Overview

Malaysia is a top choice for engineering education, offering globally recognized programs, affordable tuition fees, and a multicultural environment. Students can explore diverse disciplines like Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software, and Chemical Engineering, with courses accredited by international bodies. Renowned universities such as UTM, UM, and USM provide high-quality education across diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Graduates enjoy excellent career prospects in industries like technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing. With scholarships, a simple visa process, and vibrant student life, Malaysia is an ideal destination for aspiring engineers.

Why Study Engineering in Malaysia?

Malaysia is an emerging hub for engineering education, offering globally recognized programs with a strong emphasis on innovation, research, and industry relevance. The country’s engineering courses are designed to meet international standards, with many programs accredited by global bodies such as the Washington Accord. Malaysia’s strategic location, affordable education, and multicultural environment make it an ideal choice for international students seeking a quality education with a global perspective.

Reasons to Study Engineering in Malaysia

• World-Class Education: Programs blend theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for real-world challenges.
• Accredited Programs: Courses are accredited by international organizations, ensuring global recognition of qualifications.
• Affordable Costs: Tuition fees and living expenses in Malaysia are significantly lower compared to Western countries.
• Diverse Career Opportunities: Malaysia’s growing industries, including technology, construction, and renewable energy, offer ample job prospects for graduates.
• Cultural Diversity: Students experience a rich cultural environment and global exposure.

International Students Studying Engineering in Malaysia

Studying engineering in Malaysia offers international students a unique opportunity to pursue a world-class education in a vibrant and multicultural environment. With a range of engineering disciplines available, including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering, Malaysia is home to several top-ranked universities that provide high-quality programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The country's engineering courses are designed to meet global industry standards, ensuring students are equipped with the skills needed to excel in their careers. International students benefit from affordable tuition fees, modern campus facilities, and strong links to industries, offering valuable internship and job placement opportunities. Additionally, Malaysia’s strategic location in Southeast Asia allows students to connect with a growing market, especially in engineering sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and technology. Studying engineering in Malaysia is an excellent choice for those seeking an internationally recognized education with diverse cultural experiences.

• Globally Recognized Qualifications: Engineering degrees from Malaysian universities meet international standards, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for global career opportunities.
• Cultural Diversity: Experience Malaysia's rich multicultural environment, enhancing personal growth and providing opportunities to build a global network.
• Industry Connections: Malaysian universities have strong ties with leading industries, offering students valuable internship programs and job placement opportunities in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and construction.
• Strategic Location: Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia provides access to emerging markets and a growing engineering sector, offering significant career prospects in the region.
• English-Taught Programs: Most engineering programs are taught in English, ensuring that language is not a barrier for international students.
• Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates have access to a variety of career paths in Malaysia’s expanding engineering industry.

Top Universities in Malaysia Offering Engineering Courses

Source: QS Ranking 2026

Education Levels of Engineering Courses in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a comprehensive range of engineering programs catering to various academic aspirations and career goals:

Diploma in Engineering Course:

• This entry-level program provides foundational knowledge in engineering disciplines such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or electronics. It equips students with practical skills for entry-level roles or further studies in engineering.

Undergraduate (Bachelor's) in Engineering Course:

• A popular choice for aspiring engineers, the Bachelor's degree typically spans 4 years. Students specialize in fields like civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or computer engineering, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on training. The program prepares graduates for professional engineering roles or advanced studies.

Postgraduate (Master's) in Engineering Course:

• Focused on specialized fields such as robotics, renewable energy, or structural engineering, these programs are research-based or coursework-based. Applicants typically require a Bachelor’s degree in engineering. Master’s programs deepen expertise and expand career opportunities in managerial or technical roles.

PhD in Engineering Course:

• Research-intensive programs aimed at innovation and advanced problem-solving in engineering. PhD graduates contribute to academia, lead groundbreaking research, or advance industrial development.

Diploma in Engineering Course in Malaysia

Overview: A diploma in engineering course in Malaysia offers foundational knowledge and practical skills across various engineering disciplines, serving as a gateway to advanced studies or entry-level careers in engineering. Affordable tuition, English-taught programs, and industry-relevant training make it an attractive choice for international students.
Duration:

• The duration typically ranges between 2 and 3 years, depending on the institution and program.

Intakes:

• Most universities offer intakes twice a year, usually in January/February and July/August, though specific dates may vary by institution.

Admission Requirements:

• High school graduate with a minimum GPA or equivalent qualifications.
• International students may need to meet English language requirements such as an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher.

Tuition Fee:

• Tuition fees for a diploma in engineering range between $3,000 and $6,000, depending on the institution and program specialization.

Career Opportunities for Diploma Graduates:

• Graduates can pursue roles such as engineering assistants, CAD technicians, or quality control officers. The growing engineering sector in Malaysia ensures stable demand, with salaries typically ranging from MYR 2,000 to MYR 4,000 per month, depending on experience and specialization.

Bachelor's in Engineering Course in Malaysia

Overview: Malaysian universities offer a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, providing in-depth knowledge and practical training in fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. The programs typically span 4 years and prepare students for professional roles in engineering. With affordable tuition, high-quality English-taught programs, and internationally accredited degrees, Malaysia is a preferred destination for international students.
Duration:

• The Bachelor's degree in Engineering in Malaysia typically lasts 4 years, combining academic coursework and hands-on training.

Intakes:

• Intakes are generally held twice a year, in January/February and July/August, depending on the university.

Entry Requirements:

• A high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., A-Levels, STPM, or similar qualifications).
• Strong academic performance in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL 79 for international students).

Tuition Fee:

• Tuition fees for engineering programs in Malaysia range from approximately MYR 50,000 to MYR 150,000 (USD 12,000 to USD 35,000) for the entire course, depending on the institution and specialization.

Jobs for Engineering Graduates in Malaysia:

• Civil Engineers
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Mechanical Engineers
• Software and Systems Engineers
• Project Managers in construction, manufacturing, or IT industries

Master's in Engineering Course in Malaysia

Overview: A Master's in Engineering program in Malaysia offers advanced specialization in various fields, such as robotics, renewable energy, structural engineering, or software engineering. Spanning 1 to 3 years, the program emphasizes research, innovation, and technical expertise. With affordable tuition and high-quality education, it’s an excellent choice for international students seeking to enhance their skills and career prospects in Malaysia’s growing engineering sector.
Duration:

• The duration of the Master's in Engineering program ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on the specialization and institution.

Intake:

• Intakes typically occur twice a year, usually in January/February and July/August, though exact dates may vary by institution.

Entry Requirements:

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field from a recognized university.
• Relevant work experience may be required for certain specializations.
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL 79 for international students).

Tuition Fee:

• Tuition fees for a Master’s in Engineering in Malaysia range from MYR 30,000 to MYR 60,000 (approximately USD 7,000 to USD 15,000), depending on the university and program.

Jobs for Master's in Engineering Graduates:

• Senior Engineers or Engineering Managers
• Research and Development (R&D) Engineers
• Robotics and Automation Specialists
• Environmental or Energy Consultants
• Academicians or University Lecturers

PhD in Engineering Course in Malaysia

Overview: A PhD in Engineering in Malaysia offers advanced research opportunities across various engineering disciplines, such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, or structural engineering. Spanning 3 to 5 years, the program emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and impactful research contributions. With affordable tuition, excellent research facilities, and high-quality supervision, Malaysia attracts international students seeking expertise in cutting-edge engineering fields.
Duration:

• The program typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the research area and the scope of the project.

Intake:

• Intakes are generally held twice a year, in January and July, though specific dates may vary across universities.

Entry Requirements:

• A Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field from a recognized institution.
• A clear research proposal outlining the focus of the proposed study.
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL 80 for international students).
• Relevant academic and professional qualifications in engineering or related fields.

Tuition Fee:

• The tuition fees for a PhD in Engineering range between MYR 30,000 and MYR 60,000 (approximately USD 7,000 to USD 14,000), depending on the university and research focus.

Jobs for PhD Holders in Engineering:

• Professors or lecturers in engineering universities.
• Research and Development (R&D) directors in industries.
• Engineering consultants or project managers.
• Policy advisors or technology strategists in government or international organizations.

Top Engineering Courses in Malaysia 

Some of the top Engineering courses in Malaysia are as follows:

• Robotics and Automation Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Software Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering

Robotics and Automation Engineering

Overview

The Robotics and Automation Engineering course in Malaysia is designed for students interested in automation, control systems, robotics, and machine intelligence. The program focuses on equipping students with both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills required to design, build, and optimize robotic systems and automated processes. Malaysia's universities provide access to state-of-the-art laboratories and industry collaboration opportunities, allowing students to work on real-world projects. Graduates of this program are highly sought after by industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

Duration of Robotics and Automation Engineering Course

The Robotics and Automation Engineering course in Malaysia typically takes 3 to 4 years, depending on the university and specific program.

Quick Highlights of Robotics and Automation Engineering Course in Malaysia

Robotics and Automation Engineering Course Fees in Malaysia

Robotics and Automation Engineering Course Eligibility Criteria in Malaysia

Top 10 universities in Malaysia for Engineering Degree Courses

Many public and private universities in Malaysia offer high-quality engineering courses. Ten Malaysian universities made it on the famous Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Engineering and Technology rankings.

As you can see 5 universities from the above list are placed among the Top 100 out of 501 universities worldwide!

Career options after Engineering in Malaysia

All the candidates who are planning to be Engineer in the future can now remember that the needs of Engineers are not only in Malaysia but globally as well. Isn’t it great news. You will need to register with the a Board of Engineers Malaysia Find few engineering-related jobs below that you can take up in future with an estimated monthly salary:

What are the advantages of studying engineering in Malaysia?

• Study at universities that rank highly specifically for engineering
• Payless for more
• Be part of a growing industry
• Study at universities that rank highly /specifically for engineering. By 2018,13 Malaysian universities made it on the famous Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings: Five Engineering and Technology, of which were ranked among the top 100!  Out of the Five, University in Malaysia leads at  the 22nd place, followed by
  • Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (53rd), 
  • Universiti Sains Malaysia (60th), 
  • Universiti Putra Malaysia (86th) and
  • Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (88th). 

For future Engineers just like you, it will be beneficial to select Universities from one of these featured University lists. So make sure to read and find out more about these finest Universities.

• Civil Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Chemical Engineer
• Mining Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Ships Engineer

The reason candidates find it difficult to pursue Engineering is that it is one of the most expensive courses worldwide. People also try to accommodate themselves with lower quality of university for the lower price the universities have to offer, however, that is not at all advisable when you can pay low fees in Malaysia and yet get the best education. 

Let's see an example: 

The engineering Bachelor's degrees offered in Universiti Malaya (UM) is one of the Top most Universities for Engineering in the world. Yet, their fees are around RM 9,500 only for students who apply through the higher education ministry’s Student Entry Administration Department (UPU). The reason the fees are low in Pubic Universities 

The table below shows the approximate costs of an undergraduate degree in some of the best public and private universities from different parts of the globe. Overall shows how Malaysia's prices compare to other countries.

If a student would like to apply for scholarships or other forms of financial aid along with comparably low tuition fees then they can do the same. Universities mostly offer in-house scholarships for their own students, so be sure to research more about it.

Be part of a growing industry

TalentCorp’sCritical Occupations List 2017/2018, engineers from various sectors are in great demand. Here are just some of the engineering careers in the list:

 What Can You Do With an Engineering Degree in Malaysia