Top 15 Best Private Universities in Malaysia 2024

Private universities are educational institutions that are privately funded and run, as opposed to government-supported and run institutions. These universities are often founded by people, organisations, or companies with the goal of providing students with higher education possibilities and career paths.

Most of them also frequently provide specialised programmes in sectors such as business, technology, the arts, and health sciences. They may concentrate on specific niches and provide in-depth education and training in those areas. In this case, it helps individuals focus more on what they truly desire for their futures. As such, to help you in your path to education, here are the top 15 private universities in Malaysia.

What are the Benefits of Applying to a Private University?

Applying to a private university can offer several benefits to students. Here are some advantages of choosing a private university:

1. Specialised Programs

Private universities often offer specialised programs in specific fields or disciplines. They may have a strong focus on particular areas such as business, technology, arts, or health sciences. These specialised programs provide in-depth education and training, preparing students for career paths in their chosen fields.

2. Flexible Curriculum and Innovation

Besides that, they also often have more flexibility in designing their curricula and adapting to industry trends and demands. They can introduce new courses, update programs, and incorporate innovative teaching methodologies more quickly than public universities. This flexibility ensures that students are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills relevant to their fields.

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources

Another great perk is that private universities tend to invest in modern facilities, laboratories, libraries, and technology to enhance the learning experience. They strive to provide students with access to cutting-edge resources and infrastructure, including well-equipped classrooms, research facilities, and specialized equipment. This helps students gain practical experience and stay abreast of industry advancements.

4. Global Opportunities

Many private universities have international partnerships and collaborations with universities abroad. This opens up opportunities for student exchange programs, joint degree programs, and collaborative research initiatives. Students can gain exposure to different cultures, broaden their perspectives, and enhance their global competence.

5. Scholarships and Financial Aid

Private universities often offer a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to support students in pursuing their education. These institutions may have dedicated scholarship programs based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria. Scholarships can help alleviate the financial burden and make education more accessible.

What are the Differences Between a Public and Private University?

According to BestColleges.com, public and private universities differ in various aspects, including their funding, governance, admission policies, and overall characteristics. Here are some key differences between public and private universities:

1. Governance

Public universities are usually governed by government-appointed boards or committees, and their operations are subject to government regulations and policies. Private universities, on the other hand, have more autonomy in decision-making and are governed by their own boards or trustees.

2. Tuition Fees

One of the other differences between the two is that, generally, public universities have lower tuition fees compared to private universities. Public institutions receive government subsidies, making education more affordable for students. Private universities, being self-funded, often have higher tuition fees to cover their operational costs.

3. Size and Class Sizes

Public universities tend to be larger in terms of student population and campus size. They may offer a wider range of academic programs and have more extensive facilities. Meanwhile, private universities, being smaller in size, often have smaller class sizes and can provide more personalized attention to students.

4. Focus and Specialisation

Another key difference is that public universities often offer a broader range of academic disciplines and programs, catering to diverse fields of study. Private universities, on the other hand, may focus on specific areas of expertise or niche disciplines, offering specialised programs in fields such as business, technology, or arts.

5. Admission Policies

Public universities typically have more rigid admission criteria and are subject to government-mandated quotas or affirmative action policies. Private universities often have more flexible admission processes and may consider additional factors such as interviews, portfolios, or essays in the selection process.

15 Best Private Universities in Malaysia 2024

1. UCSI University

UCSI University is a thriving learning and scholarship community. The University now has almost 12,000 students enrolled. Students from 110 different nations have studied at UCSI University over the years, making the campus a melting pot of culture and diversity. UCSI University, being one of Malaysia's first private universities, has long had an impact on the national higher education landscape, and it continues to do so with its diverse undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Undergraduate and postgraduate academic programmes are available at UCSI University. Programmes in business, engineering, architecture, medicine, pharmacy, nursing, applied science, music, and social science are among them. Many of its alumni have gone on to tremendous success in fields ranging from business to science and the performing arts.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 8:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Saturday - Sunday)

Address: No. 1, UCSI Heights, Jalan Puncak Menara Gading, Taman Connaught, 56000 Cheras, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur

Phone No: 03-9101 8880

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Other Campuses Available: Kuching Campus (Check Google Review Here)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucsi.university/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucsiuni/

2. Multimedia University

MMU has garnered numerous awards and recognitions since its inception. The Malaysian government has conferred MMU Self-Accreditation status through the Malaysian Qualifications Agency under the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE), formally recognising that the university is a reliable institution whose curriculum consistently fulfils or exceeds strict standards. The main goal of this strategy is to provide MMU students and graduates with a holistic experience that will enable and encourage them to become leaders of the Digital Economy at the national and regional levels, as well as producers of future technologies connected to MMU's areas of specialisation. While the university's main emphasis is on computer science and technology, such as courses in software engineering, data science, and game creation, they also offer accountancy, law, and media arts as well.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
Closed on Saturday & Sunday

Address: Persiaran Multimedia, 63100 Cyberjaya, Selangor

Phone No: 1-300-80-0668

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Other Campuses Available: Melaka Campus (Check Google Review Here)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmumalaysia

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mmumalaysia

3. Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation

The Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) is one of Malaysia's premier private universities, with a unique blend of technology, innovation, and creativity that efficiently transforms students into highly competent, employable, and future-proof professionals. APU has achieved an excellent reputation as an award-winning university by receiving over 400 outstanding honours at the local and international levels. APU has been awarded for its dedication to providing top-tier digital technology courses and ensuring that our highly qualified alumni continue to thrive and fulfil future digital job demands locally and globally. You can start your first year right away if you have STPM, 'A' Level, UEC, IB, or comparable qualifications. They provide degrees in Business, Human Resource Management, Accounting, Banking and Finance, International Relations, Psychology, Marketing, Information Technology and many other fields, as well as significant Masters and Ph.D. degrees.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Monday - Thursday)
9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Friday)
10:00 am - 1:00 pm (Saturday)
Closed on Sunday

Address: Jalan Teknologi 5, Taman Teknologi Malaysia, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Phone No: 03-8996 1000

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apuniversity/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asiapacificuniversity/

4. Sunway University

Sunway University is one of Malaysia's major private universities, committed to delivering high-quality holistic education to all students, regardless of race, creed, or socioeconomic status. Their behaviours and behaviour are guided by their values-based education. They promote a sustainable attitude in their campus community by embracing an ecological worldview, comprehending systems perspectives, and cultivating emotional intelligence. Their academic offerings include diplomas, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees. They also have some short courses available. Their programmes are designed to satisfy industry demands and provide ideal career or further education prospects. Such courses include financing, business analytics, creative arts, chemical engineering, medical science, human resource management, and more, which will undoubtedly lead you to a prosperous future.

Operating Hours:
8:30 am - 5:30 pm (Monday - Friday)
10:00 am - 4:00 pm (Saturday - Sunday)

Address: 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Phone No: 03-7491 8622

Google Map: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SunwayUniversity/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SunwayUniversity/

5. Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS is a higher education institution. They enable the pursuit of knowledge and skills for the advancement of engineering, science, and technology, hence increasing the nation's competitiveness. UTP offers a diverse range of engineering, scientific, and technology degrees at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It seeks to generate well-rounded graduates with strong leadership and communication skills. On six research emphasis and specialist areas, the university conducts extensive research activities in conjunction with PETRONAS and other institutions and industries, both locally and internationally. Not to mention, UTP has graduated almost 22,000 students. It presently has over 800 foundation students, over 4,000 undergraduates, and over 1,000 postgraduate students from more than 50 countries.

Operating Hours:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
Closed on Saturday - Sunday

Address: Persiaran UTP, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak

Phone No: 1-300-22-8887

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTPOfficial/?locale=ms_MY

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utpofficial

6. University of Nottingham Malaysia

The University of Nottingham Malaysia was founded 22 years ago and remains dedicated to offering a comprehensive educational experience. It provides world-class instruction led by academics who are some of the top researchers in their disciplines, as well as a welcoming campus environment. It is part of a worldwide institution that serves an international community of students, but it is firmly entrenched in everything that makes UK education unique - innovative teaching and assessment methods that foster autonomous, creative thinking. The institution takes pride in creating a suitable atmosphere for students to learn, teach, and research. This is supported by its extensive library for physical and virtual studying, designated study spaces and laboratories for computer science, languages, sciences, and engineering courses, and virtual labs for specified online lessons.

Operating Hours: 9:00 am - 5:30 pm (Daily)

Address: Jln Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor

Phone No: 03-8924 8000

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UoNMalaysia/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uonmalaysia/

7. Han Chiang University College of Communication

Han Chiang has been a leader in providing low-cost, high-quality education to its community for over a century. HCUC, a non-profit institution steeped in the heritage of developing future leaders, is dedicated to the highest standards of excellence in teaching, learning, and scholarships. As Malaysia's first university college of communication, HCUC takes pride in the holistic education it provides through several curricula in Communication and Media. Their graduates are widely sought after in the corporate sector due to their outstanding achievements. CUC also offers prestigious undergraduate and postgraduate studies in a variety of fields like as Business and Management, as well as Applied Creative Arts and Design. In addition, we are the first in northern Malaysia to provide Diploma and Bachelor degrees in Chinese Studies.

Operating Hours:
8:00 am - 6:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Saturday)
Closed on Sunday

Address: Jalan Lim Lean Teng, 11600 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Phone No: 04-283 1088

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HanChiangUC/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanchianguc/

8. International Medical University

IMU is Malaysia's first and most established private medical and health sciences institution, having over 30 years of healthcare education experience. At IMU, they are acutely aware of the influence that rapid technological breakthroughs are having on healthcare practices. They keep up with these changes in order to understand what will be expected of healthcare professionals in the future. Every programme incorporates essential competencies in data science, such as the utility of data. IMU is completely dedicated to assisting its pre-university, undergraduate, and postgraduate students. There are several offices and services within the University to support students in their academic endeavours and to maximise their performance. As a prestigious medical university, they provide professional and in-depth programmes in nursing, biomedical science, medicine, dentistry, psychology, and other fields. So if you are interested in a career in the medical field, applying to this institute will guarantee your success and forevermore.

Operating Hours:
8:30 am - 5:30 pm (Monday - Friday)
Closed on Saturday - Sunday

Address: 126, Jln Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur

Phone No: 03-8656 7228

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalMedicalUniversity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imumalaysia/

9. Open University Malaysia

As Malaysia's leading open and remote learning university, Open University Malaysia has progressed from offering academic programmes through a blended methodology that included face-to-face tutorials, e-learning, and self-managed learning to its current approach, which is entirely online. They want to provide access to quality education and give possibilities for lifelong learning by utilising technology, embracing a flexible mode of learning, and delivering a conducive and engaging learning environment at a competitive and affordable cost. Their curriculum is approved by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and encompasses a wide range of topics. Many of these degrees, such as philosophy, business administration, human resource management, corporate communication, marketing, and many others, are also provided by international institutions, demonstrating the OUM's quality even further.

Operating Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Daily)

Address: Kelana Centre Point, Jalan SS 7/19, Ss 7, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Phone No: 03-7801 1800

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/openunimalaysia/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openuniversitymalaysia/

10. Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah International Islamic University (UniSHAMS)

Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah International Islamic University (UniSHAMS) is a university dedicated to establishing an Islamic higher education centre in a state that is commensurate with the status of a country that excelled in the history of Islamic scientific development once upon a time. One of the primary goals of UniSHAMS is to increase the quality of Islamic studies and the Arabic language. Its goal is to generate a generation of scholars, intellectuals, and specialists who are authoritative, capable, and faithful and who can respond to the requirements of Islamic affairs on a regular basis. UniSHAMS does not solely teach Islamic studies as they also offer courses in accounting, science, creative multimedia and more.

Operating Hours:
8:00 am - 4:30 pm (Monday - Wednesday, Sunday)
8:15 am - 3:00 pm (Thursday)
Closed on Friday - Saturday

Address: 09300 Kuala Ketil, Kedah

Phone No: 04-415 5000

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unishams.official/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perintis_unishams/

11. Malaysia University of Science and Technology

Malaysia University of Science and Technology uses world-class teaching and learning methods that promote creativity, analytical thinking, problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork. These are characteristics that have been shown to produce entrepreneurial leadership in technology and business. MUST also fosters a research-driven culture across all domains of expertise to ensure depth of understanding and confidence when confronted with practical difficulties. The drive for the MUST culture, which is dynamic, innovative, and purposeful to their local context, has been the world-class model. This esteemed university offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes in transportation and logistics, business and management, and information and technology.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
Closed on Saturday - Sunday

Address: Block B, Encorp Strand Garden Office, No. 12, Jalan PJU 5/5, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Phone No: 03-6150 8177

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/must.edu.my/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/must.malaysia/

12. University of Reading Malaysia

The University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM) is an international branch campus of the prominent University of Reading, which is situated in the United Kingdom. UoRM was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in EduCity Iskandar, Johor, Malaysia. UoRM provides undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in a variety of disciplines, including business, finance, psychology, real estate, and environmental science. These programmes are designed to satisfy global standards and provide students with an internationally recognised high-quality education. The campus features cutting-edge facilities such as contemporary classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, a library, and recreational areas. To meet the requirements of its students, the campus also includes student housing, sports facilities, and cafeteria alternatives.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Monday - Tuesday, Thursday - Friday)
10:00 am - 4:00 pm (Saturday)
Closed on Wednesday & Sunday

Address: Persiaran Graduan, Kota Ilmu, Educity, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor

Phone No: 07-268 6200

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uniofreadingmalaysia?ref=ts&fref=ts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uniofreadingmalaysia/

13. Taylor's University

Taylor's University's regularly placing inside the Top 300 globally, as well as its fourth consecutive year as the Top Private University in Southeast Asia demonstrates the institution's ongoing dedication to providing excellence in education. Taylor's is more than just a model of educational success. Taylorians have been honing and perfecting their particular skills for the past 50 years in order to create life-changing discoveries, breakthroughs, and trends. Taylor's University provides a diverse choice of Pre-University, Diploma, Degree, Master, PhD, and Professional Qualification programmes in architecture, biology, engineering, business, culinary arts, and more. Furthermore, the university provides students with its Mobility Programme, which is a one-of-a-kind chance for students to combine international travel and cultural experiences with academics focused on various aspects of a location or topic of study.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
Closed on Saturday & Sunday

Address: 1, Jln Taylors, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

Phone No: 03-5629 5000

Google Map: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaylorsUniversityMY/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorsuni/?hl=en

14. Limkokwing University of Creative Technology

Tan Sri Dato' Sri Paduka Dr Lim Kok Wing, a prominent figure in the education industry, established the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology in 1991. Limkokwing University is notable for its emphasis on creativity and innovation. The institution takes a novel approach to education, including creative thinking, entrepreneurship, and technologically savvy abilities into its curriculum. It seeks to develop students' creative talents while providing them with the practical skills needed to succeed in the continually changing creative professions. The institution is dedicated to educating and developing students in the creative arts, design, multimedia, and technology-related professions. It provides a diverse range of diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes in disciplines such as multimedia design, fashion design, film and television production, advertising, architecture, business, and computer technology.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
9:00 am - 1:00 pm (Saturday)
Closed on Sunday

Address: 1, Jalan Teknokrat 1/1, Cyberjaya, 63000 Cyberjaya, Selangor

Phone No: 03-8317 8888

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/limkokwing/

15. INTI International University & Colleges

INTI combines a variety of tried-and-true teaching methods with cutting-edge technology in the classroom, such as the innovative Canvas Learning Management System. Their creative and collaborative approach prepares you for the real world through a holistic teaching and learning management system and strong partnerships with global industry leaders. INTI provides diploma, foundation, undergraduate, bachelor degree, and postgraduate programmes in a variety of fields of study, including business, engineering, information technology, computing & IT, health sciences, hospitality, interior design, and social sciences. The university offers a wide choice of disciplines to meet students' requirements and interests, allowing them to define their future appropriately.

Operating Hours:
9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Saturday - Sunday)

Address: 3, Jalan SS 15/8, Ss 15, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

Phone No: 03-5623 2800

Google Maps: Navigate Now

Google Reviews: Here

Other Campuses Available:
Penang Campus (Check Google Review Here)
Sabah Campus (Check Google Review Here)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/INTI.SubangJaya/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inti_edu/

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