Mechanical engineering is the cornerstone of the world of industry and innovation, and studying it in Malaysia is a strategic decision that opens broad horizons for international students.
This comprehensive guide aims to provide an integrated vision of everything related to studying this vital specialization in Malaysia, starting with answering the question "What is mechanical engineering?" and its importance, to reviewing the best universities, admission requirements, and rates, in addition to detailing tuition fees and living costs.
This article is designed to be a reliable reference for students from Arab countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and Jordan, who are wondering, "Is mechanical engineering in demand?". Through comprehensive coverage of academic paths from bachelor's to doctorate, course materials, advantages, and challenges, the student will be able to form a clear picture of their educational journey.
With the support of "Pioneer's" free advisory services, students can overcome any obstacles, ensure a smooth admission process, and embark on a successful professional future in one of the most traditional and important engineering disciplines.
Mechanical engineering is known as the mother of engineering; it is the broad discipline concerned with the design, manufacture, operation, and development of everything that moves, from the smallest components in precision devices to the largest engines and machines.
What is mechanical engineering? It is the science that applies the principles of physics, mathematics, and materials science to analyze and design mechanical systems. The goal is to convert energy into motion and force to accomplish useful work.
The importance of this specialization lies in its role as the primary driver for almost all industries, from automotive and aviation to power generation, air conditioning, robotics, and medical equipment. Nearly every product we use has gone through a design or manufacturing stage overseen by a mechanical engineer.
Choosing to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering in Malaysia gives students a competitive edge, as the country has an advanced industrial base and world-class universities. The study programs in Malaysia focus on providing students with a solid theoretical foundation and strong practical skills, qualifying them to be innovators capable of meeting the challenges of the global job market.
The duration of study for a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at most Malaysian universities is four years for students who meet the direct admission requirements.
This period may be extended for students with high school certificates from some Arab countries to four and a half years in some public universities like UTM, where the program includes an additional semester or a foundation year to strengthen the students' scientific foundation.
The official and accredited language for teaching all mechanical engineering subjects in all Malaysian universities, whether public, private, or branches of international universities, is English.
Therefore, all international students are required to provide proof of their English language proficiency, such as an IELTS or TOEFL certificate, as an essential part of the admission requirements. Universities also offer English language programs for students who need to improve their level.
The admission rate for mechanical engineering varies from one university to another, but the general conditions are similar and include:
Academic Qualification:
A-Level Certificate: Obtaining acceptable grades (starting from C or D) in two or three subjects, which must include Mathematics and Physics.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: Achieving a total score ranging from 26 to 36 points, with good grades in Mathematics and Physics at the Higher Level (HL).
Foundation Certificate: Completing a foundation program in Engineering or Science with a CGPA of no less than 2.00.
Diploma: Holding a diploma in mechanical engineering or a related specialization with a CGPA of no less than 2.00.
English Language Requirements:
Obtaining an overall score ranging from 5.0 to 6.5 in the academic IELTS test.
Malaysian universities welcome students from all Arab countries and set clear admission criteria for their high school certificates:
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Yemen, Somalia: Universities like UKM and UTM require a score of at least 85%.
Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Bahrain, Palestine, Syria, Sudan: Admission usually requires a score of at least 80%.
Algeria, Morocco, Libya: Rates starting from 70% may be accepted at some universities.
Other private universities: Some universities like IUKL, SEGi, and Lincoln may accept rates starting from 55% to 60%, depending on the country.
Malaysia has a selection of prestigious universities that offer world-class programs in mechanical engineering malaysia. Here we review the top 6 universities:
UTM is ranked among the top 138 universities globally for mechanical engineering, and it is a leading public research university. The university offers diverse specializations within mechanical engineering, such as aeronautics, automotive, and manufacturing, and is known for its advanced laboratories and applied research. The UTM mechanical engineering program is world-renowned.
Average Fees: The first year is about $6,300 USD, and subsequent years are about $4,200 USD annually.
Admission Requirements: Requires an 80-85% average in high school for science subjects, and an IELTS score of 5.5.
University Link: UTM Universty
UPM is another public research university ranked among the top 200 in the world. It is distinguished by its focus on research and innovation, and offers a strong program in mechanical engineering that combines theoretical foundations with modern practical applications.
Average Fees: About $5,100 USD annually.
Admission Requirements: Requires a minimum of 80% in high school with excellent grades in science subjects, and an IELTS score of 5.5.
University Link: UPM Universty
Ranked as the best private university in Malaysia, it provides a modern educational environment. The mechanical engineering program at Taylor's focuses on project-based learning and offers specialized tracks such as smart manufacturing, with opportunities to transfer to partner universities in the UK and Australia.
Average Fees: Annual fees range between $9,700 and $13,600 USD.
Admission Requirements: Requires acceptable grades in A-Levels or equivalent in Mathematics and Physics, and an IELTS score of 5.5.
University Link: Taylor Universty
UCSI University is distinguished by its practical training program (Co-Op), which provides students with valuable practical experience in leading industrial companies. Its mechanical engineering program focuses on industrial applications and allows students the opportunity to transfer and complete their studies at the University of Queensland in Australia.
Average Fees: Annual fees range between $5,700 and $8,400 USD.
Admission Requirements: Requires acceptable grades in A-Levels (two Ds minimum) in Mathematics and a science subject, and an IELTS score of 5.0.
University Link: UCSI Universty
APU is known for its focus on technology and offers a strong mechanical engineering course in Malaysia that grants students a dual degree from De Montfort University (DMU) in the UK. This option enhances the value of the degree and opens up broad global prospects for graduates.
Average Fees: Annual fees range between $7,500 and $9,500 USD.
Admission Requirements: Requires success in a Foundation program or A-Levels with good grades, and an IELTS score of 5.0.
University Link: APU Universty
This is a branch of a prestigious British university ranked among the top 100 in the world for engineering and technology. The university offers an integrated Master's program (MEng) in Mechanical Engineering that spans four years and provides education with British standards on Malaysian soil.
Average Fees: About $15,100 USD annually.
Admission Requirements: Requires BBC grades in A-Levels including Mathematics and Physics, and an IELTS score of 6.0.
University Link: Nottingham Universty
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Note: There are many other excellent universities offering a mechanical engineering degree in Malaysia. You can contact the Pioneer team for full details. The prices mentioned are approximate. For more precise details, get your free consultation now with Pioneer.
The tuition fees for studying mechanical engineering in Malaysia are significantly lower compared to Western countries. The average annual tuition for a bachelor's degree generally ranges from $4,500 to $15,000 USD.
Public universities like UTM, UPM, and UKM are the most affordable option, with fees ranging from $4,200 to $7,000 annually. Private universities like UCSI, APU, and Taylor's have fees ranging from $6,000 to $13,000. International university branches like Nottingham and Monash are the most expensive, where fees can reach $15,000 annually.
In addition to tuition fees, students must budget for living costs. Malaysia is a destination with a low cost of living, where a student can live comfortably on a monthly budget ranging from $450 to $800 USD.
These monthly costs are roughly distributed as follows: accommodation rent ($150-$350), food ($150-$300), transportation ($30-$70), and other personal expenses ($100-$200).
Note: The prices mentioned are approximate. For more precise details, get your free consultation now with Pioneer and start your academic journey in Malaysia with confidence!
A degree in mechanical engineering in Malaysia offers diverse and precise specializations, including:
This specialization focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft. Students study subjects such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and aircraft structures.
This track is concerned with the design, manufacture, and testing of cars and their components, from engines and transmission systems to suspension and safety systems.
This specialization delves into the study of the properties of different materials (metals, polymers, ceramics) and how to select and manufacture them for specific engineering applications.
This track focuses on the design and development of manufacturing processes and tools to transform raw materials into finished products efficiently and with high quality.
This branch is concerned with the study of energy, heat, and its transfer, and its applications in cooling and air conditioning systems, power generation plants, and engines.
Is mechanical engineering in demand? The answer is a resounding yes, and studying in Malaysia gives you additional advantages:
The Foundation of All Industries: The mechanical engineer is the backbone of any industrial sector, which means that the demand for graduates is continuous and renewed in countless fields.
Global Career Opportunities: Malaysian degrees are internationally accredited, which opens doors to work in major global companies in the automotive, energy, aviation, and engineering consulting fields.
Strong Practical Skills: Malaysian universities focus on the practical side through projects, laboratories, and industrial training, ensuring the graduation of engineers ready for the job market.
Rewarding Salaries: Due to the importance of their role, mechanical engineers receive competitive salaries and a promising career path that offers great opportunities for growth and advancement.
Students of mechanical engineering face some challenges that require preparation and seriousness:
Intensity of Curricula: The specialization requires an in-depth study of mechanical engineering subjects that rely heavily on advanced mathematics and physics.
Need to Keep Up with Technology: The mechanical engineer must keep up with the latest computer software for design and simulation (such as CAD/CAE) and manufacturing technologies.
Competition in the Job Market: Excelling in the job market requires building a strong resume through academic excellence and gaining practical experience during study.
To overcome these challenges, academic support and career guidance are essential. Get a free consultation from the "Pioneer" team, which provides you with the necessary strategies for academic and professional excellence.
The bachelor's curriculum includes a comprehensive set of basic and advanced subjects. Here is an overview of the main mechanical engineering subjects:
Academic Year
Key Subjects
Year One
Engineering Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Statics and Dynamics, Engineering Drawing (CAD), Introduction to Mechanical Engineering.
Year Two
Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Strength of Materials, Engineering Materials Science, Electrical Circuit Analysis.
Year Three
Machine Design, Heat Transfer, Automatic Control Systems, Theory of Vibrations, Measurements and Instrumentation.
Year Four
Specialized Elective Subjects (Aeronautics, Automotive, Energy), Engineering Project Management, Final Year Project, Industrial Training.
To apply for a bachelor's degree, you will need to prepare: a certified copy of your high school certificate and transcripts, a copy of all passport pages (With a validity of not less than 18 months), a recent passport-sized photo (White background), your English proficiency test certificate (IELTS or TOEFL), a completed application form, and a medical examination certificate.
For a master's degree, you will also need: a certified copy of your bachelor's degree and transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a detailed CV, a research proposal (for research-based programs), and proof of work experience (if required).
For a PhD, you will need to submit a strong academic file that includes: certified copies of your bachelor's and master's degree certificates, a detailed and innovative research proposal, an academic CV with any scientific publications, letters of recommendation from academic supervisors, and a proving proficiency in the English language.
Note: The details mentioned are approximate. For more precise details, get your free consultation now with Pioneer and start your academic journey in Malaysia with confidence!
Are you ready to build a professional future in the heart of industry and innovation? If mechanical engineering is your passion, don't let complex application procedures stand in your way. The "Pioneer" team is here to provide support and guidance every step of the way. Contact us now for a comprehensive free consultation, where we will help you choose the right university, prepare your file, and follow up on your application until admission is secured, all without any fees.
In conclusion, studying mechanical engineering in Malaysia is an excellent investment in your future. It combines high-quality, internationally recognized education with competitive tuition and living costs, and countless professional opportunities. This guide has detailed everything you need to know, from the nature and importance of the specialization to the best universities, admission requirements, and costs.
The answer to the question "Is mechanical engineering in demand?" is a definite yes, and it will remain so as long as the world continues to need development and innovation in all industries. Malaysia, with its strong universities and industrial connections, provides you with the ideal platform to launch into this vast field. With the help of the "Pioneer" team, you can turn your ambition into a reality and begin a successful academic and professional journey that places you among the creative engineers around the world.
