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The National University of Malaysia (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia or UKM), founded in 1970, boasts over 30 years of history and is the third public university established by the Malaysian government. It is widely recognized as one of the nation’s prestigious institutions. UKM ranks among the top 20 universities in Asia and offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. The university’s engineering and technology disciplines have consistently been at the forefront of the nation’s universities.
With two campuses, the main campus is situated in Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor, approximately 35 kilometers away from Kuala Lumpur city center, covering an area of 1,096 hectares (16,440 acres). The branch campus is located in Kuala Lumpur and spans 19.9 hectares. UKM currently enrolls over 27,000 students, including more than 19,000 undergraduates. It is one of Malaysia’s three research-intensive universities, along with the University of Malaya and Universiti Sains Malaysia, with over 8,500 postgraduate and doctoral students, accounting for about 30% of the student body.
At present, UKM welcomes over 1,000 international students from around the world pursuing various master’s and doctoral programs in diverse fields. This prestigious national university, renowned both locally and internationally, has become the top choice for aspiring scholars. Initially focused on theoretical knowledge, UKM has gradually emphasized experimental teaching in recent years since being recognized as a research-intensive university. It strives for a balanced development in all aspects, be it pure science or humanities, theory or practice, research or teaching, guided by the belief in “Sustainable Development (Pembangunan Iestari).”
Studying for a Ph.D. at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) offers an enriching and intellectually stimulating academic journey. As one of Malaysia’s premier universities, UKM provides a conducive environment for doctoral students to excel in their chosen fields of study. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, the Ph.D. programs at UKM attract both local and international students seeking to contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
The Ph.D. programs at UKM span various disciplines, including engineering, sciences, social sciences, humanities, and more. Students have the opportunity to work closely with experienced and renowned faculty members who serve as mentors, providing guidance and support throughout their research endeavors. The university’s well-equipped research facilities and libraries offer access to extensive resources, enabling students to conduct in-depth research and scholarly exploration.
As part of UKM’s commitment to academic excellence, Ph.D. candidates are encouraged to publish their research findings in reputable journals and present their work at conferences, fostering professional growth and networking opportunities. The university also organizes seminars and workshops, providing a platform for intellectual exchange and collaboration among students and faculty members.
UKM’s multicultural campus environment and commitment to internationalization create a vibrant and diverse community for Ph.D. students. The university actively promotes academic exchanges and collaborations with universities and institutions worldwide, offering opportunities for international exposure and cross-cultural learning.
With a strong focus on research and scholarship, UKM’s Ph.D. programs prepare graduates to excel in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and various industries. Students emerge from their Ph.D. journey equipped with critical thinking skills, a spirit of inquiry, and the ability to make significant contributions to their respective fields of study.
Benefits of Studying UKM Ph.D. Program
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Our Summer/Winter Session
The Summer/Winter Session is a specially designed study arrangement for the Ph.D. program, aiming to provide students with more flexible learning opportunities. The Ph.D. program typically spans three years, and the first year’s Summer/Winter Session plays a crucial role in the curriculum. During this period, students return to the university and engage in an intensive 5-month course study. This concentrated learning approach helps students rapidly acquire essential knowledge and research skills.
In the subsequent Summer/Winter Sessions of the second and third years, students return to the university to communicate with their supervisors regarding the progress of their research. This arrangement ensures that students maintain close contact with their supervisors, promptly address research challenges, and ensure the smooth progression of their dissertations.
Apart from the dedicated Summer/Winter Sessions, students enjoy more autonomy during other times. Typically, students have the option to return to their home countries to continue their dissertation writing. This flexible arrangement allows students to strike a better balance between their academic tasks and personal life demands, especially beneficial for those with family and work responsibilities.
During the Summer/Winter Session, each supervisor usually conducts face-to-face classes for a small group of 3-4 students, using English as the medium of instruction. This small class teaching model fosters effective communication and interaction between students and supervisors, facilitating a deeper understanding of complex research concepts and methodologies.
The dissertation is written in English, and the defense is also conducted in English. This practice helps cultivate students’ ability to communicate and collaborate in the international academic community, providing them with more opportunities for international academic research and cooperation in the future.
Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, the university will arrange for the official academic credentialing process. Students will receive formal recognition of their degrees after returning to their home countries, supporting their future career development and academic pursuits.
Studying in Malaysia
Living and studying in Malaysia offers an enriching experience with a plethora of advantages for international students. The estimated living expenses of around 1200 MYR per month provide a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Our associated Universities’ dormitory accommodations further enhance the student experience by offering three-bedroom or four-bedroom apartments with shared living rooms, complete kitchens, and private bathrooms. This setup allows students to prepare their meals and manage their daily routines according to their preferences and schedules.
Beyond the practicality of dormitory living, these accommodations are designed to promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The presence of swimming pools and fitness gyms encourages students to stay active and engaged, fostering physical well-being and social interactions. The rental fees are flexible and affordable, catering to various budgetary constraints and room preferences.
For international students, the administrative process is made smoother through the inclusion of the international student visa application and processing fee of RM6800. This support ensures that students can focus on their academic journey without worrying about complex visa procedures. Additionally, Malaysia’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its diverse cultural landscape, provides an ideal environment for international students to adapt quickly, make new friends, and enrich their global perspectives.
Studying in Malaysia offers not just academic growth, but also personal development through cultural exposure and social integration. The university’s commitment to providing comprehensive support services ensures that students receive guidance and assistance whenever needed. Moreover, the country’s strategic location in Southeast Asia presents opportunities for international students to explore neighboring countries during breaks, broadening their horizons and enhancing their international experience.