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Computer Science in Malaysia: Courses, Fees, Specialisations & Entry Requirements

Malaysia has become one of Asia’s most popular destinations for studying Computer Science. International students can choose from Malaysian public universities, private universities and international branch campuses from the UK, Australia and China. Many programmes let you specialise in fast-growing fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cyber Security from day one.

But choosing a Computer Science degree is about more than tuition fees. In this guide, we compare Computer Science fees across Malaysian universities, look at QS Computer Science and AI subject rankings, explain the main specialisations and show what a typical degree looks like year by year.

Summary

A Computer Science bachelor’s degree in Malaysia usually takes 3 to 4 years. Total tuition fees range from approximately RM56,604 to RM171,000 for on-campus study, and online options start from approximately RM38,752.

Students can choose from 73 Computer Science bachelor’s programmes across 28 Malaysian universities, with specialisations including Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, Networking, Game Development and Quantum Computing.

01

QS-Ranked Universities for Computer Science

Students in Malaysia can study at universities represented in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Computer Science & Information Systems, and for Data Science & Artificial Intelligence.

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026: Computer Science & Information Systems
University QS Computer Science Ranking 2026
Monash University #51
Universiti Malaya (UM) #86
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) #130
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026: Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
University QS Data Science & AI Ranking 2026
Monash University #48
Universiti Malaya (UM) #51–100
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) #101–200
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) #101–200
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) #101–200
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) #101–200
Multimedia University (MMU) #101–200
Taylor’s University #101–200
University of Nottingham #101–200
University of Southampton #101–200

Rankings for Monash University, University of Nottingham and University of Southampton are for the parent university. Students at the Malaysian campus receive the same degree.

02

Computer Science Fees in Malaysia

Tuition is one of the biggest differences between Computer Science programmes in Malaysia. Students can find programmes at very different price points across public universities, private universities and international branch campuses.

Here are examples of Computer Science programmes and their approximate total tuition fees:

Approximate total tuition fees for the full programme. Fees may change between intakes. Check with a TJS StudySteps counsellor for the latest fees and programme information.
University Programme Duration Approx. Total Fee
Lincoln University College Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) (Artificial Intelligence) 3 years RM56,604
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Bachelor in Computer Science (Intelligent Computing) with Honours 4 years RM60,600
UTAR Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) 3 years RM63,210
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Bachelor in Computer Science with Honours 4 years RM65,000
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Bachelor of Computer Science (Computer Networks and Security) with Honours 4 years RM71,000
Management and Science University (MSU) Bachelor in Computer Science (Honours) 3 years RM71,190
City University Malaysia Bachelor of Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) (Hons) 3 years RM72,600
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Bachelor of Computer Science 3.5 years RM73,600
TAR UMT Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) in Data Science 3 years RM74,600
UCSI University Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Mobile Computing and Networking 3 years RM75,630
UNITEN Bachelor in Computer Science (Cyber Security) (Honours) 3 years RM78,000
KLUST Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) 3 years RM78,600
MILA University Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) 3.6 years RM79,550
Multimedia University (MMU) Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) in Software Engineering 3 years RM85,000
INTI International University Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Nilai) 3 years RM85,848
Universiti Malaya (UM) Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Engineering) 3.5 years RM89,200
HELP University Bachelor in Computer Science (Honours) 3 years RM90,000
SEGi University Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) (Kota Damansara) 3 years RM102,375
Sunway University Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science 3 years RM105,850
Asia Pacific University (APU) Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science 3 years RM108,500
University of Wollongong Malaysia Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Dual Award with UOW Australia) 3 years RM110,090
Swinburne University Sarawak Bachelor of Computer Science 3 years RM121,680
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) 3.4 years RM123,700
Xiamen University Malaysia Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science and Technology (Honours) 4 years RM124,000
Taylor’s University Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) 3 years RM124,080
University of Southampton Malaysia BSc Computer Science (3+0 with UK Transfer Option) 3 years RM154,350
Monash University Malaysia Bachelor of Computer Science 3 years RM164,160
University of Nottingham Malaysia BSc (Hons) Computer Science 3 years RM171,000

Good to know: Malaysia’s QS-ranked public universities, including UM, UTM, UKM, UPM and USM, all list Computer Science fees under RM90,000. Their programmes can take 3.5–4 years, though, compared with 3 years at most private universities.

03

Computer Science Specialisations in Malaysia

One of Malaysia’s biggest advantages for Computer Science students is choice. Many universities offer the degree with a built-in specialisation, so you graduate with a focused skill set employers are looking for.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

What you learn: machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision and intelligent systems.

Where to study it: 12 programmes at 11 universities, from approximately RM56,604 to RM171,000.

University Programme Approx. Fee
Lincoln University College Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) (Artificial Intelligence) RM56,604
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Bachelor in Computer Science (Intelligent Computing) with Honours RM60,600
City University Malaysia Bachelor of Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) (Hons) RM72,600
Multimedia University (MMU) Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) (Artificial Intelligence) RM85,000
Universiti Malaya (UM) Bachelor of Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) RM89,200
UCSI University Bachelor of Computer Science in Artificial Intelligence with Honours RM102,600
Sunway University Bachelor of Science (Honors) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) RM103,255
Asia Pacific University (APU) Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Artificial Intelligence) RM108,500
Monash University Malaysia Bachelor of Computer Science in Artificial Intelligence RM164,160
University of Nottingham Malaysia BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence RM171,000

Data Science & Data Analytics

What you learn: statistics, big data, data mining, data visualisation and predictive modelling.

Where to study it: TAR UMT (RM74,600), UCSI University (RM78,710), MILA University (RM79,550), Multimedia University (RM85,000), APU (RM108,500) and Monash University Malaysia (RM164,160).

Cyber Security & Digital Forensics

What you learn: network security, ethical hacking, cryptography, security management and digital forensics.

Where to study it: Lincoln University College (RM56,604), UTM (RM71,000), City University Malaysia (RM72,600), UNITEN (RM78,000), MILA University (RM79,550), Multimedia University (RM85,000), UCSI University (RM105,150) and APU (RM108,500, including a Digital Forensics specialism).

Software Engineering

What you learn: software design, programming, testing, project management and building large-scale applications.

Where to study it: Multimedia University (RM85,000) and Universiti Malaya (RM89,200) offer Software Engineering as a Computer Science specialisation. TAR UMT offers Interactive Software Technology (RM76,000), and UTM offers Graphics and Multimedia Software (RM71,000).

Networking, Cloud & Computing Infrastructure

What you learn: computer networks, cloud computing, operating systems and IT infrastructure.

Where to study it: Universiti Sains Malaysia (RM60,600), Universiti Putra Malaysia (RM65,000), UCSI University (RM75,630), UNITEN (RM78,000), MILA University (Cloud Computing, RM79,550) and Universiti Malaya (RM89,200).

Multimedia, Graphics & Game Development

What you learn: computer graphics, animation, interactive media and game design and programming.

Where to study it: Universiti Putra Malaysia (Multimedia, RM65,000), UTM (RM71,000), Multimedia University (Game Development, RM85,000) and Universiti Malaya (Multimedia Computing, RM89,200).

Emerging Specialisations

Prefer a dedicated degree? Besides Computer Science with a specialisation, many universities offer stand-alone degrees in these fields. In Malaysia, students can choose from 27 Software Engineering degrees at 19 universities, 13 Data Science degrees at 11 universities, 5 Artificial Intelligence degrees at 5 universities (for example, UTM‘s Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence with Honours at RM58,508) and 56 Information Technology degrees at 22 universities.

04

Flexible Routes & Intakes

International and dual degrees in Malaysia:

Intakes:

3–4 YEARS

What Does a Computer Science Degree Look Like?

Computer Science programmes in Malaysia generally take 3 to 4 years. They move from programming and mathematics basics to advanced computing, specialisation and real-world projects.

The exact curriculum varies by university, but a typical journey may look like this:

Year 1: Programming & Computing Foundations

Students build core technical and mathematical skills. Subjects may include Programming Fundamentals (often Python, Java or C++), Discrete Mathematics, Computer Architecture, Introduction to Databases, Web Development and Problem Solving.

Year 2: Core Computer Science

The programme goes deeper into how software and systems work. Students may study Data Structures and Algorithms, Object-Oriented Programming, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Software Engineering and Database Systems. Many students start their specialisation at this stage.

Year 3: Specialisation & Projects

Students focus on their chosen area, such as AI, Data Science, Cyber Security or Software Engineering. Subjects may include Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Information Security, Mobile Application Development and Human–Computer Interaction. Most programmes include a final-year project, where students build a real software or research solution.

Year 4 (in 4-year programmes): Industry Experience

Longer programmes, such as those at UPM, USM, UTM and Xiamen University Malaysia, often include an industrial training or internship placement with technology companies, giving students real workplace experience before they graduate.

This is a general example of how a Computer Science degree may be structured. Subjects, programming languages, internships and the timing of each component vary by university.

Entry Routes: How to Get Into Computer Science in Malaysia

Most international students enter a Computer Science degree in one of three ways:

  • Foundation in Computing / IT / Science (1 year) → Bachelor’s degree. Computing and IT foundation programmes range from approximately RM12,000 (Multimedia University, Foundation in Computing) to RM39,200 (University of Southampton Malaysia, Computer Science Foundation).
  • Diploma in Computing or IT → Bachelor’s degree. There are 43 computing, IT and technology diplomas across 22 universities, from approximately RM20,000 to RM63,825. Some universities offer Year 2 entry, such as SEGi‘s Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) Year 2 Entry and INTI‘s partner degree with Coventry University (Year 2 Entry).
  • Direct entry. Students with A-Levels, STPM, a recognised foundation or an equivalent pre-university qualification may enter Year 1 directly.

General entry requirements: Most universities ask for a recognised pre-university qualification with a good result in Mathematics, plus proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or an equivalent test. Exact grades and English scores vary by university and programme. A TJS StudySteps counsellor can check your high school certificate (for example, from Saudi Arabia or Qatar) against each university’s requirements.

Next Step: Master’s in Computer Science, AI & Data Science

Students can choose from 96 Master’s programmes in Computer Science, AI, Data Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering and IT across 29 Malaysian universities.

Approximate total tuition fees for the full programme. Fees may change between intakes. Check with a TJS StudySteps counsellor for the latest fees and programme information.
University Master’s Programme Duration Approx. Total Fee
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Master of Computer Science 1 year RM19,200
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Master of Computer Science in Artificial Intelligence 2 years RM24,000
TAR UMT Master of Computer Science 2 years RM24,600
Multimedia University (MMU) Master in Computer Science 1 year RM29,000
Sunway University Master of Science in Computer Science (Full-Time) 2 years RM38,600
Xiamen University Malaysia Master of Science in Computer Science and Technology 2 years RM40,000
Universiti Malaya (UM) Master of Computer Science 2 years RM43,200

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Computer Science in Malaysia

How much does it cost to study Computer Science in Malaysia?

Total tuition for an on-campus Computer Science bachelor’s degree in Malaysia ranges from approximately RM56,604 (Lincoln University College) to RM171,000 (University of Nottingham Malaysia). Online options start from approximately RM38,752 (INTI International University).

How long is a Computer Science degree in Malaysia?

Usually 3 years at private universities and branch campuses. Some public universities take longer: UPM, USM and UTM list 4-year programmes, and UM and UKM list 3.5 years.

Which universities in Malaysia are QS-ranked for Computer Science?

In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Computer Science & Information Systems: Monash University (#51), Universiti Malaya (#86) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (#130).

Which Computer Science specialisations can I study in Malaysia?

Popular specialisations include Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, Networking and Cloud Computing, Multimedia, Game Development and Quantum Computing. Universiti Malaya alone offers Computer Science in AI, Software Engineering, Information Systems, Multimedia Computing, Computer System and Network, and Data Science.

Where can I study Artificial Intelligence in Malaysia?

Computer Science with an AI specialisation is offered at 11 universities, including Universiti Malaya, USM, Multimedia University, APU, Sunway, UCSI, Monash University Malaysia and University of Nottingham Malaysia. UTM also offers a dedicated Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence with Honours.

What is the cheapest Computer Science degree in Malaysia?

On campus, Lincoln University College (approximately RM56,604) and USM (approximately RM60,600) are among the lowest. Online, INTI‘s Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) costs approximately RM38,752.

Can international students study Computer Science in Malaysia?

Yes. Public universities, private universities and international branch campuses all accept international students into Computer Science programmes.

What are the entry requirements for Computer Science in Malaysia?

Usually a recognised pre-university qualification (foundation, A-Levels, STPM or equivalent) or a computing diploma, typically with a good Mathematics result, plus proof of English proficiency. Requirements vary by university.

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