Embark on the journey to study pharmacy in Malaysia where world-class education meets cultural diversity. There are over 22 renowned, top-tier, accredited universities in Malaysia that offer courses in pharmacy for international students seeking a comprehensive and English-medium curriculum. Among the best institutions are Monash University Malaysia, Taylor’s University, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, International Medical University, Universiti Malaya, etc., recognized for their world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. These universities are accredited by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia. This accreditation is of utmost importance since graduates with degrees without accreditation will not be allowed to register as pharmacists after graduation and will not be able to work as pharmacists in Malaysia.
These institutions provide comprehensive pharmacy programs that seamlessly integrate theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing students for dynamic careers in the rapidly evolving field of pharmacy.
Overview of Study Pharmacy in Malaysia
| Number of universities | ~22 (source: Pharmacy Board Malaysia) |
| University types | Public, private |
| Course levels | Undergraduate and postgraduate |
| Duration | 4 years (undergraduate) and 2 years (postgraduate) |
| Annual tuition fees for international students | RM 50,000 to 60,000 (undergraduate) and RM 25,000 to 55,000 (postgraduate) |
Why Study Pharmacy in Malaysia?
Academic excellence: Malaysian pharmacy universities are renowned for their academic excellence and commitment to providing students with a world-class education. Their faculty members are experts in their fields and are highly dedicated to teaching.
Programs at all levels: Pharmacy institutions in the country offer courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.
Research opportunities: Students enrolled in Malaysian pharmacy schools will have the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research to gain hands-on experience.
English-taught programs: There are over 20 pharmacy universities in Malaysia that offer courses in English. This ensures a worldwide learning environment for international students without any language barrier.
Cost of living: Malaysia has a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries. This is advantageous for international students, as living expenses become more manageable.
Beautiful learning environment: Malaysia is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, fascinating cultures, and cities. Studying in such a location will create an enjoyable learning environment. The vibrant campus culture in Malaysia offers students a chance to participate in extracurricular activities, clubs, and events that align with their interests and studies.
State-of-the-art facilities: Most pharmacy schools in Malaysia are equipped with modern facilities and campuses for students including libraries, laboratories, and specialized study spaces. Students are trained with the newest tools and techniques to enhance the learning experience.
Employment opportunities: As a pharmacist, you will find ample employment opportunities in the rapidly growing healthcare sector in Malaysia. Students have access to career development resources, internships, and networking opportunities that will help them achieve their professional goals.
Global perspective: Study abroad options, global initiatives, and a range of cultural exchanges will broaden your perspective and provide you the chance to network with students around the globe.
Popular Pharmacy Universities in Malaysia
Monash University Malaysia
Monash University in Malaysia is a division of Monash University, the biggest university in Australia and one of the eight members of the Australian Group of Eight. Founded in 1998, it is the first campus of a foreign institution in Malaysia. Monash University Malaysia is home to 9,300 students from more than 79 countries. It is ranked 42 in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
Monash University is ranked 2nd in the world (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Pharmacy and Pharmacology). The Bachelor of Pharmacy at Monash University Malaysia is divided into 6 themes and includes coursework in applied pharmaceutical sciences, clinical and therapeutic sciences, and pharmacy practice. It is accredited both by the Australian Pharmacy Council and the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia. The students will also get a chance to study at the Parkville campus in Australia at the end of their first or second year.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years | RM 65,760 |
Taylor’s University
This private university in Malaysia is situated in Subang Jaya and also has a Lakeside Campus in Bandar Sunway. It is Malaysia’s top private university with a global ranking of 284 (QS World University Rankings 2024). It was originally established in 1969 as a college and in 2010 it received university status. Taylor’s University offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, computing, hospitality, law, and more.
Taylor’s School of Pharmacy provides fully accredited programs in pharmacy: Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and Master of Philosophy (Pharmacy) programs. Recently the School of Pharmacy topped at position 300 in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Pharmacy and Pharmacology.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years | RM 53,546 |
| Master of Philosophy (Pharmacy) | 2 years | RM 25,847 |
University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus
It is a branch campus of the University of Nottingham, a private university in the UK. It is located in Selangor, Malaysia, and was founded in 2000. The School of Pharmacy at the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus is ranked 8th in the world (QS ranking: Pharmacy and pharmacology). It came into existence in 2005 and offers two courses: Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and Master of Pharmacy (Honours).
The BPharm course is accredited by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia and is taught entirely at the Malaysia campus. Whereas the MPharm degree is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (UK) and recognized by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia. The MPharm students spend the first two years at the Malaysia campus and the last 2 years at the UK campus. Although called a Master of Pharmacy, it is an undergraduate degree and is equivalent to a bachelor’s.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years | RM 60,000 |
| Master of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years (2 years in Malaysia and 2 years in the UK) | RM 61,000 |
International Medical University
International Medical University or IMU is a private health sciences university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was founded in 1992 and is primarily focused on medical research and education, with a strong global focus. The university offers the widest range of healthcare programs at pre-university, undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It is composed of 5 schools and two centers.
The School of Pharmacy at IMU started offering its undergraduate courses in 2004. It also offers postgraduate research-based and coursework-based courses in disciplines such as clinical research, biomedical science, and public health.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) | 4 years | RM 54,000 |
University of Malaya
The Universiti Malaya or the University of Malaya is a public institution located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is the top school in the country with a global ranking of 65 (QS World University Rankings 2024). The institution was founded in 1949 and is one of the oldest universities in the country. It offers over 200 programs in a spectrum of disciplines like science, arts, and humanities. There are 4,500 international students enrolled in from more than 90 countries. The university offers pharmacy courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
| Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) | 4 years | RM 60,000 |
| Master in Pharmaceutical Legislation and Regulatory Control | 1.5 years | RM 54,200 |
| Master of Pharmaceutical Science in Drug Discovery and Development | 1.5 years | RM 55,400 |
Admission Requirements to Study Pharmacy in Malaysia
Undergraduate
High school education: The minimum eligibility to study an undergraduate pharmacy course in Malaysia is to have a high school diploma or pre-university matriculation. Applicants must have a strong background in science subjects, like chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics. The most commonly accepted qualifications are A-levels (grades BBB), IB (30 points), HSC, ATAR (80-86), UEC, etc.
English language proficiency: Since the programs are taught in English, international students must have a good command of English. They must produce an English proficiency score in order to be eligible for admission. The most commonly accepted exams include IELTS (5.5-6.0), TOEFL Internet-based (60), Cambridge English (180), Pearson Test of English (60), etc.
Interview or test: Applicants are also required to pass a personal interview depending on the university they are applying to.
Additional requirements: Students must hold a valid student visa to be admitted. They must also provide proof of financial support to cover both tuition fees and living expenses for pharmacy courses in Malaysia.
Postgraduate
Undergraduate education: To be eligible for postgraduate courses in pharmacy in Malaysia, the applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy with a minimum CGPA of 2.5-3.0.
English language proficiency: International students must produce an English proficiency score to be eligible for admission. The most commonly accepted exams include IELTS (6.0), TOEFL Internet-based (60), Cambridge English (180), Pearson Test of English (60), etc.
Interview or test: Applicants are also required to pass a personal interview depending on the university they are applying to.
Additional requirements: Students must hold a valid student visa to be admitted. They must also provide proof of financial support to cover both tuition fees and living expenses for pharmacy courses in Malaysia.
Career Opportunities
Pharmacy is a regulated profession in the country, hence graduates must register themselves with the Pharmacy Board, Ministry of Health, Malaysia upon completion of their studies. To be eligible to register, they must pass the forensic pharmacy examination conducted by the board. They must also undergo a 12-month-long housemanship or pupilage in a community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, or pharmaceutical factory approved by the board. Once registered, the pharmacist will receive a license to practice.
As a registered pharmacist in Malaysia, graduates can expect to find employment in government as well as private sectors. They can work as community and hospital pharmacists and in the pharmaceutical industry. Pursuing a career in drug discovery and development, clinical trials, marketing, quality assurance, and medicine regulation is also an option. Furthermore, graduates have the choice to find employment in academia, work as medical journalists or scientific writers, or continue their studies for additional master’s and doctorate qualifications. The average salary of pharmacists in Malaysia is RM 56,074 per year (source: Indeed).
Suggested reading: Study Medicine in Malaysia, Job Opportunities After Medical Studies in Malaysia, Scholarships to Study Medicine in Malaysia, Best Medical Universities in Malaysia, Cost of Medical Studies in Malaysia, Admission and Eligibility for Medical Studies in Malaysia, Physiotherapy Courses in Malaysia for Foreign Students
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing to study pharmacy in Malaysia as an international student opens doors to a world-class education marked by excellence and diversity. Top pharmacy colleges in Malaysia offer groundbreaking resources and industry ties to make sure you are ready for a prosperous career in the pharmaceutical industry. The exposure to many cultures and global perspectives will help you stand out in the highly competitive pharmacy sector. Make Malaysia your academic destination for an enriching journey toward professional success. Visit Gyanberry to find out more. Their counselors are well-versed in offering the best guidance to assist students in selecting the ideal college and course that suits their needs. You can schedule a free video session or fill out the form to get in touch with one of our expert counselors.
