Mechanical engineering is a discipline that encompasses a broad range of topics and skills. It involves the study of objects and systems in motion, with a focus on developing, designing, and manufacturing products that meet the needs of modern society. This includes even the human body, which can be thought of as a complex machine. The goal of mechanical engineering is to transform ideas and concepts into functional products, which requires estimating the energy and manufacturing resources required, as well as considering the product’s form, function, and durability.
In order to be successful, mechanical engineers must make critical decisions about how to produce a product that operates efficiently and effectively. As technological advancements in mechanical technology and robotics continue to evolve, the demand for highly trained graduates in this field is increasing. Numerous universities and colleges in Malaysia offer top-quality mechanical engineering programs that provide graduates with the skills needed to succeed in the field, including in the areas of mechanical engineering and robotics, which can lead to personal and professional benefits.
Top Malaysian Universities for Mechanical Engineering
We have listed 10 Malaysian Universities for you to choose from. Some of the Universities have been placed amongst the top QS world ranking universities. We have also mentioned some low cost/ affordable universities.
Bachelors/ Undergraduate Programs
| No. | University | Location | Program Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees (USD $) | Intakes | QS Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nottingham University, Malaysia | Semenyih, Selangor | BEng/(Hons) Mechanical Engineering | BEng- 3 years | $12,860 | Jan & Sept | 114 (UK) |
| 2 | Monash University | Subang Jaya, Selangor | Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering | 4 years | $12,391 | Mar, July & Nov | 57 (AUS) |
| 3 | Taylor’s University | Subang Jaya | Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (Honours) | 4 years | $36,415 | Jan, June & Aug | 284 |
| 4 | Swinburne University | Kuching, Sarawak | Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical) | 4 years | $9,300 | Feb, May/June,& Sept/Oct | 296 (AUS) |
| 5 | SEGi University | Petaling Jaya, Selangor | Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering with Honours | 4 years | $20,320 | February, April, June, September, November | – |
| 6 | Universiti Malaya (UM) | Kuala Lumpur | Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering | 4 years | $20,320 | Feb & Sept | 70 |
| 7 | Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) | Johor Bahru | Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Hons) | 4 years | $5,000 (Per Unit/ Course) | Feb & Sept | 203 |
| 8 | Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | Serdang, Selangor | Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering | 4 years | $15,795 | June & Sept | 123 |
| 9 | Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) | Perak | Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering with Honours | 4 years | $17,465 | Jan, May & Sept | 361 |
Postgraduate Programs
| No. | University | Location | Program Offered | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees (USD $) | Intakes | QS Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nottingham University, Malaysia | Semenyih, Selangor | MEng/ Mechanical Engineering | MEng- 1 to 2 years | $12,860 | Jan & Sept | 114 (UK |
| 2 | Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) | Perak | MSc in Mechanical Engineering by Research | 2 years | 2,710 (per unit) | Jan, May & Sept | 361 |
| 3 | Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) | Perak | PhD in Mechanical Engineering by Research | 2-4 years | 4,000 (per unit) | Jan, May & Sept | 361 |
| 4 | Universiti Sains Malaysia, George Town | Penang | MSc Mechanical Engineering | 2 years | $2,790 (per unit) | Feb & Sept | 143 |
What Skills Do You Need to Study Mechanical Engineering?
A profession in mechanical engineering can be both financially lucrative and intrinsically fulfilling. To become a mechanical engineer, one must possess specific technical abilities, which includes a thorough grasp of industry regulations and exceptional computer proficiency, given the substantial amount of time spent in designing, simulating, and testing. Furthermore, it is essential for mechanical engineers to have “soft” skills, such as robust analytical reasoning and effective communication abilities. The basic skills required are:
- Analytical skills
- Creativity (innovation ideas for designing new products)
- Communication and Leadership skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Potential to collaborate in a group/team
- Math and Computer skills
- Reasoning and Writing skills.
Why Study Mechanical Engineering in Malaysia?
Mechanical engineering is an exciting and multidisciplinary field that involves the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Malaysia is an excellent place to study mechanical engineering due to its growing reputation as a hub for high-quality engineering education.
The country has a strong reputation for providing high-quality education, particularly in the field of engineering. Many Malaysian universities and colleges offer mechanical engineering programmes that are recognized internationally. Their engineering programmes often have strong connections to the industry, providing opportunities for internships, networking, and job placements. Hence, by studying mechanical engineering in Malaysia, you will gain a strong foundation in engineering principles and skills that are highly valued by employers around the world.
Entry Requirements for Mechanical Engineering in Malaysia
To enroll in universities in Malaysia, different entry requirements are needed depending on the level of education. For instance, a minimum of 5 passes in Science subjects (i.e. Physics, Mathematics) is usually required for admission to a Diploma program, while a Foundation/A-levels in Science (Physics, Mathematics) is typically needed for a Bachelor’s degree. Those seeking admission into Year 2 of an engineering program can do so upon completing a relevant Diploma.
To gain entry to a Master’s program, a relevant degree or equivalent international degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.0 is often required, while for a Doctorate (PhD), a relevant Master’s degree from a recognized institution is necessary. Additionally, all students must satisfy a minimum level of proficiency in the English language, which can be demonstrated through various tests such as TOEFL (minimum score- 55), IELTS (min. 5), and Pearson Test of English (PTE) (min.53).
Duration of Mechanical Engineering Programmes in Malaysia
In Malaysia, the duration of Mechanical Engineering programs varies based on the level of study. For Foundation/A-Level, it takes one year, two years for a Diploma, three to four years for an undergraduate degree, two to three years for a Master’s degree, and one to two years for a PhD.
Cost to study Mechanical Engineering programmes in Malaysia
Rough estimate of tuition fees for studying Mechanical Engineering in Malaysia are given below:
- Foundation/ A-levels: USD 4,062 to 6,770
- Diploma: USD 6,770 to 11,282
- Bachelor’s degree: USD 14,667 to 42,870
- Master’s degree: USD 16,923 to 28,204
- PhD: USD 16,923 to 28,204
The information given is subject to change and can be revised or updated at any point by the University/ Department. Staying informed about any modifications or updates made by the universities, particularly regarding admission requirements, program availability, fees, and related details, is crucial. It is recommended that prospective students confirm with the universities directly or through official websites to obtain the most recent and reliable information before making any decisions related to enrollment and admission.
Related fields of Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering has a diverse field. Various fields of Mechanical Engineering are available for the students to choose from. Let’s explore some of them:
- Robotics Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology Engineering
- Aerospace/ Aeronautical Engineering
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
- Micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)
Prominent Certification in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing and creating practical objects for a wide range of fields, including medical equipment, transportation, and machinery. By obtaining certifications, mechanical engineers can demonstrate their competency and increase their prospects for career advancement.
It can be advantageous for mechanical engineers to investigate potential certifications and further their knowledge in the field. Students can receive certifications like- Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma), Autodesk Certified Professional in Inventor for Mechanical Design, and Digital Manufacturing and Design Technology Certification, to name a few.
What Courses Will Be Covered in Mechanical Engineering Programmes?
Mechanical engineering courses cover a wide range of subjects that include machine design, thermodynamics, mathematics and model simulations. The specific courses you take will vary based on the particular specialization within mechanical engineering that you choose to pursue. Some of the common courses offered are: Engineering Design, Engineering Mathematics, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, CAD, Electronics & Microprocessors, Group Projects and Industrial Training, etc.
Career Opportunities
If you have an interest in designing and building machines and systems, mechanical engineering could be the perfect field for you. It’s a diverse and multidisciplinary course that teaches students about the complexities of objects and systems in motion, as well as the processes that bring products to life.
Mechanical engineering graduates have a range of career options available to them, particularly in the manufacturing and automotive industries. However, with growing global interest in environmentally sustainable energy and energy conversion, there are also many opportunities emerging in these areas.
Some of the career paths that mechanical engineering graduates might pursue include working as an automotive specialist, quality control analyst, robotics specialist, aerospace industry analyst, biotechnology industry analyst, manufacturing industry analyst, system quality control manager, or plant and system operator. The specific career path you choose will depend on the specialisation of the course you take and your individual interests and skills.
FAQs
What is the demand for mechanical engineers in today’s job market?
A: There is a high demand for mechanical engineers across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and energy. The global market for mechanical engineers is expected to grow steadily in the coming years due to the rise of renewable energy and the need for sustainable design and manufacturing practices.
What is the average salary for a mechanical engineer?
A: The average salary for a mechanical engineer varies depending on factors such as education, experience, and industry. In Malaysia, the average salary for a mechanical engineer is around USD13,540/ RM60,000 per year for entry-level positions, and this can increase significantly with more experience and seniority.
What are the top universities in Malaysia for mechanical engineering?
A: Malaysia has several highly reputable universities for mechanical engineering, including Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Universiti Malaya, and Universiti Putra Malaysia. These universities offer a range of programs, from undergraduate to doctoral level, and provide opportunities for research and hands-on learning.
Can I specialize in a specific area of mechanical engineering?
A: Yes, mechanical engineering is a broad field that encompasses many specializations, such as robotics, automotive engineering, aerospace engineering, and mechatronics. Specializing in a particular area of mechanical engineering can help you develop a specific skill set and enhance your job prospects in that industry.
What are some skills that mechanical engineers should have?
A: Mechanical engineers should have a strong foundation in math, physics, and computer-aided design. They should also have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as effective communication and teamwork abilities. Being detail-oriented, creative, and adaptable are also important traits for a successful career in mechanical engineering.
Conclusion
Studying mechanical engineering in Malaysia can be a rewarding experience. The country is home to many reputable universities that offer world-class mechanical engineering programs, providing students with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field. In addition to the excellent academic programs, Malaysia boasts a diverse and dynamic culture, offering an exciting environment for international students.
The Malaysian Universities also provide opportunities for students to engage in regional and international collaborations and internships, which can enhance their learning experience and provide valuable industry connections. With the growing demand for mechanical engineers and the increasing importance of technological advancement in today’s world, pursuing a career in mechanical engineering in Malaysia can lead to a bright and promising future.
