Malaysia Degree Courses

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Overview of Degree Courses in Malaysia

Malaysia has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education at competitive prices.

The country offers a wide variety of degree courses that cater to nearly every academic interest and career aspiration. From arts and humanities to science and technology, Malaysian universities provide bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, PhDs, and professional qualifications such as MBAs and MDs.

This extensive range allows students from across the globe to find programs that precisely match their educational goals.

One of the key reasons Malaysia stands out as a preferred educational hub is its commitment to international standards and partnerships with renowned universities worldwide.

Many Malaysian institutions have collaborations that allow for transfer programs, dual degrees, and other opportunities that enhance the global relevance and recognition of their degrees.

Additionally, the multicultural environment of Malaysia not only enriches the student experience but also prepares graduates to work in today’s globalized world, making it a compelling choice for those looking to study abroad.

Certificate

Entry requirements	SPM / GCE ‘O’ Level with 1 credits, or its equivalent
Age group	17 and above
Duration	1 – 1.5 years

Students who are unsure about where to focus their tertiary education typically choose for a certificate program as the quickest progression. Students who did not perform well in high school are typically also eligible for the certificate program.

Foundation/Pre-university

Entry requirements	SPM / GCE ‘O’ Level with 5 credits, or its equivalent
Age group	17 and above
Duration	1 – 1.5 years

Pre-university education or a foundation program is an important element in an individual’s academic career before they enter university.

Students who want to study in Malaysia have the option of choosing courses in Malaysia based on their interests, passions, objectives, and budget.

This is also the stage at which their learning preferences and learning styles will be completely formed. They can also assess their interest in academics and whether they want to enter the workforce right immediately.

Because colleges and universities offer pre-university courses, students get a taste of university life while also honing their soft skills and interpersonal skills.

In Malaysia, national secondary school leavers can enroll in pre-university programs at the age of 18 because they exit school at the age of 17.

The majority of secondary students in international schools pass their IGCSE exams by the age of 16. As a result, students can begin their pre-university earlier.

Diploma

Entry requirements	SPM / GCE ‘O’ Level with 3 credits, or its equivalent
Age group	17 and above
Duration	2 – 3 years

A diploma program features modules similar to those in a degree program, but requires completion of fewer modules. Students often opt for a diploma when they want to focus on a specific subject but cannot commit the necessary time or resources.

However, it’s common to convert most diploma programs into degree programs by adding more modules.

Degree/Bachelor

Entry requirements	STPM / GCE A-levels English Proficiency or its equivalent
Age group	19 and above
Duration	3 – 5 years

People often refer to a bachelor degree as a “first” or “ordinary” degree because it is the most common and first degree program.

This higher education program usually leads to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science degree (BSc). While some degrees, like medicine, require five to six years to complete, students often earn a bachelor degree in three to four years of full-time study.

Honours Degrees (Hons), which several degree programs offer, typically demand a higher academic quality than a pass. Some Malaysian universities require an additional year of study for the Honors Degree.

Master

Entry requirements	Bachelors degree in a similar field consisting of a minimum of 3 programs
Age group	Any adult
Duration	1 – 3 years

Universities award a master degree to individuals who have finished coursework demonstrating mastery or a high level of understanding in a specific field of study.

Most master programs require the writing of a thesis or dissertation as part of their research component.

The Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is eager to attract more postgraduate students from overseas to enhance the global success and reputation of its scholarly research and training.

Consequently, over 80,000 foreign students are currently studying in Malaysian institutions, with many Master programs being conducted in English.

In many high-tech Science and Engineering sectors, there are opportunities for cutting-edge postgraduate education. Other programs make use of Malaysia natural resources; the nation is home to some of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world, and its universities are actively investigating this exceptional biodiversity with modern research in ecology, medicine, and the natural sciences.

PhD/Doctorate

Entry requirements	Masters degree in a similar field consisting of a minimum of 2 years
Age group	Any adult
Duration	3 – 5 years

A doctorate is either a professional or academic degree that qualifies the holder to teach in a specific subject area in most countries.

This degree requires students to conduct deep research, focusing on one aspect of their field of study, and produce a thesis that can be published in a scholarly journal.

PhD programs in Malaysia generally offer flexible start times throughout the year, although some universities have two main intake periods in July and February.

Instead of having a centralized agency for postgraduate applications in Malaysia, applicants submit their applications directly to the respective universities or graduate schools through their websites or online application forms.

You can apply to many universities, but make sure you are aware of the specific requirements for each college before doing so. While some would merely need a letter, others will want your entire academic record and research proposal.

Top Universities in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to several prestigious universities that offer high-quality education and a diverse range of degree courses. Here are some of the top universities in Malaysia that attract students from all over the world:

1. University of Malaya (UM)

The University of Malaya is the oldest and highest-ranked university in Malaysia. It is located in the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, and is known for its strong research programs and comprehensive range of courses. UM consistently ranks among the top universities in Asia and offers degrees in fields such as engineering, medicine, law, and the arts.

2. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

UPM is renowned for its research and teaching in agriculture and forestry, although it also offers a wide array of programs in science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. Located in Serdang, near Kuala Lumpur, UPM is committed to providing a holistic education that balances academic excellence with practical experience.

3. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Also known as the National University of Malaysia, UKM is located in Bangi, Selangor. It is highly regarded for its research output and offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. UKM is known for its focus on sustainability and community engagement.

4. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

Located in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, UTM specializes in engineering and technology programs. It is known for its innovative research and strong industry connections, providing students with ample opportunities for practical experience and professional development.

6. Taylor’s University

Taylor’s University, located in Subang Jaya, is a leading private university in Malaysia. It offers a wide range of programs in business, hospitality, communication, design, and law. Taylor’s is known for its strong industry links and focus on producing graduates who are ready for the global job market.

7. Sunway University

Sunway University, situated in Bandar Sunway, is another top private institution known for its excellent academic programs and state-of-the-art campus facilities. It offers programs in business, computing, hospitality, and health sciences, among others. The university also has strong partnerships with international institutions, providing students with global exposure.

8. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Located in Penang, USM is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. It offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, particularly in science and technology. USM’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement makes it a popular choice among students.

These top universities in Malaysia provide international students with excellent education opportunities, diverse cultural experiences, and pathways to successful careers. Whether you’re looking for a public or private institution, Malaysia has something to offer for everyone.

FAQs

1. Is a Malaysian degree worth it?

• Malaysian degrees are valued internationally because employers and institutions acknowledge their adherence to international standards. Accreditation by reputable foreign authorities improves the prestige and credibility of Malaysian educational programs.

2. How many semesters are there in a year in Malaysia?

• An academic year contains 2 semesters: Semester 1 from January to May and Semester 2 from June to November, with examinations at the end of each semester.