SharifStudy Best way to Study in Malaysia
The top engineering universities in Malaysia are led by Universiti Malaya (UM) at #56 globally (QS 2027), with UTM, USM, UPM, and UKM completing the top five.
Last updated August 2026 ✓
Engineering study in Malaysia offers the most competent and diverse education capable of changing the planet’s trajectory.
Crucial for harnessing science and technology to improve human wellbeing amidst global challenges, engineering employs efficient methods universally to minimize harm and optimize benefits, thus elevating standards and services.
If you are looking for the best engineering university in Malaysia, this guide covers the top public and private institutions. See the full Malaysia university ranking for a complete list.
Though thousands of engineering institutes produce hundreds of thousands of engineers annually, a growing scarcity of skilled, effective, and qualified graduates persists.
Top public engineering schools and top private engineering schools in Malaysia have combined to form the top engineering colleges in the world, which provide top-notch technical education to both domestic and foreign students. Here is a list of Malaysia’s top engineering universities, some of which are among the top universities in Malaysia.
Top 5 Public Engineering Universities in Malaysia
| # | University | World Ranking (QS 2027) | Asia Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Malaya (UM) | 56 | 15 |
| 2 | Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) | =158 | 25 |
| 3 | University Science Malaysia (USM) | =128 | 34 |
| 4 | Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | 138 | 22 |
| 5 | Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) | 130 | 24 |
University of Malaya (UM)
Ranked #15 in Asia and #56 globally by QS (2027), the University of Malaya is a public research university envisioned to impact the world by pushing the knowledge boundaries beyond by nurturing young global leaders.
Malaysia’s oldest university is spread across a 922-acre campus located on the southwest side of Kuala Lumpur, tracing its roots to 1905 and established as a university in 1949.
Located in Kuala Lumpur, the University of Malaya is renowned for its engineering programs. UM has an acceptance rate of approximately 34%, indicating a competitive admission process.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
In 1904, a Technical School started on Weld Road in Kuala Lumpur. Its main goal was to teach Technical Assistants for the Federated Malay States Departments of Railways, Survey, and Public Works.
By 1941, it became a college. Then, in 1955, it turned into The Technical College. The British High Commissioner, Sir Donald MacGillivary, officially opened it.
In the early days, the college offered diploma-level courses in fields like Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Radio Engineering, Land Surveying, Building Architecture, and Quantity Surveying.
Today, UTM is ranked =158 globally and #25 in Asia by QS (2027).
University Science Malaysia (USM)
The Faculty of Engineering at University Science Malaysia (USM) in Penang is a hub of excellence in engineering education. Offering programs like Electrical, Mechanical, and Chemical Engineering, it blends theory with practical skills.
Known for advanced research and modern facilities, the faculty emphasizes sustainable innovation. It provides a dynamic environment for both local and international students, increasing creativity and collaboration in aspiring engineers.
USM is ranked =128 globally and #34 in Asia by QS (2027).
University Putra Malaysia (UPM)
University Putra Malaysia (UPM), previously known as University Pertanian Malaysia, has its roots dating back to 1971. It was established by merging the Faculty of Agriculture from the University of Malaya with the Agriculture College in Serdang.
UPM began with three founding faculties: Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine. Its core mission focuses on education and advanced research in agriculture and related fields.
UPM is ranked #138 globally and #22 in Asia by QS (2027).
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
The Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) wants to educate and inspire the next generation. It guarantees that the merging of religion, useful knowledge, and the blending of theory and practice serve as the cornerstone for its students’ growth. For both domestic and foreign students, UKM provides a wide range of courses, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
UKM is ranked #130 globally and #24 in Asia by QS (2027).
Top Private Engineering Universities in Malaysia
Malaysia’s private universities offer internationally accredited engineering programs. See our top 10 private universities guide for more options.
Asia Pacific University (APU)
Known for its excellent resources and industry skills provided to students, APU ranks =528 globally and #147 in Asia by QS (2027), and has received a 5-Star SETARA rating with accredited degrees under the Washington Accord.
University of Nottingham Malaysia
Recognized for its strong faculty of engineering, the University of Nottingham Malaysia is a branch campus of a top-100 QS world university, helping students develop the right skills to thrive in global organizations.
Taylor’s University
Ranked #272 globally and #27 in Asia by QS (2027), Taylor’s was the first engineering school in Southeast Asia to adopt the CDIO initiative and register with the Grand Challenge Scholars Program (GSCP), focusing on practical and project-based learning.
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
A globally recognized university, Heriot-Watt Malaysia is a branch campus of Heriot-Watt University (a QS-ranked UK institution), offering several engineering departments as part of a worldwide network.
UCSI University
Ranked #282 globally and #30 in Asia by QS (2027), UCSI is known for its experienced academic staff and industry-focused engineering programs with opportunities for student mobility.
Am enquiring Degree course in Civil engineering for Mathew Kenamu my son finishing diploma in Civil engineering at Fiji National University in 2023.
Please advise on if he can enrol for degree course at your university.in 2024.
Absolutely, Mathew is eligible to apply for a Civil Engineering degree after finishing his diploma. Our agents have in-depth knowledge of admission processes and can provide detailed guidance. You may contact us for further assistance.