Category Archives: Diploma

After Completing the SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels, Choose to Study the Diploma Programme at a Top Private University or College in Malaysia

Find Out Where to Study a Diploma that’s Accredited at a Recognised College or University

The Diploma is an excellent choice for students who know what they want to study and it will save you time completing the degree. Furthermore, diploma programmes have always been well-received due to their ability to equip students with the practical and industry-specific knowledge and skills relevant in the workforce.

Students who intend to pursue careers requiring hands-on skills should opt to enrol for diploma programmes. As diploma programmes also generally require students to undergo internship training before graduation, students will gain exposure to real working experience, which is an added advantage whether they choose to progress onto a degree programme or join the workforce.

This makes it difficult for students after SPM or IGCSE O-Levels who have to choose the right diploma course that they like as well as have a future high job demand & salary. The Diploma is an excellent choice for students who know what they want to study and it will save you time completing the degree.

In order to choose the right Diploma course, you have to figure out what you want to study in your degree. There are many degree courses that you can choose to study in Malaysia. If you plan to work in Malaysia, then you should choose degree courses that would be in demand in Malaysia and have high salary so that you can support your family.

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Please fill up the Form below and I will WhatsApp you and provide you with sound advise on how to choose the best private university or college in Malaysia to study at. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Our knowledgeable & experienced counsellor will send you a message on WhatsApp & provide assistance from there.

Choosing the Best Private University or College to Study Diploma

"I was confused and had some questions. EduSpiral met up with me and my mum to explain more about the course and helped me choose the right course."
“I was confused and had some questions. EduSpiral met up with me and my mum to explain more about the course and helped me choose the right course.”
Gary, Accounting Graduate from University of Wollongong Malaysia (UOWM) KDU

Choosing a private college or university for your diploma course in Malaysia is important as it will help to shape your mind, character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career.

Therefore, not all private colleges & universities are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fit your needs.

There are many reasons and motivations for attending university in Malaysia, so ask yourself some serious questions to identify what you want from your university experience. Every university and diploma course in Malaysia is different and each student wants different things to fit their education and career goals.

It goes without saying that one of the most important considerations when it comes to choosing the right university to study in Malaysia is your course of interest and whether that particular university is popular for it. Additionally, many universities in Malaysia may offer the same course but many students fail to consider looking at the subjects, the experience of the university in running the course, awards won as evidence of the university’s capability and the facilities to support the course.

The best university in Malaysia for your diploma course will focus on quality, have award winners for the particular courses, years of experience offering the particular course, highly experienced lecturers, a good study environment (not a party university) and good facilities.

Many students have taken the easy way out and choosing the university that is cheapest, nearest and where most of their friends attend. They fail to understand that what they decide now can affect their future career forever.

In addition, knowing which course you want to study will help in determining which university for your diploma. Each university in Malaysia excels in particular areas, so you should ensure that your field of study is a strong-point of the university you choose. Just like signature dishes for restaurants, certain private universities are famous for particular courses.

Choosing a university that is best in your field of study may provide you with access to more specialised opportunities, including custom-built facilities, field-specific academic opportunities and employment opportunities with prestigious organisations in your industry.

Furthermore many of the top private universities in Malaysia offer similar courses therefore making your decision a challenging one! To help you develop a good list of criteria, you need to talk to the right counsellors or education consultant who are knowledgeable and experienced.

Where to Study a Top Diploma Course in Malaysia?

Studying Information Technology (IT) was my dream but my results didn't achieve the requirements. But EduSpiral gave me in-depth advise & helped me to choose the right course that suited me. Harold, Diploma in Business IT at Asia Pacific University (APU)
Studying Information Technology (IT) was my dream but my results didn’t achieve the requirements. But EduSpiral gave me in-depth advise & helped me to choose the right course that suited me. Harold, Diploma in Business IT at Asia Pacific University (APU)

The ever-increasing cost of living in Malaysia is making it challenging for fresh graduates and working professionals to support their lifestyle. In light of that, it would be important for students to plan ahead what career that you want to enter into so that you can choose a course that has future job demand and high salary in Malaysia.

Part of finding the right career in Malaysia for you will be looking at the future job demand in Malaysia and globally. You don’t want to have completed a degree course and then not be able to find a job or realise that the job pays very low salary. Therefore, it is important for students after high school or Pre-University to choose the right course to study – you don’t want to waste your time and money on a course you don’t want to do

I have prepare a list of the best diploma courses to study in Malaysia that has high job demand to help students choose the right career for a successful future. They are not in any particular order.

Diploma Programmes at Asia Pacific University (APU)

Taylor’s College

First City University College

Multimedia University (MMU)

MAHSA University

UCSI University

UOW Malaysia KDU

UOW Malaysia KDU Penang

HELP University

Berjaya University College

YTL International College of Hotel Management (YTL-ICHM)

UCSI College

Malaysia Institute of Art (MIA)

Saito University College

Choose to Study the Diploma Course that’s Accredited and Recognised

Some students and parents are not aware that there are diploma courses in Malaysia offered by some colleges that are not recognised or accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). The diploma course presented by the counselor may sound very attractive with low tuition fees and promises of job guarantee. However, if you choose to study a diploma course that’s not accredited by MQA, you may not continue on to a degree programme at any private university in Malaysia and your future employers may not recognise the certificate to offer you a job. Therefore, you should check the MQA website to see if the course is listed in there.

What is a Diploma Programme? – Practical & Specific

Studying Information Technology (IT) was my dream but my results didn't achieve the requirements. But EduSpiral gave me in-depth advise & helped me to choose the right course that suited me.
Studying Information Technology (IT) was my dream but my results didn’t achieve the requirements. But EduSpiral gave me in-depth advise & helped me to choose the right course that suited me.
Harold, Diploma in Business IT at Asia Pacific University (APU)

Students after SPM or IGCSE O-Levels who are sure of what they want to study can go for a Diploma course.

The diploma generally is more practical while a degree course is more theoretical and academic.

It may require more hands on learning experience in the field of its study so that you are well trained and have specific knowledge the particular field.

Diploma programmes at private universities in Malaysia are  specific niche areas such as Diploma in Accounting, Diploma in Mass Communication, Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering and so forth.

Therefore, students have to be sure that they want to specialise in that field for their degree studies as you cannot change to another course for your degree. For example, if you have studied a Diploma in Accounting, you cannot go for a degree in Engineering or Computer Science.

What’s the Entry Requirements for a Diploma Course?

Diploma in Hotel Management at YTL International College of Hotel Management
EduSpiral helped me to find a college that’s affordable and with a job guarantee too!
Dora, Diploma in Hotel Management at YTL International College of Hotel Management

With at least 3 credits in your SPM or IGCSE O-Levels or 3 Bs in UEC, you can join the Diploma course. Students after SPM must have a pass in BM & Sejarah.

However, for health science diploma courses, you will need at least 5 credits.

There will be other subject requirements depending on the course & university. Some universities may require a Credit in English. Other requirements would be Mathematics for Diploma courses in computer studies, computer science, information technology, architecture, accounting and finance.

Engineering diplomas would require credits in Mathematics & 1 science subject.

How long does it take to Study the Diploma Course?

The duration of the diploma is 2 years or 2.5 years depending on the university. Some diploma programmes will include internships.

How many Subjects are there in a Diploma Course at a Private University in Malaysia?

I didn't know which college fit me, so, EduSpiral took me to visit 4 universities to help me choose. Erwin, Graduated from Diploma in Hospitality & Tourism
I didn’t know which college fit me, so, EduSpiral took me to visit 4 universities to help me choose.
Erwin, Graduated from Diploma in Hospitality & Tourism

Students will take  30-35 subjects in the diploma and it is a mix of Assignments, Coursework, and written examination percentage.

Generally, students will take about 5-7 subjects including MPU subjects a semester.

Students are required by the government to take about 3-4 MPU subjects during their diploma studies. You will need a Minimum of 90 Credits or 30 subjects to Graduate.

Some diploma courses will have an internship such as the Diploma in Hotel Management, Diploma in Culinary Arts, Diploma in Information Technology (IT), etc.

How is the Assessment for Diploma Courses?

I found EduSpiral on Google after reading their article on culinary arts. He advised my online and then arranged for me to tour the college and talk to the counselor. Kar Wai, Diploma in Culinary Arts at YTL International College of Hotel Management
I found EduSpiral on Google after reading their article on culinary arts. He advised my online and then arranged for me to tour the college and talk to the counselor.
Kar Wai, Diploma in Culinary Arts at YTL International College of Hotel Management

A diploma course is more practical while a Foundation, external Pre-University programme and degree courses are more academic.

The assessments for a diploma programme at private universities and colleges in Malaysia is a mix of Assignments, Coursework, and written examination percentage. The diploma programme provides students with relevant, interesting, stimulating and practical experience via a variety of teaching and practical techniques.

Students will experience different dynamic learning processes are employed in the delivery of a diploma programme, such as lectures, tutorials, computer lab work, team-based project, real life system development, presentations, independent projects supervised by supervisors from university lecturers or industry experts. The learning is very much practical oriented.

Methods of Delivery

  • Lectures
  • Lab work (depends on the course)
  • Tutorials
  • Field visits (e.g. business organisations, universities, non-governmental organisations, government-related corporations, etc.)
  • Scenario-based learning
  • Guest lecture series (prominent speakers from the industry and academic institutions)
  • Interactive learning

Can I find a Job using the Diploma?

You can use the diploma to apply for a job. On the other hand, if you choose to study a Foundation course, or Pre-University Programme, you have to continue on to the degree before going to work.

The diploma generally is more practical while a degree course is more theoretical and academic. Some courses such as culinary and design, a diploma is sufficient to join the workforce in Malaysia. Otherwise, it is advisable to continue your studies to degree level

What is the Starting Salary for Diploma Graduates in Malaysia?

Starting salaries for Diploma holders is generally not high but it will go higher will more experience. It is recommended for Diploma students to continue on to the Degree programme if you can afford it.

Starting salaries will range from RM1500 to RM2500 a month.

Why Should You Study a Diploma Course after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels?

Diploma in Accounting Graduate from Asia Pacific University (APU)
After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and took us around for a campus tour.
Hui Ying, Diploma in Accounting Graduate from Asia Pacific University (APU)
  • The diploma course is more practical with mixed assessment.
  • You have at least 3 credits in SPM, IGCSE O-Levels or UEC to enter the Diploma programme
  • Students may apply for the PTPTN Loan for Diploma courses. There is no PTPTN Loan for  Foundation  & External Pre-University programmes
  • You will study the subjects that you are interested in. The subjects are specific to your field of interest.
  • Upon completion of the Diploma, you may choose to start work or continue on to Year 2 of the related degree
  • Some diploma courses have internships which provides an opportunity for you to work for the company when you graduate.
  • If you are considering going for Form 6, the STPM will take about 2 years, if you calculate the time after your SPM until you enter into Public University. The time you take for STPM, you would have completed the diploma course. Furthermore, the STPM exam is very tough and there is a chance that you might not do well.
  • A diploma course is generally cheaper.

Top 2 Private Universities for Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Malaysia

Studying the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at the Best Universities

In a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering course at a private university in Malaysia, students will undergo training as part of the syllabus on Solidworks and Anysys software; the former will teach students how to create components with parametic methods and to create assemblies while the latter will impart knowledge on computer aided engineering analysis.

Students will gain a broad education in mechanical engineering that is built upon a solid understanding of engineering sciences and mathematics. Furthermore, they will gain knowledge, skills, and technical competency in mechanical engineering discipline and be able to adapt themselves to new technological advancement and challenges in the field of mechanical engineering. The Diploma in Mechanical Engineering is an ideal pathway for students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels who intend to pursue a degree in that field

Students should choose the best colleges or universities in Malaysia to study the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering so that they can gain the necessary knowledge and skills to continue on in the degree programme. Top private universities in Malaysia offering the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering are First City University College and MAHSA University. Their Diploma in Mechanical Engineering programmes will lead to degree programmes accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).

Please fill up the Form below and I will WhatsApp you and provide you with sound advise on how to choose the best private university or college in Malaysia to study at. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Our knowledgeable & experienced counsellor will send you a message on WhatsApp & provide assistance from there.

Excellent Private Universities & Colleges in Malaysia for Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronic Engineering Degree & Diploma Courses

HELP College of Arts & Technology
After starting class at college, I was still confused if the course suited me. I took a bus from Seremban to meet up with EduSpiral for counseling. I have a clearer picture of what to do now.
Kuang Joe, Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

The Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at Malaysia’s private universities is a 2 ½ year diploma and provides an opportunity for students to learn theoretical and practical skills to work in the mechanical and manufacturing industries. Mechanical engineering skills are highly needed as there is a shortage of technicians everywhere.

The Diploma in Mechanical Engineering is more practical and focused on Mechanical Engineering compared to taking the Foundation in Engineering or a Pre-University Programme. It is an excellent entry point for students who have at least 3 credits in SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels.

Mechanical engineering is a diverse and challenging field where students will use practical skills combined with innovative thinking to design and build mechanical devices, systems and machines.

What is the Duration of a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Course?

The Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at a private university in Malaysia is a 2 ½ year programme or 7 semesters, in line with the requirements of the Engineering Accreditation Council Malaysia (EAC) and Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

The duration will include a semester for internship.

Accreditation and Recognition

Students should study the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at a reputable private university recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education as well as the course being recognised by the Engineering Accreditation Council Malaysia (EAC) and accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

With this, you can then enter into Year 2 of the Mechanical Engineering degree that’s accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).

What is the Education Pathway into Mechanical Engineering after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels?

With any 3 credits in SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels including Maths & a Science subject, you can go for the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at a top private university in Malaysia. After the 2.5-year diploma, you can continue on to Year 2 of the Degree at the same university or college if the degree course is offered. There is no need to perform exemptions if you continue on to degree at the same university.

Upon completion of your Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, you may transfer your credits into Year 2 of the Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronic Engineering degree at top private universities in Malaysia.

Why Study the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering instead of Foundation?

I didn't know what to study after A-Levels. EduSpiral helped me to understand what I am good at as well as what's in demand for the future. Renee Tan, Mechanical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
I didn’t know what to study after A-Levels. EduSpiral helped me to understand what I am good at as well as what’s in demand for the future.
Renee Tan, Mechanical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

If you are sure of what course you want to study for your degree, you can just go straight into the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering course.

If you are not sure of what you want to study in the degree, go for Foundation because you have one year to decide on what to take for your degree. You can apply up to RM8,000 a year for the PTPTN Loan while there is no loan for the Foundation.

In the diploma you will study subjects related to your course while in the Foundation, you will study general subjects mostly unrelated to your course. Some diploma courses are 2 years while others are 2.5 years. If it is 2.5 years, you may take longer to complete your degree. If it is a 2-year diploma, then the time taken is the same to complete the degree when you take Foundation.

  • SPM (5 relevant credits) – Foundation (1 year) – Degree (3 years)
  • SPM (3 relevant credits) – Diploma (2 or 2.5 years) – enter degree Year 2 (3 years)

What are the Entry Requirements for the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at a Private University in Malaysia?

  • Pass SPM or its equivalent with at least credits in 3 subjects, including Mathematics and 1 relevant science/technical/vocational subject AND a pass in English
    OR
  • Pass STPM or its equivalent with a pass in Mathematics, English and 1 relevant science/technical/vocational subject at the SPM level
    OR
  • Recognised Certificate in Engineering/ Engineering Technology or its equivalent
    OR
  • Recognised related Vocational and Technical/ Skills Certificate or its equivalent with 1 year of relevant work experience or a minimum 1 semester of a bridging programme

What are some of the Subjects that You will Study in the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Programme?

I loved motorsports and EduSpiral gave me great advise to help guide me to achieve my dream. Justin Moo, Mechanical Engineering graduate from Taylor's University
I loved motorsports and EduSpiral gave me great advise to help guide me to achieve my dream.
Justin Moo, Mechanical Engineering graduate from Taylor’s University
  • Mathematics
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
    Communicative English
  • Engineering Drawing
  • Science Laboratory
  • Statics
  • Computer Programming
  • Material Science
  • Introduction to Information Technology
  • Solid Mechanics
  • Thermodynamics
  • Dynamics
  • Computer Aided Design
  • Fluids Mechanics
  • Mechanical Design
  • Manufacturing Technology
  • Industrial Training
  • Mechanics of Machines
  • Final Project
  • Electrical & Electronics Technology
  • Management for Engineers
  • Engineering Health & Safety

Where to Study the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Course in Malaysia?

Not many private universities offer the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering course. There are a few reputable private universities that you can consider such as First City University College and MAHSA University. Their courses are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) as well as recognised by IEM.

In addition, students have access to excellent facilities and engineering labs. The fees are not too expensive and you will receive personal attention from the lecturers.

Transfer credits from Diploma in Mechanical Engineering into Degree Year 2 into Top Private Universities in Malaysia

Mechatronic Engineering at Asia Pacific University (APU)
I met EduSpiral and he helped me to filter all the information from the universities and choose the best university that fit me.
Vincent Hoy, Graduated from Mechatronic Engineering at Asia Pacific University (APU)

Most diplomas in mechanical engineering can be transferred to another college or university into the Year 2 of the relevant programme. If you have taken the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, it is highly likely that you can enter into Year 2 of the degree in Mechanical Engineering.

However, if you go from the Diploma in Civil Engineering into the Degree in Mechanical Engineering, then you may not get the optimum amount of exemptions because the subjects in your diploma are not similar with the degree course of the university that you want to transfer to.

To transfer your credits into another university, you will need to submit the following documents for exemptions:

  1. Transcripts from your current college or university
  2. Course outline for all the subjects taken
  3. Letter of completion or Diploma Certificate
  4. Copy of SPM Certificate

Which are the Top Private Universities that you can Transfer your Credits for the Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Being from Pangkor made it difficult to find information on the universities to transfer after my Diploma. EduSpiral gave a lot of information & advise that helped me to choose the right university. They even picked me up from the bus station to drop me at the hostel. Jayden Cheah, Mechatronics Engineering Graduate
Being from Pangkor made it difficult to find information on the universities to transfer after my Diploma. EduSpiral gave a lot of information & advise that helped me to choose the right university. They even picked me up from the bus station to drop me at the hostel.
Jayden Cheah, Mechatronics Engineering Graduate

Upon completion of your Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, you may continue on to Year 2 of the Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronic degree at the same university or transfer to another university. Below is a list of universities that you can consider: