Malaysia has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students to pursue medical education, in all specialties. Malaysia offers some of the best medical universities in the whole of Southeast Asia, and they are internationally recognized, especially for their nursing programs. It can indeed be a career-defining move to study nursing in Malaysia, with its excellent universities and in-demand programs. Malaysia is also an attractive destination for students who want to pursue a nursing degree. The country offers a range of compelling programs from top medical universities. These universities have high global recognition and accreditation, and they provide excellent facilities, curricula, and faculty for nursing students.
In Malaysia, nursing has developed significantly over the years, especially after the country gained independence in 1957. The Malaysian government has invested heavily in improving the quality and accessibility of health care, as well as promoting the education and training of nurses. Today, Malaysia has a well-established and diverse nursing sector, with various specialties and levels of practice. Moreover, studying nursing in Malaysia can open up many opportunities for graduates, both locally and internationally. Malaysia has a booming healthcare industry, with a growing demand for qualified and skilled nurses. The country also has a strong reputation as a medical tourism hub, attracting patients worldwide who seek quality and affordable treatment. Additionally, Malaysian nurses can benefit from regional and global mobility, as they can work in other countries that have a shortage of nurses, such as Singapore, Australia, Canada, and the UK.
Therefore, there is no better time to study nursing in Malaysia than now. In this article, we will look at some of the best universities that offer nursing programs, along with their tuition fees, entry requirements, and more.
Overview of Study Nursing in Malaysia
| No. of Universities | 20+ |
| No. of Programs | 35+ |
| Degrees Awarded | Diploma in Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing |
| Duration of Study | 3-4 years |
| Tuition Fees | 25,000-30,000 MYR |
Why Study Nursing in Malaysia?
Quality Education: Malaysia has several reputable universities and colleges that offer high-quality nursing programs. Many of these institutions adhere to international standards and provide rigorous training to their students.
International Recognition: Some Malaysian nursing programs are recognized globally. Graduates may find it easier to pursue further studies or seek employment in other countries. Cost of Living: Malaysia is often considered more affordable than many Western countries. The cost of living, including accommodation, food, and transportation, is generally lower, making it a more budget-friendly option for international students.
Diverse Culture: Malaysia is known for its cultural diversity. Studying in such an environment can expose nursing students to different cultures and perspectives, which can be beneficial in a profession that requires interaction with diverse patient populations.
Modern Facilities and Infrastructure: Many universities and colleges in Malaysia have modern facilities and infrastructure, providing students with a conducive learning environment. This includes well-equipped labs, libraries, and technology to enhance the educational experience.
Clinical Exposure: Nursing programs in Malaysia often include practical training and clinical exposure. This hands-on experience is crucial for nursing students to develop the skills necessary for their future careers.
Global Healthcare Perspective: Malaysia’s healthcare system incorporates a mix of Eastern and Western medical practices. Studying nursing in Malaysia can provide students with a unique perspective on healthcare, preparing them to work in diverse healthcare settings.
Internship Opportunities: Some nursing programs in Malaysia may have collaborations with local healthcare institutions, providing students with opportunities for internships and real-world experience.
Career Opportunities: Malaysia has a growing healthcare sector, and there is a demand for qualified healthcare professionals, including nurses. Studying nursing in Malaysia may open up job opportunities within the country or in neighboring regions.
Scholarship Options: Although not all, some Malaysian universities do offer scholarship options for excellent students. There are many private and governmental organizations that also offer options for financial aid.
Top Universities to Study Nursing in Malaysia
International Medical University
The International Medical University (IMU) is a private, English-language, health sciences university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was established in 1992 as the first private medical school in the country and has since expanded to offer over 20 health professional programs at pre-university, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. IMU has a solid global network of over 35 partner universities in Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA, where students can transfer credits or pursue dual degrees. IMU has been awarded the SETARA 2017 – Outstanding under the Mature University category by the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, and has received the self-accreditation status by the Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA). IMU’s nursing program is a four-year Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) degree that prepares graduates to become competent and caring nurses. The program covers the theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, as well as the professional and ethical issues related to the field. Students learn from experienced faculty members and gain hands-on experience in various clinical settings, such as hospitals, community health centers, and nursing homes. The program also provides opportunities for students to participate in research projects, community service activities, and international electives. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to register with the Malaysian Nursing Board and apply for licensure in other countries. IMU’s nursing graduates have a high employability rate and are sought after by employers in the public and private sectors.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing (Hons.) | 4 years | 23,000 MYR |
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AIMST University
AIMST University is a private university in Bedong, Malaysia, established in 2001. It offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs in allied health sciences, dentistry, engineering, medicine, pharmacy, and biotechnology. AIMST University is rated ‘Berdaya Saing (Competitive)’ in the latest SETARA rating and ranked #401-450 in Asian University Rankings 2023. AIMST University’s nursing program consists of a four-year Bachelor in Nursing Science (Honours) and a three-year Diploma in Nursing. Both programs are approved by the Nursing Board of Malaysia and the Ministry of Higher Education. The nursing program aims to train students to be professional and efficient nurses who can provide optimal health care to the community. The program covers various areas of nursing, such as fundamentals of nursing, safety in health care, pharmacology, microbiology, nutrition, pathology, psychiatry, surgery, and more. Theoretical learning is supported by practical experience in hospital and community settings. Students who graduate from the program and pass the board licensure examination will be registered with the Malaysia Nursing Board and fit to practice as registered nurses in the public and private healthcare sector.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing Sciences | 4 years | 25,500 MYR |
| Diploma in Nursing | 3 years | 19,920 MYR |
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University of Malaya
The University of Malaya (UM) is the oldest and highest-ranking Malaysian institution of higher education, founded in 1905 as the King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore. It became the UM in 1949 with the merger of the College of Medicine and Raffles College, and later split into two national universities in 1960, one in Singapore and the other in Kuala Lumpur. The UM derives its name from the term ‘Malaya’ as the country was then known. The UM has a vision to be a center of excellence in nursing education and research and a mission to produce graduates who are competent, ethical, and caring in health care delivery. The UM offers a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) program, which is a four-year program that prepares graduates for the contemporary role of applying medical and scientific nursing foundation knowledge in providing nursing care to patients. The program covers three core sciences: health science, behavioral science, and nursing science. The program was approved by the Ministry of Higher Education in 2010 and accredited by the Malaysian Qualification Agency in 2015. The graduates of the BNSc program will be registered nurses with the Nursing Board of Malaysia and able to practice in various healthcare settings. The program is offered by the Department of Nursing Science, which was established in 1993 as the first nursing unit to recognize the importance of baccalaureate education in nursing in Malaysia.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing | 4 years | 137,478 MYR |
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Mahsa University
MAHSA University is a private medical university in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. It was founded in 2005 by Professor Tan Sri Dr. Hj. Mohamed Haniffa, a renowned clinical practitioner of Medicine. The university offers academic programs in various fields, including Medicine, Biosciences, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Nursing, Business, Finance, Hospitality Management, Information Technology, and Engineering. MAHSA University has full accreditation from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and has been awarded ONLINE UNIVERSITY status by the Ministry of Education Malaysia. MAHSA University’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Nursing is a practical degree program designed for individuals who are committed to the advancement of the health of individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole. The program combines theoretical learning in classrooms and practical training in a simulation ward and skills lab. The curriculum covers various aspects of nursing, such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, medical-surgical, pediatric, mental health, obstetrics, trauma and emergency, critical care and peri-operative, policy and quality management, etc.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| BSc in Nursing (Hons.) | 4 years | 18,100 MYR |
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Lincoln University Malaysia
Lincoln University College is a private institution of higher education that was established in 2002 as Lincoln College and upgraded to Lincoln University College in 2011. It is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Ministry of Higher Education. It has a 5-star ranking by the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia in 2017 and 2019. It was also listed among the top nine Malaysian universities according to the Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings 2019. It offers various programs in medicine, business, science, engineering, and more, with a student population of over 5,000 from more than 50 countries. One of the programs offered by Lincoln University College is the Bachelor of Nursing Sciences (Hons), which aims to provide theoretical and practical knowledge regarding the diverse aspects of nursing and nursing practice. The program includes both classroom learning and clinical training sessions, with experienced teaching faculty and state-of-the-art facilities.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Nursing Sciences (Hons) | 4 years | 95,000 MYR (Total Tuition) |
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Admission Requirements to Study Nursing in Malaysia
Diploma Programs: Typically, candidates need to have completed SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) or an equivalent qualification with a minimum of 5 credits, including credits in Science subjects (e.g., Biology, Chemistry).
Degree Programs:
- Typically, you need a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as A-levels, IB, or other recognized qualifications.
- Some universities may require specific subjects at the high school level, such as Biology and Chemistry.
- As an international student, you need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS (6.0) or TOEFL(80).
- Some universities may require you to take and pass a specific entrance exam related to nursing or healthcare.
- Due to the nature of the nursing profession, you may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure you are fit for clinical practice.
- Nursing programs typically involve clinical placements in healthcare settings. You may need to comply with specific health and safety requirements, including vaccinations and background checks.
- Some nursing programs may require an interview as part of the admission process.
- Applicants are typically required to submit a set of documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, identification documents, and, for international students, a valid passport.
- Some nursing programs may have additional requirements, such as completion of prerequisite courses, letters of recommendation, or a personal statement outlining the candidate’s interest in nursing.
Career Opportunities for Nursing Graduates in Malaysia
Nursing is a noble and rewarding profession that offers a variety of career opportunities for graduates in Malaysia. Nurses can work in different settings, such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, community health centers, and more. Nurses can also specialize in different fields, such as pediatrics, oncology, critical care, mental health, and more. Nurses can also advance their careers by pursuing further studies, such as a degree, a master’s, or a PhD in nursing. They can also obtain professional certifications, such as the Malaysian Nursing Board Certification, to enhance their skills and knowledge. Nurses can also take up leadership roles, such as nurse managers, nurse educators, nurse researchers, or nurse consultants.
According to Payscale, the average salary for a nurse in Malaysia is 30,216 MYR per year. However, this may vary depending on the level of experience, education, and specialization of the nurse. For example, a staff nurse with less than one year of experience can expect to earn 22,069 MYR per year, while a registered nurse with more than five years of experience can earn 101,426 MYR per year. Additionally, nurses may receive bonuses, profit sharing, and other benefits as part of their compensation package.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be a rewarding experience to study nursing in Malaysia, as it offers a high-quality, affordable, diverse, and stimulating nursing education that can prepare students for a successful and fulfilling career. In addition to that, Malaysia opens up a wide range of career opportunities for nursing graduates, as they can work in public or private hospitals, clinics, or research institutions, or pursue further studies or specialization in Malaysia or abroad. However, choosing where to study nursing is also an important decision that can have a significant impact on one’s personal and professional development. Therefore, it is essential to make a balanced and informed decision by considering all the different factors, such as the quality of education, the cost of living, the cultural diversity, the career opportunities, and the personal preferences. By doing so, one can ensure that they make a balanced and informed decision that suits their goals, interests, and aspirations. We understand how hectic the pressure to make the correct decision can be, hence we are here to help you. Feel free to reach out to our admission experts at Gyanberry for guidance. Book your free video call appointment now!
