DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (FACULTY OF MEDICINE)


Programme Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) is University of Malaya’s premier research training degree. The pinnacle of academic achievement here at University of Malaya, the Ph.D is awarded based on the examination of a thesis, prepared under supervision, which represents an original and significant contribution to knowledge and comprehension in the chosen field of study. Judged by independent experts using current and internationally accepted standards, the University’s Ph.D program aims to produce individuals who are not only intellectual and skillful in modern technology but also very versatile and capable of handling problems in real life situations.


Ph.D. students will carry out focused research in their area of specialization, which is of immediate relevance to local interest. Additionally, they will be keenly aware of the challenges faced in the international arena through the media, seminars, conferences and keynote addresses, and also through research attachments and collaborative exchange arrangements with international recognized research centers. The Ph.D program is more than just an academic distinction. The programs are designed to ensure the fields of study remain relevant to the needs of today. At the same time, the candidates in pursuit of their Ph.D’s foresee the changes of societal & industry standards, trends and behavioral patterns; the very same qualities that make them brilliant and effective leaders.


Full-Time Duration: 6 Semesters, (Research)

Programme Structure

Courses
  • Research Methodology
  • Dissertation
  • Publication
  • Additional Courses (if required)
  • Basic of Malay Language for International Students

Career Prospects

Medical Research Scientist, Biomedical Researcher, Clinical Research Specialist, Health Sciences Researcher, Academic Research Coordinator, Research Methodologist.

Tuition Fee

Local

RM 57,900 (Full-Time)

International

RM93,300 (Full-Time)

Intake

Semester 2 (March) Intake, Academic Session 2025/2026

Entry Requirement

General Entry Requirements
  • Possess a Master's Degree by Research; or 
  • Possess a Clinical Master's Degree; or
  • Possess a Master's Degree by Coursework or Mixed-Mode with a CGPA of no less than 3.00; or
  • Possess a Master's Degree by Coursework or Mixed-Mode with a CGPA of 2.50 to 2.99, subject to fulfilling at least one (1) of the following criteria:


    • At least one (1) year working experience in related field; or
    • Publication in a related field; or
    • A scholarship holder; or
    • UM graduate; or
    • A Government servant; or
    • Pass an interview by faculty; or
    • Pass a Special Assessment by Faculty


  • Possess a Bachelor's Degree through the Accreditation of prior Experiential Learning for Access (APEL.A) and other qualifications approved by the Senate.

Specific Entry Requirements

  • General University Requirements: Fulfill the General University Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree Qualification: N/A
  • Master's Degree Qualification: Master's Degree by Research/Clinical Coursework/Coursework
  • Equivalent Qualification: N/A
  • Related Fields: Refer to NEC2020 (0111, 0511, 0512, 0910, 0912, 0913, 0915).
  • Special Requirements: N/A

English Requirements

  • Malaysia University English Test (MUET): Band 4.0; or
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic: Band 6.0; or
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Paper-Based Test (PBT): Not applicable; or
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Internet-Based Test (IBT) (Centre-Based): Score 60; or
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Computer-Based Test (CBT): Not applicable; or
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Essential Online: Score 8.5; or
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Score 59; or
  • Cambridge English Qualifications & Tests – Linguaskill Online: Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English Qualifications & Tests – B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency: Score 169; or
  • Cambridge English Qualifications & Tests – B2 Business Vantage, C1 Business Higher: Not applicable; or
  • Occupational English Test (OET) (Conventional / Online): Score 250; or
  • Cambridge English: First (FCE): Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Not applicable