Study Psychology Course in Malaysia

Best Universities for Psychology in Malaysia 2025

Wondering where to study psychology in Malaysia? The top private universities here offer awesome psychology programs that cover everything from clinical psychology to research. 

Let’s explore the best universities in Malaysia that offer psychology degrees.

What are the Psychology programmes offered in Malaysia?

Wondering which psychology courses to take in Malaysia after SPM or STPM? Whether you’re an SPM leaver looking for a diploma or aiming straight for a bachelor’s degree, Malaysian universities offer a variety of psychology programs for local students. These courses prepare you for career opportunities in Malaysia’s growing mental health and social services sectors.

Diploma in Psychology

Ideal for SPM leavers wanting a practical start in psychology, these diplomas build strong foundations and open pathways to degree programs. 

Explore Top Diploma in Psychology courses in Malaysia 2025.

Bachelor of Psychology (Hons)

For STPM or diploma holders, this degree is the gateway to becoming a registered psychologist in Malaysia, with programs focused on both theory and hands-on skills. 

Explore Top Bachelor of Psychology courses in Malaysia.

Master’s in Clinical Psychology or Counselling

Take your studies further with specialised master’s programs that meet Malaysia’s rising demand for clinical and counselling psychologists. 

Find out more Master’s in Psychology courses in Malaysia.

What are the entry requirements for Psychology programme in Malaysia?

Here are the key entry requirements for psychology programs in Malaysia.

The list below serves as a general guideline and does not generalise the entry requirement of universities as a whole:

How much is the tuition fee to study Psychology courses in Malaysia?

The estimated tuition fees per year for Psychology courses can be seen here:

What is the duration of psychology courses in Malaysia?

The duration of studies will depend on the level of studies and chosen universities. 

Diploma: 2.5 years

Bachelor’s Degree: 3 - 4 years

Master’s Degree: 2 - 3 years

Doctoral Degree: 3 - 8 years

What are the major fields in Psychology?

If you’re planning to study psychology in Malaysia, it’s helpful to know the different fields offered by psychology universities in Malaysia. Each branch opens up unique career paths:

1. Clinical Psychology

This treatment-oriented branch of psychology deals with scientific ways of handling psychological problems. Also known as psychotherapy or counselling psychology, it focuses on the understanding, cure and prevention of psychological issues by psycho-therapeutic treatments.

2. Cognitive Psychology

This branch deals with mental processes, such as thoughts, memory and problem-solving. It involves the perception and problem-solving capabilites of the brain.

3. Social Psychology

Focused on the psychological aspects of individuals within a community environment, social psychology explores characteristics such as interdependence, adaptation, diplomacy, empowerment, social justice, and more. 

4. Forensic Psychology

A forensic psychologist applies psychology to law enforcement, such as the examination of witnesses and the treatment of criminals.

Also known as legal psychology, this branch of psychology involves a thorough understanding of the law, unlike cognitive and clinical psychology.

5. Industrial Psychology

This branch of psychology addresses practical problems in the workplace through the application of psychological principles.

Industrial psychologists/Organisational psychologists are employed by companies to administer tests that measure employee aptitudes or skills in hiring and placement programmes.

6. Health Psychology

This role observes how behaviour, biology and social context influence illness and health. Health psychologists generally work alongside other medical professionals in clinical settings.

7. Experimental Psychology

Experimental psychologists work to understand the underlying causes of behaviour by studying humans and animals. They work mainly in a laboratory environment to investigate the evolutionary significance of different behaviours.

8. Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology attempts to explain the development of humans over time, both in the micro sense (development from babies to mature adults), and macro sense (evolution of culture throughout the years).

Career Opportunities with a Psychology Degree in Malaysia

Psychology graduates are in demand across sectors like healthcare, education, and corporate settings. In fact, revenue in the Mental Health market in Malaysia is projected to reach USD 125.83 million in 2025, highlighting the growing need for mental health professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which university is best for psychology in Malaysia?

The best university for psychology in Malaysia depends on factors such as course offerings and your specific career goals. Top-rated universities like Monash University Malaysia and HELP University are renowned for their psychology programs, offering research opportunities and internship placements. Public universities like the University of Malaya (UM) are also highly respected for their psychology courses and global recognition.

2. Are there scholarships available for psychology courses in Malaysia?

Yes, Malaysian students can access various scholarships for psychology courses. These include merit-based, need-based, and talent-based scholarships. Popular options are government-supported schemes like PTPTN loans and scholarships, JPA scholarships, state-level financial aid, as well as private and corporate scholarships. 

3. What are the subjects that I must take to get into a Psychology course?

You don’t need all science subjects to meet the entry requirement of a Psychology course in Malaysia. Most universities, however, prefer at least one subject out of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. Other preferred subjects include sociology, anthropology, economics, philosophy, and literature.

4. Can I study psychology after SPM?

Yes, you can study psychology after SPM in Malaysia. Many private institutions offer a Diploma in Psychology for SPM leavers with at least 3 credits (including English). This diploma typically takes 2–2.5 years and serves as a pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. If you're planning to pursue psychology in Malaysia, starting with a diploma is a practical and affordable option after SPM.

5. How long does it take to be a Therapist/ Licensed Psychologist?

Becoming a licensed therapist or psychologist in Malaysia typically takes 7–10 years after SPM. You'll need a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (3–4 years), followed by a Master’s in Clinical or Counselling Psychology (2–4 years), plus supervised clinical training before applying for a license.

6. What is the difference between counselling and psychology?

Counselling focuses on helping individuals cope with everyday challenges and emotional issues through talk therapy. Psychology is broader, studying human behaviour and mental processes, and can include clinical diagnosis and treatment. In Malaysia, both counselling and psychology programs are offered at degree level and lead to different career paths.

7. Is a psychology degree recognised by MQA?

Yes, psychology degrees offered by accredited universities in Malaysia are recognised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). Always check the MQA website or consult the university to ensure the programme’s accreditation status.

Wrap Up

In a nutshell, studying psychology in Malaysia opens doors to exciting career paths and quality education from some of the best universities for psychology in Malaysia.

With options for scholarships and financial aid like PTPTN, your education in Malaysia is more accessible than ever.

Still unsure which psychology course or university suits you best?

Talk to our advisor today for free, personalised guidance on choosing the right psychology degree in Malaysia.