About MBBS, MD, BDS, Pharmacy courses in Malaysia
Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Medicine in Malaysia combines quality education with a cost-effective and culturally enriching experience. Malaysia is home to some of the top universities for health and medicine, offering programs accredited by renowned global bodies, ensuring that your degree carries international value.
In Malaysia, you’ll explore subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and public health while also gaining practical experience in hospitals and clinics. Whether you’re interested in health science courses or full-fledged medical degrees, universities in Malaysia offer the perfect blend of theory and real-world application.
Degree programs in Health and Medicine include, but are not defined to nursing, practice of medicine, biomedical research or pharmacology. Medicine degrees allow students to develop the practical and clinical capabilities specific to medicine with the professional and personal aspects to become a doctor. The health degree allows the students to follow their career in health, social care, leisure and education.
For students aiming to study medicine programs in Malaysia, the degrees are recognized worldwide, allowing you to practice or continue education abroad. Plus, the affordable medical degrees in Malaysia is a huge advantage for both local and international students.
Popular Fields in Health and Medicine in Malaysia
A Bachelor's Degree in Health and Medicine typically spans 4 to 5 years, depending on the field of study, and opens doors to a wide range of specialized areas with global recognition. Here are some of the key fields available in Malaysia:
1. Medicine
Medicine focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses. Programs like the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) provide students with comprehensive clinical knowledge, patient care skills, and medical ethics. Malaysian universities offering medical degrees are accredited by global bodies. If you aim to pursue medicine in Malaysia, this undergraduate pathway prepares you for roles such as a general practitioner, specialist, or surgeon.
2. Nursing
The number of registered nurses in Malaysia has increased steadily, reaching over 117,000 in 2022, reflecting the growing demand for healthcare professionals. A degree in nursing in Malaysia trains students in patient care, healthcare ethics, and medical systems. With this increasing need for nurses, graduates have opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers. Specializations like pediatric nursing, geriatric care, and emergency nursing are also available for those looking to advance their careers.
3. Health & Safety
The Health & Safety field focuses on the well-being of individuals in various environments, including workplaces, communities, and public spaces. This interdisciplinary area covers aspects such as occupational health, safety management, environmental health, and risk assessment. A Health & Safety degree in Malaysia equips students with the knowledge to manage safety protocols, prevent accidents, and promote wellness in various industries.
4. Pharmacy
Pharmacy courses in Malaysia focus on the study of medications, pharmacology, and patient care. Graduates can work as licensed pharmacists in hospitals, community pharmacies, or research institutions. If you're considering a career in pharmacy, Malaysia offers top universities with internationally recognized degrees.
5. Dentistry
Dentistry in Malaysia emphasizes oral health, including the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental diseases. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) gain hands-on training in advanced dental practices. With increasing global demand in dental esthetics, dentistry has become a rewarding field for aspiring dental professionals.
Whether you're interested in becoming a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or dentist, Malaysia is the best study destination.
Admission Requirements for Studying Medicine in Malaysia
Academic Requirements
1. Local Students
- STPM: Minimum Grade C in 2 subjects, including Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, and a credit in SPM Mathematics.
- A-Levels: At least 2 'C's in relevant science subjects (e.g., Biology, Chemistry).
- Foundation Programs: Completion of a Foundation in Science program with a CGPA of around 2.5-3.0.
2. International Students
- A-Levels or IB: Minimum of 2 'C's in science subjects (Biology, Chemistry).
- Foundation Programs: Completion of a recognized Foundation program in Science with a CGPA of 2.5-3.0.
English Language Proficiency
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (internet-based).
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0.
- Some universities accept English medium school certificates from specific countries.
Additional Requirements
- Some universities may require an interview, entrance exams (like the UCAT or BMAT), or medical screening.
Dreaming of a career in medicine? Let our advisors help you choose the right program in Malaysia and guide you through the admission process.
Job Opportunities After a Degree in Health and Medicine in Malaysia
Graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Medicine in Malaysia opens up various career paths across the healthcare sector. Here are some common job roles and their estimated salary ranges:
1. Doctor (MD or Equivalent): As a licensed medical professional, doctors are in high demand across Malaysia, especially in hospitals, clinics, and private practice.
Salary Range: RM4,000 - RM12,000 per month
2. Nurse
Nurses are essential to the healthcare system, providing patient care in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
Salary Range: RM2,500 - RM5,500 per month
3. Pharmacist
Pharmacists play a key role in dispensing medications, counseling patients, and ensuring the safe use of pharmaceuticals.
Salary Range: RM3,000 - RM6,500 per month.
4. Healthcare Manager
Healthcare managers oversee the administration and operations of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
Salary Range: RM4,500 - RM8,000 per month
5. Public Health Specialist
Public health professionals focus on community health initiatives, disease prevention, and health education.
Salary Range: RM3,000 - RM7,000 per month.
6. Biomedical Scientist
Biomedical scientists are involved in laboratory research, disease diagnosis, and the development of medical treatments.
Salary Range: RM3,500 - RM6,500 per month.
Further Education Pathways After a Degree in Health and Medicine in Malaysia
Master’s in Public Health (MPH): Focuses on health policy, disease prevention, and community health.
Duration: 1-2 years.
Master’s in Healthcare Management: Prepares for leadership roles in healthcare facilities.
Duration: 1-2 years.
Medical Specializations: After completing a medical degree, you can specialize in fields like pediatrics, surgery, or cardiology.
Duration: 3-7 years.
Doctor of Medicine (MD): Advanced training for clinical practice and medical research.
Duration: 4-5 years.
PhD in Biomedical Sciences: Ideal for those interested in medical research or teaching.
Duration: 3-5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which university is best for Health and Medicine in Malaysia?
When considering the best universities for medicine in Malaysia, several institutions stand out for their excellent programs and global recognition. University of Cyberjaya (UoC) offers strong medical courses with extensive clinical training. Management & Science University (MSU), ranked 580 in the QS World University Rankings, is known for its comprehensive healthcare degrees. UCSI University, ranked 265 globally, provides top-notch medical education with a focus on real-world experience. Sunway University, ranked 539 in the QS World University Rankings, offers well-rounded health science programs with international recognition.
2. How much does it cost to study Medicine in Malaysia?
The cost of studying Medicine in Malaysia varies depending on the university and program. On average, tuition fees for a Bachelor's in Medicine range from RM 150,000 to RM 500,000 for the entire course. Private universities may charge higher fees, while public universities tend to be more affordable.
3. Can I study Health and Medicine in Malaysia as an international student?
Yes, international students can study Health and Medicine in Malaysia. Many universities in Malaysia offer Bachelor's degrees in Medicine, Health Sciences, Nursing, and Pharmacy to international students. The entry requirements may vary depending on the program, but generally, students need to meet specific academic qualifications and English language proficiency standards.
4. What scholarships are available for medical degrees in Malaysia?
There are various scholarships available for medical degrees in Malaysia, offered by universities, government agencies, and private organizations. These scholarships are designed to help students pursue their studies in fields like Medicine, Health Sciences, Nursing, and Pharmacy. Students can explore merit-based, need-based, and specialized scholarships based on academic performance, financial need, or intended career path in healthcare.
5. What is the difference between MBBS and MD in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) and MD (Doctor of Medicine) are both medical degrees, but they differ in terms of the path to becoming a doctor. MBBS is typically the undergraduate medical degree, while MD is often pursued as a postgraduate qualification after completing an MBBS program. To study medicine in Malaysia, both options provide strong foundations for a successful medical career.
There are a lot of options open to graduates of the courses in Health and Medicine Degree courses in Malaysia. These are some of the possibilities: