Studying Electrical Engineering in Malaysia: Every Pathway You Need to Know About
Ethan Quar
August 18, 2025
Electrical engineering is a dynamic field that applies physics, mathematics, and electronics to develop systems used in power generation, telecommunications, control systems, and electronics manufacturing. From national infrastructure to smart devices, electrical engineers play a vital role in shaping modern life.
If you're thinking of pursuing electrical engineering, this guide breaks down the main study routes available in Malaysia. Whether you’re interested in a fully local programme, a twinning setup, or an international branch campus, we’ve outlined your options so you can make an informed decision.
Electrical engineering is a core discipline with applications in power systems, electronics, telecommunications, and automation.
Degrees typically span four years and include mandatory industrial training.
To become a professional engineer in Malaysia, your degree must be accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
Program types include fully local degrees, international twinning arrangements, and foreign university branch campuses.
International pathways offer global exposure and recognition without needing to study abroad full-time.
Practical training and accreditation are key factors in ensuring job readiness and professional recognition.
In Malaysia, electrical engineering degrees are typically offered as either a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Electrical or a Bachelor of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Hons). Some institutions may also offer specialised streams such as Power Systems, Communications, or Instrumentation.
These programs usually take four years to complete and include a mandatory industrial training segment, often one semester long, to expose students to real-world working environments in areas like utilities, electronics, automation, or telecommunications.
To qualify as a Professional Engineer in Malaysia, your degree must be accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
Local Private Universities (Fully in Malaysia)
Many private universities in Malaysia offer full electrical engineering degrees that are delivered entirely locally. These programmes are generally more cost-effective and cater well to students looking for strong local industry links and BEM-accredited qualifications.
| University | Local Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) | International Student Tuition Fees (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
UNITEN | RM 95,000 | RM 98,000 |
MSU | RM 45,000 - 50,000 | RM 45,000 - 50,000 |
SEGi University | RM 83,475 | RM 85,475 |
APU | RM 118,800 | RM 133,200 |
MAHSA University | RM 74,100 | RM 78,500 |
Taylor’s University | RM 161,066 | USD 42,689 |
INTI | RM 101,996 | RM 101,996 |
Twinning & Dual Award Programmes (2+2, 3+1, 4+0)
Some private institutions collaborate with overseas universities to offer twinning or dual-award programmes, where the degree is partially or fully recognised by a foreign partner university.
These programmes are structured in several formats:
- 2+2 – First two years in Malaysia, final two years abroad
- 3+1 – Three years in Malaysia, one year abroad
- 4+0 – All four years in Malaysia, but 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 electrical 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) |
|---|---|---|---|
University of Wollongong Malaysia | Australia | 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
Electrical engineering opens doors to diverse career paths in industries like power generation, telecommunications, electronics, manufacturing, and renewable energy. Whether you choose to pursue your degree entirely in Malaysia or opt for a twinning or foreign university pathway, it’s essential to ensure that the programme is properly accredited and provides strong hands-on training.
This guide serves as a starting point to help you explore your options, ask the right questions, and choose a route that aligns with both your interests and long-term goals. With the right foundation, you’ll be well on your way to shaping the technologies that power the world.
For a complete list of Electrical Engineering courses in Malaysia, click here.
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