Best Psychology Universities in Malaysia (2026 Guide)
Did You Know? Nearly 29.2% of Malaysians face mental health issues. Yet, the country has only 0.2 clinical psychologists for every 100,000 people. This falls far below what people need. Thus, a psychology degree in Malaysia matters now more than ever.
The best psychology universities in Malaysia offer quality education while tackling the country’s growing mental health crisis. Job listings for psychology workers grew 23% between 2022 and 2024. This guide ranks top schools based on their approval status, focus areas, and job prospects to help you choose wisely.
Why Study Psychology in Malaysia?
Malaysia stands out as a great place to study psychology courses. Here’s why:
| Benefit | Details |
| Save money | Programs cost 40-60% less than in Western countries, saving up to RM 200,000 |
| Growing job market | Campuses host students from over 100 countries, offering unique views on human behavior. |
| Mix of cultures | Malaysia actively supports mental health through funding and awareness efforts. |
| Work while studying | Students can work part-time during breaks (up to 20 hours weekly) |
| Global Recognition | Many programs partner with schools in the UK, Australia, and the US |
| Government backing | Malaysia actively supports mental health through funding and awareness efforts |
| Cultural insights | Learn different views on mental health and healing from diverse cultures |
Good Signs vs. Warning Signs When Choosing Programs
Before checking out the school rankings, know what to look for:
| Good Signs ✓ | Warning Signs ✗ |
| MQA approval | No professional recognition |
| Good research tools | Little hands-on training |
| Industry partners | Outdated teaching |
| Many focus options | Poor job rates for graduates |
| Global Recognition | No clinical work experience |
| Expert teachers | Few learning resources |
Top 10 Psychology Universities in Malaysia for 2026
Psychology courses in Malaysia attract more students each year. Here’s our list of the best psychology colleges in Malaysia for 2026:
1. Universiti Malaya (UM)
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city
The Universiti Malaya is the best psychology university in Malaysia. It is the oldest and most respected public university, UM, which has strong research in social and clinical psychology. UM ranks 60th in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It’s currently Malaysia’s highest-ranked institution. Psychology programs at UM meet international standards.
Offered Programs:
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Psychology (3 years)
- Master of Psychological Medicine (MPM)
- Master of Education (Educational Psychology)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Master of Counselling
- Master of Education
Tuition: RM 51,750 (Single Award) and RM 61,850 (Dual Award).
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.0 (out of 4)
Acceptance Rate: 34%
Specialized Centers:
- UM Centre for Addiction Sciences (UMCAS)
- Clinical Psychology Training Clinic
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Lab
2. Taylor’s University
Location: Subang Jaya, Selangor (suburban campus near Kuala Lumpur)
Taylor’s University is the second best university for psychology in Malaysia. It is known for its modern campus and hands-on approach with a 12-week industry program. Taylor University ranks 251st in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The psychology department focuses strongly on forensic psychology and has many industry partnerships. It offers a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) program.
Offered Programs:
- Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) (3 years)
- Master of Clinical Psychology (2 years)
- Master of Counselling Psychology (2 years)
Tuition: Approximate RM 104,354 (total for Bachelor’s program) and USD 28,955 (International Student).
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.00 (For UG degree) and 2.50 (for PG)
Acceptance Rate: 60%
Specialized Centers:
- Forensic Psychology Research Center
- Clinical Skills Development Unit
- Psychological Assessment Center
3. HELP University
Location: Kuala Lumpur (urban campus with multiple branches)
HELP stands out with Asia’s largest psychology faculty, featuring over 45 expert professors. The university ranks in the 601-620 band in the QS Rankings. HELP pioneered psychology education in Malaysia and maintains strong international recognition.
Offered Programs:
- Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) (3 years)
- Master of Clinical Psychology (2 years)
- Master of Counselling (2 years)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology) (3-5 years)
Tuition: RM 96,950 (total for Bachelor’s program)
Acceptance Rate: 70%
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.75
Specialized Centers:
- Centre for Psychological & Counselling Services
- Centre for Neuropsychology
4. Asia Pacific University (APU)
Location: Technology Park Malaysia, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur
Leaders in cyberpsychology teaching in Malaysia with courses in digital behaviour and online addiction treatment. APU ranks in the 611-620 band in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is known for its technology integration in psychology education.
Offered Programs:
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology (3 years)
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology with a specialism in Cyberpsychology (3 years)
- MSc in Cognitive Psychology & Human Performance (1.5 years)
Tuition: RM 99,800 for Malaysian students and RM 104,600 for international students.
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.0.
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Specialized Centers: Centre for Psychology and Well-Being.
5. UCSI University
Location: Kuala Lumpur (main campus) with branches in Sarawak and Port Dickson
UCSI has modern tools, including brain labs and virtual reality therapy training centres. The university ranks 265th in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It has established itself as a leader in clinical psychology and neuroscience education in Malaysia.
Offered Programs:
- BA (Hons) Psychology (3 years)
- Master of Clinical Psychology (2 years)
- Master of Child Psychology
- Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
- Diploma in Psychology
Tuition: RM 75,390 (total for Bachelor’s program)
Acceptance Rate: 72%
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.33.
Specialized Centers: Wellbeing Research Centre (WellbeingRC).
6. Sunway University
Location: Sunway City, Selangor (integrated campus city)
Offers NHS-linked psychology work training and a Lancaster University dual degree. The university ranks 539th in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It has developed strong international connections for psychology students.
Offered Programs:
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Psychology
- Master of Science in Psychology
Tuition (Bachelor):
- 1st Year: RM 33,500
- 2nd Year: RM 32,600
- 3rd Year: RM 28,700
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.5.
Acceptance Rate: 60%
Faculty Size: 25+ psychology professors.
7. University of Nottingham Malaysia
Location: Semenyih, Selangor (suburban campus in a university town)
Ranked 108th globally, this school ranks among the best psychology universities in Malaysia 2026. The Malaysia campus offers the same curriculum and degree as the UK campus. It also has great research that focuses on Southeast Asian contexts.
Offered Programs:
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology
- BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience
- BSc (Hons) in Applied Psychology and Management
- MSc in Developmental Disorders
- MRes/MPhil/PhD in Psychology
Tuition: RM 52,000 for Malaysian students and RM 58,000 for international students.
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0
Acceptance Rate: 60%
8. UTAR (Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman)
Location: Kampar, Perak and Sungai Long, Selangor (dual campuses)
UTAR teaches practical courses in business and clinical psychology and has ties to local hospitals and companies. With low fees, it’s one of the most affordable psychology universities in Malaysia. UTAR ranks in the 801-850 band in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Offered Programs:
- Bachelor of Social Science (Hons) Psychology
- Master of Psychology (Industrial and Organisational Psychology)
Tuition: RM 49,450 for Malaysian students and RM 69,950 for international students.
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.5.
Acceptance Rate: 80% to 90%
Specialized Centers:
- UTAR Centre for Psychological Medicine
- Centre for Applied Psychology
9. Heriot-Watt University
Location: Putrajaya (Malaysia’s administrative capital)
Another top university for Psychology in Malaysia is Heriot-Watt University. It offers a Business Psychology program that connects theory with real-world business, preparing students well for corporate jobs. The university ranks 256th in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Offered Programs:
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- MSc Applied Psychology
Tuition: RM 36,560-42,848 per year.
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 2.75.
Acceptance Rate: 60%.
10. Monash Malaysia
Location: Bandar Sunway, Selangor (integrated campus in Sunway City)
With a global ranking of 37, Monash teaches Development and Clinical Psychology. It meets high global standards with Australian Psychology Council approval. The Malaysian campus offers the same curriculum as the Australian campus.
Offered Programs:
- Bachelor of Psychological Science
- Bachelor of Psychological Science and Business
- Master of Professional Counselling
- Master of Clinical Psychology
- Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Neuropsychology)
Tuition: RM 41,760-48,480 per year.
Acceptance Rate: 40%
CGPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0.
How to Choose the Right Psychology University in Malaysia?
Check Approval Status
Make sure your psychology degree gets recognised in Malaysia and worldwide. This matters for your future career. Check for proper approval through official channels.
Key approvals to look for:
- MQA-approved psychology degrees
- Global recognition is achieved through APA, BPS, APAC, etc.
The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) evaluates and accredits academic programs based on:
- Curriculum design and delivery
- Assessment methods
- Faculty qualifications
- Facilities and resources
- Quality assurance mechanisms
Programs receive provisional accreditation first, then full accreditation after graduating their first cohort.
Match Your Interests with Focus Areas
Psychology specialisations in Malaysia cover many fields. Pick a school that excels in what interests you:
| Focus Area | What You’ll Study |
| Clinical Psychology | Mental health testing and therapy |
| Business Psychology | Workplace wellness and productivity |
| Forensic Psychology | Online behaviour and digital mental health |
| Educational Psychology | Student growth and learning support |
| Cyberpsychology | Understanding buying behaviour and marketing |
| Health Psychology | Using psychology to improve health |
| Community Psychology | Addressing social issues and community mental health |
| Consumer Psychology | Understanding buying behavior and marketing |
Consider Costs and Value
A psychology degree in Malaysia costs money. Psychology tuition fees in Malaysia vary widely:
- Average monthly pay for graduates: RM 3,000-10,000
- Pay growth in the first five years: 15-20%
- Master’s degree pay boost: 30-40% higher than bachelor’s graduates
- Scholarship options: Many schools offer up to 100% tuition coverage
Check Facilities and Reputation
The quality of tools and resources affects how well you learn. Look for schools with:
- Research labs with modern equipment
- Counselling centres for hands-on training
- Support services for international students
- On-campus mental health services
- Career services with industry contacts
- Alumni network and job placement stats
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Psychology Degree Costs in Malaysia
When planning for psychology studies in Malaysia, know that costs differ between public and private schools:
| Program | Public Universities | Private Universities |
| Bachelor’s | RM 8,000-20,000 | RM 30,000-156,000 |
| Master’s | RM 5,600-43,000 | RM 40,000-100,000 |
| Doctoral | RM 12,000-36,000 | RM 60,000-150,000 |
| Professional Certificate | RM 3,000-8,000 | RM 5,000-15,000 |
Psychology Entry Requirements Malaysia
Local students usually need:
- STPM with 2Cs, including science subjects
- SPM with five credits, including Math and Science
- Foundation or Diploma in related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.5
- Matriculation with a minimum CGPA of 2.0 (for public schools)
- STAM with minimum Jayyid grade (for Islamic-based schools)
Other requirements:
- Interview performance (for clinical psychology focus)
- Portfolio of relevant experience (for mature students)
International students face added requirements:
English skill proof (one of these):
- IELTS: At least 6.0 (some clinical programs need 6.5+)
- TOEFL iBT: At least 79
- Results must be from the last 2 years
Academic qualifications (one of these):
- A-Levels: At least 2 Cs
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: At least 24 points
- American High School Diploma: At least a GPA of 3.0 with SAT/ACT scores
- Australian Year 12: ATAR of at least 70
- Indian Standard XII: At least 65% of CBSE, ISC, or state boards
Other requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 12-18 months after the program starts
- Health checks from approved medical centres
- No criminal record (background check may be needed)
- Proof of enough money (bank statements)
Application Process for International Students
A complete application needs the required papers:
- Academic records.
- English test results (from the last 2 years).
- Personal statement.
- Recommendation letters from teachers.
- Passport copy.
- Passport photos.
- Medical exam reports from approved doctors.
- Proof of financial support or a sponsor letter.
Application Timeline
Malaysian schools have several intake periods:
| Start Period | Apply By | Decision By |
| January/February | October-November | December |
| July | March-April | May |
| September/October | June-July | August |
Application Guide: 5 Simple Steps
Step 1: Research and Choose Universities (3-6 months before applying)
Start by looking at different psychology programs in Malaysia. Check their approval, tuition fees, and specialisations. Make sure you meet the entry requirements and deadlines. Pick 3-5 universities that match your goals and budget. Take notes on what makes each university special.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents (2-3 months before applying)
Start collecting documents early. Get your academic transcripts from past schools. If needed, take an English test like IELTS or TOEFL. Write a personal statement about your interest in psychology. Ask teachers for recommendation letters. If your documents are not in English, get them translated and certified.
Step 3: Submit Applications (Before university deadlines)
Fill out the online application and submit it. Make sure to follow all formatting rules when uploading files. Pay the application fee (RM 100-500). Keep your confirmation emails and reference numbers. Check your email and portals for updates.
Step 4: Accept Your Offer and Secure Your Spot
If you get accepted, read the offer carefully before choosing a university. Confirm your place before the deadline. Pay the deposit, which will go toward your tuition. If you need campus housing, apply early. Request an official acceptance letter for your visa.
Step 5: Apply for a Student Visa
With your acceptance letter, apply for your visa through EMGS. Complete all medical tests at approved clinics. Wait for approval (4-8 weeks) before booking your flight. Arrive at least one week early to settle in.
Psychology Career Opportunities Malaysia for International Students
A psychology degree from Malaysia opens many career paths:
Clinical Psychologist
Work in hospitals and mental health centres to test and treat psychological disorders.
Average pay: RM 5,000-10,000 per month.
Main duties:
- Conducting psychological tests and diagnostic interviews
- Creating and carrying out treatment plans
- Providing therapy for mental health conditions
- Working with healthcare teams on patient care
Business Psychologist
Help improve workplace productivity and employee wellness.
Average pay: RM 3,500-8,000 per month
Main duties:
- Analysing jobs and developing hiring methods
- Creating and evaluating training programs
- Implementing business development strategies
- Assessing employee performance and satisfaction
Educational Psychologist
Support student learning in schools through assessment and intervention.
Average pay: RM 3,000-6,000 per month
Main duties:
- Assessing students’ learning needs
- Creating personalised education plans
- Working with teachers and parents
- Implementing help for learning difficulties
Human Resources Manager
Apply psychology to hiring, training, and managing employees.
Average pay: RM 3,500-6,000 per month
Main duties:
- Recruiting and selecting qualified employees
- Creating and running training programs
- Managing employee relations and conflicts
- Designing performance review systems
New Psychology Careers in Malaysia
The field keeps growing with new opportunities:
| Career | Focus Area | Monthly Pay Range |
| Cyberpsychologist | Healthy behaviours and illness management | RM 4,000-9,000 |
| Health Psychologist | Shopping behaviour and marketing | RM 4,000-7,000 |
| Forensic Psychologist | Legal system and rehabilitation | RM 4,500-8,500 |
| Sports Psychologist | Athletic performance through mental training | RM 3,500-7,000 |
| Consumer Psychologist | Shopping behavior and marketing | RM 5,000-10,000 |
Psychology Scholarships in Malaysia
International students can access various funding options:
Government Scholarships
| Scholarship | What It Covers | Who Can Apply |
| Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) International Scholarships | Tuition and living costs (RM 50,000-100,000 yearly) | Students with excellent grades |
| Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) | Full funding | Graduate students with excellent grades |
| Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) | Full funding | Students from developing countries |
| ASEAN Scholarships | Full or partial funding | Special focus on ASEAN member countries |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Full funding | Students from Commonwealth nations |
University Scholarships
| University | Scholarship | What It Covers |
| Sunway University | Merit Scholarship | 30-100% tuition waiver (up to RM 50,000) |
| Taylor’s University | World Class Scholarship | Full tuition for top students |
| Monash University Malaysia | Entrance Scholarship | 25-100% tuition waiver |
| HELP University | Psychology Merit Awards | Up to 75% tuition reduction |
| APU | International Scholarships | Up to 50% tuition waiver |
| UCSI | Pioneer Scholarship | Full tuition waiver for leadership & academic excellence |
| Nottingham Malaysia | Psychology Excellence Award | 30-50% tuition reduction |
Scholarship Application Tips
- Apply early, as many scholarships have limited spots
- Customise your personal statement for each scholarship
- Highlight any psychology-related volunteer work
- Get recommendation letters from teachers who know your abilities well
- Keep your grades high, as most scholarships require a minimum CGPA of 3.5+
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a psychology degree in Malaysia MQA-approved?
Yes, many programs have MQA approval. Always check the MQA website before enrolling.
How to become a psychologist in Malaysia?
You need at least a master’s degree to practice as a clinical psychologist in Malaysia. You must also complete 1,500 supervised clinical hours and register with the Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology.
Which university offers the most affordable psychology universities Malaysia?
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) costs about RM 36,000 for the entire degree. Public universities like Universiti Malaya cost even less at RM 8,000-20,000.
Are online psychology degrees Malaysia respected?
Yes, if they have MQA approval. However, programs with practical parts may require some in-person classes.
What’s the difference between BA and BSc Psychology?
The BA in Psychology focuses more on social aspects. BSc Psychology emphasises science and biology with more focus on research methods, statistics, and brain science.
Can international students work while studying?
Yes. They can. International students in Malaysia can work up to 20 hours per week during breaks in approved places like restaurants, gas stations, hotels, and markets.
Which psychology focus area has the highest demand in Malaysia?
Clinical psychology courses Malaysia have the highest demand due to growing mental health awareness. The country needs about 6,000 more clinical psychologists.
How does Malaysia’s psychology education compare to Western countries?
Malaysian psychology programs often cost 40-60% less than Western programs while maintaining similar quality through global partnerships.
Key Terms to Know
| Term | Definition |
| CGPA | Cumulative Grade Point Average – the average of all your course grades |
| MQA | The branch focusing on diagnosing and treating mental disorders |
| EMGS | Education Malaysia Global Services – handles international student applications |
| STPM | Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia – Malaysian Higher School Certificate |
| SPM | Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia – Malaysian Certificate of Education |
| Clinical Psychology | Study of human behaviour related to technology and online environments |
| Industrial Psychology | Application of psychology to workplace issues |
| Cyberpsychology | Study of human behavior related to technology and online environments |
Conclusion
Malaysia needs more psychology professionals, creating many job opportunities for graduates. The best psychology universities in Malaysia offer quality education and strong job prospects. With growing mental health awareness and government support, now is a great time to study psychology.
When choosing among the best psychology colleges in Malaysia, look at factors like approval status, faculty expertise, and career support. The right school gives you not just knowledge but practical skills for a successful career. Use this guide to make a smart choice about your psychology education in Malaysia. Consider costs, program quality, and future job prospects to find the school that best fits your needs.
