Diploma Courses in Malaysia: Should I Study?

But first, what is a Diploma Course in Malaysia all about?

Although a Diploma in Malaysia falls under the category of pre-university programmes, it is actually a higher certification than other pre-university courses such as Foundation or STPM. This is because its long study duration makes it comparable to the first year of a degree.

So, what is the main purpose of pre-university programs for students?

Pre-university programs are designed to prepare you for your degree and make you work-ready. However, diploma courses are different because they allow you to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.

One reason diploma graduates can start working right away is that diploma courses are usually practical and involve more hands-on learning in their field. This practical approach ensures you are well-trained and have industry-specific knowledge. Additionally, if you wish, you can continue your studies at the degree level, starting from the second year. 

Moreover, diploma courses are offered in specialized areas such as English, Business Management, Information Technology, and more.

On the other hand, other pre-university programs like Foundation and Form 6 provide certifications in broader fields, such as arts or science.

How much do diploma courses in Malaysia cost?

There are two important points to understand regarding tuition fees for a Diploma course. Firstly, the cost of a Diploma program varies depending on the institution and the specific course you choose to pursue. Secondly, is the cost of tuition for a Diploma higher than that of a Bachelor's Degree or other pre-university programs?

In general, the tuition fees for a Diploma are typically lower compared to those for a Bachelor's Degree. This is because Bachelor's Degree programs usually entail a longer duration of study and cover a broader range of subjects compared to Diplomas.

As mentioned earlier, the typical duration for completing a Diploma course is between 2 to 3 years. In contrast, completing a Bachelor's Degree often takes 4 years, although for specialized fields like Architecture or Medicine, it may extend to 5 years.

However, what about the tuition costs between Diploma and Foundation programmes?

In this case, tuition fees for Diploma tend to be higher than those of foundation courses. This is because, generally, Foundation courses in Malaysia can be completed within a year, offering a more limited range of subjects compared to diplomas.

Is Diploma cheaper than Bachelor's Degree? Let's Compare!

 For comparisons, you may refer to the cost lists provided by colleges or universities in Malaysia below.

 

Taylor's College offers Foundation, A-Level, South Australian Certificate of Education (also known as SACE International) and Diploma courses. Taylor's University is ranked #1 among private universities in Malaysia and the entire Southeast Asia in 2023.

• Foundation courses (RM 27-29k)
• A-Level (RM 32-43k)
• SACE International (RM 27-31k)
• Diploma courses (RM 35-53k)

Management & Science University (MSU) is one of the top private universities in Malaysia. MSU is currently ranked as a QS World Top 100 among the world’s Top 50 Universities Under 50 and 147th among Asia’s Best Universities. MSU offers a wide range of Foundation and Diploma courses for SPM leavers.

• Foundation courses (RM 15-17k)
• Diploma courses (RM 21-51k)

Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) was previously known as TAR University College and TAR College even before that. TAR UMT has 6 campuses around Malaysia and offers a wife range of Foundation and Diploma courses at affordable fees.

• Foundation courses (RM 10k)
• Diploma courses (RM 17-20k)

Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) is the only university in Malaysia that champions the area of infrastructure. IUKL's tuition fees are reasonable and they offer many scholarships to deserving Malaysian students.

• Foundation courses (RM 13-16k)
• Diploma courses (RM 23-47k)

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) is one of the top private universities in Malaysia and boasts a new and impressive campus in Bukit Jalil area of Kuala Lumpur. APU is one of the most diverse university with students from all over the world. They offer a wide range of Foundation and Diploma courses.

• Foundation courses (RM 19-25k)
• Diploma courses (RM 39-44k)

How are Diploma courses in Malaysia structured?

The academic structure of a diploma is well-rounded with a balance between coursework and examinations. This is unlike other pre-university programmes, which more often than not use examinations as the sole method of assessment.  

What's the duration of a Diploma programme?

A diploma typically takes between 24 to 36 months for completion.

What are the reasons you pursue a Diploma course in Malaysia?

 Here are five reasons why you should study a diploma:

1. It's a cheaper alternative
2. Speedy entry into the workforce
3. Specialised and specific courses
4. Lower entry requirements
5. Balanced assessment methods

Let's talk more about each of these benefits.

1. It is a cheaper alternative

If you find yourself having a limited budget to further your studies, a diploma would be the way to go. The diploma pathway does not require you to continue with a degree before working. Besides, Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) is a government initiative that offers loans for all diploma courses in both private and government institutions*. Pre-university courses are not eligible for a PTPTN loan with the exception of foundation programmes in selected institutions.

2. Speedy entry into the workforce

With a diploma, you will be able to enter the workforce sooner than if you had studied pre-university. This is because a diploma trains you for a specific field in line with careers hence leaving a degree an option rather than a necessity.

3. Specialised and specific courses

Diploma courses are generally a lot more specific and sometimes even offer a combination of different modules under a single diploma. This is to make sure you have all relevant skills needed for specific careers. If your ambition is one that requires practical training (chef, videographer) a diploma would be the better option.

4. Lower entry requirements

Pre-university programmes generally have higher entry requirements than most diploma programmes. Entry requirements vary depending on the institution. You may be ineligible in one institution but well above another’s requirement. Be sure to do your research!

5. Balanced assessment methods

Not everybody are able to score in their examinations and quizzes. In a diploma you are assessed through many different methods such as presentations, coursework, assignments and tests that carry weightage in your final grade. 

List of best Diploma courses in Malaysia

This list will help you decide which Diploma course suits you better.

1. Diploma in Accounting and Finance

Estimated fees: RM 23,000 - RM 53,680

2. Diploma in Business

Estimated fees: RM 20,900 - RM 49,400

3. Diploma in IT

Estimated fees: RM 9,000 - RM 51,700

4. Diploma in Mass Communication & Media

Estimated fees: RM 22,800 - RM 51,550

5. Diploma in Hotel Management

Estimated fees: RM 23,600 - RM 55,700

Now that you have all this information, it’s time to ask an important question

Should YOU choose a Diploma?

 To address the question of whether pursuing a Diploma is the right choice for you, you can consult the image below to ensure you make a well-informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Degree better than Diploma?
That depends. A Diploma is more in-depth which is also a choice often made by those who wish to change their career. Meanwhile, a Degree takes more time than a diploma as they typically range around 3-4 years. It also covers various subject areas.

2. What are the best courses to study Diploma?
There are a variety of Diploma courses available out there. You can refer to the list of best diploma courses in this guide, or click here.

3. What is the starting salary for a Diploma holder in Malaysia?
On average, a Diploma holder usually earns from a minimum of RM3,000 a month. However, bear in mind that all jobs and companies are different, so the figure might be slightly different from what is stated here.