrees are examined by three external examiners, with up to four names submitted for approval. At least one examiner must be international.
• Appointment letters are issued and examiner acceptance is tracked by the faculty postgraduate administrator.
• If an examiner withdraws, a replacement may be appointed from the pre-approved reserve list, subject to confirmation through the faculty and institutional processes.
• Examiner identities are confidential. Candidates may not contact examiners, and supervisors may not contact examiners until all reports have been received and processed through the faculty structures.
12.2 Suitability and Experience of Examiners
Examiners must have demonstrated expertise in the relevant field of study and be capable of providing an independent and informed academic judgement on the work submitted. Suitability is determined with reference to scholarly or professional standing, active engagement in the field, and appropriate supervision and/or examination experience.
Experienced Examiners
For the purposes of examiner pairing and quality assurance, an experienced examiner is one who has prior experience at the level of the qualification being assessed. In general, an examiner will be regarded as experienced where they have:
• previously examined at least one* thesis or dissertation at the relevant level; and
• successfully supervised at least one* candidate to completion at that level.
*to be confirmed
Faculties must ensure that examiners without prior experience at the relevant level are paired with an experienced examiner.
In exceptional or niche disciplinary contexts, where the available pool of examiners is limited, faculties may motivate the suitability of an examiner who does not fully meet the above criteria, provided that the overall examining panel maintains appropriate experience and independence.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
12.3 Submission for Examination
• A dissertation or thesis may not be submitted for examination without the supervisor’s signed approval on the prescribed form (HDC 1.11).
• Students must submit the dissertation or thesis electronically in PDF format only to the faculty postgraduate administrator, in accordance with faculty procedures.
• No printed or ring-bound copies are required for examination purposes.
• Each examiner assesses the dissertation or thesis independently.
• Doctoral candidates may be required to undertake a viva voce (oral examination) where determined by the examining panel.
• The academic rules governing pass requirements, re-examination, and assessment outcomes are set out in the Student Rules and Regulations.
12.4 Post-Examination Process
• After examination, and once all required corrections and amendments have been completed, the final corrected thesis or dissertation must be submitted in PDF format to the supervisor.
• The supervisor will confirm that all examiner recommendations have been addressed and, once satisfied, will forward the final version to the faculty postgraduate administrator.
• The faculty postgraduate administrator will upload the approved thesis or dissertation to the Library’s designated thesis repository (ESango).
• No student may graduate unless the final thesis or dissertation has been:
o submitted by the supervisor via the faculty postgraduate administrator; and
o accepted by the Library. Library submission must occur at least three (3) weeks prior to graduation.
• A disposition (rebuttal) document, detailing how each examiner recommendation was addressed, must accompany the relevant HDC documentation for ratification.
• An examination mark is formally recorded only after:
o ratification by the HDC and Senate; and
o confirmation of final submission to the Library.
• Students should note that the Library submission list is used by the Examinations Office to verify faculty submissions and to compile the official graduation list.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
12.5 Degree Class (Cum Laude / Summa Cum Laude)
• The awarding of cum laude and summa cum laude for Master’s degrees is governed by Section G9A of the Student Rules and Regulations.
• Eligibility depends on assessment outcomes, completion time, examiner recommendations, and exclusions set out in the Rules.
• Doctoral qualifications are not eligible for the award of cum laude or summa cum laude.
12.6 Publication of the Dissertation or Thesis
• A dissertation or thesis, in whole or in part, may be published only after permission has been obtained from the University, where applicable.
• Doctoral candidates must provide proof of final acceptance or publication of at least one article in a DHET-accredited scholarly journal prior to graduation.
• Master’s candidates are required to prepare and submit at least one manuscript, derived from the dissertation, to a DHET-accredited scholarly journal prior to graduation. Proof of submission, endorsed by the supervisor, must be provided.
o Submission of a manuscript is intended to support scholarly development by exposing candidates to independent peer review, strengthening academic writing and preparing students for doctoral-level publication requirements.
o In cases involving intellectual property, commercial sensitivity, or creative practice, submission may be deferred or adapted, subject to appropriate faculty and supervisory approval.
• Where a publication arises from the dissertation or thesis:
o the student must be listed as first author;
o the supervisor must be listed as second author;
o the Cape Peninsula University of Technology must be acknowledged.
• Candidates wishing to publish their dissertation or thesis in book format must obtain prior written permission from the University.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
13. Contact and Support
The Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS) provides coordination, administrative, academic, financial, and developmental support for postgraduate students at CPUT.
13.1
How to Contact the Centre for Postgraduate Studies
• For general postgraduate enquiries, students should contact the CPGS via the central rolebased email address:� onesmartcpgs@cput.ac.za
• Enquiries received via this address are directed to the appropriate staff member or functional area.
13.2 Areas of Support
CPGS provides support in the following areas:
• postgraduate academic administration;
• coordination of postgraduate processes and governance, including Higher Degrees Committee (HDC) matters;
• postgraduate development support, including training, editing support, and access to research software;
• bursary and financial administration, including internal and external funding;
• monitoring, evaluation, postgraduate records, and events coordination.
Students are encouraged to use the appropriate faculty structures (such as supervisors, postgraduate administrators, and research coordinators) as their first point of contact, where applicable.
13.3 Up-to-Date Contact Information
• Staff roles, responsibilities, and direct contact details may change from time to time.
• The most up-to-date information, including current staff assignments, forms, deadlines, and procedural guidance, is maintained on the Centre for Postgraduate Studies website.
The CPGS website should be regarded as the authoritative source of current contact details and operational information.
To ensure equitable and efficient support, students are requested not to rely on individual staff contact details that may be outdated, but to use the central CPGS contact channels.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
14. Version Control and Review Cycle
This Guide to Postgraduate Studies is intended to function as a living guidance document, supporting postgraduate students, supervisors, and faculty administrators by explaining approved postgraduate processes and expectations at CPUT.
• This Guide is approved by the Higher Degrees Committee (HDC) and is reviewed periodically by the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS) to ensure continued alignment with:
o the Student Rules and Regulations;
o Senate-approved postgraduate policies; and
o decisions of the HDC and Senate.
• Revisions to the Guide may be made to reflect:
o approved amendments to policies or rules;
o changes to postgraduate processes arising from HDC or Senate decisions; or
o operational refinements that do not alter substantive academic rules.
• The Guide does not supersede the Student Rules and Regulations, institutional policies, or Senate resolutions. In the event of any inconsistency, the Student Rules and Regulations and Senate-approved policies take precedence.
• The most current, HDC-approved version of the Guide is published on the Centre for Postgraduate Studies website, which should be regarded as the authoritative version.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026
Version: 2026.3
Appendix A: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This FAQ supports postgraduate students and supervisors in navigating the Guide to Postgraduate Studies. It does not replace the Student Rules and Regulations, approved institutional policies, or formal Senate decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does this Guide replace the Student Rules and Regulations?
No. The Student Rules and Regulations remain the authoritative source for academic rules, progression requirements, and assessment outcomes. This Guide explains postgraduate processes, roles, and expectations to help students and supervisors navigate those rules.
2. How are progression rules applied at CPUT?
Progression, maximum registration periods, and academic consequences are governed by the Student Rules and Regulations and Senate-approved progression rules. This Guide explains postgraduate processes, milestones, and indicative timelines to support academic planning and supervision, but does not replace or override the formal Rules approved by Senate.
3. Who should I contact if I have a postgraduate query?
Students should first consult their supervisor or faculty postgraduate structures. General postgraduate enquiries may be directed to the Centre for Postgraduate Studies via onesmartcpgs@cput.ac.za.
4. Can I register or submit my dissertation or thesis without my supervisor’s approval?
Yes and no, depending on the stage of study.
• Registration: Students may be permitted to register without a formally appointed supervisor, particularly at initial registration, in accordance with faculty and institutional arrangements.
• Submission for examination: No. Submission of a dissertation or thesis for examination requires the supervisor’s signed approval on the prescribed form.
5. Are the timelines in this Guide strict deadlines?
The timelines in this Guide are aligned with Senate-approved progression rules and reflect standard expectations for timely completion. They are intended to support academic planning and progress monitoring. Where there is any uncertainty or discrepancy, the Student Rules and Regulations, Senateapproved rules and decisions, and official University notices constitute the authoritative source of formal deadlines and requirements.
6. What happens if I fall behind with my research milestones?
Progress is monitored through faculty and institutional processes. Where progress is unsatisfactory, academic support and intervention measures may be implemented in line with institutional procedures. Continued non-progress may have academic consequences as set out in the Student Rules and Regulations.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate)
Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
7. How are similarity checking and the use of generative AI handled?
Similarity checking and generative AI disclosure requirements are governed by approved institutional procedures. There is no fixed similarity percentage threshold at institutional level. Similarity reports are interpreted qualitatively, taking into account disciplinary norms, appropriate citation and referencing, and evidence of the student’s own scholarly voice.
Where faculties apply internal indicative similarity benchmarks for screening purposes, these do not constitute fixed thresholds and may not be applied mechanically. Submissions may not proceed to examination if substantive concerns relating to plagiarism or undisclosed generative AI use remain unresolved.
8. Do I need to submit printed copies of my thesis or dissertation?
No. CPUT follows a fully digital examination and submission process. Theses and dissertations are submitted electronically in PDF format.
9. Can I graduate if my final thesis or dissertation has not been submitted to the Library?
No. Graduation is conditional on submission and acceptance of the final thesis or dissertation by the Library, in accordance with institutional requirements.
10. Is publication in a DHET-accredited journal required for graduation?
The requirement differs by qualification.
• Doctoral candidates:
Doctoral candidates are required to provide proof of final acceptance or publication of at least one article in a DHET-accredited scholarly journal prior to graduation.
• Master’s candidates:
Master’s candidates are required to prepare and submit at least one manuscript, derived from the dissertation or mini-thesis, to a DHET-accredited scholarly journal prior to graduation. Proof of submission, endorsed by the supervisor, must be provided. In cases involving intellectual property, commercial sensitivity, or creative practice, submission may be deferred or adapted, subject to appropriate faculty and supervisory approval.
11. Am I guaranteed a degree with cum laude or summa cum laude if I meet the marks?
No. The awarding of cum laude or summa cum laude is subject to multiple criteria, including examiner recommendations and completion time, as set out in the Student Rules and Regulations.
12. Where can I find the most up-to-date information?
The most current version of this Guide, together with official notices, forms, and procedural updates, is published on the Centre for Postgraduate Studies website.
Approved by: Higher Degrees Committee (ratified by Senate) Approval date: 16 February 2026 Version: 2026.3
