About Bachelor’s Degree Courses in Psychology in Malaysia
Currently, Malaysia has grown to be an attraction for students having an interest in an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology pulling as many as 130,000 international students annually.
Malaysia, ranked 27th globally for its education system. This reflects the country’s dedication to excellence in fields like psychology, medicine, and engineering. Psychology programs in Malaysia are designed to offer students a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles, research methods in psychology, and therapeutic techniques.
Students in psychology programs in Malaysia benefit from a curriculum that seamlessly integrates theoretical learning with practical experience. A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in Malaysia typically includes programs like Psychology (Hons), Applied Psychology, and interdisciplinary options such as BSc (Hons) Biology with Psychology.
Whether you're drawn to clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or organizational behavior, Malaysian universities provide specialized tracks to help you focus on your area of interest.
Program Overview
A Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in Malaysia typically spans three to four years and focuses on both theoretical foundations and practical applications.
1. Core Modules
- Introduction to Psychology: Overview of psychology's history and key concepts.
- Research Methods: Fundamentals of psychological research, including data collection and analysis.
- Developmental Psychology: Human growth and development across the lifespan.
- Abnormal Psychology: Study of psychological disorders, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Social Psychology: Impact of social environments and group dynamics on behavior.
- Cognitive Psychology: Mental processes like perception, memory, and problem-solving.
- Biopsychology: Biological basis of behavior, neuroanatomy, and neurophysiology.
2. Electives
- Health Psychology
- Organizational Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Cultural Psychology
3. Practical Components
- Internships: Hands-on experience in settings such as hospitals, schools, or counseling centers.
Entry Requirements for Psychology Programs in Malaysia
For Local Students
1. Academic Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 credits in SPM or equivalent, including Mathematics or Science.
- 2 passes at A-Level or STPM in relevant subjects.
- Foundation or Matriculation programs with sufficient credits may also be considered.
2. Language Proficiency
- Satisfactory MUET score or equivalent proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
For International Students
1. Academic Qualifications
- A-Levels: Minimum of 2 passes in relevant subjects such as Psychology, Biology, Chemistry, or Mathematics.
- IB Diploma: A score of 24-28 points, with relevant subjects like Psychology or Science.
- Foundation Programs: Recognized foundation programs in Science or related fields, with a minimum of 60% in relevant subjects.
2. English Language Proficiency
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0-6.5.
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 80 (internet-based).
Career Opportunities for Psychology Graduates in Malaysia
Do you know 29.2% of Malaysians aged 16 and above face mental health issues, translating to approximately 7 million people in need of professional psychological support? The increasing need for professional psychological support indicates a promising future for psychology graduates.
Graduates with a degree in psychology can explore various career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some of the top career paths include:
- Clinical Psychologist
- Counseling Psychologist
- Organizational Psychologist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Researcher/Academician
Is Psychology the Right Path for You?
If you’re contemplating whether a psychology degree aligns with your interests and skills, ask yourself these questions:
- Are you fascinated by understanding human behavior and mental health issues?
- Do you have a natural curiosity for analyzing patterns in people's actions and emotions?
- Are you passionate about helping others find solutions to their psychological challenges?
If you answered yes to these questions, a psychology degree in Malaysia could be the perfect path to explore your interests and build a career.
Need Help Deciding? Talk to Our Advisors!
Whether you have questions about the best universities for psychology in Malaysia, program options, or entry requirements, we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I study psychology online in Malaysia?
Yes, several top universities in Malaysia offer online psychology programs or hybrid learning options that blend online and on-campus classes. Renowned institutions such as Monash University Malaysia and Asia Pacific University (APU) provide flexible psychology degrees, making it easier for working professionals or individuals with other commitments to pursue their studies.
2. How much does it cost to study psychology in Malaysia?
The cost of studying psychology in Malaysia depends on the type of university. IPTA (public universities) offer more affordable options, with tuition fees ranging from RM 8,000 to RM 20,000 for the entire program. However, IPTS (private universities), known for offering specialized programs in clinical psychology, counseling, and research, have fees ranging from RM 50,000 to RM 100,000 for a full degree.
3. Which university is best for psychology in Malaysia?
Some of the best universities for psychology are;
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Sunway University
- UCSI University
- Management and Science University (MSU)
- University of Cyberjaya (UoC)
4. Are psychology courses in Malaysia expensive?
Psychology courses in Malaysia are generally affordable compared to Western countries, with average fees ranging from RM 8,000 to RM 30,000 for a full degree program. Other related programs, such as medicine and nursing, are similarly priced, making Malaysia an attractive destination for students seeking high-quality education at a fraction of the cost found abroad.
5. What Bachelor's degree is best for psychology?
The best Bachelor's degree in psychology is usually a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Psychology or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology, depending on your focus in research or application. These programs offer a strong foundation in human behavior, mental health, and psychological theories.