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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.
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
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.
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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.