MASTER OF ARTS



Programme Overview

The M. A. (by research) is University of Malaya’s premier research training degree. The M. A. is awarded based on the foundation of the thesis prepared under supervision, resulting in an original and significant contribution, displaying extensive knowledge and comprehension of the subject and field of study.


Judged by independent experts using current and internationally accepted standards, the programme produces human capital, which is not only intellectual and skilful in modern technology but also very versatile and able to handle problems in real life situation. M. A. students will carry out focused research in their area of specialisation, which is of immediate relevance to local interest. 


Additionally, they will be alert to 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 recognised research centres.


The M. A. programme is more than just an academic distinction. The programmes 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 M. A.’s foresee the changes of societal & industry standards, trends and behavioural patterns; the very same qualities that make them brilliant and effective leaders.


Full-Time Duration: 4 Semesters (Research)

Programme Structure

  1. Research Methodology
  2. Dissertation 
  3. Publication
  4. Additional Courses (If Required)
  5. Basic of Malay Language for International Students

Note: 

Career Prospects

University Professor (Arts & Social Sciences), Research Director, Academic Researcher, Policy Analyst, Social Research Consultant, Cultural Analyst.

Tuition Fee

Local

RM19,800

International

RM33,000

Intake

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

Entry Requirement

General Entry Requirements
  • For applicants with a CGPA of not less than 3.00:
    • Possess a Bachelor’s Degree with a CGPA of not less than 3.00; or
  • For applicants with a CGPA of 2.50 – 2.99 (must fulfill at least one of the following): 
    • Graduate from Universiti Malaya; or
    • Accumulate at least one (1) year of work experience in related fields; or
    • Produce publications in related field; or
    • Receive a scholarship; or
    • Serve as a staff member of a government agency; or
    • Pass an interview conducted by the Faculty; or
    • Pass a special evaluation by the Faculty
Specific Entry Requirements
  • General University Requirements: Fulfill the General University Requirements
  • Bachelor’s Degree Qualification: Possess a Bachelor's Degree
  • Equivalent Qualification: 
    1. Possessed Professional qualification from a recognized professional body; or
    2. Possessed Professional qualification approved by Senate from time to time; or
    3. APEL (A) qualification
  • Related fields: A Bachelor’s Degree in any fields.
  • 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 and Tests – Linguaskill Online: Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English – B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency: Score 169; or
  • Cambridge English – B2 Business Vantage, C1 Business Higher: Not applicable; or
  • Occupational English Test (OET) (Conventional / Online): Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English: First (FCE): Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): Not applicable; or
  • Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Not applicable