A dual-award degree in Malaysia allows students to earn qualifications from a Malaysian university and an international partner, often in the UK or Australia, through one programme. Many can be completed entirely in Malaysia, giving students access to international qualifications without relocating overseas.
Summary
Malaysia offers dual-award programmes through universities such as APU, Sunway, Taylor’s, SEGi and UOW Malaysia, with options in business, engineering, computing, hospitality and more. Depending on the programme, students may receive two degree certificates, pay additional partner fees or need to complete part of their studies abroad.
What Is a Dual-Award Degree in Malaysia?
A dual-award degree is a programme offered through a partnership between two universities. Students complete an approved course and receive academic awards from both institutions, subject to the programme’s conditions.
For example, eligible students at Asia Pacific University (APU) can receive:
- One degree certificate and transcript from APU, Malaysia.
- One degree certificate and transcript from De Montfort University (DMU), UK.
This means students can graduate with qualifications from both universities without necessarily studying in the UK.
However, not every dual-award programme provides two full degree certificates. Some offer a degree plus another academic award, so students should confirm exactly what they will receive before applying.
Which Universities in Malaysia Offer Dual-Award Degrees?
Several Malaysian universities offer dual-award or double-degree pathways with international partners. Availability depends on the course, intake and partnership conditions.
| Malaysian university | International partner | Available fields |
|---|---|---|
| APU | De Montfort University, UK | Computing, technology, business and more |
| Sunway University | Lancaster University, UK | Business, computing, engineering, psychology, design |
| Taylor’s University | UWE Bristol, UK | Business, finance, economics, computer science |
| Taylor’s University | QUT, Australia | Business; study in Australia required |
| Taylor’s University | Université Toulouse – Jean Jaurès, France | Hospitality, tourism, culinary arts |
| SEGi University | University of Chichester, UK | Business, accounting, hospitality, engineering, MBA |
| UOW Malaysia | University of Wollongong, Australia | Business, computing, engineering, communication |
| TAR UMT | Coventry University, UK | Various bachelor’s programmes |
| MAHSA University | University of East London, UK | Business, IT, accounting, engineering |
| MAHSA University | University of Portsmouth, UK | Nursing, psychology, data science and other fields |
| UCSI University | HTMi, Switzerland | Hospitality and events |
| INTI International University | University of Hertfordshire, UK | MBA |
| University of Cyberjaya | Federation University, Australia | MBA |
Other double-degree arrangements include UKM with the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany and selected UTAR postgraduate partnerships.
Important: This is a programme-level guide, not a guarantee that every course at a listed university qualifies. Partner arrangements and award types should be confirmed for the intended intake.
Can You Get Two Degrees Without Studying Abroad?
Yes. Some Malaysian dual-award programmes allow students to complete their studies entirely in Malaysia while receiving qualifications from two universities.
Examples include eligible programmes offered through:
- APU and De Montfort University, UK
- Sunway University and Lancaster University, UK
- Taylor’s University and UWE Bristol, UK
- SEGi University and University of Chichester, UK
- MAHSA University and University of East London, UK
Not every partnership works this way. For example, the Taylor’s–QUT pathway involves studying the final year in Australia, while the TAR UMT–Coventry pathway includes a UK study component.
Students should check whether overseas study is compulsory, optional or not required for their chosen programme.
Dual Award vs Double Degree vs 3+0 vs Branch Campus
These study options may sound similar, but the qualifications students receive can be very different.
| Study pathway | Typical qualification | Study location |
|---|---|---|
| Dual Award | Two institutional awards, often two degrees | Usually Malaysia |
| Double Degree | Two separate degrees | Malaysia and/or abroad |
| 3+0 Degree | One overseas university degree | Malaysia |
| Twinning (2+1) | Usually one overseas degree | Malaysia + abroad |
| Foreign Branch Campus | One degree from the home university | Malaysia |
What is a 3+0 degree?
A 3+0 programme allows students to complete an overseas university’s degree in Malaysia without transferring abroad.
Unlike a dual award, it normally provides one degree certificate from the overseas university, rather than two separate university degrees.
Is Monash University Malaysia a dual-award university?
No. Monash University Malaysia is an international branch campus of Monash University in Australia.
Students graduate with a Monash University degree rather than receiving separate degrees from a Malaysian university and an overseas partner.
Other international branch campuses in Malaysia include the University of Nottingham Malaysia, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and the University of Southampton Malaysia. Read our full guide to Branch campuses of foreign universities in Malaysia.
How Much Does a Dual-Award Degree Cost in Malaysia?
The cost depends on the Malaysian university, programme, overseas partner and whether additional fees apply.
Some examples of reported additional fees include:
| Programme | Additional fee to check |
|---|---|
| TAR UMT – Coventry | RM600 annually |
| Selected SEGi partner programmes | GBP750 |
| APU – DMU | Confirm the applicable dual-award fee with APU |
| Sunway – Lancaster | Confirm the programme’s current tuition and award fees |
Students should compare the total cost, including tuition, partner-university charges, registration, visa, accommodation and any compulsory overseas study.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dual-Award Degrees in Malaysia
Does a dual-award degree mean I get two degrees?
Often, yes. Eligible programmes may award two separate degree certificates, one from each institution. However, some arrangements provide different types of academic awards, so check the exact qualification titles.
Which Malaysian universities offer UK dual-award degrees?
Can international students apply for dual-award degrees in Malaysia?
Yes, international students can apply to eligible programmes, subject to university admission requirements, programme availability and Malaysian student visa conditions.
Is a dual-award degree better than a single degree?
Not necessarily. A dual award may provide additional academic credentials, but university recognition, programme accreditation, course quality, fees and career goals are more important than the number of certificates alone.
Do dual-award degrees require IELTS?
English-language requirements depend on the university, programme and student’s qualifications. Some institutions accept alternative English proficiency evidence or offer conditional admission. Read our guide to whether you need IELTS to study in Malaysia.
Do I need to travel to the UK or Australia?
Not always. Many programmes can be completed in Malaysia, while selected pathways require overseas study.
Are dual-award degrees recognised internationally?
Recognition varies by country, employer, professional body and awarding institution. Students should verify recognition for their intended career or further studies rather than assuming that both awards will be accepted everywhere.
