Universiti Sains Malaysia
Pioneering knowledge, shaping a sustainable future.
📍 Penang, Malaysia 🇲🇾
🏆 #4 in Malaysia · QS World #134 · THE World #401 · ARWU #701
Quick Facts about Universiti Sains Malaysia
- Type: Public
- Students: 24,375
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $3,200 – $8,500/year
- Language: Malay, English, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Spanish, Tamil, Russian, Thai
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Universiti Sains Malaysia
Academics
USM employs a multidisciplinary approach to education, offering a wide array of programs across Natural Sciences, Applied Sciences, Medical and Health Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Building Science and Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education. The university operates on a School system rather than traditional faculties, encouraging students to explore diverse areas of study. Notable programs include those in Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Education and Training, Architecture and Built Environment, and Chemical Engineering, which are highly ranked globally.
International Students
USM welcomes students from over 80 nationalities, fostering a global academic environment with a rich blend of cultures and perspectives. The university's International Office (IO) serves as a key platform for international students, offering support and a variety of mobility programs. While specific diversity statistics are not readily available, USM aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and academic excellence. On-campus accommodation is available, providing a comfortable and safe living environment.
Campus & Location
USM's main campus, often referred to as "The University in a Garden," is located in Minden, Penang, spanning 416.6 hectares with lush, natural surroundings. Penang itself offers a vibrant city life. The campus provides numerous facilities including libraries, medical centers, sports complexes, and an art center, along with shuttle services and free wireless internet. USM also has health and engineering campuses, and a postgraduate studies campus in Kuala Lumpur.
Career Outcomes
USM emphasizes preparing students for success in an interconnected world. The university has a reported graduate employability rate of 90% six months after graduation. USM's Division of Industry & Community Network actively promotes knowledge and skill transfer programs and collaborates with industries to address community needs and achieve sustainable development goals. The university also offers career services, including career talks and opportunities to explore job openings with various companies.
Information for International Students at Universiti Sains Malaysia
Universiti Sains Malaysia in Penang, Malaysia welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$30/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Malay, English, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Spanish, Tamil, Russian, Thai
Admissions Requirements for Universiti Sains Malaysia
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Universiti Sains Malaysia:
- IELTS minimum: 5
- TOEFL minimum: 40
- GPA minimum: 2.75
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: July 15, 2025 (Semester I); January 15, 2026 (Semester II)
Programs at Universiti Sains Malaysia (25 programs)
Universiti Sains Malaysia offers 25 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (9)
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive foundation in computer science, covering areas such as programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and software engineering, preparing students for careers in the tech industry.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, System Administrator, IT Consultant - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers fundamental principles and applications of electrical and electronic engineering, including circuit design, power systems, telecommunications, and control systems, preparing graduates for diverse engineering roles.
Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Control Systems Engineer - Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in classical and modern physics, including quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics, preparing students for scientific research or technical careers.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Researcher, Data Scientist, Educator - Bachelor of Management (Honours) (BMan) — 48 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of management principles, including marketing, finance, human resources, and operations, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Executive, HR Specialist, Financial Analyst - Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Language and Literature (BA) — 48 months · English
This program offers an in-depth study of English language structures, linguistics, and a wide range of literary works, developing critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
Field: English Language and Literature
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Educator, Communications Specialist - Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program explores the diverse aspects of living organisms, from molecular biology to ecology, providing a strong scientific foundation for careers in research, healthcare, or environmental management.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Consultant, Laboratory Technician - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Chemical Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes, covering areas like reaction engineering, separation processes, and process control, essential for various industries.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, R&D Engineer, Environmental Engineer - Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) (BPharm) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides comprehensive training in pharmaceutical sciences, including drug discovery, development, and clinical pharmacy, preparing students for professional practice as pharmacists.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Drug Regulatory Affairs Officer, Clinical Researcher - Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a rigorous foundation in pure and applied mathematics, including algebra, analysis, and statistics, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable across many fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Data Analyst, Actuary, Educator
Master Programs (8)
- Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on advanced aspects of pharmaceutical technology, including drug formulation, manufacturing, and quality control, for those seeking specialized roles in the pharmaceutical industry.
Field: Pharmaceutical Technology
Career outcomes: Formulation Scientist, Process Development Scientist, Quality Control Manager, R&D Pharmacist - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study in specialized areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analytics, through coursework and research, fostering expertise for professional and academic pursuits.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist, Data Scientist, Researcher - Master of Science in Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study and research in specialized mathematical areas such as pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or financial mathematics, enhancing theoretical and practical expertise.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Quantitative Analyst, Research Mathematician, Data Scientist, Academic - Master of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This postgraduate program offers advanced knowledge and research opportunities in specialized areas such as microelectronics, signal processing, and renewable energy systems within electrical and electronic engineering.
Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Design Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant - Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in specialized areas of physics, such as materials science, theoretical physics, or medical physics, enhancing analytical and problem-solving skills.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Physicist, Materials Scientist, Medical Physicist, Lecturer - Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study and research in specialized areas of chemical engineering, such as sustainable processes, advanced materials, or biochemical engineering, for industrial and research careers.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Process Engineer, Materials Scientist, Bioprocess Engineer, Consultant - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
This MBA program equips professionals with advanced business acumen, leadership skills, and strategic thinking necessary to excel in senior management and executive positions.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: CEO, Director, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Master of Arts in English Language Studies (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in English language studies, focusing on areas like applied linguistics, sociolinguistics, and discourse analysis.
Field: English Language Studies
Career outcomes: Language Educator, Curriculum Developer, Translator, Communications Consultant
PhD Programs (8)
- PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program involves in-depth research leading to significant contributions in various sub-fields of electrical and electronic engineering, fostering innovation and academic leadership.
Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Senior R&D Engineer, Innovator, Policy Advisor - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves conducting original, cutting-edge research in various sub-disciplines of physics, contributing new knowledge and advancements to the scientific community.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, Innovator in Industry, Science Policy Advisor - PhD in English Language Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program involves conducting extensive research in specialized areas of English language studies, contributing original scholarship to the field of linguistics and language education.
Field: English Language Studies
Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Research Linguist, Language Policy Advisor, Academic Editor - PhD in Biology (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves conducting independent, original research in various biological disciplines, contributing new scientific discoveries and advancing knowledge in the life sciences.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Research Scientist, Biomedical Innovator, Environmental Policy Expert - PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves conducting advanced research in various areas of pharmaceutical sciences, contributing to drug discovery, development, and therapeutic advancements.
Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Development Scientist, Regulatory Affairs Specialist - PhD in Management (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in various management disciplines, allowing students to contribute new theories and insights to business and organizational studies.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Researcher, Policy Analyst - PhD in Mathematics (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves conducting original, high-level research in various branches of mathematics, contributing new theorems, theories, and applications to the field.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Quantitative Researcher, Algorithm Developer - PhD in Chemical Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves conducting original and impactful research in various sub-fields of chemical engineering, contributing to technological advancements and scientific knowledge.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead R&D Scientist, Process Development Manager, Innovation Specialist
Scholarships & Tuition at Universiti Sains Malaysia
Annual tuition for international students: $3,200 – $8,500/year
✅ Universiti Sains Malaysia offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Universiti Sains Malaysia
- National Ranking: #4 in Malaysia
- QS World University Ranking: #134
- Times Higher Education (THE): #401
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #701
- Ranking tier: Top 500
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Universiti Sains Malaysia
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$30/month
Key Highlights
- Second oldest Malaysian university
- APEX status research institution
- Multidisciplinary academic programs
- "University in a Garden" campus
- Diverse international student body
- Highly ranked specific programs
Fields of Study at Universiti Sains Malaysia
- Science
- Engineering
- Pharmacy
- Arts
Notable Alumni
- Mohd Ali Rustam
- Chow Kon Yeow
- Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail
- Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor
- Yusril Ihza Mahendra
Frequently Asked Questions about Universiti Sains Malaysia
What is Universiti Sains Malaysia?
Universiti Sains Malaysia is a public university located in Penang, Malaysia. It has approximately 24,375 students.
How much does it cost to study at Universiti Sains Malaysia?
Tuition fees at Universiti Sains Malaysia for international students range from $3,200 – $8,500/year. Student housing costs approximately $30/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Universiti Sains Malaysia?
IELTS minimum: 5. TOEFL minimum: 40. GPA minimum: 2.75. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: July 15, 2025 (Semester I); January 15, 2026 (Semester II).
What language are courses taught in at Universiti Sains Malaysia?
Courses at Universiti Sains Malaysia are taught in Malay and English and Arabic and Chinese and Japanese and German and Korean and French and Spanish and Tamil and Russian and Thai. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.
How many programs does Universiti Sains Malaysia offer?
Universiti Sains Malaysia offers 25 programs: 9 Bachelor's, 8 Master's, and 8 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Universiti Sains Malaysia ranked?
#4 in Malaysia · QS World #134 · THE World #401 · ARWU #701.
Does Universiti Sains Malaysia offer scholarships?
Yes, Universiti Sains Malaysia offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Universiti Sains Malaysia provide visa support?
Yes, Universiti Sains Malaysia provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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