What to Study in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Guide to Courses and Programmes. Malaysia is a top destination for international students, offering a wide range of study programs from pre-university to postgraduate levels. Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, medicine, or the arts, Malaysia has an option for you.
How to Find the Right Course
When choosing a course in Malaysia, consider the following factors:
- Keyword Search: Use specific keywords like “Business,” “Medicine,” or “Engineering” to find relevant programs.
- Education Level: Select from pre-university, diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs.
- Field of Study: Malaysia offers over 27 fields of study, from Accounting to Engineering and Social Sciences.
- Study Type: Choose between full-time and part-time programs.
- Institution Type: Decide between public universities, private institutions, or international branch campuses.
- Location: Study in major cities like Kuala Lumpur or quieter towns depending on your preference.
Understanding Course Details
Each program in Malaysia comes with key details that can help you make an informed decision:
1. Course Title & Awarding Body
- The qualification you will earn upon completion (e.g., Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration).
- The institution or external body that awards the degree.
2. Course Fees
- Tuition fees are typically listed in Malaysian Ringgit (RM).
- For split-degree programs (partly in Malaysia and partly overseas), the fees include both local and foreign currency components. Example: RM15,000 + A$10,000.
3. Study Duration
- Programs can be structured as months, semesters, or years.
- Some degrees offer credit transfers, such as “2+1” (two years in Malaysia, one year overseas) or “3+0” (entire program in Malaysia).
4. Entry Requirements
- Certificate programs: Minimum of 2 credits in SPM or equivalent.
- Diploma programs: At least 3 credits in SPM or equivalent.
- Foundation/Pre-University: Minimum of 5 credits in SPM or equivalent.
- Bachelor’s degree: Completion of a foundation program, STPM, or equivalent qualification.
5. Study Mode & Credit Transfers
- Programs can be full-time (F) or part-time (P).
- Some courses allow credit transfers to overseas universities.
- International university pathways provide options for diploma holders to continue a bachelor’s degree abroad.
Popular Fields of Study in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a diverse range of study fields, including:
Pre-University Programs
- STPM, A-Levels, AUSMAT, Canadian Matriculation, International Baccalaureate
Business & Finance
- Business Administration, Accounting, Banking, Finance, Marketing
Engineering & Technology
- Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Software Engineering, IT Security
Medicine & Healthcare
- Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, Biomedical Science
Arts & Design
- Fine Arts, Fashion Design, Interior Design, Performing Arts, Animation
Social Sciences & Humanities
- Psychology, Political Science, Sociology, History, Linguistics
Hospitality & Tourism
- Hotel Management, Catering, Travel, Event Management
Law & Legal Studies
- Law, Syariah Law, CLP (Certificate in Legal Practice)
Science & Environmental Studies
- Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Physics, Environmental Science
Transport & Security Services
- Aviation, Maritime Studies, Military & Defense, Occupational Safety
Start Your Journey Today
With so many options available, studying in Malaysia can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Explore your preferred courses, check the entry requirements, and take the next step towards your future!
For more details on study opportunities in Malaysia, visit vsmalaysia.