Studying Architecture in Malaysia: All the Pathways You Need to Know!

Ever catch yourself paying attention to how buildings are designed: the layout, the lines, and how everything fits together?

Or maybe you’ve stared at a city skyline for too long and thought, “I could design that way better.”

Well, that kind of thinking is where architecture starts. It's turning ideas into real spaces, while balancing design with how people actually use them.

And with billions being poured into new buildings and green spaces (over RM60+ billion recently, according to DOSM), there’s plenty of room for fresh minds like yours to start building big!

👉 Learn more about navigating your academic journey, career paths and more in our Course Guide!

In this article, we’ll talk about:

• Why you should study architecture
• The different study pathways
• Accreditations and licensing

Why You Should Study Architecture

Here are some top reasons students choose this path today:

• There’s a huge demand for people in the built environment, thanks to infrastructure projects, property development, and township planning underway in Malaysia.
  
  
• Architecture grads are pretty employable. You can work in architecture firms, interior design studios, construction and consultancy companies, project management teams, local councils, or even tech fields like 3D visualisation.
  
  
• It's a globally portable profession. Skills like CAD, design thinking, BIM, and technical detailing are valued worldwide.

Study Pathways in Malaysia

To become a professional architect in Malaysia, you typically complete:

• LAM Part I → Bachelor’s degree
• LAM Part II → Master’s degree
• LAM Part III → Professional registration + exam

👉 Check out our full career guide to see what life as an architect is really like!

• Local Private Universities (Bachelor’s Degree, LAM Part I)

Malaysia’s private unis have some pretty good architecture degrees that form your LAM Part I, aka your official first step toward becoming an architect!

These programmes are where you’ll learn the basics: design, drawing, model-making, technical stuff, long nights in the studio, lots of coffee, and figuring out why your concept suddenly doesn’t make sense anymore at 3 AM.

• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Architecture – Taylor's University

One of the most established private architecture degrees in Malaysia; strong studio curriculum, modern facilities, and industry partnerships.

• Bachelor of Science (Architectural Studies) – Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL)

Focuses on design fundamentals, building construction, environmental considerations, and digital architecture tools.

• Bachelor of Science in Architecture (Honours) – Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT)

A well-structured architecture programme combining creativity, technical knowledge and real-world project exposure.

👉See more unis, compare tuition fees & programme structures here!

The Reality: A Bachelor’s Degree POV

Inspired by his father’s work in the building industry, Ong Zhen Yi grew up surrounded by blueprints and technical drawings.

That early exposure then led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), where he is now in his third year.

“Surprisingly, one of the biggest challenges has been learning how to communicate clearly,” he shared. 

In architecture, a strong concept isn’t enough. Designs must also be understood by others.

“Since people can’t read minds, we have to present our ideas clearly through drawings and diagrams, and be able to confidently explain our design decisions.”

Ong admits he struggled at the start of the course, especially with adapting to the fast-paced studio environment and short deadlines.

“But having experienced architects and lecturers who could provide critiques and offer constructive recommendations was extremely valuable for improving my thinking and design skills,” he said.

Most importantly, learning alongside friends who share both the stress and enjoyment of the journey has made the experience more meaningful. “Having that experience is ultimately what makes this course truly interesting.”

His advice to future students is simple but unexpected: “Architecture is not a solo journey.” 

Collaboration, idea sharing, and supporting one another are essential throughout the course, not just in group projects.

• Local Private Universities (Master’s Degree, LAM Part II)

Once you’ve survived your Bachelor’s, the next checkpoint is the Master of Architecture: your ticket to achieving LAM Part II and getting one step closer to becoming a fully licensed architect!

This is where things get real: deeper design thinking, more rigorous research, and bigger projects.

• Master of Architecture – TAR UMT

Builds advanced design capability, research skills and professional practice knowledge.

• Master of Architecture – Taylor's University

A rigorous and industry-aligned programme often chosen by students who want strong portfolio development and exposure to cutting-edge design.

• Master of Architecture – IUKL

Focuses on sustainable design, advanced building technology and professional competencies.

👉See more unis, compare tuition fees & programme structures here!

The Reality: A Master’s Degree POV

Lim Yi Chee is currently pursuing her Master of Architecture at TAR UMT. But compared to her undergraduate years, she describes the Master’s programme as far more critical, research-driven, and self-directed.

“At this level, it’s not just about designing,” she explained. “You’re expected to justify every decision, integrate different disciplines, and position your work within wider architectural, social, and urban discussions.”

One of the biggest challenges has been managing the intensity of expectations. “Master’s-level projects demand strong concepts, technical depth, and critical reflection all at once,” she shared.

But a key turning point for Lim was a comprehensive design studio project that brought together multiple elements like environmental strategies and social considerations. 

“The experience really sharpened my ability to think holistically and translate my ideas into buildable proposals.” 

More than anything, the Master’s programme has helped prepare her for professional practice and Part III by bridging theory and real-world constraints.

“Besides the technical skills, the programme helps foster the mindset of a professional architect who can respond thoughtfully to clients, society, and the built environment.”

Accreditations and Licensing (LAM Part III)

• Practical Training (2 Years)

After completing your Master of Architecture (LAM Part II), you’ll enter the real-world phase: working full-time under a registered architect or an approved architectural practice.

Some things you’ll be doing include:

• Working on real projects
  
  
• Learn the business side of architecture
  
  
• Complete a Professional Logbook
  
  
• Prepare a Professional Case Study

You’ll basically learn everything that transforms you from a designer to a professional.

• LAM Part III Examination

This is the final boss for aspiring architects in Malaysia.

Passing Part III means you’re finally eligible to register as a Professional Architect (Ar.)🎉

This exam typically includes:

• Written Papers: Covers professional practice, contract administration, building law, risk management, ethics, and running a project from start to finish.
  
  
• A Professional Interview (Oral Exam): You’ll discuss your logbook, case study, and real-world architectural experiences with a panel of practitioners.
  
  
• Assessment of Your Conduct & Competency: They want to see that you understand responsibility, liabilities, safety, and ethical decision-making as a professional.

And now you can officially call yourself a Professional Architect (Ar.)!!

So, is architecture for you?

Architecture isn’t just about designing buildings; it’s about shaping spaces people actually live and work in. 

From late-night studios in your Bachelor’s to research-driven projects in your Master’s, and finally hands-on experience in the real world, it’s challenging but definitely rewarding.

As Ong Zhen Yi and Lim Yi Chee show, you’ll learn to think clearly, work with others, and turn ideas into real spaces. 

If you enjoy problem-solving, being creative, and making an impact, architecture could really be the path for you!