Studying Chemical Engineering in Malaysia: Every Pathway You Need to Know About
Ethan Quar
August 17, 2025
Chemical engineering is a discipline that blends chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering principles to develop processes for producing everything from clean water and pharmaceuticals to fuels and consumer goods.
If you’re considering a future in chemical engineering, this guide outlines the key study routes available in Malaysia. Whether you’re looking at a fully local degree, an international twinning arrangement, or a branch campus of a foreign university, we’ve broken down your options to help you make the most informed choice possible.
Chemical engineering combines chemistry, physics, maths, and engineering principles to design processes for fuels, clean water, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Degrees in Malaysia typically span four years and include compulsory industrial training in sectors like oil & gas, manufacturing, and environmental technology.
Study options include fully local programmes, twinning/dual award arrangements, or foreign university branch campuses in Malaysia.
BEM accreditation is essential for those aiming to become Professional Engineers in Malaysia.
Washington Accord recognition ensures global portability of accredited qualifications.
Career prospects range across oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, energy, biotechnology, and environmental management.
In Malaysia, chemical engineering degrees are commonly awarded as either a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) or a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (Hons), depending on the institution.
These programmes typically span four years and include a mandatory industrial training period, where students gain hands-on experience with companies in fields like oil and gas, manufacturing, and environmental technology. This practical segment typically spans a semester and is a crucial component of professional preparation.
To become a registered engineer in Malaysia, your degree must be accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
Local Private Universities (Fully in Malaysia)
Several private institutions in Malaysia offer complete chemical engineering programmes locally, many of which are accredited by BEM. These options are ideal for students who want a cost-effective, well-rounded education with strong local industry ties.
| University | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
UCSI University | RM 100,930 | RM 118,210 |
UTAR | RM 65,100 | RM 95,300 |
Herriot-Watt University | RM 180,000 | RM 216,000 |
Taylor’s University | RM 161,066 | USD 42,689 |
Twinning/ Transfer & Dual Award Programmes (2+2, 3+1, 4+0)
Some universities offer chemical engineering degrees through collaborations with overseas partners. These programmes are structured in several ways.
- 2+2 – Two years in Malaysia, followed by two years at a partner university abroad
- 3+1 – Three years in Malaysia, one year abroad
- 4+0 – All four years in Malaysia, but the degree is awarded by a foreign university
| University | Partner University | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
Taylor’s University | University of Birmingham, University of Sheffield, University of Queensland, University of Adelaide, UNSW Sydney | RM 340,000–420,000 | RM 340,000–420,000 |
Sunway University | Lancaster University | RM144,000 | USD34,000 |
These pathways are an excellent fit for students looking for international recognition and exposure, often at a more manageable cost than a full overseas degree.
Foreign University Branch Campuses in Malaysia
Malaysia is home to several foreign university branch campuses that offer chemical engineering degrees identical to those offered in their home countries. These institutions provide the best of both worlds—international curriculum and credentials, with the affordability and accessibility of a Malaysian campus.
| University | Home Country | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
Monash University Malaysia | Australia | RM 213,120 | RM 251,520 |
Heriot-Watt Malaysia | UK | RM 180,000 | RM 216,000 |
University of Nottingham Malaysia | UK | RM 220,000 | RM 260,000 |
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus | Australia | RM 141,440 | RM 192,640 |
Curtin University | Australia | RM 135,600 | RM 202,400 |
Accreditation and Why It Matters
For aspiring engineers in Malaysia, graduating from a programme accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) is essential. This allows you to register as a Graduate Engineer, a necessary step toward becoming a Professional Engineer (Ir.).
If you’re taking a foreign pathway, it’s also worth checking whether your degree is recognised under the Washington Accord, which can make it easier to pursue engineering careers in other member countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US.
Final Thoughts
Chemical engineering offers vast career opportunities in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, energy, biotechnology, and environmental management. Whether you choose a local programme or an international route, make sure your degree is recognised and offers the practical experience you need to thrive in the field.
This guide is just the starting point—use it to explore your options, ask questions, and make a decision that aligns with your long-term goals.
For a complete list of all chemical engineering courses in Malaysia, click here.
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