Are you planning to pursue a chemistry degree in Malaysia? Whether you’re curious about the courses available, tuition fees, universities offering chemistry programmes, or career paths after graduation, you’ve come to the right place.
A chemistry degree is the first step toward building a strong foundation in science and unlocking opportunities in industries such as research, education, healthcare, and more. As you advance, you may also choose to pursue a master’s or PhD to specialise further, depending on your career and personal goals.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before studying chemistry in Malaysia, from entry requirements, top universities, to fees and future career options. If you’ve ever wondered whether Malaysia is the right place to study or work in the field of chemistry, this guide will help you decide with confidence.
Let’s dive in!
Why Study a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry in Malaysia?
Malaysia is rapidly strengthening its chemical industry through the Chemical Industry Roadmap 2030 (CIR2030), which aims to boost the sector’s contribution to the economy from 3.4% to over 4.5% by 2030. This initiative is part of a national effort to enhance global competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation within the industry.
In 2022, Malaysia’s chemical industry contributed around 7% to the country’s GDP and provided employment to about 239,000 people, making it one of the nation’s key manufacturing sectors. Under CIR2030, the government targets RM40 billion in added value by the end of the decade and plans to make Malaysia the top destination in ASEAN for chemical-related foreign investments.
The initiative highlights eleven priority segments, including base chemicals, plastics, polymers, and speciality chemicals, all of which play a vital role in supporting industries such as automotive, construction, electronics, and agriculture.
By studying chemistry in Malaysia, students are preparing to enter a field backed by strong government support, international investment, and growing industry demand. It’s an opportunity to contribute to innovations that will shape the country’s industrial and environmental future.
Top Universities Offering Chemistry Programmes in Malaysia
Many Malaysian universities offer chemistry programmes, including public and private universities. Students can choose their universities based on the programmes they are interested in. Let’s take a look at the list of public and private universities in Malaysia offering chemistry programmes:
Public Universities
- University of Malaya (UM)
- Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
- Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
- Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMP)
- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT)
Private and International Universities
- Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
- Monash University Malaysia
- Taylor's University
- Sunway University
- Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
- UCSI University
- The University of Nottingham Malaysia
- Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
- Xiamen University Malaysia
- SEGi University
- Management and Science University
There are many universities in Malaysia, beyond the list we shared above. Let’s take a look at some of the courses these universities have, their intakes and also the tuition fees.
1. Monash University Malaysia
Bachelor of Science - Medicinal Chemistry
Intake: Feb, Jul, Oct
Tuition fees: RM149,760
2. Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT)
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Analytical Chemistry
Intake: Jan, Jun, Nov
Tuition fees: RM38,100
3. UTMSPACE
Bachelor of Science (Industrial Chemistry) with Honours
Intake: Feb, Sep
Tuition fees: RM48,830
4. Universiti Malaya (UM)
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Open Channel / SATU)
Intake: Sep
Tuition fees: RM60,100
5. Monash University Malaysia
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry (Minor)
Intake: Feb, Jul, Oct
Tuition fees: RM149,760
6. Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
Bachelor of Science (Honours) Chemistry
Intake: Feb, Jun, Nov
Tuition fees: RM57,750
7. Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Applied Chemistry
Intake: Jan, May, Sep
Tuition fees: RM67,600
Note: The information provided is based on available data and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, please refer to the respective university's official website.
These are some of the courses and their estimated prices. However, the list consists of only private universities. For public universities, you should do a quick Google search to find out which institutions are suitable based on your interests and financial background and offer the course you want to study.
In Malaysia, the Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) provides education loans for students studying in both public and private universities. You can also look up scholarships or study loans offered by universities or state government bodies, for example, the Yayasan Selangor’s Study Loan for Selangor-born Malaysian citizens.
On a side note, if you’re interested in the cost of chemistry tutors, we’ve covered that as well. You can read it here.
Factors to Consider Before Selecting a University for a Chemistry Degree
Choosing the right university for your chemistry degree is one of the most important decisions in your academic journey. With numerous institutions in Malaysia offering BSc (Hons) Chemistry or specialised programmes like BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry, it’s essential to evaluate several factors before applying.
1. Accreditation and Recognition
Ensure the degree programme is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). MQA accreditation is crucial because it guarantees that your qualification is recognised nationally for employment or further study. Some universities in Malaysia do not have this accreditation for some of their courses; be sure to check this upfront before signing up for the programme. Some universities also hold Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) accreditation (a professional body from the United Kingdom), which adds international recognition and may enhance opportunities if you plan to work or study abroad.
Also, look for the university’s or college’s reviews – such as their establishment, credibility, existing students’ reviews, etc. This is an important step as many new tertiary educational institutions are emerging at the moment. You can forget this step if it’s a well-established institution such as UM.
2. Course Structure and Modules
Look closely at the course information, find out what the compulsory modules and optional modules’ subjects like inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry or environmental chemistry. Check if the programme includes a year-end research project, which students do at the end of their academic year and/or industrial training, which can provide practical experience and enhance their skills. Also, check for the mode of learning (in-person/ODL), which usually will be in-person since post-COVID.
3. Entry Requirements
Different universities have varying entry requirements. Most programmes require strong results in biology, physics, and mathematics, with specific grades in subjects including chemistry. But basically, most universities require a credit in SPM BM, English and Maths – this is the basic requirement to enter a university. The rest is a required course-specific. Some institutions offer a foundation year or year entry route for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Additionally, international students may need to meet English language requirements through pre-sessional English or sessional English courses.
4. Tuition Fees and Financial Support
Compare the tuition fees per academic year for each university. Public universities in Malaysia generally have lower fees, while private universities may offer different courses at higher costs. Investigate scholarships, financial aid, or bursaries that can help students manage their yearly tuition fees and living expenses. PTPTN is also available to support students who qualify, easing financial burdens throughout the degree.
It’s important to calculate additional costs beyond tuition fees that many often forget. Consider accommodation (hostels or rental housing), transportation, food, clothing, study materials, and personal expenses. If you’re planning to study in East Malaysia (Sabah or Sarawak) or relocating from there to Peninsular Malaysia, keep in mind that flight tickets can be expensive during peak seasons. This means you may not be able to travel home for every semester break unless your family can afford it.
5. Research Opportunities and Facilities
If you are interested in cutting-edge research, check the university’s laboratories, research centres, and faculty expertise. Access to modern labs and active research projects can significantly enhance your academic and research skills, particularly if you plan to pursue postgraduate study.
6. Career Support and Industry Links
Some universities offer strong connections with local industries, such as Petronas, BASF Petronas Chemicals, Pharmaniaga, or food and pharmaceutical companies. Some universities help students in securing jobs after graduation or an internship by running career fairs within the faculty. This is a great opportunity for students to secure a job or internship without worrying too much.
Some universities have industry links with professional bodies like Institut Kimia Malaysia, where members (usually alumni) of the professional bodies hire graduates or interns to work in their firms. This depends on the university – it’s worth checking out.
7. Student Support Services
Consider the support provided by the university for students, including academic advising, tutoring, financial aid, counselling, mental health services, and career guidance. This is, of course, different from one university to another. Good student support ensures that you can navigate the academic year effectively.
Before selecting a chemistry teacher to help you with the subject, explore the key factors that can impact your learning and results. Read more here.
Fees and Tuition Information
The tuition fees for a Bachelor's degree in chemistry vary between universities. On average, Malaysian students can expect to pay around RM30,000 to RM150,000 per academic year, depending on whether the institution is public or private. Whether you’re looking for a chemistry BSc or BSc (Hons) Chemistry degree, we recommend surveying several universities to compare the fees and other expenses before enrolling.
Most universities provide course information and details about fees per academic year on their official websites. Scholarships and financial support are also available for high-performing students.
Career Opportunities for Chemistry Graduates in Malaysia
A degree in chemistry opens the door to diverse career paths in Malaysia’s expanding science and technology sectors. With industries focusing on environmental protection, pharmaceuticals, and materials innovation, there is a strong demand for graduates with technical and analytical expertise.
Popular Career Paths:
- Chemical Engineer
- Quality Control Analyst
- Environmental Chemist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
- Forensic Scientist
- Academic or Laboratory Researcher
- Science Educator
Chemistry Teacher Vacancy in Malaysia
If you’re passionate about sharing knowledge, teaching is one of the most rewarding careers for chemistry graduates. A chemistry teacher vacancy in Malaysia can be found across public schools, international schools, and tuition centres. These roles allow you to apply your chemistry knowledge, strengthen your teaching skills, and inspire more students to study science-related subjects.
There are several options to pursue teaching chemistry in a public high school. For instance, you can get a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, whether a BSc (Hons) Chemistry or BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry, at any recognised university in Malaysia and then pursue a teaching qualification or complete a program like the Program Ijazah Sarjana Muda Perguruan (PISMP), a specialised undergraduate programme for those who intend to teach in government schools.
Alternatively, you can pursue a foundation or diploma in chemistry followed by a degree in education. If you have always wanted to become a chemistry teacher, please check the entry requirements to become a public school chemistry teacher carefully before enrolling on any programmes. You can get all the relevant details and procedures from PISMP’s website (the main website for public school teacher position application) or reach out to them if you have any doubts. Make sure to gather complete information about the course structure, required skills, and application process before beginning your journey.
Beyond schools, there are other ways to become a teacher. You can join a non-profit organisation to gain teaching experiences, get a diploma or degree in education to teach in international schools, or build your portfolio through tuition centres and private tutoring. These pathways help you develop practical teaching skills, improve your classroom techniques, and apply educational research methods to better meet students’ learning needs. Each experience strengthens your qualifications and confidence to teach in various educational settings.
The demand for science educators continues to rise as Malaysia strengthens its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education framework. This makes chemistry teacher roles not only stable but also impactful, as you help inspire next generations to be interested in science subjects. Whether you’re a student planning your next step or a graduate looking to expand your teaching career, the field offers long-term opportunities to meet educational goals and contribute to Malaysia’s growing science community.
Chemistry Internship Malaysia: Gaining Real-World Experience
For students pursuing a chemistry degree programme, an internship is a valuable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings. Many universities now include a chemistry year in industry or an optional internship year as part of their programme.
Where to Find Chemistry Internships:
Oil and gas:
- PETRONAS
- ExxonMobil
- Shell
- BP
Food & Beverage:
- Yeo Hiap Seng (Malaysia) Berhad
- Nestlé
- QL Kitchen Sdn Bhd
- MHP-Miracle Health Products Sdn Bhd
Pharmaceutical & Health:
- Duopharma Manufacturing
- Novugen Pharma Sdn Bhd
- UNIQUE REMEDY SDN. BHD.
- Boston Scientific Medical Device (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
- Alcon Malaysia
Manufacturing & Materials:
- SGS
- CHUANPLUS INDUSTRIES SDN BHD
- Suzukacoat (M) Sdn Bhd
- MayAir Manufacturing (M) Sdn Bhd
- Allnex Malaysia
- Infineon Technologies Malaysia
- Continental Malaysia
The list can go on, but we’ll end it here for now. You can quickly run a search online to find more companies and jobs through any job-searching platform. Alternatively, you can Google companies within the industry you’re interested in and apply directly through their official websites. Some of these companies offer graduate-trainee or internship programmes, such as Maybank, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.
If you’re currently exploring tuition classes in Malaysia to strengthen your chemistry foundation before internships or job applications, don’t stress, we’ve listed your options and weighed the pros and cons to help you decide with ease.
Begin Your Chemistry Journey with Superprof
Here we are at the end of this article! We truly hope that this article has served you as a guide that gets you started in your tertiary education journey. Remember to always ask questions, clarify with friends, family and career counsellors to make an informed decision.
Most importantly, you need to get a good grade to be able to pursue your dream programme in the chemistry field. That’s where Superprof comes in!
If you’re struggling in chemistry at the SPM level, you will most likely struggle at the university level because the curriculum will get harder as it goes. So, it’s crucial to get the foundation strong before you enrol on a degree programme.
Don’t you worry, Superprof can help you with that. With over 185,443 verified chemistry tutors across Malaysia, you can improve your chemistry knowledge and score well in the exams! Just sign up for a free account on our website and browse the pool of chemistry tutors’ profiles before you find the right fit for your needs and goals.
Check their educational background, teaching experiences, mode of learning (online/in-person), fees, classes, teaching styles, and other details on their profiles. If needed, drop them a message; our tutors typically reply within hours.
Our classes start at an average price of RM 57/hour, but you don’t have to commit immediately. Many tutors offer the first class free, so you can see if they are the right tutor for you and your learning goals.
As Malaysia continues to advance in technology, healthcare, and environmental conservation, chemistry graduates will remain at the heart of progress – driving change, creating solutions, and transforming the world, one molecule at a time. So, book your classes today and level up your chemistry knowledge!
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