Introduction
Malaysia has become a popular destination for international students looking to pursue their education in software engineering. With an increasing demand for software developers in the global market, studying software engineering in Malaysia can provide students with a high-quality education and exposure to a diverse range of cultures. Additionally, Malaysia’s vibrant economy and low cost of living make it an attractive option for international students looking for an affordable yet quality education. In this context, let’s take a closer look at what international students can expect when studying software engineering in Malaysia.
Top Malaysian Universities for Mechanical Engineering
The top Malaysian universities have been curated for international students to choose from. Among these universities, some have been ranked among the top QS world-ranking universities, while others are known for their low cost and affordability.
Diploma
| No. | University | Location | Program Offered | Duration | Tuition fees (USD) | Intakes | QS Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) | Selangor | Diploma in Software Engineering | 2.5 years | – | Mar, June, Nov | 1201 |
| 2 | Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (TAR UC) | Kuala Lumpur | Diploma in Software Engineering | 2 years | 3,970 | June | 174 (QS Asian Ranking 2023) |
Undergraduate Programs
| No. | University | Location | Program Offered | Duration | Tuition fees (USD) | Intakes | QS Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nottingham University, Malaysia | Semenyih, Selangor | Software Engineering. BSC | 3 years | 11,056 | September | 114 (UK) |
| 2 | Sunway University | Petaling Jaya, Selangor | Bachelor of Software Engineering | 3 years | 6,400 | April & September | 801 |
| 3 | Universiti Malaya (UM) | Kuala Lumpur | BSc Computer Science (Software Engineering) | 3.5 years | 4,275 | October | 70 |
| 4 | Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) | Selangor | Bachelor of Software Engineering | 3 years | 4,061 | Mar, Jun & Nov | 1201 |
| 5 | UOW Malaysia KDU | Shah Alam, Selangor | Bachelor of Software Engineering | 3 years | 5,557 | Mar, May, July, Sept, Oct | 186 (AUS) |
| 6 | Curtin University, Malaysia | Miri, Sarawak | Bachelor of Computing (Software Engineering) | 3 years | 9,415 | Feb, July | 193 (AUS) |
Postgraduate Programs
| No. | University | Location | Program Offered | Duration | Tuition fees (USD) | Intakes | QS Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Universiti Malaya (UM) | Kuala Lumpur | MSc Computer Science (Software Engineering) | 1-2 years | 8,125 | Mar | 70 |
| 2 | Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) | Master of Information Technology | 1.5 years | – | Mar, Jun & Nov | 1201 | |
| 3 | Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | Selangor, Malaysia | MSc Software Engineering by Research | 1 years (min.) – 3 years (max) | 4,320 | Feb. Sept | 123 |
| 4 | Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | Selangor, Malaysia | PhD – Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering By Research | 2 to 5 years | 9,650 | Feb, Sept | 123 |
| 5 | First City University College | Petaling Jaya, Selangor | Master of Software Engineering | 1 year | 8,822 | May, Sept | – |
What skills do you need to study Software Engineering?
The successful pursuit of software engineering requires a unique blend of technical and interpersonal proficiencies. This is because the field necessitates a set of skills encompassing computer programming to construct, create, test, and fix software, in addition to interpersonal competencies for effective communication with company executives, colleagues, and other involved parties.
- Communication Skills
- Ability to work with the team
- Critical thinking and Problem Solving Skills
- Having some basic understanding of Programming Languages (i.e. Java, Python)
- Creativity and attention to detail are important for designing and coding software systems
- Keeping up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and industry trends
Why study Software Engineering in Malaysia?
There are several reasons why international students may choose to study software engineering in Malaysia. Firstly, Malaysia offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other study abroad destinations. Secondly, Malaysian universities offer a wide range of software engineering programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, many of which are taught in English. Additionally, Malaysia has a vibrant and growing technology industry, providing ample opportunities for internships and employment after graduation. Finally, Malaysia is a diverse and multicultural country, offering a unique cultural experience for international students.
Entry Requirements for Studying Software Engineering in Malaysia
The eligibility criteria for studying Software Engineering in Malaysia vary depending on the university and program of study. Prospective Bachelor’s degree students need to have two passes in A-Level and a credit in Mathematics at SPM/O-Level/IGCSE, or a minimum of 25 points in IB, or a minimum CGPA of 2.00 in Foundation. For Master’s degree programs, students must have a minimum CGPA of 2.75 to 3.00.
Additionally, international students are required to take an English proficiency test, with a minimum score of 5.5 to 7 overall in IELTS or a minimum score of 550 or 90 in TOEFL. Some universities may also require students to have a minimum of two years of working experience. It is important to check with the respective universities for the latest and accurate information regarding entry requirements.
Duration of Software Engineering Programmes in Malaysia
The length of Software Engineering programs in Malaysia varies depending on the level of education pursued.
- Diploma: 2 years
- Bachelors: 3-4 years
- Masters: 1-3 years
- PhD: 2-4 years
Cost to study Software Engineering Programmes in Malaysia
Rough estimate of tuition fees for studying Software Engineering in Malaysia are given below:
- Diploma: USD 1,500 to USD 6,000
- Bachelors: USD 2,705 to 10,145
- Masters: USD 1,580 to 9,020
- PhD: USD 3,385 to 6,765
NOTE: The information given is subject to change and can be revised or updated at any point by the University. 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 Software Engineering
Software engineering is a diverse field with many related areas. Some related fields of software engineering include:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cyber security
- Web Development
- Artificial Intelligence
- Mobile Application Development
- Database Administration
- Cloud Computing
- Software Testing and Quality Assurance.
Prominent Certification in Software Engineering
There are various certifications available in the field of software engineering that international students can obtain after completing their degrees in Malaysia. Some of the prominent certifications include Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP), Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE), Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP), and Certified Software Project Manager (CSPM).
Other certifications include Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer (OCPJP), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). These certifications can provide students with an added advantage in the competitive job market, as they demonstrate the student’s expertise and proficiency in specific software engineering skills.
What courses will be covered?
The course list will vary from University to University. However, some of the common and in-demand courses will be taught to the students across many universities. Here are some of them:
- System Analysis & Design
- Introduction to Networking and Databases
- Software Architecture
- Software Quality Engineering
- Algorithmics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Blockchain Development
- Optimization and Deep Learning
Career Opportunities
International students who graduate from Software Engineering from a Malaysian university can pursue a variety of career paths, including software developer, software engineer, web developer, mobile app developer, software quality assurance engineer, and more. Salaries for software engineers can vary widely depending on the location, experience, and other factors.
According to data from PayScale, the average salary for a software engineer in Malaysia is around RM 74,000/ approximately USD 18,000 per year, while in Bangladesh, the average salary is around BDT 910,000 per year (approximately USD 10,800). However, these figures can vary significantly depending on the specific job, expertise, industry, and individual circumstances.
FAQs
Q1. What is the demand for Software Engineering programs in Malaysia?
A: The demand for Software Engineering programs in Malaysia is high due to the increasing demand for technology and digitalization across all sectors. The government of Malaysia has also been promoting the growth of the technology sector in the country, which has led to an increase in job opportunities for software engineers.
Q2. What is the need/use of Software Engineering programs in Malaysia?
A: Software Engineering programs in Malaysia are important because they equip students with the necessary technical and soft skills to design, develop, and manage software systems. These skills are in high demand in Malaysia and around the world, as more businesses and organizations are turning to technology to improve their operations and services.
Q3. What are some of the top universities for Software Engineering programs in Malaysia?
A: Some of the top universities for Software Engineering programs in Malaysia include Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Multimedia University (MMU), Taylor’s University, and UCSI University.
Q4. Are there any scholarships available for international students studying Software Engineering in Malaysia?
A: Yes, there are several scholarships available for international students studying Software Engineering in Malaysia. These include scholarships offered by the Malaysian government, as well as scholarships offered by individual universities and private organizations. It’s recommended to research and apply for scholarships as early as possible, as they are competitive and have specific requirements.
Conclusion
Malaysia offers a diverse range of options for Bangladeshi students looking to pursue a career in software engineering. With its affordable education costs, top-ranked universities, and industry-relevant curriculum, Malaysia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students.
However, it is important to carefully research the entry requirements, courses, and certifications offered by each university before making a decision. Students must also prepare themselves for the competitive job market by gaining practical experience and certifications to enhance their employability. With hard work, dedication, and the right qualifications, Bangladeshi students can carve a successful career path in software engineering in Malaysia.
