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UNIVERSITY SAINS MALAYSIA (USM)

Established in 1969 as the second university in Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has emerged as a prominent science-focused institution. Boasting a sizable student body of approximately 30,000 undergraduates and postgraduates, it stands as one of the largest universities in the nation.

USM offers a diverse array of courses encompassing various scientific disciplines, such as natural sciences, medical sciences, building sciences, and technology. Additionally, the university provides educational opportunities in arts, humanities, and education.

Complementing its three academic campuses, USM takes pride in its 17 dedicated research centers, which cater to specialized fields like archaeology, policy research, and international studies.

Deviating from the conventional faculty system, USM adopts a distinctive ‘school’ system supported by a plethora of extracurricular activities. This approach fosters an interdisciplinary and holistic learning experience, producing graduates equipped with versatile skills.

The university places a strong emphasis on accessible education, exemplified by its School of Distance Learning established in 1971. This initiative benefits those employed full-time, offering bachelor programs in Arts, Science, Social Science, and Management.

Furthermore, USM demonstrates its commitment to widening participation with programs like the Bottom 40% Households initiative, which supports economically disadvantaged students in their pursuit of higher education.

USM prioritizes student well-being, offering essential services such as counseling and motivational guidance. The majority of its students opt to reside in the student village, featuring halls of residence, cultural halls, and sports facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, fostering a vibrant and supportive campus environment.

Study Ph.D. at USM

Since its inception, University Sains Malaysia (USM) has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to higher education, notably deviating from the conventional faculty system in favor of a more comprehensive School system. This innovative approach involves grouping related subjects into schools of study, enabling a well-organized curriculum that allows students to specialize in their chosen fields.

USM was entrusted with a significant mandate from the outset, encompassing the provision, promotion, and development of higher education in various disciplines, including Natural Sciences, Applied Sciences, Medical and Health Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Building Sciences & Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education. Additionally, the university was tasked with fostering research, advancing knowledge, and disseminating expertise in these fields.

Recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education as a Research Intensive University among the four Higher Institutions of Learning, USM provides an enriching environment for both students and faculty to engage in educational and research pursuits. A vital aspect in achieving academic excellence at USM is the establishment of research centers and units. This strategic approach ensures that both research and teaching remain responsive to societal demands, offering ample opportunities for integration and networking within these centers and units.

Benefits of Studying USM Ph.D. Program

  • Full-time Ph.D. programs with global recognition
  • Eligible for CSCSE certification upon returning to China
  • Enjoy benefits equivalent to overseas students, including points for permanent residency and career advancement
  • Affordable tuition fees with no financial guarantees are required
  • Malaysia offers a low cost of living with moderate prices
  • A three-year program, allowing students to study without leaving their jobs
  • Online courses available during the pandemic for domestic students
  • On-campus service teams for project classes, including Chinese teaching assistants
  • Assistance provided from enrollment to graduation for learning and living needs

Admission Requirements

1, Graduates with master’s degrees are recognized by the Chinese Ministry of Education. (For Chinese Students)
2, Internationally recognized degrees accepted by the university.
3, Demonstrated strong research capabilities.
4, English language proficiency equivalent to or exceeding IELTS 5.0, TOEFL exceeding 35, PTE exceeding 36, CAE/CPE exceeding 154.
5, All applicants must pass the admission qualification review conducted by USM.

Graduation Requirements

  • Fulfill the minimum candidacy qualification period.
  • Successfully complete any prerequisite courses determined by the school/center/institute.
  • Take the mandatory course “Malay Language 1”- LKM 100 for all international students. Must obtain a grade of C before graduation.
  • Meet the following publication requirements: 1 core journal paper or 2 papers in university/regular journals.
  • Submit a thesis of approximately 80,000 words and participate in the graduation defence.

We Make the Ph.D. Application Process Completely Stress-Free

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Our Application Process for Ph.D. Studies in Malaysia

Philosophy in ManagementThe Ph.D. Program in Philosophy in Management offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that delves into various key subjects. Students will explore advanced topics in management, including organizational behavior, leadership, strategic management, human resource management, business ethics, decision-making processes, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the program emphasizes research methodologies, critical thinking, and theoretical frameworks in the context of management philosophy. Through in-depth study and research, students will develop the expertise and skills necessary to make significant contributions to the field of management and its philosophical underpinnings.
Economics and PhilosophyThe Ph.D. Program in Economics and Philosophy provides an interdisciplinary and intellectually stimulating journey into the realms of economics and philosophy. Students will explore a wide range of subjects, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, economic theory, political economy, ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology. The program encourages critical thinking, rigorous research, and the application of philosophical principles to economic analysis. Graduates will emerge with a profound understanding of the complex interplay between economic theories and philosophical frameworks, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to both fields and tackle real-world challenges at the intersection of economics and philosophy.
Educational PhilosophyThe Ph.D. Program in Educational Philosophy offers a profound exploration of the intersection between education and philosophy. Students will delve into various subjects, such as educational ethics, educational theories, curriculum development, pedagogical approaches, and the philosophical foundations of education. This program encourages critical thinking, research, and the application of philosophical concepts to educational practices. Through extensive study and research, students will gain the expertise to address complex educational issues and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in both education and philosophy. Graduates will be equipped to become influential scholars and leaders in the field of educational philosophy, making a significant impact on educational policies, practices, and theories.

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01-Documentation
Fill out the university application form and health declaration formPrepare the required documents based on the checklist providedScan a copy of your passport full page and provide an electronic version of a two-inch white background photoPrepare a personal resume and a research plan in English. Optionally, include a section for expert guidance if desired
02-Application
Our team will assess the application materials for completeness and accuracy Study abroad experts will review the application materials to ensure they are complete and make any necessary additions The university will then conduct a thorough review of the application materials Language training and score improvement services are available as optional resources to enhance language proficiency
03-Preparation
Received university’s admission letterAchieved EMGS score of 70% or above, applying for single-entry visaPre-arrival training programOptional: English training and flight ticket arrangements
04-Arrival
We arrange airport pickup and accommodation before the students’ arrivalUpon landing, teachers assist students with immigration and other formalities.The airport pickup team maintains close communication with students to address any obstaclesAfter exiting the airport, students board a dedicated vehicle under the guidance of the reception teamOur teachers accompany each student to ensure a safe arrival at their accommodation
05-School Registration
School registrationReceive school T-shirtObtain student identification documentsTeachers assist with the enrollment proceduresFamiliarize with the surrounding school environmentEnter the classroom and begin the journey of studying in Malaysia
06-Examination
Complete the health declaration formGo to the designated clinic for a medical examinationSubmit the required documents to the school after the medical examinationProceed to apply for the official student visa
07-Graduation
Successfully complete 2-3 offline courses as requiredComplete a 80,000-word in English dissertationSuccessfully defend the dissertation during the graduation defenseReceive professional course guidance servicesOptional: Avail professional thesis guidance and proofreading servicesOptional: Avail professional defense guidance services

Pick the Subjects That Best Fit Your Interests and Goals

Embark on Your Ph.D. Journey with Us

Ph.D. Program: Philosophy in Management

The topics covered in the field of management include:

Management encompasses a diverse range of subjects that play crucial roles in the successful operation of organizations. Human Resource Management focuses on optimizing the workforce, covering recruitment, training, and employee relations. Health and Safety Management ensures a safe working environment. Training and Development enhance employees’ skills and knowledge. Organizational Behavior examines the dynamics of individual and group behavior within a company. Leadership explores effective leadership strategies. Employee Work Values/Performance considers factors impacting motivation and productivity. Ethical Management emphasizes ethical practices in decision-making. Learning Organizations promote continuous learning and adaptation. Contemporary Management Issues address current challenges. Quality Management emphasizes maintaining high standards. Operations Management optimizes processes. Business Law covers legal aspects. Finance: Investment explores financial decision-making. Performance Measurement evaluates organizational performance. Corporate Governance ensures effective direction and control. International Business tackles global operations. Behavioral Finance combines finance and psychology. Accounting handles financial recording and analysis. Virtual Organizations/Society considers digital environments’ impact. Microfinance supports underserved markets. Technology and Innovation Management manages technological advancements. Marketing identifies and satisfies customer needs. International Marketing: Political Marketing: Service Marketing delves into diverse marketing contexts. Consumer Behavior explores decision-making and responses to marketing strategies.

Subject Requirements

Study Duration: 3 Years

Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:

  1. Hold a research-based master’s degree.
  2. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of 3.00/4 or higher.
  3. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of 2.50-2.99/4, along with additional requirements.
  4. Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of at least 3.67/4 (for direct Ph.D. admission).

Ph.D. Program: Economics and Philosophy

The research directions for the Doctor of Philosophy in Economics and Philosophy encompass a wide range of topics:

As a Ph.D. student in the Economics and Philosophy program, you will explore a diverse array of research topics such as Economics, Finance, International Economics, Economic Development, Agricultural Economics, Labor Economics, Econometrics, Islamic Economics, Economic Theory, Environmental Economics, Industrial Economics, Public Finance/Public Sector Economics, and Technology Transfer. This comprehensive curriculum allows you to conduct independent studies and contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge in both economics and philosophy. Throughout your journey, experienced faculty members will guide and support your research endeavors, leading you toward a comprehensive doctoral dissertation that brings valuable insights to the fields of economics and philosophy.

Subject Requirements

Study Duration: 3 Years

Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:

  1. Hold a research-based master’s degree.
  2. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of 3.00/4 or higher.
  3. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of 2.50-2.99/4, along with additional requirements.
  4. Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of at least 3.67/4 (for direct Ph.D. admission).

Ph.D. Program: Educational Philosophy

The topics covered in the field of management include:

The Ph.D. program offers a diverse range of specializations, encompassing various fields. These include Remote Education with a focus on communication technology in distance learning, open learning, multimedia applications for self-teaching, and remote education support systems. Language Studies cover TESOL teaching, Malay language, science and mathematics education, biology, physics, mathematics education, and psychometrics. Additionally, the program delves into Psychometrics and Educational Assessment, exploring research methods, education for sustainable development, renewable energy, environmental education, and humanities education. Geography Education includes teaching methods, environmental education, geographic information systems, and information and communication technology. Finally, TESOL Studies comprise English teaching, adult and distance education, educational psychology, online English teaching, linguistics, and literature education for English learners.

Subject Requirements

Study Duration: 3 Years

Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:

  1. Hold a research-based master’s degree.
  2. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of 3.00/4 or higher.
  3. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of 2.50-2.99/4, along with additional requirements.
  4. Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a CGPA of at least 3.67/4 (for direct Ph.D. admission).

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.