MBA Courses in Malaysia

Are you on the lookout for higher institutions to further your MBA studies in Malaysia? Look no more! Here, we've gathered a list of some of Malaysia's private and public universities that offer MBA programs.

Pursuing an MBA in Malaysia allows students the flexibility to study at their own pace, thanks to the accommodating schedules offered by Malaysia's esteemed universities. Whether you prefer full-time or part-time basis, there's something to suit your needs.

Additionally, there are also alternative pathways available such as executive and accelerated MBA courses, providing you with the opportunity to tailor your studies to fit your schedule and preferences.

Throughout your MBA journey, you'll engage in practical discussions on real-world scenarios and delve into subjects like financial accounting, management accounting, marketing, economics, and more. With the flexibility to pursue your MBA in Malaysia, isn't this an excellent chance to advance your career?

Furthermore, in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has one of the best education systems. Many of Malaysia's universities are internationally recognized as well.

So, are you ready to unlock your business potential right here in Malaysia? Let's explore more about MBA in the country!

MBA Schools in Malaysia to consider

Malaysia is home to a number of prestigious universities that offer top MBA courses. If you're ready to kick off your career field into another level, MBA is never the wrong choice for you.

Ready to get started? Below are universities to take your MBA.

1. Asia School of Business (ASB)

The Asia School of Business (ASB) stands out as one of the top-tier institutions for management education in the bustling business environment of Asia.

Located in Kuala Lumpur, ASB is a collaborative effort between the MIT Sloan School of Management and Bank Negara Malaysia. The university offers Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and Executive MBA program. 

• Duration: 1 year (MBA) & 1 year 4 months (EMBA) 
• Estimated fees: RM150,000 - RM180,000 (tuition), RM10,000 (enrollment) 

Entry requirements for MBA:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum 2.5 CGPA on a 4.0 scale
• At least 2 years of post-graduation work experience
• Proof of English proficiency

Entry requirements for EMBA:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum 2.5 CGPA on a 4.0 scale
• Approximately 8 years or more work experience
• Proof of English proficiency
• Employed full time

2. Asia Pacific University (APU) 

The Asia Pacific University (APU), located in Kuala Lumpur, offers a comprehensive Master of Business Administration (MBA) program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in today's dynamic business environment. 

For a truly international learning experience, students can consider the APU-DMU Dual Degree Scheme. 

This program allows them to earn two degrees – one from APU and another from De Montfort University (DMU) in the UK – upon graduation.

• Duration: 1 year (full time), 2-3 years (part time)
• Estimated fees: RM 34, 800 
• Entry requirements: 

  Bachelor's degree in related fields, min. CGPA 2.00 (accepted by the Senate), or min CGPA 2.00 (subject to rigorous internal assessment)

  OR 

  Bachelore's degree in non-related fields, min. CGPA 2.00 accepted by the Senate, with relevant working experience (subject to a rigorous internal assessment) or without working experience (subject to passing pre-requisite courses)

3. Management and Science University (MSU)

Management and Science University (MSU) offers a MBA program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to become future leaders in the global business landscape. 

Their curriculum emphasizes practical applications, combining theoretical knowledge with real-world case studies, industry exposure, and networking opportunities for the students.

• Duration: 1.5 - 5 years
• Estimated fees: RM 18,200
• Entry requirements: A Bachelor's degree recognized by the HEP Senate, min. CGPA of 2.50 or its equivalent, or min. CGPA 2.50 with minimum of 5 years of working experience in relevant field. 

4. Taylor's University

Taylor's University offers a well-regarded MBA program designed to empower students to excel in today's dynamic business world. 

Their curriculum combines a strong foundation in business theory with a focus on practical application, ensuring the students graduate with the skills and knowledge to make a real impact.

They will also gain practical experience through case studies, industry projects, and potential international exposure, ensuring they graduate with a well-rounded skill set. 

• Duration: 1 (full time), 2-5 years (part time)
• Intakes: February, April, June, September, and November 
• Estimated fees: RM 52,920
• Entry requirements: Bachelor's degree in the fields or related fields with CGPA above 2.75, or CGPA between 2.75 and 2.50 with 2 years of working experience and an interview, or CGPA less than 2.50 with 5 years of working experience, or APEL in accordance to MQA requirement with 2 years managerial/supervisory experience

5. University of Nottingham Malaysia

The University of Nottingham Malaysia offers an esteemed MBA program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in today's dynamic business world. 

A key advantage of this program is its international exposure. Students have the opportunity to take up to two modules at the University's Singapore partner institution, PSB Academy. 

Additionally, international study tours connect students with global companies and executives, providing invaluable insights into international business practices.

• Duration: 1 (full time), 2 - 4 years (part time)
• Intakes: September (full time) & February, June, September, and November (part time)
• Estimated fees: RM 62,600
• Entry requirements: A relevant second class honours degree (or international equivalent), or relevant professional qualification deemed equivalent to a first degree with honours, plus at least 3 (or more years) of full-time management or leadership work experience. 

6. UCSI University

The UCSI University's MBA curriculum incorporates a practical approach, equipping students with the tools and frameworks needed to excel in today's business landscape. 

A unique feature is the elective in Blue Ocean Strategy, the only one of its kind offered by a Malaysia's university. This approach helps students develop innovative strategies to create uncontested market space.

• Duration: Minimum 1 year

• Intakes: January, May and September

• Estimated fees: RM36,500 

• Entry requirements: A bachelor's degeree in the field or related field, min CGPA of 2.50, equivalent (accepted by the HEP Senate), or min. CGPA of 2.00 (subject to rigorous internal assessment).

7. Selangor Business School (SBS)

The Selangor Business School (SBS) in Malaysia offers a career-focused MBA program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the competitive world of business. 

The program emphasizes a well-rounded approach, combining core business disciplines like strategic management, managerial economics, and organizational behavior with a focus on developing valuable transferable skills. 

• Duration: 1.5 - 3 years (full time), 2-4 years (part time)

• Intakes: April, August, and November

• Estimated fees: RM 17,325 

• Entry requirements: Bachelor's degree or equivalent with CGPA 2.50 and above, or CGPA below 2.50 with 5 years of working exerience, or Diploma with Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL)

8. Putra Business School (PBS)

Putra Business School (PBS) offers a comprehensive MBA program designed to equip students with the expertise to thrive in today's dynamic business landscape.  

Students can choose from a variety of specializations, including Corporate Governance, Human Potential Management, Marketing, Finance, and International Business.

PBS offers both full-time and open and distance learning (ODL) options for its MBA program, catering to the needs of students with varying schedules and commitments. 

• Duration: 1-2 years (full time), 2-4 years (part time)

• Intakes: January, May and September

• Estimated fees: RM31,500 (full time) or RM33,500 (part time) 

• Entry requirements: A Bachelor's degree in related fields, min CGPA of 2.50 (accepted by the HEP Senate), or min CGPA 2.00 (subject to rigorous internal assessment), or a Bachelor's degree in non-related fields, min CGPA of 2.00 (as accepted by the HEP Senate) and without relevant working experience

9. University of Malaya (UM) 

Ranked among Malaysia's top universities, MBA at Universiti Malaya (UM) designed to equip students for leadership roles across diverse sectors.  

The program cultivates a strong foundation in business fundamentals, encompassing finance, accounting, marketing, and management.

The program emphasizes practical application, potentially incorporating industry internships or consultancy projects to bridge the gap between theory and practice. 

For added convenience, the program features classes from 6.30 pm until 9.30 pm, allowing students to balance their academic pursuits with their current commitments while still receiving quality teaching focused on student participation. 

• Duration: 1.5 - 4 years 

• Intakes: October and March

• Estimated fees: RM28,000

• Entry requirements: A Bachelor's degree in any field, min CGPA 3.00, a minimum 3 years full-time working experience after completing first degree, and pass the interview by the faculty. 

10. ⁠Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)

The MBA program at Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in today's competitive business environment. 

The program provides a comprehensive foundation in core business disciplines, including finance, marketing, human resources, and strategy.

Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through case studies and practical application of theoretical concepts. 

Some specializations, like the MBA for Leaders program,  may even incorporate industry engagement and experiential learning to provide a well-rounded understanding of current industry challenges and technological advancements.

• Duration: 1-3 years 

• Intakes: January, July, and September

• Estimated fees: RM1,348 (registration fees), RM34,000 (tuition fees)

• Entry requirements: 

  A Bachelor's degree in related fields, min CGPA 2.50 (accepted by the senate) or min CGPA 2.00 (subject to a rigorous internal assessment).

  OR

  A Bachelor's degree in non-related fields, min CGPA 2.00, accepted by the senate, with relevant working experience (subjecct to rigorous internal assessment), or without relevant working experience (subject to passing pre-requisite courses)

11. Multimedia University (MMU) 

The MBA program at Multimedia University (MMU) is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in today's ever-evolving business environment. 

The university offers two types of MBA, which are Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Coursework and Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) - Online Distance Learning. 

• Duration: 2-5 years (MBA) and 1-3 years (EMBA, full time), 2-5 (EMBA part time)

• Intakes: March, July, and October 

• Estimated fees: RM21,000

• Entry requirements: 

  A Bachelor's degree in related fields, min CGPA 2.50 (accepted by the senate) or min CGPA 2.00 (subject to rigorous internal assessment) 

  OR

  A bachelor's degree in non-related fields, min CGPA 2.00 with relevant working experience (subject to rigorous internal assessment) or without working experience (subject to passing pre-requisite courses) 

12. SEGi University 

At SEGi University, students have the option to choose from various specialized MBA programs such as Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, General Management, and Global Business.

These programs adopt a practical approach, allowing students to tackle real-world business challenges through hands-on projects and detailed case studies.

Furthermore, students can also opt for an MBA program offered in collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire, UK.

SEGi University's MBA program is tailored to accommodate the needs of working professionals, offering both full-time and part-time study options for added flexibility in managing current commitments.

• Duration: 1 year 

• Intakes: January, May and September 

• Estimated fees: RM32,200

• Entry requirements: A Bachelor's degree with a min CGPA of 2.50 and IELTS 6.0

What are the entry requirements to MBA in Malaysia?

Guidelines for admittance into an MBA program in Malaysia vary widely from institution to institution. Usually, you would have to hold an undergraduate Bachelor’s degree or any equivalent qualification in a subject area that is relevant to the MBA course you are applying for. Other entry requirements may touch on:

• CGPA (typically a minimum of 2.75 out of 4.00)

• Working experience (most universities set this at a minimum of 2 years)

• Passing of English language proficiency exams (such as TOEFL and IELTS)

• Age (some universities set a minimum age requirement)

• Interview 

How much does MBA cost in Malaysia?

To give you a general idea, here is the MBA fee range in Malaysia based on the type of institution:

• Public university: RM 20,000 – RM 31,000
• Private university: RM 30,000 – RM 265,000

You will find that universities charge differently for their MBA courses, depending on what type of institutions they are. Other factors are the types of courses offered and the modules. The prestige of the programme also influences the cost of the MBA.

It all depends on what you want to study and which university and course fit you best. You can use this website to browse through the various MBA courses available in Malaysia and find out the exact tuition fees for each of them. Keep in mind that there may be additional costs for your course, including course materials and access to institution facilities.

There are also branches of high-ranking foreign universities in Malaysia. These institutions are a great option if you are keen on getting an MBA degree from an advanced nation like the UK.

5 reasons why Malaysia is the best place to study your MBA

1. Save A LOT on tuition fees

You can obtain your MBA at a fraction of the cost of MBA programmes in the UK, USA, Australia and Singapore. From major cities like Kuala Lumpur to smaller cities like Johor Bahru and Penang, there are universities that will fit your budget.

Overall, the tuition fees of MBA courses in Malaysia are considerably more affordable compared to other countries.

Malaysia: RM 20,000 – RM 180,000

UK: RM 178,000 – RM 498,000

USA: RM 213,000 – RM 499,000

Australia: RM 147,000 – RM 385,000

Singapore: RM 61,500 – RM 436,000

However, it does not mean that the quality of your learning experience and MBA degree will lack in any way.

The government takes the standards by which educational institutions operate very seriously, with the enforcement of the Malaysian Qualifications Agency Act, 2007. This Act ensures that Malaysian universities are constantly monitored so that students receive a quality education that is up-to-date, relevant to the industry, and recognised internationally.

2. World's best universities

Malaysia is home to some of the world's most distinguished universities. In the reputable 2024 QS World University Rankings, several Malaysian universities not only made it on the list but they ranked highly out of 1,000 institutions worldwide.

The table below shows the current top five universities in Malaysia – if you take your MBA in any of these institutions, you would be studying in one of the best 300 universities across the globe!

Additionally, universities in Malaysia have intakes throughout the year. Intake times vary widely by location, though most MBA programmes offer multiple start times. You can use EasyUni to find the intake dates for the universities you are interested in.

3. Familiarity

One of the best aspects of studying domestically is comfort!

Many students who study abroad suffer from homesickness. When asked what they miss the most, they often mention the 3 Fs: Family, friends and… FOOD. Yes, nothing really compares to Malaysia’s nasi lemak, roti canai and chicken rice.

Since you are familiar with the culture around you, your mind will also be at ease. Greetings, customs, what counts as a common courtesy (and what doesn’t) – you’ve got all of that ingrained in your Malaysian DNA.

You don’t have to be nervous about accidentally breaking a cultural taboo. Plus, as a native speaker of the languages in Malaysia, you don’t have to worry about the language barrier that plenty of students face overseas.

You can get all the inside jokes too, which is actually beneficial to your well-being – laughter is the best medicine, after all.

You will also have the emotional and physical support of your family and friends. A hug goes a long way! With your stomach and mind at peace, it’s much easier to focus all your energy into your studies and nailing your MBA.

4. MBA specialisations

While there are general MBAs offered, those wanting to study for an MBA in Malaysia can also specialise in a specific topic, making them standout candidates for employment.

This is also advocated by Luc Craen, the managing director of EU Business School, who states that the specialisation trend will continue even beyond 2018. In his own words, “people need to be more specialized in certain aspects” in order to meet the ever-changing needs and requirements of companies.

Among the MBA courses offered in Malaysia are information technology (IT), marketing, finance, human resources and international business – with MBA graduates in IT being in high demand.

5. Networking opportunities

Are you worried that your network will be too limited if you study locally? Don’t be.

There is actually an increasing amount of international students studying in Malaysia, which means you can still make connections and build your network beyond Malaysia, right here in Malaysia.

To date, there are more than 130,000 international students in tertiary education, according to the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education. These numbers are set to go even higher from now, especially since the government is determined to raise Malaysia’s prominence as a global education hub.

Now is really the best time to study in Malaysia too. The economic growth of the nation is stable, with World Bank country director Mara K. Warwick even commenting that “Malaysia is a success story”, with the nation moving towards a high-income economy under the leadership of a brand new government.

Studying in Malaysia also makes it easier to work part-time while you take your MBA. If you are an international student in another country, you will most likely be restricted in terms of job options. Usually, foreign students are only allowed to work a certain number of hours and only in selected sectors.

They also have to go through an application process to be allowed to work part-time. In your home country, you have much more freedom in this matter.

This wraps up our guide to MBA courses in Malaysia!