Best Private Universities in Malaysia for Social Sciences – Local Student Guide 2025

Did you know Malaysia has only 400 licensed clinical psychologists for over 35 million people? 

That’s one for every 87,500 Malaysians, creating a huge demand for social sciences graduates. Beyond psychology, fields like communication, international relations, and early childhood education are also booming, driven by Malaysia’s digital growth and community needs.

For local students, private universities in Malaysia for social sciences offer flexible programs, smaller class sizes, and strong internship opportunities. 

This guide highlights the top choices in 2025, covering programs, fees, scholarships, and job prospects to help you pick the right university for your future.

Why Choose Private Universities for Social Sciences in Malaysia

Looking for a sharper edge in your social sciences degree? Private universities here deliver with smaller class sizes, so you actually get face time with lecturers. These institutions also adapt fast, offering fresh, industry-relevant curriculums while many public ones lag behind.

Smaller Class Sizes: Enjoy better access to lecturers and more interactive learning.

Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Programs are updated quickly to match job market needs in fields like psychology, communications, and media studies.

Stronger Employability Support: Many private universities, like UCSI (100% graduate employability score, 2021–22), offer internships, career guidance, and networking opportunities.

Flexible Financing Options: Scholarships are widely available, and local students can apply for PTPTN loans for MQA-accredited programs.

Stronger Industry Links: Partnerships with organizations give students practical exposure and a head start in their careers.

How We Ranked the Best Social Sciences Programs in Malaysia

To help you make an informed choice, we ranked universities based on these key factors:

This balanced approach ensures the rankings reflect not just academic quality, but also real-world relevance and outcomes for students in Malaysia.

1. Taylor’s University 

If you're weighing your options among private universities in Malaysia for social sciences, Taylor’s University consistently shines. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, Taylor’s placed #135 globally for Social Sciences & Management, and scored within the 201–250 range for Communication & Media Studies, showing solid academic credibility across social disciplines.

That said, Taylor’s really shines with top positions like Top 20 in Hospitality & Leisure Management. In fact, Taylor’s graduate employability rate is a remarkable 99.5%, topping the national average of 92.5%.

2. Sunway University 

Sunway University stands out for its strong programs in Psychology, Communication, and International Relations, many offered as dual-award degrees with Lancaster University, UK. Ranked in the Top 150 for Psychology and Top 300 for Social Sciences in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, Sunway University is a preferred choice for students seeking international exposure.

As part of the Sunway Education Group, the university reinvests surpluses into scholarships and bursaries through the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, offering significant financial support to Malaysian students.

Strong industry partnerships and global collaborations further enhance opportunities for internships and practical training, preparing graduates to grow in both local and international markets.

3. HELP University 

HELP University is widely regarded as a top choice for psychology among Malaysian students. Its Bachelor’s in Psychology boasts one of the largest and most established programs in Southeast Asia, enrolling over 1,200 students.

The university offers access to modern facilities like EEG and Virtual Reality (VR) labs for hands-on learning in biopsychology and neuroscience, along with neuropsychological services at its newly launched Centre for Neuropsychology. HELP’s Psychology programs provide internship placements through more than 300 organizations and active research culture, graduates are well-prepared to enter mental health, corporate, and public sectors 

4. UCSI University 

UCSI University stands out as one of Malaysia’s leading private universities, achieving a 100% graduate employability rate in 2021–22, the highest among private institutions. For students in Psychology, Communication, and other social science fields, this means more than just a degree, it’s a pathway to real-world opportunities and career-ready skills.

UCSI’s standout feature is its Co-Operative Education (Co-Op) Training Programme, which pairs every student with at least two months of industry placement per academic year. That adds up to 6+ months of real-world experience even before you graduate. 

UCSI University has strong partnerships with global companies like Accenture, CIMB, Deloitte, HSBC, Maybank, and many more.  

5. INTI International University 

INTI International University has steadily gained recognition for its competency in Communication and Digital Media programs, offering a curriculum backed by global partnerships and industry-aligned content. In the latest QS World University Rankings, INTI climbed to #516 globally (2025) and is ranked 170th in Asia, earning a notable ‘Rising Star’ distinction.

The university emphasizes industry-embedded learning, forging collaborations that help students secure internships and placements in relevant media and creative sectors. INTI offers market-competitive tuition fees and a range of scholarship options for Malaysian students.

6. SEGi University & Colleges 

SEGi stands out as one of only two Malaysian institutions with the prestigious QS 5-Star Plus rating, earning top scores in areas like teaching, employability, inclusiveness, online learning, internationalisation, and its MBBS programme.

For students passionate about Social Work, Psychology, or Early Childhood Education, SEGi delivers programs designed for real-world relevance. Their Bachelor of Psychology (Hons.) includes modern courses like Cyber-psychology and incorporates the “Industry into Classroom” model. 

SEGi also maintains more accessible tuition compared to top-tier private campuses and continues to support students with scholarships, making it an attractive choice for Malaysians.

7. Monash University Malaysia

Monash Malaysia offers Malaysian students access to an internationally recognized degree at a competitive local fee. Their Psychology program ranks #68 globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, and Communications & Media Studies sits within the QS top 51–100 range. This means you’re getting a degree that carries weight both locally and internationally.

The university offers internships and work placements through its Industry-Based Learning programs and the Career Centre’s Career Gateway portal, connecting you with jobs, internships, and professional networks across industries.

8. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (Putrajaya) is a branch campus of the UK-based university, ranked #287 in the QS World University Rankings 2026. In social sciences, Heriot-Watt has global recognition, with Psychology ranked in the 251–300 band in THE World University Rankings by Subject 2025. The campus offers programs such as Psychology, Business Psychology, and International Business with Social Sciences, and gives students access to its “Go Global” mobility program, allowing them to transfer to the UK or Dubai campus for international exposure.

With a 95% graduate employability rate within six months, Heriot-Watt Malaysia combines global prestige with strong local career outcomes, making it a solid option for students looking to pursue social sciences.

Popular Social Sciences Courses Psychology in Malaysia

Social sciences programs are gaining popularity among local students, with many opting for psychology, communication, public relations, and international relations at top private universities in Malaysia for social sciences. These courses are valued for their strong career prospects and industry relevance.

Notes

• Psychology remains the top choice for many Malaysians, thanks to growing opportunities in counseling, HR, and clinical sectors.
• Media & Communication and PR courses are in demand as industries pivot toward digital marketing and content creation.
• International Relations is ideal for students interested in policy, diplomacy, and global studies, offered at globally ranked private universities.
• ECE programs cost slightly more but lead to high employability, especially in Malaysia’s expanding network of private and international schools.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships for Local Students

How much are tuition fees at private universities in Malaysia for social sciences?

On average, tuition fees for social sciences courses at top private universities in Malaysia range from RM18,000 to RM25,000 per year. Programs like Early Childhood Education or dual-degree pathways may cost more, reaching RM30,000–RM60,000 annually.

What scholarships are available for Malaysian students?

Most private universities offer:

→ Merit-based scholarships: for students with excellent SPM, STPM, or foundation results.

→ Need-based financial aid: for students from lower-income households.

→ Foundation-to-degree discounts: for those progressing from the university’s foundation programs.

How to Choose the Right University for Social Sciences as Local Student

Choosing the right private university in Malaysia for social sciences isn’t just about rankings,  it’s about finding the perfect fit for your career goals and budget. 

Here’s what you should consider:

Match program strengths with your goals: Choose a university known for psychology, communication, public relations, or international relations programs.

Check internship and employability data: Prioritize universities with strong industry links and high graduate placement rates.

Verify accreditation: For psychology programs, make sure they’re accredited if you plan to pursue clinical or counselling pathways.

Balance costs with aid: Compare tuition fees, scholarships, and financing options like PTPTN loans or installment plans.

How can Malaysian students finance their studies?

Students often use:

1. PTPTN Student Loan

PTPTN offers low-interest loans for accredited diploma and degree programs, with full repayment waivers for First Class Honours graduates.

2. EPF Account 2 Withdrawals

Parents or students can use EPF Account II funds to cover tuition, accommodation, and even initial travel expenses.

3. Installment Plans from Universities

Most private universities provide flexible installment plans to make tuition payments more manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which private university in Malaysia is best for psychology?

Taylor’s University and UCSI University are among the best private universities in Malaysia for psychology, offering clinical, counselling, and industrial-organisational tracks. Both are well-recognized locally and provide strong internship pathways.

2. How much does it cost to study social sciences at private universities in Malaysia?

Tuition fees for social sciences programs in Malaysian private universities typically range from RM 14,000 to RM 30,000 per year depending on the institution and program. More affordable options like SEGi start lower, while top-tier universities such as Taylor’s or Sunway are on the higher end.

3. Are psychology degrees from private universities in Malaysia recognized for clinical practice?

Yes, psychology degrees from accredited private universities in Malaysia are recognized. For clinical practice, graduates must pursue further training such as a Master’s in Clinical Psychology that meets the requirements of the Malaysian Ministry of Health.

4. What scholarships are available for Malaysian students in social sciences programs?

Private universities offer a mix of merit-based, need-based, and foundation-linked scholarships for Malaysian students. Many institutions, like Sunway and Taylor’s, provide partial fee waivers, while students can also apply for PTPTN loans to cover remaining costs.

5. Which private universities in Malaysia have the best internship opportunities for social sciences students?

Taylor’s, UCSI, and INTI stand out for strong internship programs in psychology, communication, and media. UCSI’s Co-Op programme requires placements every year, while Taylor’s and INTI partner with top industry players to ensure practical exposure.

What’s Next

Choosing private universities in Malaysia for social sciences is a smart move, with modern programs in psychology, communication, public relations, and international relations. These universities provide strong industry partnerships, internships, and excellent employability outcomes. 

For Malaysian students, options like scholarships and PTPTN loans make studying more affordable. Start exploring the best social sciences programs in Malaysia today and let EasyUni help you compare universities and secure your ideal pathway. Speak to us now!