Like any successful chemical process, you need the right ingredients, the perfect mix, and the right conditions to achieve the desired outcome.
Malaysia has a strong industrial history that started with rubber and has grown to include various sectors, creating a solid base for chemical engineering.
Today, the country presents the ideal recipe in this field, blending industrial expertise, cutting-edge technology, and prestigious universities.
In this guide, we will provide the ingredients you need to successfully study chemical engineering in Malaysia.
Why Study Chemical Engineering in Malaysia?
Just as a chemical engineer chooses the right reactions to achieve desired results, here are key reasons why studying chemical engineering in Malaysia is an excellent choice for you:
1. Advanced Educational Environment
Malaysian universities provide globally accredited programs and use the latest teaching technologies.
2. Thriving Industries
Malaysia is home to advanced industries like petroleum, petrochemicals, and green technologies, offering students practical exposure.
3. Practical Opportunities
Students can gain hands-on experience through internships in Malaysia's well-established industrial sectors.
These unique reactions make studying chemical engineering in Malaysia an ideal choice for your academic and professional journey.
What is Chemical Engineering?
Think of chemical engineering as the point where theoretical science meets industrial solutions.
In simple terms, chemical engineering focuses on:
Turning raw materials into useful products: Fuels, plastics, cosmetics, and medicines are just a few examples.
Improving efficiency: Designing and optimizing industrial processes.
Sustainable innovation: Finding solutions with minimal environmental impact.
Chemical Engineering Degrees in Malaysia
Every great journey begins with a thoughtful first step.
There are a range of programs in chemical engineering in Malaysia, from diplomas to doctoral degrees.
Type of Degree |
Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
Duration |
Diploma in Chemical Engineering in Malaysia |
3,104 |
2.5 - 3 years |
Bachelor of Chemical Engineering in Malaysia |
1,875 - 14,250 |
4 years |
Masters of Chemical Engineering in Malaysia |
1,563 - 7,500 |
1 - 2 years |
PHD in Chemical Engineering in Malaysia |
1,250 - 8,750 |
2 - 3 years |
Top Chemical Engineering Universities in Malaysia
Every chemical engineering project starts with selecting high-quality materials.
Similarly, Malaysia’s top universities provide world-class education and are often featured in chemical engineering universities ranking in Malaysia.
With state-of-the-art laboratories and cutting-edge learning tools, these universities ensure students receive hands-on practice in a well-equipped environment.
Below best chemical engineering universities in Malaysia to consider:
University* |
Ranking |
Ranking in Chemical Engineering 2024 |
Annual Tuition Fees* (USD) |
Discount Availability * (USD) |
#251 |
#451-500 |
10,223 |
- |
|
#181 |
#91 |
3,758 |
- |
|
UM |
#60 |
#62 |
5,375 |
- |
#539 |
- |
7,581 |
- |
|
#265 |
- |
5,688 |
- |
* Click the university name in the table for course details.
* Tuition fees stated are annual and for bachelor degrees. Fees are calculated as per 4.0 exchange rate.
* Discount availability depends on nationality and academic performance. For more details, you may contact our team. You will find details at the end of the article.
Affordable Universities to Study Chemical Engineering in Malaysia
Chemical engineers always aim to balance costs and outputs.
Malaysia offers an ideal combination of quality education and affordability.
Tuition fees for chemical engineering in Malaysia are lower, making it a smart choice for international students.
University* |
Annual Tuition Fees* (USD) |
Discount Availability * (USD) |
Lincoln |
2,428 |
$2,000 per year |
UTHM |
1,875 |
- |
Program Structure for Chemical Engineering in Malaysia
Every chemical engineering process has foundational structures, chemical engineering courses in Malaysia are built on a strong academic foundation. Core subjects include:
Years |
Main Courses​ |
Year 1 |
|
Year 2 |
|
Year 3 |
|
Year 4 |
|
Career Prospects for Chemical Engineering in Malaysia
When each step is carefully executed, the result is a high-quality product.
Similarly, studying chemical engineering in Malaysia prepares you for a bright career.
Whether you aim to work in oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or environmental engineering, you will find plenty of opportunities waiting for you.
Here are just a few of the inspiring roles you could pursue:
- Environmental engineer
- Process engineer
- Design engineer
- Refinery engineer
- Material engineer
- Production engineer
- Chemical lab specialist
- Petroleum process engineer
Comparing Studying Chemical Engineering in Malaysia Vs. UK, Australia & US
The conditions such as temperature and pressure impact chemical reactions, your choice of study destination shapes your educational experience.
Here is a brief comparison studying chemical engineering in Malaysia vs. UK, Australia & US:
Destinations |
Duration |
Highest University Ranking |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
Average Living Cost Per Year (USD) |
Malaysia |
4 years |
60th |
1,875 - 14,250 |
5,550 |
UK |
3-4 years |
2nd |
12,218 - 43,607 |
9,538 |
Australia |
4 years |
13th |
23,270 - 27,456 |
14,557 |
US |
4 years |
1st |
12,294 - 50,300 |
13,250
|
YourUni Experts’ Choice
Like choosing the right materials for optimal results, here are the top choices to study chemical engineering in Malaysia based on our students’ feedback and our evaluation:
Taylor's University
Taylor’s offers a curriculum that aligns with industry needs, ensuring students receive practical and updated education.
The university has modern laboratories equipped with the latest technology, providing valuable hands-on experience for students.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
UTM focuses on scientific research and has strong connections with industry, offering students opportunities to collaborate with leading companies. The university also provides a learning environment that supports the development of research skills and practical applications, preparing students for industry challenges.
Sunway University
Sunway emphasizes practical learning and the integration of technology in its programs.
The university offers courses that focus on applying knowledge in real industrial contexts, helping students develop their practical and technological skills.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Like every chemical process begins with a small step, your journey in Malaysia starts here.
With the right ingredients for success, Malaysia is ready to help you craft a bright future in chemical engineering.
As chemists say: The final product always reflects the quality of the starting materials.
And you don’t have to do it alone.
At YourUni, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the process—making sure your application, visa, and arrival in Malaysia are all taken care of smoothly and stress-free.
Get in touch now for a free consultation and let’s shape your future together.