postgradasia 2020/21

x

o x

o

x o

o f n i e r Mo

E D I S IN

FREE COPY

PP14310/11/2012 (031019) ISSN 1823-5956

2020/21 ISSUE

/gradmalaysia

@gradmalaysia

/gradmalaysiaMY

MAGAZINES & DIGITAL PUBLICATIONS

www.gradmalaysia.com

downlokaadt

the e-bmaolaoysia.com www.grad

HOW TO GET HIRED

CAMPUS TALKS

Contents postgradasia 2020/21

Choosing Postgraduate Life 10 Five Reasons To Continue & Five Risks To Consider 12 Postgraduate Q&A 14 Straight Outta Bachelor’s Degree 16 Never Too Late: Applying As A Mature Student 18 Logging In: Online Education 20 Striking A Balance: Working & Studying

Living Postgraduate Life 24 Going The Extra Miles: Postgraduate Open Days 26 Applications 101: Rules & Risks 30 Competing At The Interview 32 It’s All About The Money, Money, Money!

34 Life Support: Scholarships For You 36 Connected: Networking During Your Postgraduate Study

PG Lifestyle 40 Postgraduate In The New Normal 42 Impostor Syndrome: A Professional’s Unfortunate Push 44 Faking It Wrong 46 Common Postgrad Myths 48 Hack Your Study Space 50 Coffee, Tea, Or Meme?

A-Z of Course Providers 88 Institution Profiles

Editor Benny Razali Editorial Jaideep Patel, Jasmine Mun, Shiffa Aziz Lead designer Daryl Lu Design & production Anis Amsham, Fatin Shahar Business development Arni Rozman, Jason Ng, Sarah Suhaiman, Simon Ang, Tasha Yap, Vivien Chai, Wai Ying Yee Client support Amirah Azrain, Ezzati Jamal, Hanisah Hashim, Siti Noroaini Marketing & events Alfred Leo, Karen Lim, Izzaty Sabri

Published by GTI Media Sdn Bhd P-7-12, Street Mall One South, Jalan OS, Taman Serdang Perdana, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia Correspondence PO Box 111, Pejabat Pos Seri Kembangan, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia Tel +(603) 8953 0055 Fax +(603) 8953 0066 Email admin@gtimedia.asia Printer Kuan Press Sdn Bhd, No 1, Jalan Perindustrian PP 7, Taman Perindustrian Putra Permai, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia

Web Alicia Leong, Rajaletchumi A/P Subramaniam

© GTI Media Sdn Bhd

Administration Jessie Loh, Loke Mei Shuen, Linda Lee, Nicole Lei

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means including, but not limited to, photocopying or storage in a retrieval system in any form without prior written consent of GTI. The views expressed in the articles are those of authors and their publication does not necessarily imply that such views are shared by GTI. Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, or for consequential loss arising from such inaccuracies, or for any loss, direct or consequential, arising in connection with information in this publication.

Human resources Tan Swee Sun Publisher Jaideep Patel

2020/2021

A-Z of Institutions Here’s a quick glance at the institutions which offer postgraduate courses featured in this guide!

Asia e University Selangor, Malaysia

Hong Kong Baptist University Kowloon, Hong Kong

HSE University Moscow, Russian Federation

Tunku Abdul Rahman University College Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

International Medical University (IMU) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Listing: page 86 Advertisement: page 87

Listing: page 88 Advertisement: page 89

Listing: page 90 Advertisement: page 91

Listing: page 92 Advertisement: page 93

Listing: page 94 Advertisement: page 95

Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

Listing: page 96 Advertisement: page 97

BERJAYA University College

Listing: page 98

KPJ Healthcare University College

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sarawak Skills Development Centre (SSDC)

Listing: page 99

Sarawak, Malaysia

Multimedia University (MMU) Selangor, Malaysia

6|

2020/21

Listing: page 100 Advertisement: outside back cover

Management & Science University (MSU) Selangor, Malaysia

International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

University of Nottingham Malaysia Selangor, Malaysia

Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Sabah, Malaysia

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Selangor, Malaysia

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS Perak, Malaysia

Universiti Tenaga Nasional Selangor, Malaysia

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Perak & Selangor, Malaysia

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) Kedah, Malaysia

University of Strathclyde Selangor, Malaysia

Listing: page 101 Advertisement: inside back cover

Listing: page 102 Advertisement: page 1

Listing: page 103 Advertisement: inside front cover

Listing: page 104 Advertisement: page 105, 106, 107

Listing: page 108 Advertisement: page 109

Listing: page 110 Advertisement: page 111 Advertorial: page 56-57

Listing: page 112-113 Advertisement: page 114, 115

Listing: page 116 Advertisement: page 117

Listing: page 118 Advertisement: page 119 Advertorial: page 60-61

Listing: page 120 Advertisement: page 121

Listing: page 122 Advertisement: page 123 Advertorial: page 52-53, 54-55

2020/21 | 7

Choosing Postgraduate

Life

We ask the questions and provide the answers you need to move on to the next step.

We have a few interesting pieces that you might want to take along the journey you are about to make: • Five Reasons To Continue & Five Risks To Consider • Postgraduate Q&A • Straight Outta Bachelor’s Degree • Never Too Late: Applying As A Mature Student • Logging In: Online Education • Striking A Balance: Working & Studying

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Five Reasons To Continue & ...

A postgraduate qualification is a journey towards success and postgradasia is here to assist you in having a clearer view of it.

“

What you do today can improve all your tomorrows.” – Ralph Marston. Surely, your decision to finally pursue that postgraduate course has something to do with preparing for your future. But it is important to really know what your goal is so you won’t even have the slightest chance to doubt your decision of embarking on this journey.

Read on to see if one of these five reasons is yours.

To teach and research Postgraduate study is a must-do for those who intend to be a part of the academic sphere. Teaching at the degree level and above would require at least a postgraduate qualification, but if you genuinely enjoy conducting research, writing scholarly papers and contributing to the expansion of human knowledge, you might want to seriously consider being a researcher in academia through your postgraduate studies.

Landing a good job The job market has been tough in Malaysia over the past couple of years, especially with the occurrence of the COVID-19 situation. Hence, a postgraduate qualification could be a good strategy to be ahead of the game in getting yourself a job! The knowledge gained and gruelling hours dedicated to completing your thesis or other assessments will undoubtedly contribute to your personal and career development, further enhancing your employability prospects in the near future.

Following your passion Passion has always been the best motivator for a postgraduate student amongst the organised chaos. If you feel a genuine interest to broaden and deepen your knowledge in a particular

10 |

2020/21

field, then do it! What are the perks of doing a postgraduate qualification in a field that you love?

• It lends prestige and weight to your research and intellectual studies.

• Grants access to immediate resources and manpower the academic community has to offer.

Gaining more miles in your career journey Postgraduate study is not limited to fresh graduates. In fact, it is highly recommended to those of you wishing for advancement in your career. You may either choose a field that is directly related to your undergraduate degree or study something completely different. For example, you may already have a law and criminology degree but later believe that a postgraduate qualification in psychology will benefit your career, so why not just go for it?

Honing skill sets Upskilling is the process of acquiring or sharpening skill sets that are required for a specific profession or area of expertise.

At some point in your career, you may find that you are lacking certain skills or techniques that are absolutely essential for your career progression. Postgraduate study is an academic opportunity for you to acquire those skills through a tertiary institution.

Getting a postgraduate degree seems like a chance to take that one leap of faith for most people, because it is more of an option than an obligation. It opens up chances that might be limited if you’re only satisfied with your undergraduate degree.

But there are always two sides of everything, so read on to the next part!

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Five Risks To Consider

Quoting famous author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek: “There is no decision that we can make that doesn’t come with some sort of balance or sacrifice”.

N

ow that you might have some thinking points as to why you should pursue your postgrad studies, here are the five risks to take into account before getting the higher education that you want.

Financial strains Continuing to postgraduate means there needs to be planning and budgeting to be done so financial dilemma won’t deviate you from your study later on. On the other hand, there is quite a number of scholarships available to help you with your fees. While there’s a misconception that only the brightest candidates would get the aid, break out from this stigma and just try for every scholarship offered that is relevant to your course. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with exhausting your options.

Delayed career start-off From time to time, the thought that you could’ve already been in your second year of working (like all your friends) would intrude your mind. But opportunities are different for everyone; that’s why you grabbed your chance to do postgraduate study right after your first degree. A delayed career start-off doesn’t mean you won’t have a successful career at all – you’re just investing more time in your preparation!

Greater commitment Most postgraduate students usually think they can slack off during postgraduate study because of the research skills they have acquired while pursuing their bachelor’s degrees.

Please be reminded that the same (if not higher) standards are expected as a benchmark for your future dissertation. You should never be too comfortable with minimal research. Try

to figure out other ways to collect your resources and stay updated with the current journals and issues, especially those that relate to your field of study.

FOMO (Fear-Of-Missing-Out) You may find yourself juggling your time for classes and meetups with your supervisor, worrying about your finances, and maybe your part-time night job. Watching your friends from a distance as they are slowly building up their career paths and gaining work experience brings out the terrible feeling of missing out on those opportunities in life. It is important for you to know that desires are endless while needs are limited, so remember that completing your study is currently your highest priority and focus on it instead.

Risk of “burning out” “Burnout” is a state of mind (and body) that is no stranger to a postgraduate student. The severity of burnouts has been taken out of context due to the normality of the phrase. You are well aware of the commitment required for your finances and time, but sometimes burnout and stress would come without warning even though you’ve been successfully keeping them at bay for the whole semester. Be mindful of your capacity of handling stress and your workload – and if it gets too much to handle, please seek for help!

Granted, the doubts will keep creeping into your mind even after you’ve made the decision to pursue your postgraduate studies. But remember, your success won’t grow beyond your sacrifice. The best thing for you to do after you’ve done this little calculation of pros and cons on your own is to close your eyes, leave all your unnecessary overthinking behind and just take that leap of faith.

2020/21 | 11

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Postgraduate

Q&A

No one should embark upon a postgraduate degree with misconceptions about what it is really like. Here are some questions you should ask yourself before committing to postgraduate study.

“Is this just my escape route away from the working world?”

In the working world, it’s easy to get burned out and think about getting out of employment. Some working adults fall into the trap of jumping at full-time postgraduate study as a ticket away from their nine-to-five desk jobs. However, it is not advisable to think of a postgraduate course as a getaway from your working life. Although you may be free from your boss, office and workload, you will be faced with examiners, the library and deadlines instead. Neither is it recommended for you to pursue postgraduate studies simply because you don’t want to look for a job yet – more often than not, those who do so find that they have just prolonged their period of indecision.

“Am I under the impression that it will be just like my undergraduate degree?”

Every stage of education differs when it comes to learning styles and expected outcomes. Before you undertake a postgraduate degree, make sure you are aware of what you are getting yourself into. Do not assume that taking a postgraduate qualification will be a similar experience to your undergraduate degree. For example, a research-based Master’s would be quite different from an examination-based Bachelor’s degree with minimal research components. Even if you are not pursuing a postgraduate qualification by research, the assessment and teaching methods may be significantly different from how you carried out your prior study. Postgraduate qualifications are pursued in different formats compared to undergraduate study and you should take note of these variances.

12 |

2020/21

Choosing Postgraduate Life

“How good are my time management skills?”

One thing any postgraduate student will tell you is to not underestimate the importance of time management. In fact, the taxing aspect of time management could be one of the main factors that differentiate a postgraduate degree from prior study. You will usually have less contact time with lecturers and supervisors while doing a postgraduate degree, but you are expected to put in a lot of independent hours to achieve a certain level of knowledge throughout your course. Moreover, it becomes increasingly difficult to juggle postgraduate study if you are also working alongside your course. You would have to balance your schedule between being an employee and a student in addition to your responsibilities as an adult.

“Have I taken the social aspect of a postgraduate degree into consideration?”

Some people are under the impression that pursuing a postgraduate qualification is a long and lonely road. They picture long hours spent locked up alone with no one to talk to, but this is hardly an accurate depiction at all. Many postgraduate students cite the chance to network as the

best part of their postgraduate qualification. They find it an invaluable opportunity to be able to meet with esteemed and like-minded people in their field, as well as learn from coursemates from diverse backgrounds. Quite a number of postgraduate courses incorporate knowledge-sharing and peer review into their learning structure. Not only do these opportunities add to your postgraduate life, they can also prove helpful in your career and network later on.

“Have I planned for life after my postgraduate degree?”

Although it may be tempting to live in the que sera, sera moment in life, you should have some idea of your plans post-postgraduate study. For example, do you want to pursue a lifelong journey in academia and research? Make this known to your supervisors and members of faculty as you go along your postgraduate course. Are you planning to start your own business or get that big promotion soon? Expand your network and have meaningful conversations with your coursemates who have more experience than you. A postgraduate degree is not just about obtaining a piece of paper or blindly producing a written thesis. Have an idea of what you would like to achieve at the end of your course and do your best to make that happen while you are on it.

2020/21 | 13

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Straight Outta

Bachelor’s Degree Are you thinking of going straight into academia right after hanging up your graduation robes? Wondering where the differences start between working life and postgraduate life? postgradasia is here to help you with your train of thoughts.

Y

ou browse social media and realise that everyone has gone their own way right after graduation. Some got married, some started the business they couldn’t stop talking about throughout their final year, and a couple or two just… fell off the grid. But surely, most of your coursemates and friends jumped right into the working world because it seems to be the most sensible option for fresh graduates.

Most, but not all. Not you, at least. Because the academic field seems more appealing to you. Perhaps you feel like there’s more to be unveiled within the world of academia and that your growth will be imminent there.

So, what’s stopping you?

14 |

2020/21

A great jumpstart If you think academia is only suitable for “people who have their lives completely sorted out”, may I invite you to think again? Academia does not exclude fresh graduates like you.

Your lack of experience does not disqualify you from the pursuit of a postgraduate. Everyone has to start somewhere.

Everybody started with inadequate knowledge at one point.

That is the whole purpose of studying, no?

In fact, starting postgraduate right after your bachelor’s degree saves a lot of your time as you are fast-tracking yourself into the next level of education. As you progress through your postgraduate classes, your vision will eventually be clearer. Is academia for you? Are you more interested to work in a corporate setting for a change? The deeper you dig into your research, the more situations you overcome, the clearer your vision will be. Who knows, you might even start that humanitarian project you’ve always dreamt about.

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Fresh brains, fresher outcomes If, right at this moment, you are asked to write a short paper for an assignment, do you reckon you’d be able to complete the citations and references accurately in APA or MLA styles?

Chances are your answer is yes. It’s been barely six months since you completed your undergraduate thesis – relevant methodologies are still fresh in your mind! This could help you heaps in adapting towards being a postgraduate student.

A common issue that “older” postgraduate students face is the age-old difficulty of adapting to the academic surrounding that they once knew. Very few professional jobs deal with the formality of research papers and the like – hence the process of relearning can be quite a tough one for older students to transition into. According to some of these students, they even put off completing their citations to the very last minute, even though they have completed their papers way ahead of the deadline. All these issues stem from being away from the world of academia for too long a time.

Thus, being somewhat in touch with student life will help you get on with your research planning. Completing your citations would be easier for you. Attending classes and camping at the library will become second nature.

Money is the anthem of success It’s true that money is not everything. But we make things move when we have money. Student loans, bills and rent are monthly headaches for most of us. Now, where is that fat pay check that we so desperately need?

According to HiredNow’s 2017/18 Malaysia’s Salary Guide, the starting salary for fresh graduates with nil experience in Malaysia ranges from RM1,800 to RM2,900, depending on the field. However, according to the website www.payscale.com, someone who enters the working field with a postgraduate qualification with no working experience would have a minimum starting salary from RM2,500 to RM3,500. Quite a difference there, don’t you think?

It takes approximately one to two years to complete your Master’s degree – depending on your course. As a part-time postgraduate student, it could stretch up to four years. These additional years of studying definitely adds to your credibility, your knowledge, and eventually the worth of your deserved salary.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s your turn to go deeper, unveil more of what lies beneath and turn it into an intricate ice carving for others to see. Good luck!

2020/21 | 15

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Never Too Late:

Applying As A Mature Student You’ve filled in the forms. While waiting for your application to go through, you begin to question if it’s too late for you to restart your academic journey. You shouldn’t and postgradasia is here to elaborate.

I

f you’re worried about your experience as a mature student may not live up to your younger student days, you should stop worrying yourself sick. If you haven’t already realised, you now have the higher ground.

Financial capability After years as a working professional, you’ve built a steady flow of income that gives you stronger purchasing power, access to credit and savings for your own security. This means you can afford to skip fundraising for your studies this time round and spend more energy to focus on your coursework and assignments. Now that you are older and wiser, managing and organising your finances should be much easier than it was during your undergraduate days.

16 |

2020/21

Knowledge base Your working experience and personal skills developed throughout the years should provide you with organisational skills such as communication skills, negotiation skills, and knowledge that extend beyond the classroom. Your wide range of knowledge will be extremely beneficial to your study group. This will also be advantageous during discussions with your supervisor as you would be able to convey your ideas to them effectively.

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Clear goals

Connections

You’ve weighed out the pros and cons of pursuing your postgrad studies. Whether you want to have a huge career change, to further enhance your skills or perhaps you want to finally take a step into the world of academia, you’ve made your decision. With a clear goal in mind, your time will be spared from experimenting different study cases or reviewing unnecessary references. This should motivate you to keep going throughout your studies.

The professional network you’ve made in the years you were building your career creates layers of connections for you to tap in for information. This means you are exposed to a larger bank of resource, which will tremendously help in completing your study. Each person that you know within these layers brings in different ideas and perspectives that will not only become inspirations for your dissertation, but add credibility to your research as well.

Accessibility As it stands, you have the advantage of accessibility in choosing a postgraduate course of your interest. Many postgraduate programmes require candidates to have a minimum of two to four years’ of working experience (eg CFA, MBA, etc) because management skills add credibility to your qualifications. Leverage on your work experience as it qualifies you to enrol into a wide variety of programmes – be it taught or research.

Learning is a lifelong journey, so it is definitely not too late for you to restart your education journey as a mature postgraduate student. Put the doubts and uneasiness from your mind aside; embrace your second chance at being a student again with a positive attitude.

2020/21 | 17

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Logging In:

Online Education Cautious about doing postgraduate online? postgradasia is here to give you reasons to consider online education as a viable study pathway.

O

nline learning has been under scrutiny for many years by many people – and for good reasons, at that. A few frequently discussed issues include confusing transfer credit policies of schools, accreditation issues, time management difficulties, and some are simply uncomfortable with the idea of learning outside the traditional classroom, without in-person interactions.

While these are all valid thoughts, let’s look at the bigger picture of things. The COVID-19 pandemic has enforced the idea of online learning for students from all walks of life, so let’s focus on the many positive outtakes from learning from the net. Here is a list that aims to help you decide if it is the right fit for you.

18 |

2020/21

Good practice on time management As big of a challenge it may be to motivate yourself to attend your online classes, don’t you think this would be a great reason to start bucking up and to be more disciplined?

Having good self-control and self-motivation to see an online course to its completion is a sign of professionalism, and it also shows that you have what it takes to succeed in life.

Skill gained: Multitasking Additionally, opting for an online postgraduate course allows you to work and study at the same time. Studying while working is a great skill that leaves employers impressed. Not only does it showcase your excellent time management skills, it also highlights your ability to focus on your priorities. A great skill to include into your résumé, if you ask us!

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Accessible from anywhere

Do it at your own pace

Say goodbye to driving to campus and rushing through traffic, hoping time would stop so you can make it to your morning class on time! Since all you need for your class is a PC or a laptop and good internet connection, you can join a live classroom even from your bed. This is a very good option for long-distance learning, as this method is already being opted by some Ivy League universities.

Online postgraduate courses were started because some people were not able to commit to the traditional brick-andmortar classroom due to various circumstances. Everyone learns at a different pace; some quicker than others. Some want to complete their postgraduate studies without egging on other people to do the same. Having your postgraduate course done online surely is a better option for them.

Online postgraduate courses are more than just a virtual classroom that is set to comply with the growth of technology – it is a life-changing choice that can be made by those who want to fulfil their dreams and move further in their careers without jeopardising the current lifestyle they are in.

In the end, everybody aims to live in an environment that elevates their quality of life, as well as having endless options on how to reach their potential.

Anytime you want Also, did we tell you that your course materials can be accessed 24/7? Subject notes, schedules, assignments, and lessons will never leave your side. Aside from online lectures, you can rest assured knowing that whatever resources or information you need, you have complete access to it. Faced with an emergency today and unable to make it to class? Fret not, just head online. It’s all there.

Variety of majors When it first began, online courses were available mostly for business schools, especially MBA courses. But as time progressed, academic institutions developed more options for majors to be taken online. Now you can obtain a Master’s degree ranging from business and education to psychology and professional writing with just a few clicks!

2020/21 | 19

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Striking A Balance:

Working & Studying

Not willing to quit your current job, yet not letting go of the postgraduate studies offer at the same time? Well, where there’s a will, there’s a way.

W

orking a full-time job and studying at the same time is not something uncommon among those who want to do their postgraduate without any financial hiccups. But how do you find the balance between attending classes and completing your tasks at work?

Failing to plan is planning to fail Get yourself a planner! Make sure to visit your university’s student portal at the beginning of every semester, and jot down all the schedules for classes, assignments, deadlines and exams. Keeping track of timelines helps you to prepare the materials, block your calendar for important things even before the semester starts, as it definitely calms your nerves as the dates approach. Make sure to do the same thing with the meetings, proposals and project deadlines that you may know of in the office, too.

20 |

2020/21

Let it be no secret Let your boss and colleagues know that you are pursuing your postgraduate study. Employers are usually more reasonable than you think, especially if your course is related to your profession. It shows that you are committed to advancing your skills and knowledge, and that add values to the company.

They might take it easier on you as you need to study, so you will probably be spared of late nights at work, and your colleagues might cover for you during exam weeks as well.

Choosing Postgraduate Life

Technology is your friend

Take good care of yourself

… especially smartphones. There are a number of apps you can download to assist you in your studies and work at the same time. If you are taking a course that needs you to go to classes on weekends or at night, apps like Microsoft Office Lense, Flashcards+ and My Study Life can help you manage your student life. On the other hand, 24ME is useful if you need to have a digital planner (or even a personal assistant) as you can set reminders for tasks that are nearing their deadlines at work. Just try and search for the apps that you think would make your life better, okay?

Never skip your meals! Stop avoiding doctors when you don’t feel so good on a certain day! If you are sick, take a sick leave from office, and inform your professors that you’ll be absent from classes that day. Yes, we know you are capable of juggling your study and work at the same time, but it’s not worth sacrificing your health in order to achieve both.

It doesn’t matter how determined you are in reaching your dreams, your achievements are useless if you can’t enjoy them due to rotting health. So, befriend your doctor, and don’t forget to put your medical appointments in your planner as well.

Sleep is not just for the weak Never discount your sleep just to finish an assignment or work! Your brain will always be running on overdrive – so it needs to rest at night to ensure that you can fully function the next morning. Going to bed early and waking up early to study is better than going to classes without enough rest, or attending a WIP meeting with triple shots of espresso.

You wouldn’t want to jeopardise your health and lower your productivity, would you? This means that you really have to plan your schedules accordingly, so you won’t have to rush things at the last minute.

2020/21 | 21

Living

Postgraduate Life The information that will help you ease into postgraduate life without any hiccups.

We know you have your checklist by now, so we thought you could use some additional assistance from these articles: • Going The Extra Miles: Postgraduate Open Days • Applications 101: Rules & Risks • Competing At The Interview • It’s All About The Money, Money, Money!

• Life Support: Scholarships For You • Connected: Networking During Your Postgraduate Study

Living Postgraduate Life

Going The Extra Mile:

Postgraduate Open Days You’ve thought it through, and you’ve finally decided – now is the right time for your postgraduate study. Now it’s time for you to visit the university’s postgraduate open day before your enrolment.

O

f course, you must be thinking: you can look up the course, study the facilities and benefits from the institution of your choice by just going to the institution’s website and by calling them. The results of your personal research paired with thorough online information should’ve been enough for you to make up your mind, so why should you attend the postgraduate open day?

Soul-searching Being assertive about the course that you want to pursue is great but it’s also good to talk to professionals, ie programme coordinators or subject specialists. This can help you understand the pathway that you’re choosing. For instance, these experts can help you figure out the things that are important for your postgraduate studies – be it professional accreditations or a recommendation of a different course that’s compatible to your first degree. They will direct you to specific programmes in line with what you are looking for, saving your time on browsing through booths without a plan.

A clearer description Speaking to academics will help you get a clearer vision of the course you are aiming to study – like the details on assessment methods, its links with the industry and what to expect once you’re out in the work field. You are also encouraged to speak to students who are currently doing their studies to get insights on the course and not to mention other benefits of the institution that are only shared with students. Don’t worry, you can usually find them assisting booths at postgraduate open days from time to time.

24 |

2020/21

Living Postgraduate Life

Chase the seniors Sometimes, alumni of the institution would get invited to the open days to talk about their studying experience and their careers after university.

Reading about people’s success stories is definitely different in comparison to listening to them first hand. Meeting the alumni might give you a clearer perspective of what you can do after your postgraduate studies and it prepares you to fully utilise your time during your studies. This will help you with your career pathway to achieve your career goals.

Updates on funding Funding is an essential element when thinking of doing postgraduate studies, it’s only natural that the institution’s bursary office would have a booth at the open day for your inquiries. In Malaysia, Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi (PTPTN) and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) would usually have a booth as well, since they are among the biggest fund providers here. Take this chance to find out about updates and news regarding possible postgraduate education funding. Sometimes these information may not be listed on their websites, so you should visit their booths and get as much information as you need.

Live preview on-site This is also the time for you to check out the facilities of the institution, especially if you’re enrolling for a full-time postgraduate course. Try to get the feel of the environment of the institution – figure out where the library is and its operating hours, places to get the best coffee on campus, the cheapest food court and printing places with cheap prices. See if the atmosphere fits your lifestyle so you will be comfortable enough to start your course when the time comes.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, always be sure to maintain physical distancing and wear a mask when going out in public places, and education fairs are no exception. Many fairs and exhibitions, however, are now going virtual as to minimise the risk of spreading the virus, such as our Digital Mega Careers & Study Fair, so keep an eye out for this particular fair!

We understand that postgraduate study is a huge investment in both time and financial aspects. This is why going to a postgraduate open day at the institution of your choice is technically a test-drive. You can ask all the questions that cannot be answered through emails or phone calls, or by browsing their web page – before you put your money and time into it.

2020/21 | 25

Living Postgraduate Life

ApplicationS 101:

Risks & Rules

You’ve done your research, looked up the university and even went to the postgraduate open day to check the place out. Your mind is now made up! But we’re only getting started, so don’t lose your way during the application process and keep up with us as we assist you along the way.

THE

RIsks

First, let’s get into the modes!

Postgraduate qualifications can be undertaken in a variety of different modes: • Do you want to attend classes or do your own research?

• Are you pursuing your studies while working?

• Will you be studying in person or online?

Consider all the options and choose the mode of study that is best for you.

TAUGHT VS RESEARCH Taught courses

Research courses

Method of study: • Lectures and seminars • Face-to-face and/or online interactions with lecturers and tutors.

Assessed through:

Method of study: • Minimal classes/independent study on area of focus • Thesis research.

Assessed through: • Scholarly articles published in academic journals

• Examinations • Coursework (assignments, reports, projects, presentations, etc).

• Presentation of thesis (viva voce).

Taught courses are a better option for those who are less inclined towards conducting research and producing a thesis as a result of their postgraduate study. However, some courses do require the submission of a final-year paper or a short dissertation – it’s important to compare assessment methods to find what is suitable for you.

26 |

2020/21

You can expect many hours of studying independently on your area of focus with regular check-ins with your supervisor. Not all research-based programmes require students to produce scholarly articles for publication in academic journals as part of their degree, but most do. Viva voce is a ceremony whereby you’d present and defend your thesis before a Board at the end of your studies. Although it is usually more common in more advanced postgraduate degrees such as doctorates.

Living Postgraduate Life

FULL-TIME VS PART-TIME Full-time study

Part-time study

Pros: • Your lectures, seminars and contact with members of the faculty will take place during the day on weekdays • No classes in the evenings or long stretches during the weekend • A great choice if you want to immerse yourself fully into student life and the academic environment.

Pros: • Suitable for those who want to pursue their studies alongside their full-time jobs • Allows you to gain a postgraduate degree without giving up your source of income • Classes are held on weekday evenings or the weekend so they won’t interfere with normal work days.

Cons: • You won’t be able to pursue a degree full-time while holding a full-time job • Requires financial consideration on your part • Late career start.

Cons: • It usually takes twice as long to complete compared to a full-time course and requires much sacrifice of your personal time.

FACE-TO-FACE VS DISTANCE LEARNING Face-to-face

Distance learning

Pros: • All classes or interactions with your supervisors will take place in person on campus.

• Able to make full use of the campus facilities, especially if your course needs you to utilise the laboratories.

Pros: • Allows you to access learning materials, listen to prerecorded lectures and contact your lecturers or supervisors over the internet • Can be done according to a timeline scheduled by the course provider or in a more open-learning fashion at the student’s pace • Offers the advantage of having access to courses and professors not available locally • The highest amount of flexibility for working adults.

Cons: • As you need to be physically present at the university campus, you’ll have to factor geographical logistics such as transport and accommodation into consideration.

Cons: • Geographical logistics such as high-speed internet can be an issue for those living in areas with vulnerable connection.

Once you’ve found the study mode that fits your schedule, we can go straight into the technicalities of your applications.

2020/21 | 27

Living Postgraduate Life

THE

It’s time for the application!

Once you’ve decided to embark upon the postgraduate journey, you will need to pass the admissions stage for the course at a university of your choice. Here are the things you need to prepare when applying for a postgraduate course.

RULES

Most of the admission information and application forms are available on the university’s website or will be provided upon request.

Entry requirements Always check for a programme’s entry requirements as these vary between courses

Entry requirements

and universities. Different courses may have different selection criteria; for instance, some courses may emphasise on academics and research while others on working experience and extracurricular accomplishments.

Forms and documents You can apply through the university’s web application system or by filling up an e-document and submitting it online.

This takes away the hassle of printing and compiling a sheaf of papers, but any supporting documents will have to be scanned and attached to your online application in the appropriate format.

List of supporting documents commonly requested for the application process: • Academic transcripts and degree scrolls of all university-level studies • Copy of applicant’s NRIC or passport • Certificates of achievement or extracurricular activities • Proof of English language proficiency (if necessary) • Academic referral letter from previous mentor and/or head of school to attest your academic capabilities.

Personal statement You will probably be asked to write a personal statement to support your application as a chance for you to convince the institution in writing why you should be given admission. You should convey to the reader a sense of your identity and motivation for your A personal application. statement should be straightforward and honest. To stand out from the crowd, relate each points to the course you wish to study, and avoid generic and impersonal phrases.

28 |

2020/21

A good personal statement should cover the following: • Your academic achievements • Your non-academic skills and extracurricular activities • Evidence and knowledgeable interest in your intended subject of study • Why this particular course and university would benefit you and vice versa?

Living Postgraduate Life

For research programmes For a research-based postgraduate course, you may need to choose and make contact with your potential supervisor as well as prepare a research proposal as part of your application process. Both choices of supervisor and proposal must be accepted before you can be admitted into your postgraduate course.

This is more common in PhD programmes but may also form the basis of application for some research-based Master’s courses.

Interview Some postgraduate courses invite applicants to an interview as part of the selection process. You should expect to cover the same points mentioned above in the section about personal statements, as the purpose of the interview would be to uncover whether your experiences, achievements and interests make you a good candidate for the course.

International students If you are applying for a course in a country different from your country of origin, you will be considered an international student.

The application process may take a longer time and thus have an earlier deadline than for local students.

research

Treat the admission interview as you would treat an interview for a job. Act and dress professionally, come prepared and make sure you speak clearly, knowledgeably and enthusiastically.

Factors you need to be aware of when making an application as an international student: • Visa requirements • Institutional support • Financial considerations (differences in fees and availability of scholarships for international students).

UNIVERSITY

2020/21 | 29

Living Postgraduate Life

Competing

At The Interview postgradasia takes you through the postgraduate admission interview journey, including preparation methods and ways to ace it!

WE’RE HIRING

W

hy do universities conduct interviews for their postgraduate programmes?

If a course only admits a small intake of students each year due to its level of competitiveness, these admission interviews act as a great filter to determine the best candidates. You are also very likely to be called to an interview if you are applying for a scholarship, funding or any financial assistance.

What they want What does it mean to be the best candidate? What exactly are they searching for? At the very basic level, there are three things you should aim to possess before going for that interview!

30 |

2020/21

ADMISSION INTERVIEW MUST-HAVES 1) Knowledge. Fundamentally, a postgraduate course is a pursuit of higher knowledge and you will want to show the institution that you have prior understanding and the capacity to expand upon it. This can be proven through previous related qualifications as well as extracurricular learning and self-study.

2) Experience. In some fields, having a relevant work history can be an added advantage (or even a prerequisite) before furthering your studies. This could be in the form of full-time employment in the industry, working experience during your undergraduate study or involvement in pertinent projects and activities.

3) Skills. Nowadays, it is increasingly common for universities to seek for well-rounded students who have other things to offer besides just their academic history. Take inventory of the hard and soft skills you have and find a way to relate these skills to making you a better asset to the institution.

Living Postgraduate Life

Why do you want to study at this institution?

The questions are typically the same in most admission interviews. A smart hack would be to come to a clear thought process before the actual interview. Be prepared to answer the following questions:

Why do you want to study this course?

This is a question that is intended to kill two birds with one stone: It gives your interviewers the chance to find out more about yourself and also see whether you know enough about your prospective course. Use this opportunity to explain the interests, motivations and personal experiences that have led you to apply for this course, and show that you have done the appropriate research on what your study will entail.

Why do you want to study at this institution?

If your chosen university is highly-ranked and very prestigious, it is worth bearing in mind that many would consider it an incredible opportunity to pursue their studies there. If this is the case, you should be ready to convince the admissions team that you do want a place at their institution, and why they should offer it to you.

What about interviews that are related to postgraduate funding and scholarships?

There are different kinds of interviews and your preparation will vary according to each type. For instance, some universities are fairly lenient when it comes to the interview process and are willing to conduct it via telephone or Skype. There are also interviewers who simply want to meet you to get a feel for the kind of person you are and judge your communication skills at surface level. Nonetheless, not all interviews are this straightforward.

For courses that are skill-based, you may be asked to undergo assessments alongside your interview to prove your capability. This could be anything from an on-the-spot test or written problem to a role play, presentation or oral quiz.

Find out what you will be faced with and prepare to perform accordingly. As for research-based programmes, it is not uncommon for the interview to include a short presentation where candidates explain their proposed research.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Refresh your memory on what you have written in your application beforehand.

• Bring the necessary documents and be prepared for tests or presentations, if any.

• Arrive punctually and wear the appropriate formal attire.

Practise basic interview etiquette – give a firm handshake and maintain eye contact.

• Speak clearly and communicate well. Do not get flustered or try to bluff your way through by using clichés and jargon above your level.

• Aim for a polite and friendly air. Do not be afraid to show some of your personality and let your interviewers get to know you.

• Use the interview to showcase your knowledge, motivations and plans and relate them to the course you wish to study.

Whether you are attending an admissions interview that includes an application for funding, or applying for a scholarship in which you have to pass an interview stage, do not forget to prepare for this aspect in particular. Is the financial aid offered means or merit-based? Read up on the background of the grant or scholarship and actively convince your interviewers that you are deserving of it.

2020/21 | 31

Living Postgraduate Life

It’s All About The

Money, Money, Money!

Finding the money to do a postgraduate degree sounds stressful, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be. postgradasia explores some of the funding options available.

I

t’s easy to get flustered when thinking about how to fund your postgraduate degree. However, it’s important to take a step back and properly consider your options. Could you get your studies fully or partially funded by another party? If not, what are the resources available to you?

Help with THE FUNDING Here are the different ways you could get financial assistance for your postgraduate studies. These forms of assistance do not require financial repayment, although they usually require a return in some other way. They could either cover a partial amount or the whole of your course fees.

32 |

Scholarships

Grants

For: Merit-based in nature, they are for high achievers who have a lot of potential to offer those who are giving out the scholarships.

Offered by: Many organisations, from corporations and universities to the government.

What is it: The most commonly sought-after form of financial aid, scholarship providers pay for a percentage or all of the course fees, with some also providing additional living expenses.

The catch: Scholars are generally required to maintain a certain grade while pursuing their studies. They may also have to serve their benefactor for a stipulated term, usually as an employee of the company.

For: Grants are awarded to students with the purpose of funding their individual research projects. Some grants take into account the financial needs of the applicant.

Offered by: Traditionally government and nonprofit organisations (eg research councils) but now corporations and universities as well.

What is it: The purpose of a grant is to generate more research projects in a particular area. Therefore, grants are generally more research-specific than scholarships.

The catch: You will have to select a course or project that is relevant or beneficial to the grantor and provide regular process reports on your research project.

2020/21

Living Postgraduate Life

Teaching or research assistantships For: Those particularly interested in pursuing a career in teaching and academia, or research and laboratory work.

Offered by: Universities.

What is it: Allowances are provided in exchange of services in teaching or research. Teaching assistants provide support to professors by conducting tutorials and grading assignments. Research assistants help faculty members with research projects.

The catch: Unlike scholarships and grants which cover your fees outright, assistantships are more akin to working part-time alongside your studies or during term break. However, you do pick up invaluable and very relevant skills by doing so.

Employer-funded For: Employees who are planning to stay long-term within a certain company and interested to further their studies in areas that will be beneficial to their employer.

Offered by: Companies, usually those with an allocated fund for employee development and education schemes.

What is it: Financial aid could come in the form of an interest-free loan or a full sponsorship. Good performance after you have completed your studies would usually result in a promotion or better remuneration.

The catch: For loans, you may be required to serve for a corresponding period and pay it off through salary deductions. Alternatively, some companies also offer bonding services where you are required to serve the company for a number of years instead of returning the loan, or in return for sponsorship.

Other Options Even if you can’t get a third party to help fund your studies, that doesn’t mean postgraduate study is lost to you forever!

Education loans You can get a loan to fund your studies which you pay back with interest once you’ve completed your studies. Education loans can be obtained from universities, corporations, associations, banks or even from relatives. Interest rates vary, so research carefully before accepting a loan.

PTPTN is the main education loan provider for Malaysian students who are pursuing studies locally due to its low interest rates. Loan servicing starts six months upon graduation or when employment commences, whichever comes first. You will not be bonded after completing your studies.

Personal savings It may be more practical to use your own savings instead of applying for a loan, especially when the interest rate for the loan is higher than that of your fixed deposit. Furthermore, if you are doing your postgraduate part-time, it is more than possible to finance your studies from your savings and ongoing income.

Those who have accumulated substantial savings in their EPF accounts may withdraw money from Account 2 to fund their postgraduate studies. If you have not been working or contributing consistently to your EPF account, you can get your parents to draw from their EPF savings to help you fund your education.

Tax incentives Although this is not a direct source of funding, it will certainly help lighten the load. To encourage life-long learning, the government offers up to RM5,000 of tax relief per annum for the pursuit of postgraduate studies at recognised institutions or professional bodies. Additionally, you can also enjoy tax relief up to RM1,000 on book purchases. More information can be found at the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia.

2020/21 | 33

Living Postgraduate Life

Life Support:

Scholarships For You We compiled a list of grants and scholarships available – locally and internationally – to assist you in planning your finances during postgraduate studies.

W

e have shared with you the types of funding available for your postgraduate studies, as well as the general qualifications and the papers you should prepare before applying. Now that you have them ready, it’s time to look up our list for the scholarships and grants that would suit you.

Time to get your phone out and type these names on Mr Google! *This list is not exhaustive. While all efforts have been made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of publication, it is the sole responsibility of prospective applicants to verify the most current scholarship application information, especially deadlines, by contacting the awarding body or organisation directly.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS MALAYSIAN SCHOLARSHIPS • • • • • • • • • • • • •

34 |

Intel Malaysia Scholarship Khazanah Watan Scholarship Programme Malaysia International Scholarship Malaysian International Scholarship @ APU Merdeka Award Grant Science & Technology Research Grant (STRG) Tabung Kumpulan Wang Biasiswa Negeri Selangor Top Glove Scholarship UPM-ELS Scholarship Yayasan Bank Rakyat PPBU Yayasan Dayadiri Public Service Programme Yayasan Sarawak Scholarships YSD Employees Education Programme

2020/21

• A*STAR Graduate and Postdoctoral Scholarship • Asian Development Bank Scholarships in Asia and the Pacific • Astro Scholarship Award • Bank Negara Malaysia Scholarship • Biasiswa Yayasan Bank Rakyat • Chevening Scholarship • Commonwealth Scholarships • DAAD Scholarships • Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarships in Australia for International Students • Human Life Advancement Foundation Science & Technology Scholarships • International Education Specialists International Scholarships • Khazanah Scholarships • Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Scholarship • Malaysian Australian Alumni Council Scholarship • Maxis What’s Next Scholarship • New Zealand ASEAN Scholarships • New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships • OWSD PhD Fellowship • SEARCA Scholarships • The Tun Suffian Scholarships • The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) Fellowships and Research Grants

Living Postgraduate Life

INSTITUTION SCHOLARSHIPS (LOCAL AND OVERSEAS)

• Curtin Sarawak Collaborative Research Scheme • Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Scholarships • Hong Kong Baptist University International Postgraduate Scholarships • IIUM Postgraduate Scholarship • International Medical University (IMU) Financial Aid • INCEIF Financial Assistance • Khazanah-INCEIF Scholarship Programme • Kingston University Postgraduate Scholarships • Limkokwing Merit Creative Scholarship • Malaysia Australia Colombo Plan Commemoration (MACC) Scholarships • Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) Postgraduate Scholarship • Manipal Global Education Services (MaGE) Partnership Bursary • Menzies School of Health Research (HWSP) • MMU Postgraduate Merit Scholarship • MMU Sports Excellence Scholarship • Monash University Scholarships • Nanyang Technological University Singapore Scholarships • NUS Graduate Scholarship for ASEAN Nationals • Open University Malaysia (OUM) Scholarships • Sunway University Postgraduate by Research Scholarship • Sunway University Research Scholarship for Master’s and PhD in Malaysia • Sussex Malaysia Scholarship • Swinburne University of Technology Scholarships • Taylor’s University Scholarships and Financial Aid • The Chinese University of Hong Kong Studentship and Scholarships

• The University of Sheffield Scholarship for students from Malaysia • UCSI University Trust Scholarships • UiTM Postgraduate Teaching Assistant (UPTA) Scheme • UKM Postgraduate Scholarships • University of Malaya Scholarship and Finance • Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Postgraduate Financial Assistance • Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) ASEAN Scholarship • Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) Postgraduate Financial Aid • UNIMAS Zamalah Scholarships and Awards • University of Glasgow Scholarships • University of Nottingham Post-Graduate Taught (PGT) Scholarship • University of Strathclyde Scholarships • Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Financial Assistance and Scholarships • Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Fellowship Scheme • Universiti Teknikal Malaysia (UTeM) Skim Universiti Pascasiswazah Biasiswa Penyelidikan • UTM Malaysian-Japan International Institute of Technology Postgraduate Scholarship • UTM School of Graduate Studies Biasiswa Yang diPertuan Agong Remember, do your own research – look up the deadlines, the qualifications and documents needed, as well as the interviews that might take place before your applications are approved by the awarding bodies.

May the odds be ever in your favour.

2020/21 | 35

Living Postgraduate Life

Connected:

Networking During Your Postgraduate Study postgradasia explains why it is important for students to widen and diversify their connections during their postgraduate studies.

H

umans are social creatures, which explains why networking is an essential skill in our daily life.

We exchange information, collect resources and maintain our reputation by staying connected to everyone and everything around us.

In this article, you’ll find out why being well-connected all-around – be it with the highly regarded key personnel of a certain field or your fun-loving course mates – will reward you in ways that might have never crossed your mind.

What is it with networking?

Benefits, obviously! Making the effort to connect with people comes with lots and lots of benefits. We’ve listed the most apparent ones here: • Higher chance of employment The truth is almost 80% of jobs available in the market are not published or advertised. Instead, they use the power of word-of-mouth to find the right candidates

36 |

2020/21

for the post. Securing good connections with the right people could lead you into the start of the career that you want.

• Developing social skills You will have to develop soft skills such as confidence, listening, curiosity, authenticity, and humility as you strive to create a wider network around you. Having these skills will make you become more interesting and unique as a professional and help attract people towards you.

• Contributing node As you are expanding your own network, you can also become a main start to someone’s networking by connecting them to the right crowd they need. This will benefit not just the person you’re helping, but you as well as your network will become more varied and wider. Who knows when the favour will return full circle, right?

Living Postgraduate Life

How to start networking?

Networking and making connections are important, yes. Yet while mingling with new people might come easy for some people, others are having a hard time to do the same. So what can you do to set things into motion?

• Get online!

If face-to-face interaction is too heavy of a start for you, then why not use platforms you’re familiar with – the internet. Social media is a great place to start your networking, as long as you know what you’re using it for. Start curating your content to get the right audience you are aiming for. Remember, not just LinkedIn – you can be professional on Twitter and Facebook, too.

• Go out and have fun!

It is usually easier for you to meet with big players of the industry in volunteer programmes, charity events and other casual gatherings because hey, they also want to have fun! Once you’re there, don’t ask them ‘what do you do?’, instead ask them about their interests and see if you guys have anything in common. Once you have established the connection, everything will flow naturally.

Additionally, as we’re in the midst of a pandemic, do it all within the proper measures!

• Start closer to home (or campus)!

Start with building good relationships with your lecturers as well as your classmates. Find out if any of them are related to the key people of the industry you’re interested in, and ask them politely if they could introduce you to said people. Maintain the relationships even after graduation as they might become the key people you know one day.

Postgraduate study is not just a classroom-bound affair – it is a whole new pathway in life with a series of minitrials that, if dealt with logic, patience and a spoonful of creativity, will reward you handsomely at the end of your journey. Never be afraid to utilise your networking skills to navigate through your study years as they will definitely lead you to a satisfying career and life that exceed your expectations.

2020/21 | 37

PGLifestyle

Peeking into the academic lifestyles, fun tips and professional insights from the postgraduate field.

Postgraduate is not all that boring, and we have some fun write-ups for you to find out for yourself: • Postgraduate In The New Norm • Impostor Syndrome: A Professional’s Unfortunate Push • Faking It Wrong • Common Postgrad Myths • Hack Your Study Space • Coffee, Tea Or Meme?

PG Lifestyle

Postgraduate

in the New Normal Read on if you’re thinking of pursuing a postgraduate during the pandemic.

C

OVID-19 is tough for everyone. We get it. But do we have to abandon our preCOVID plans for postgraduate education because of it? Do you lie awake at night, asking yourself: Should I get on with the plan?

The points below may help you answer that question!

What are your goals?

A pandemic isn’t a good reason for you to take up a postgraduate course just so you can avoid adult responsibilities. Figure out what you want from your postgraduate qualification, and start building on your plan from there.

This is a good way of deciding on your postgraduate path. A clear goal, whether it comes to studying or working, is a necessity - come hell or high water. So take a moment to reflect on your options.

There will always be moments in your life when an informed decision has to be made: this is one of them, so choose wisely!

40 |

2020/21

Grab the opportunity!

Let’s be real: the economy isn’t the best right now, and chances are that it’ll remain lukewarm for the unforeseeable future. Starting a career at this time might not be the best option due to possible lower starting salaries. On top of that, your specialization or industry might be facing a massive recession.

But there is a bright side to this bleak reality: staying in school.

Taking a course now can help you sharpen your skills. And once the economy has improved (yes, we are optimistic!) you can jump back on the job-hunting bandwagon, better prepared for the working world.

The bottom line is this: Education can sometimes be a viable alternative plan which can offer you benefits as you ride out the storm. Not to mention, a lot of institutions are offering courses for lower fees. Plus, nearly all of them are now done online for safety and convenience.

PG Lifestyle

Long-term mindset

SAFETY IS THE FIRST PRIORITY Check if your chosen programme and institution are following the SOPs laid out by the government. There is never zero risk when it comes to COVID-19, and even if the courses are fully online, occasionally there may come a need to see your supervisors face-to-face.

Remember to take extra precautions when you’re doing so. This might sound like a kind of cliché, but in this trying time, it’s better be paranoid than sorry.

Again, we believe this storm will pass. This economic recession will reach an end, and when it does, industries will be hungry for qualified professionals. Doing a professional diploma or a Master’s degree now will give you that headstart for that career you’re aiming for.

With wider professional networks, enhanced skills, and newfound confidence in your abilities, we bet you’ll be amongst the first to reach the finish line when the race starts!

This article wasn’t written to guilt-trip you into any rushed decisions. We understand that while a postgraduate option – if it was a part of your plans pre-pandemic – should be followed through to completion, we also realise that many external reasons might be stopping you from continuing.

And that’s okay. We just want you to know that this pandemic isn’t the end of your postgraduate journey, and there will always be options for you to weather through this storm.

Good luck with whatever you’re going to decide for in the future!

2020/21 | 41

PG Lifestyle

Impostor Syndrome:

A Professional’s Unfortunate Push Maya Angelou once said, “I have written 11 books but each time I think ‘Uh-oh, they’re going to find out now’”. Albert Einstein confided in a friend, saying that “the exaggerated esteem in which my lifework is held makes me very ill at ease. I feel compelled to think of myself as an involuntary swindler”.

T

hese two were prominent members of the society in their respective fields, and knowing that they had these negative thoughts about themselves seems unrealistic. But this is the reality that professionals are continuously facing – the impostor syndrome. What is it exactly?

‘They’ll find out eventually’ Impostor syndrome is a mental state in which a person doubts their own accomplishments and ends up having a constant internalised fear of being ‘found out’ by the people around them.

They believe that every achievement they made was merely a stroke of luck, and they shouldn’t be credited for it.

What causes it?

Some experts believe that it stems from one’s childhood experience. If you grew up with highachieving and talented siblings, you might develop feelings of inadequacy in everything that you do, as you compared yourself to them. On the other hand, others associate it with a person’s personality traits, such as perfectionism.

42 |

2020/21

ACKNOWLEDGING THE SYMPTOMS There is a number of possible signs you can see in a person experiencing this syndrome, such as: • Worrying that they will not live up to expectations They set their goals higher than normal and then blame themselves for their incompetence when it is not achieved.

• Attributing their success to outside factors They never consider their achievements as the result of their own efforts, but rather as luck.

• Self-sabotage Procrastinating, not taking up opportunities when offered and continuously berating their achievements.

PG Lifestyle

Dr Valerie Young, an internationallyknown expert and author on impostor syndrome, has identified five types of ‘impostors’:

• The Expert The Experts won’t feel like they have accomplished something they are working on until they are perfectly sure that they have uncovered everything about the subject.

• The Perfectionist Perfectionists, as their title suggests, aim for perfection and are often experiencing anxiety, doubt and worry when their goals are not fulfilled.

• The Natural Genius This type of impostor is naturally able to master new skills faster than most people, so when they fail to do just that, they would feel ashamed and start to undermine their true ability.

• The Soloist Soloists prefer to work alone as they believe that reaching out and asking for help will expose their ineptitude. Even when they are offered help, they would usually reject it so they can prove their worth as an individual.

• The Superhero Also known as the workaholic, this type of impostor excels in a lot of areas, and too often push themselves too hard to achieve their aims.

How to deal with it?

Even if it sounds like an unavoidable condition, there are ways to lessen the severity of impostor syndrome. Sharing the misery of facing it with someone can be one way of dealing with it as it helps you to distinguish between your perception with the reality of the situation.

Documenting every achievement and celebrating every success no matter how small or big they are can help you to stop discrediting your own hard work, and they work as reminders that you deserve every little achievement that you made.

The most important thing in dealing with this state of mind, though, is to learn how to be prepared whenever those dreaded moments are coming. Surely, comparing yourself to others’ achievements has become a hobby to you, especially when you are faced with roadblocks in your professional pathway. You should stop doing that, and accept that every person faces different challenges every day. Remember that you have come far from the starting line, and every step made is a growing experience.

IT’S A CALL FOR MOTIVATION! While it is an uncomfortable mindset to have, impostor syndrome also carries a few positive impacts along its path, as it: • Indicates that you are challenging yourself A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing will grow there. You will always be prepared for new challenges and will do your best to overcome them.

• Keeps your ego in check Being an expert in a field comes with an attached ego to it. Realising that there will always be room for improvement will keep your feet on the ground.

• Signals that you are gaining experience The more you know, the more you don’t know.

Impostor syndrome arises when you become better at what you’re doing – a sign that you are gaining experience throughout your professional journey.

2020/21 | 43

PG Lifestyle

Faking It

Wrong

Imagine this: You could have an instant Master’s or PhD qualification with just a few thousand ringgit or less, with no tuition fees required or any classes to attend. Would you do it?

I

n 2017, a syndicate producing fake academic scrolls was discovered in Puchong. The syndicate claimed that the certificates would come from public and private universities, complete with transcripts, seals of the institutions and signatures of the chancellors. In 2018, another syndicate with similar modus operandi was busted in Petaling Jaya. There are websites in the deep web offering certificates from prestigious universities worldwide, albeit with higher prices.

But the most shocking thing about these discoveries is not the fact that the forged documents look almost identical to the original ones – it’s the fact that these marketing tactics are so honest and straightforward towards their target audience. These services urge young adults to buy the certificates through them and skip the enrolling and studying part, saving the time and money it takes to actually get a real degree.

What makes these degree mills so brazen in their marketing?

44 |

2020/21

How to deal with it?

Even if it sounds like an unavoidable condition, there are ways to lessen the severity of impostor syndrome. Sharing the misery of facing it with someone can be one way of dealing with it as it helps you to distinguish between your perception with the reality of the situation.

Documenting every achievement and celebrating every success no matter how small or big they are can help you to stop discrediting your own hard work, and they work as reminders that you deserve every little achievement that you made.

The most important thing in dealing with this state of mind, though, is to learn how to be prepared whenever those dreaded moments are coming. Surely, comparing yourself to others’ achievements has become a hobby to you, especially when you are faced with roadblocks in your professional pathway. You should stop doing that, and accept that every person faces different challenges every day. Remember that you have come far from the starting line, and every step made is a growing experience.

PG Lifestyle

Why fake it?

In Malaysia, there is a rising number of highprofile cases in which public figures and politicians have been found to have bought these false academic credentials. In 2016, a famous business motivational speaker who charged thousands for his seminars made it to the headlines when his doctorate qualifications were proven to be forged. In March 2018, a man was accused of using false qualifications to get a job as a lecturer in one of Penang’s public universities back in 2008. Earlier in 2019, a number of politicians were discovered to have ascended to their current posts with fake PhDs. It is a part of our subconscious to have the desire to cheat to get the personal benefits we want. While not everyone is crooked enough to go through the lies, some opportunists would opt for the low road and get instant qualifications to advance in their careers.

But to blame it all on the rush for career advancement would be wrong.

Looking at the issue from a Malaysian perspective, education is a credential that separates one individual from the other, especially for the mid-class category as tertiary education doesn’t come cheap for them. Thus, it is normal for them to look up to people who graduated from universities more than they do to those who just finished SPM. This is where these politicians see their chance of gaining votes – by buying themselves the academic credentials that took years for others to complete overnight.

This instantly-gained ‘intelligence’ sets the tone of how they are viewed in the public eye: respectable figures who know what they are doing, thus no one should argue or disagree with their ideas.

Businessmen, on the other hand, manipulate these fake credentials to gain credibility among their circle, justifying their successes, and attain a wider acceptance. This is because the stigma that stands is that no one would have come to a business seminar conducted by a speaker who doesn’t have the expected academic credentials.

Authenticity and morality

Honest, hard-working people are losing opportunities because of these unqualified professionals, and the integrity of our country is jeopardised because of these dishonest politicians who are getting places in the administration. But the general public is not going to have this issue die on its own or forgotten.

As the cases increase, they are pressing the government to start combing out these frauds from the roots, and Putrajaya has recently announced the cultivation of database for these academic qualifications given within the country.

Stricter safety features are also implemented in the transcripts of universities to counter this problem, and thorough investigations are being done on those who allegedly manipulated these fake documents for their own benefit.

Easy options like these fake degree mills will always make their comebacks, especially with the social stigma that academic credentials are the only things being sought after by employers and the general public. While there are tonnes of ways to prevent them from sprouting, one obvious solution is to stop creating the market that demands it. Transcripts add credibility to your qualifications, not because they show that you have completed the course or finally obtained the knowledge to a certain degree, they prove that you have the patience and morals to stick to the rules and regulations in order to achieve it.

2020/21 | 45

PG Lifestyle

Common

Postgrad Myths The path to a postgraduate degree is fraught with myths and half-truths at every turn.

Jaideep Patel clears the way by separating the fictional from the fact.

“Having a postgraduate qualification guarantees higher salaries.”

The short answer to this is ‘no’. Before embarking on this journey, you should ask yourself why you want to do this in the first place. For most, it gives them the chance to be experts within a specific area of study – which may prove invaluable in the working world (or not). Ultimately, you should only take on a postgraduate degree if you have the dream of becoming an authority in your field, instead of worrying about automatically earning a bigger paycheck later on.

“Remaining a student is a freedom from the working world.”

Err, not really. You should never see a postgraduate course as an escape from your responsibilities as an adult. The truth is that the postgraduate lifestyle is a whole lot more like working life than it may seem. There is a lot of planning and time management involved. Not to mention, the question of who pays for your fees and expenses – and that includes rental if you’re living away from home. The good news is that there is an abundance of study loans and scholarships you can apply for.

46 |

2020/21

PG Lifestyle

“Postgraduate study is less stressful than undergraduate study.”

“No one likes hiring people with postgraduate qualifications.”

Wrong again. Taking on a postgraduate course, even on a part-time basis, means that you will have to juggle many different things into your schedule.

In between the time spent attending lectures, conferring with your supervisor and working on your thesis, you will need to carve out precious time for yourself and your loved ones. If you’re doing your course on a part-time basis, you still have your work in the office to take care of, while adapting to the postgraduate life.

Not true. The main issue here is that many postgraduate candidates think that they are entitled to a higher position as soon as they clinch their postgraduate degrees. While this may be true in certain industries, it is not the hard and fast rule across the board. If you have the interest and determination to pursue a higher qualification, you should commit to it 100%. When the time comes for you to make a return to the working world, take the time to explain your reasons for pursuing a postgraduate degree to your future employer.

“Doing this is a long and lonely road.”

It’s only so if you think it so. Understandably, university life during your undergraduate years was very different than what you will experience as a postgrad student. Sure, you will not have as many friends around, but this is the perfect opportunity for you to make some new acquaintances especially with your new coursemates. Having like-minded souls who share your trials and tribulations around you will be your greatest source of motivation and strength.

“Obtaining a postgraduate degree will further limit my career options.”

This couldn’t be further from the truth. During your postgraduate course, you will be exposed to a whole network of experts within your field of research. You can even see this as a chance to uproot yourself from your existing surroundings, and put yourself in a completely new environment which could beckon new professional opportunities. At the same time, you will be sharpening your research and writing abilities, which are important skills to have in almost any industry.

2020/21 | 47

PG Lifestyle

Hack Your

Study Space Study effectively by making sure you are comfortable with your study space. postgradasia is here to show you some tips to do so!

Y

ou are going to be spending a good deal of your days imprisoned within the four walls of your study room, so why not make yourself comfortable and create a space that is conducive to your study? It might take a little bit of effort and detective work to create or locate the perfect work space, but once you find it, it will be rewarding.

Rise and shine Studies have shown that exposure to natural light improves one’s mood and productivity. Good news, we have plenty of sunlight in Malaysia, so make full use of it. Position your study desk so that it receives a good amount of sunlight and cut down on artificial light during the day. You can also lightly tint your windows to keep out the worst of the heat.

‘9 to 5’ As a postgraduate student, it is good to keep to a work schedule so that you can be sure that you are always ahead of your deadlines. Burning the midnight oil and rushing your work are indicators of poor time management rather than incompetency. Learn to find a balance between your studies and your life. When you are welladjusted, you will find that your studies will improve.

Power up with plants!

Do you know that plants have a calming effect on the mind, help with memory and improve moods?

While you do not have to bring the jungle into your home, it is good to have a few greeneries scattered around. Potted plants on the table or a small bush around the corner make for good houseplants. Just remember to keep them alive.

48 |

2020/21

PG Lifestyle

Let there be light!

Get organised

How do you know if you have good lighting? If you are straining your eyes, then there is a high chance that your room is poorly lit. A gloomy room not only makes it harder for you to read, it also makes you sleepy. So, let a bit of light into your life and it will make all the difference.

While you might be moving towards a paperless environment, you can’t deny that paper will still dominate most of your study space. They key to good studying is to be organised. Have a system of organisation in your room and ample storage space to keep your items so that it can be within easy reach whenever you need them.

Rest in peace While it is advisable to keep all distractions at bay, you should also allow yourself a bit of a breather and have a ‘relax zone’ within your study compound. It can be a mini gym, an old sofa, or even a photo corner to remind you of the things that make you happy. But be cautious and do not abuse this corner and make it a point of distraction.

Drink up!

Keep your mind and body nourished by constantly drinking lots of water. Water might be best for your health but a jolt of caffeine from time to time can also power up your gears. Energy drinks are also good if you need an extra boost for an all-nighter but never abuse the substance.

2020/21 | 49

PG Lifestyle

Coffee, Tea,

Or Meme?

I

f a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, then surely there must be a remedy for getting through those long hours of studying. Whether it’s a blast of caffeine running through your veins, or something to tickle your funny bone, you could use a little something to take the edge off.

50 |

2020/21

PG Lifestyle

Here’s a cup of joe.

Fancy a cuppa then?

Forget the mints and sweets; coffee’s the way to go to combat sleepiness. The amount of caffeine in coffee is capable of stimulating your blood flow, improving your mood and keeping you wide awake, which is exactly what you need to pull off that all-nighter. There’s a wide variety of options to go for when it comes to coffee.

If you can’t handle the amount of caffeine coffee has to offer, here comes tea to the rescue (tea lovers, rejoice!).

Tea is known to provide calming and relaxing effects on the body and mind, not to mention the various health benefits that come along with it. Let’s find out which one is your cup of tea (no pun intended).

Black tea: The caffeine and amino acids present in black tea can improve focus and alertness.

Espresso: An intensely concentrated shot of pure coffee.

Latte: A creamy mixture of espresso and steamed milk with a thin layer of foamed milk on top.

Green tea: Packed with antioxidants, it is known for its many properties, one of them being its capability in improving the brain’s cognitive function, which enhances memory power.

Mocha: A chocolate lover’s choice, as it is essentially a chocolate flavoured latte.

Oolong tea: This tea shares the benefits of both green tea and black tea. An additional benefit is its ability to relieve stress, as it helps to calm the nerves and clear the mind.

Americano: An espresso shot diluted with hot water.

Cappuccino: An equal ratio of milk foam, steamed milk and espresso, resulting in a richer and stronger espresso flavour than a latte.

Coffee Frappé: A sweet iced blended coffee beverage, topped with whipped cream.

However, this depends on your tolerance towards caffeine, as this stimulant has different effects on different people. Go ahead, give it a shot!

Red tea: This caffeine-free tea is a good choice if you’re experiencing ailments such as stomach pains or headaches due to anxiety.

Tea works as an alternative to coffee, especially for those who experience jitters, headaches, or a ‘crash’.

To put it simply, the effect provided by tea is like being gently encouraged to do something by a loving grandmother, while the effect of coffee is like being kicked in the butt by a military officer.

Read all the memes!

If you’ve never chuckled at a meme before, you probably haven’t come across a good one yet.

Really, the best thing about memes is that they constantly evolve, therefore the jokes are always fresh and are based on current trends. Memes are capable of highlighting shared experiences of thousands of people across the world, all connected through the internet.

However, like watching YouTube videos, it is easy to get lost within the archive of existing memes. Dedicate a specific amount of time when indulging in memes, or you will not return back to reality. A few sites where you can browse memes to your heart’s content include familiar social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and sites specific for memes such as 9GAG, Reddit and Know Your Meme.

Pepe The Frog

Nyan Cat

Credit: Matt Furie, Boy’s Club

Credit: Christopher Torres https://lol-comics.livejournal.com/

2020/21 | 51

Advertorial

University of Strathclyde Business School (SBS) Founded in 1948, the University of Strathclyde Business School (SBS) is a pioneering, internationally renowned academic organisation that shapes and develops the business minds of tomorrow.

Strathclyde Business School is one of four faculties forming the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow. The University was established in 1796 as ‘the place of useful learning’, and this remains at the forefront of our vision today for Strathclyde to be a leading international technological university that makes a positive difference to the lives of its students, to society and the world.

SBS has established international centres in Greece, Switzerland, UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Singapore, and Malaysia. Strathclyde Business School’s subject departments and specialist units collaborate to provide a dynamic, fullyrounded and varied programme of specialist and cross-disciplinary courses.

SBS has offered an MBA since 1966 when it became the first institution in the UK to offer a full-time one year MBA. The Strathclyde MBA has been available outside the UK since 1988, with thousands of MBA course participants now graduated and many more currently studying in their own country.

52 |

2020/21

Advertorial

Strathclyde MBA started in Malaysia since 1989 with more than 1000 graduates in the network for the past 31 years. This makes the Strathclyde MBA one of the longest-running international MBA in Malaysia. The Strathclyde MBA has many study routes but we emphasise our ‘one MBA’ approach – the Executive MBA studied at any of our international centres offers exactly the same programme as when it is studied in Glasgow, and the academics who deliver the core elements of the programme are those who deliver the MBA in Scotland. The programme format is specially designed for busy executives who need to combine career and family commitments with the demands of MBA studies. The flexibility of the parttime approach enables participants to graduate within two years. However, study may be spread over a longer period if necessary, to a maximum of six years.

Strathclyde Business School has a reputation for research excellence. One of four faculties forming the University of Strathclyde is a tripleaccredited business school (AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB accreditation), and was the first business school in Scotland to achieve this accolade in 2004. More recently, SBS was awarded the Small Business Charter Award which recognises the business school’s world-leading support for scaling Scottish firms through innovation, internationalisation and leadership.

In addition to our international accreditation, Strathclyde has a reputation for research excellence. Based on the most recent REF (Research Excellence Framework 2014) GPA scores, the Times Higher Education ranked us first in Scotland and in the top 10 business schools in the UK for its research. Times Higher Education also ranked us 3rd in the UK for the impact of our business research, based on the REF’s GPA scores, a measure of how the research impacts on business practices.

2020/21 | 53

Advertorial

Managing Risk with Glasgow Caledonian University Online Programme There can never be a more crucial time to prepare your knowledge of risk management than right now, amidst this global pandemic.

By Dr Claire MacRae, Senior Lecturer Risk | Accounting, Finance & Risk, GSBS Join an innovative and dynamic programme the MSc Risk Management at GCU distance learning, part-time or full-time on campus. Risk has never been so important.

The current global Covid-19 pandemic has placed risk at the forefront of every organisation requiring business continuity planning, building organisational resilience and the effective management of risk. You can study all of this on the MSc Risk Management programme!

As organisations face a growing number of global and strategic challenges, and the need for responsible leadership, good governance and ethical behaviour continue to rise, highly qualified risk management professionals find themselves in great demand. When you join the MSc programme, you will learn about managing risk within organisations and how to build a resilient organisation, managing crises using contingency planning whilst studying business continuity and risk analysis. You will become experienced in the tools and techniques to manage emerging and complex business risks effectively, in any type of organisation across the globe. The MSc programme is double accredited and as an MSc Risk Management student, you will gain exemptions from the IRM and CII qualifications and free student membership accessing all their resources during your studies.

54 |

2020/21

Advertorial

Our GCU risk alumni actively support each other and when you begin your MSc you immediately become a part of this welcoming community. We have over 30 years of graduates and remain in contact with some from the first cohort of risk students back in 1986, who still support the University today!

The MSc Risk Management is one of Glasgow Caledonian University’s flagship programmes within its innovative business school – the Glasgow School for Business and Society (GSBS). Recent achievements include the Chartered Association of Business Schools (CABS) undertaking an independent analysis of the recent 2020 National Student Survey (NSS) of business schools and GSBS was honoured to be placed second in Scotland and third in the UK. In the study, students were asked to rate their institution on a number of themes including teaching, learning opportunities, assessment and feedback, academic support and learning resources. These survey results reflect the nurturing and giving students an all-round excellent learning experience.

The MSc Risk Management offers flexibility in the distance, online learning and we are able to accommodate different modes of study, depending on a student’s location and lifestyle.

The programme has produced a high calibre of graduates who worked across the globe in multinational organisations, such as Barclays bank, pharmaceutical companies, local government, consultancy, network rail, Turner and Townsend and AIG Insurance.

For more information on the above programme, kindly contact CDC Management Development (M) Sdn Bhd at 03-76608950 or email enquiries@cdc.edu.my

2020/21 | 55

Advertorial

From Malaysia To Outer Space How UiTM launched a nano-satellite into space and created history for the country The postgradasia team sits down with one of the brains behind UiTMSAT-1 Syazana Basyirah Mohammad Zaki to learn more about this astonishing feat.

H

istory was made on 30 June 2018 when UiTM students Syazana Basyirah Mohammad Zaki and Muhammad Hasif Azami sent a nano-satellite into space, part of a collaborative effort with the Kyushu Institute of Technology (Japan) under the Joint Global MultiNation Birds Satellite Project, or BIRDS Project.

UiTM, representing Malaysia, was joined by two other participating nations. Bhutan launched the BHUTAN-1 while the Philippines launched the Maya-1. The nano-satellites were delivered to the International Space Station (ISS) via the Space X Falcon 9 spacecraft which was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

BIRDS Project BIRDS-1

BIRDS-2

BIRDS-1 is the first iteration of the Joint Global MultiNation Birds Satellite Project, or BIRDS Project, aimed to help countries build their first satellites. The Japanese Kyushu Institute of Technology (KIT) supported the design and fabrication of the satellites.

BIRDS-2 is the second iteration of the Joint Global Multi-Nation Birds Satellite project, or BIRDS Project.

Participating nations:

Participating nations:

Bhutan

Bangladesh

56 |

Ghana

2020/21

Mongolia

Nigeria

Malaysia

The Philippines

Advertorial

We ask Syazana on the role she played during the project.

“One of my key responsibilities was working on the antenna of the nano-satellite, specifically the antenna deployment mechanism (ADM) as well as the anisotropic magneto resistance magnetometer. The other member of our team Muhammad Hasif Azami was in charge of developing the camera to capture images from the orbit of the UiTMSAT-1.”

“The other countries Bhutan and the Philippines had teams working on other subsystems of the nano-satellite, such as the on-board computer (OBC) and Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS).”

“Together, we developed one complete nano-satellite and replicated them, one for each country,” Syazana explains.

Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UiTMSAT-1

What does the UiTMSAT-1 look like?

We ask Syazana about the basic idea that led to the development and launch of the UiTMSAT-1, and the future of this nano-satellite.

“The idea came from our former vicechancellor, Emeritus Prof Dato’ Hassan Said. He proposed the project to us, and as students we did our best to realise his vision.”

“As for the UiTMSAT-1 itself, it is currently in an orbit around the earth at an altitude of approximately 370km. But it is quickly approaching the atmosphere, descending more rapidly than we first anticipated, which was around two years. But it’s already quite low even after just one and a half years. Soon it will burn up upon re-entry into the earth’s atmosphere,” she says.

UiTMSAT-1 may only be in outer space for a little under two years, but the accomplishment of sending a nanosatellite into space will live on forever in Syazana. After all, how many students can say that they sent a satellite into space?

“The entire experience of developing the first Malaysian nanosatellite and the success of it, during launch and deployment from the ISS to space, has been unforgettable to me.”

But UiTM is not resting on its laurels. The university is now preparing to build a hub for hands-on training as well as testing facilities for the development of future small satellite projects.

The postgradasia team wishes UiTM the very best of success in its future voyages to space!

The UiTMSAT-1, along with the other nanosatellites of the BIRDS-2 Project, is known as a CubeSat. It is a miniaturised satellite used for space research. Just like its name, it is in the form of a cube measuring only 10cm x 10cm x 10cm and weighs under 1.33kg each.

2020/21 | 57

Advertorial

Relevance,

VALUES

AND

OPPORTUNITIES:

Pursuing A Postgraduate Degree in The Pandemic

postgradasia sat down with the Dean of UiTM’s Institute of Graduate Studies (IPSis), Professor Zuhaina Zakaria as she shared her thoughts on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the current postgraduate scene, the value of a postgraduate qualification and the prospects that await those who are pursuing postgraduate studies in this trying time.

The relevance of continuing your postgraduate studies in COVID-19 Professor Zuhaina Zakaria Dean of UiTM’s Institute of Graduate Studies (IPSis)

W

ith a pandemic underway, it came as no surprise that many people are taking a step back from pursuing their postgraduate studies, while others are moving forward, deciding that there’s no better time to achieve that postgraduate degree than right now.

Not to mention that most academic institutions are rolling out more online courses to make things easier for the candidates. No matter if you belong to the first group or the latter, the pandemic undoubtedly introduced some major changes to the postgraduate scene in Malaysia.

58 |

2020/21

Previously the Director of Centre for Academic Leadership, Institute of Leadership and Development, UiTM and currently the Dean of IPSis, Professor Zuhaina acknowledged the global outreach of the COVID-19 pandemic with many crucial sectors affected including the education division. Students aren’t allowed on campus and physical classes, workshops and club activities are now conducted online.

Despite the remote ways of conduct, Professor Zuhaina still believed that there’s a relevance for Malaysian candidates to not forgo the dream of pursuing their postgraduate studies.

“Many businesses are shutting down and employees are losing their jobs. Furthermore, some countries are still enforcing lockdowns, and working from home has become the new norm,” she added, before coming to her main point.

Advertorial

“But looking from a positive angle, this could be the right time for some people to improve their skill sets and develop new specialised knowledge.

Postgraduate study is one of the options to position oneself as an expert in their field.”

Professor Zuhaina also added that this in return will help to open doors to new opportunities once the pandemic ceases. Various fields will be looking for new experts to fill in positions that had to be left empty as corporations are adjusting to the current situation.

The real value of a postgraduate degree Is it true that people usually pursue a postgraduate degree to teach in their respective fields? Professor Zuhaina revealed the truth to the question.

“For those who are in academia, postgraduate degrees are considered to be highly valuable. Most higher institutions nowadays are setting PhDs as the main criteria for employing new academic staff,” she explained.

But what if I’m not in academia, will a postgraduate degree help me in my career? The answer is... Definitely!

Professor Zuhaina explained that: “However, there are also PhD graduates who found careers outside of the academia field, such as in research institutions, banking sector, public sector and such.

A postgraduate degree holder will have many skills, ranging from analysis and problem-solving skills to project management, and these skills can easily be translated into a wide range of career opportunities.”

Picking up from that, Professor Zuhaina also highlighted the importance of having a postgraduate qualification to advance further into the corporate sector.

“Recently, more organisations are recognising the benefits of a Master’s degree and most of them prefer their employees to have one. As I have said earlier, a postgraduate qualification prepares you with specialised knowledge and skills, and these are important factors to have as it creates a more competitive environment for everyone. It makes it easier for assessments to be done for you to move into more senior positions in the near future.”

Closing our interview session, Zuhaina stressed the importance for new postgraduate students to familiarise themselves with online platforms and technologies.

“Learning in this new norm may pose a challenge to certain people, nevertheless students still need to quickly adjust their learning styles.

As almost all student-lecturer interactions will be online, a well-functioning device and a conducive environment are needed. And of course, this might be simple advice, but if you’re really thinking of pursuing a postgraduate degree at this time, no matter for whatever reasons, you have to prepare yourself financially, physically and most importantly, emotionally.”

2020/21 | 59

CAREER GUIDES

downlokaadt

the e-bmaolaoysia.com www.grad

DIGITAL PUBLICATIONS

gradmalaysia.com /gradmalaysia

@gradmalaysia

/gradmalaysiaMY

GRADUATE CAREERS PORTAL

HOW TO GET HIRED

CAMPUS TALKS

Advertorial

Master of Real Estate Development What is this Cool Course all about?

Why should I study at UTAR?

Glad you asked!

Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) is a programme developed through a collaboration with REHDA Institute.

It aims to equip the players or stakeholders in the property development or construction industry with exposure related to the real estate and property development sector by: • IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY of the industry • INNOVATING NEW IDEAS towards achieving the highest standards of professionalism • ADVANCING BEST PRACTICES for the industry

Oh, we have a few reasons for you to ponder upon.

• AFFORDABLE FEES! UTAR is a not-for-profit university providing affordable quality education to all • RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION! UTAR study programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), and our professional-related programmes are recognised by 20 leading professional bodies • 21ST CENTURY SKILLS! UTAR was the first university in Malaysia to set up UTAR Soft Skills Development Certificate (USSDC) to recognise students’ effort in acquiring the key soft skills to transform into employable professionals • EMPLOYABLE GRADUATES! 95-97% of UTAR graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. Not to mention that many received multiple job offers even before graduation!

WAIT, WHAT’S REHDA? REHDA stands for Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia. It is the leading representative body for private property developers, being involved primarily in advocacy and governance. REHDA plays a pivotal role in ensuring that developers’ views are heard by relevant authorities and government agencies.

What else is there to know about this Cool Course?

Are you really curious about it? Maybe it’s time to introduce you more intimately to the course, then. It comprises of a coursework component and a project. The coursework component consists of: • 8 core courses • 2 electives These will be assessed by a combination of continuous assessments and examinations.

Classes are conducted in UTAR’s Sungai Long Campus under the Faculty of Accountancy and Management.

WHAT MAKES THIS COURSE COOL? • Guest speakers from the industry to share their practical experience • Attending at least three seminars (organised by REHDA) related to property is compulsory • 12 weeks of face-to-face learning on research project is based on real case studies and problem-solving

62 |

2020/21

Hmm, how do I know if I qualify for this Cool Course?

Okay, let’s see.

You are qualified for this Cool Course if you are a graduate of: • Architecture • Building and Property Management • Construction Management • Engineering • Land Surveying • Quantity Surveying

What if I do not hold any of the abovementioned academic degree qualification?

If you’re an industry player or stakeholder and want to upgrade your qualifications while furthering your knowledge in the real estate and property development sector, then you’re welcome to apply at admission.utar.edu.my.

Wow! Cool! What if I still have more to know?

No worries! We, at UTAR, are ready to answer all of your questions. We can be reached at 011-1062 4335/ 011-1062 3354

Advertorial

Master of Strategic Communication What is this Cool Course all about?

Why should I study at UTAR?

Looks like you’re a curious one, so here you go.

Master of Strategic Communication is a programme that provides you with mastery of the field of media and communication. It also aims to equip you with: • ABILITY TO DEMONSTRATE IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE of the strategic communication field locally and internationally • PRACTICAL SKILLS in the field of media and communications • LEADERSHIP QUALITIES in their way of communications to work effectively with academic peers and stakeholders

Oh, we have a few reasons for you to ponder upon.

• AFFORDABLE FEES! UTAR is a not-for-profit university providing affordable quality education to all • RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION! UTAR study programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), and our professional-related programmes are recognised by 20 leading professional bodies • 21ST CENTURY SKILLS! UTAR was the first university in Malaysia to set up UTAR Soft Skills Development Certificate (USSDC) to recognise students’ effort in acquiring the key soft skills to transform into employable professionals • EMPLOYABLE GRADUATES! 95-97% of UTAR graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. Not to mention that many received multiple job offers even before graduation!

This programme is also in response to the ever-growing media industry, which has also made Malaysia a fertile ground for media and communications-related studies. It is designed to focus on the higher-level concepts and strategies that cut across disciplines to meet the flexible thinking needed in today’s media environment. The thinking that requires practitioners who can design, manage, and launch communication campaigns that integrate a variety of public relations, advertising, journalism, and marketing techniques.

What else is there to know about this Cool Course?

The programme seeks to empower communicators who are versatile to successfully move on to a variety of fulfilling careers, applying the strategic communication principles and skills they have learned to business, government, politics, social justice, entertainment and health among others.

It will interest you to know that this programme comprises of a coursework component and a capstone project.

The coursework component consists of: • 9 core courses • 2 electives

Hmm, how do I know if I qualify for this Cool Course?

Okay, let’s see.

Are you a graduate of: • Public Relations • Journalism • Advertising • English Language • Management Or maybe you’re a media and communications industry professional and want to acquire skills to advance further in your profession?

If you are any of the above, then head on to apply at admission.utar.edu.my

These components will be assessed through a combination of continuous assessment and examinations.

The classes are conducted in UTAR’s Kampar Campus under the Faculty of Arts and Social Science.

2020/21 | 63

Experiencing

Postgrad

An intimate introduction to postgraduate studies from first-hand experiences.

Students and graduates sharing information, tips, perks and quirks from their chosen postgraduate institutions.

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Ridwan Nurseha, 25 CURRENTLY PURSUING Master’s degree of Strategic Corporate Finance, HSE University - Moscow

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

I come from Indonesia, a country which since 2014 has been actively developing and improving the quality of the nation.

And this is the main reason for me to take the postgraduate programme at one of the top-ranked universities so that later I can contribute to the development and prosperity of my country.

In my opinion, the right method in selecting supervisors is by going through their track record, so we can know very well about the research they are interested in and the research they have done so far. This is to ensure that we are on the same path, and they can help us with their expertise on the topics, and my supervisor matches these criteria.

Choosing the course and institution

Mapping profession

The good reputation of HSE University and its programmes are very basic things in considering a place to study. The next thing that attracts me is the availability of scholarships and other supporting facilities, such as the state of the dormitory and the campus itself.

Career development is the main thing in taking postgraduate.

But in my opinion, it would be nice if we start this programme after having at least two years of working experience, so that later we can provide insights “from the field” to the academic world.

My research

Postgrad perks and quirks

Currently, my research focus is on the factors that determine the capital structure of state-owned companies. This topic is very interesting considering that almost every country has its own state-owned companies that are managed by the state, and decisions about capital structures are one of the things that have become the centre of attention in research in the financial sector, given the composition of the financial structure between state and private companies are quite different. Plus, the resulting composition there really affects its performance very significantly, so knowing what factors influence it and determining the right combination is necessary. With the right capital structure, of course, the performance in the short and long term is expected to continue to improve so that more benefits will be obtained by society and the state.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, I use the Coursera platform more often and I really like this platform because we can learn about anything, so I plan to take several courses outside the financial sector to broaden my perspectives.

In June 2020, under Coursera for Campus initiative HSE students have been granted free access to over 4 000 massive open online courses on Coursera. Students could choose up to 6 courses until July 31.

2020/21 | 65

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Dave Ling Chern Chiang, 31 CURRENTLY PURSUING Master of Science (MSc) in Molecular Medicine

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

In my first three years working as a pharmacist, I was thinking of taking up a master programme to sub-specialise in a different field and broaden my career horizon. It is not an easy move as I will have to relearn things. I have started my master programme with IMU when I was working in cancer genomic molecular lab as a business development executive. Two years later, I obtained my master degree and gotten a job promotion to be the business development manager.

I came to know about my supervisor from a lecturer who has taught me during my bachelor degree. Dr Ho was already working on some interesting projects which involve cancer omics. Not only did the topic match my interest but most importantly my supervisor was able to pinpoint the priority in tasks, purposes and timeline of the project. I was able to balance my work and study well because of my supervisor and co-supervisor (Prof Tan). Having good communication with your supervisor, detailed planning and committed execution are the keys to success in one’s postgraduate journey.

Choosing the course and institution As my work is related to clinical oncology, I did some online searching about cancer genetic related to the master’s degree and have found a few universities which are offering master programmes such as genetic counselling, cancer genetic and molecular medicine. I attended IMU Open Day and spoke to the coordinator in charge of the molecular medicine programme, about my expectations and what the programme offers. I also spoke to some of the existing students who have already enrolled in the programme. After obtaining all this information, I decided that IMU is the best place for me to enrol my master programme. What attracted me the most is the guaranteed time flexibility and support provided by IMU lecturers during my part-time master programme while having a full-time job.

My research I feel honoured that my research outcome has contributed to pancreatic cancer treatment options exploration, via a discovery on how the cancer cells protect themselves against the human immune system at a molecular level. It has also given me an insight on cancer omics, this is a field that is full of potential and value for research in the future.

66 |

2020/21

Mapping profession Career advancement was in my mind when I decided to further study, as pharmacy is a competitive field and I was ready to explore other options. I recommend that you gain a few years of working experience before thinking of what postgraduate programme to enrol for so you can figure out what kind of speciality is demanded and what is not; you may even link your thesis with your career.

Postgrad perks and quirks While doing my Master degree with IMU, I have gotten a chance to know more friends and lecturers who I have not gotten to know during my time in Bachelor degree. Through these interactions, I was able to realise the changes in me after graduating from school. The master’s programme has not only given me another chance at academic achievement but also a chance to know myself better.

Postgraduate studies will only be easy if you are clear of what you are doing; put more time on research and preparation at the beginning of your journey, prepare your thesis early and most importantly, always allocate some time for relaxation because life is not just about the study and work!

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Ooi Su Yin, 49 CURRENTLY PURSUING Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

I’ve always wanted to pursue an MBA after I graduated with a Bachelor of Economics from Flinders University, Australia.

However, I was looking for a more specific MBA than those generally offered, such as Human Resource Management in order to enrich my knowledge in this area and improve my career prospects. I decided to go for the MBA at IMU as it was offering a programme in Healthcare Management, an area which I have always been curious about. It was certainly not easy as I have no background in healthcare but having completed all the modules in this programme, I would say that it is not impossible. Hopefully, I will be graduating sometime this year (2021).

It is important for the supervisor to be very familiar and knowledgeable in the conduct of research. They should also be knowledgeable in the subject matter of the research. I met my current supervisors for my management project when I joined the programme and I am happy to say that it has been great to be under their supervision.

Choosing the course and institution The reputation of the university and the quality of the programmes are the most important things to look for in doing postgraduate studies. Even though the programme is relatively new, IMU has already established itself as the best university for healthcare education in the country. On top of that, my cousins who have graduated from IMU convinced me that IMU has quality programmes and produces good graduates.

I appreciate the flexibility of weekend classes that help me with my juggling of work and studying at the same time, not to mention the support received from the lecturers as well.

My research As part of the MBA programme, I am required to conduct a management project. It was the start of the Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia and doing research on working from home and productivity appealed to me. Personally, I think this is an important area for top management and organisation leaders, so this research is done in order to see if working from home is productive and sustainable after MCO, bringing about a number of positive benefits not only to the individual employee but also to the society and environment as well.

Mapping profession I’m doing this postgraduate programme to enhance my knowledge, lead my career advancement and even explore the many options available after this. It is better for a person to have some working experience before pursuing a postgraduate as this experience helps in understanding the basic concepts and knowledge taught in the programme. It will also help in the conduct of your thesis. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t continue to postgraduate without any working experience, as I do have classmates and juniors who continued right after their medical degrees.

Postgrad perks and quirks I love the opportunity to network with people of various backgrounds with different points of view. I also enjoyed the field trips that we were able to go to, although due to the pandemic situation confined only in Kuala Lumpur. Through these, I have learned new knowledge and improved my skills.

Starting the programme during the start of MCO in 2020, my classmates and me attended online classes for most parts of the programme. It was definitely challenging, having left university more than 20 years ago and now adopting a new method of studying while working full-time as well. Time management and initial preparations are as important as the breaks you need in between studying and working.

2020/21 | 67

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Katherine Lim Sze, 29 MSc in Islamic Finance

Starting postgrad

Mapping profession

I did some online research and found out about INCEIF. It is the only university in the world that focuses on Islamic Finance.

The lecturers are very good and informative. There’s always debates among my classmates facilitated by the lecturers, so there’s always camaraderie which is developed among the students where we all gain new information and perspective from each other.

Despite Islamic finance slowly gaining interest from the rest of the world, Islamic finance study at the postgraduate level is not widely available globally; at least not reputable ones.

With hardly a solid background in Islamic finance, I wanted to start my involvement in the industry with a firm foundation.

My search brought me to INCEIF, which to me, is the leading educational institution in Islamic finance. The fact that INCEIF is backed by Bank Negara Malaysia gives me confidence and also the guarantee that it has the necessary credibility.

Choosing the course and institution The qualification that we obtained from INCEIF is unparalleled, in my opinion. There’s nothing like it anywhere else. INCEIF provides the base of understanding for Islamic Finance so we can go out into the world and revolutionise Islamic Finance industry a little more in the right direction. Malaysia is one of the world’s leading countries in Islamic finance where Islamic banking, economy and social finance have been implemented since the 80s. As a Malaysian, I am proud of this global acknowledgement, and on a personal level, it piqued my interest to learn about this system which my country is good at.

My research The Master's programmes’ students have to undergo Action Based Learning (ABL) as part of our course requirement. We get to apply the theoretical concepts to solve real-life industry problems. I was involved in a project with the Malaysian Takaful Association (Takaful is a Shariah co-operative system of reimbursement in case of loss, which is an alternative to conventional insurance). Subsequently, this gave me the idea to develop a fintech solution for integrating khairat into Takaful's solution. I submitted the idea in a fintech competition and was placed second.

68 |

2020/21

Postgrad perks and quirks Nearly half of my classmates are foreigners, some from countries with historically established Islamic social finance like Turkey. There are also those from countries which are in the early stages of embracing Islamic finance. During class or for our group projects, we get to discuss our different experiences and, in the process, gain new information and perspective from each other. We get to know of the best practices around the world, beyond Malaysia and the region.

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Murat Kylyshbay, 40 CURRENTLY PURSUING Masters in Islamic Finance Practice (MIFP)

Starting postgrad

My research

I had my first Master degree in International Politics at Edinburgh University at the age of 21. Since then I had a short experience in conventional banking, spent 2 years as a BBC journalist in London, worked with South Korean investors in construction development before returning to Kazakhstan. I began my career in the insurance business, as the Head of the HR Department and left the company as the BOD Chairman.

And now at 40 years old, I am ready to start a new chapter in my life.

I hope Islamic finance will continue to grow with greater emphasis on new product development and innovations, gaining more acceptance from global participants and nonMuslims as an alternative to conventional finance. Because I see IF as the best option to promote financial inclusion and sustainability. Islamic finance already shares common goals with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Choosing the course and institution I have researched on postgraduate studies in Islamic finance and found out about INCEIF. It is the only university in the world that is dedicated to Islamic finance with senior lecturers, especially at the Masters and PhD levels. There’s nothing quite like it anywhere else because I believe it is the only university set up by a central bank, in a country that is known as being advanced in Islamic finance. INCEIF has gathered under one roof, a strong faculty comprising outstanding academicians and former practitioners. The course structures are delivered via various methods e.g. case study, group projects, knowledge sharing by industry players, inter-programme debates. At the postgraduate level, we need exposure to more than just what you could learn from textbooks. Real case issues are discussed in class, giving me valuable lessons in operational, practical matters.

Mapping profession The knowledge gained at INCEIF helped me to grasp the Islamic finance concept, tackling all the doubts in my heart.

It gives me the confidence to start my life-long project in the Islamic finance industry by delivering better products to our community.

Postgrad perks and quirks The frequent industry talks provide an avenue for students to have a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges in Islamic finance, the latest industry trends and regulatory expectation. The KMC (Knowledge Management Centre) has a good physical and online collection of resources on Islamic finance. The diversity of students provides a good mix of cultures and background. Based on what I learnt from our alumni, there is good networking amongst Inceifians providing an avenue for us to exchange ideas and concerns particularly for those who are working in the financial industry.

2020/21 | 69

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Muhammad Ali Jaleel, 49 GRADUATE OF PhD in Management/Business, Management and Science University

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

After the completion of my BS and MS degrees from the USA, I started my professional career in some of the big names in MNC; Microsoft, Apple, Dell, etc. Currently I am the Chairman & CEO for Philips Group of Companies for Malaysia and Pakistan, but I have always been very passionate about education. Coming from a privileged class in a country where most of the people are struggling to make ends meet, I find it my moral obligation to give back to society and the best way to do it is with education. This made me embark on the path of pursuing a PhD so that I can move over to academia and make a difference in people’s lives.

For me, a supervisor is a mentor who helps direct the researcher in the right direction without needing to teach them everything. A PhD researcher is expected to find his or her way while counting on the support of a seasoned professional to guide them in this journey. I was fortunate to end up with a mentor who has navigated me through this PhD journey so far.

Choosing the course and institution Given my professional commitments while having the desire to pursue a PhD, I was looking for two things in an institute: • The reputation of the university and its international affiliations • Flexibility where I could manage the demands of my schedule and pursue a quality PhD with the support of my supervisor simultaneously I was lucky to find all my requirements fulfilled by MSU.

My research Finding reasons why Generation Y leave an organisation and remedial actions that will help retain Malaysian Generation Y in multinational companies is the topic of my thesis. I am researching for talent retention – the most emphasis is being put on the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) stance – which is a very important topic for the current Generation Y. The research will have a profound positive impact on the Malaysian multinational industry which is struggling to retain their talent. Findings from this study could be used as part of the HR policy by the multinationals to cover the bases which usually result in the loss of key resources.

70 |

2020/21

Mapping profession I’m pursuing my PhD because I want to teach once I retire from corporate and give back to the society. I believe my experience can add a lot of value with real-life examples when teaching young minds about business strategies, challenges, corporate ethics, etc. A research-oriented postgraduate degree may not require practical experience as a pre-requisite, but I strongly feel that a non-research based one, whether technical or businessoriented, should only be pursued after at least 3 to 5 years of practical experience. I think a teacher needs to understand the practicality of a theory to be able to appreciate it and then teach it.

Postgrad perks and quirks Returning to academic after almost a quarter of a century is a pleasant experience. It motivates and energises me to remember my previous experience in college. I also learned about the differences in the world of academia compared to the corporate world. In academia, behaviours such as following meticulous research methodology, emphasising on styling and formats when generating research reports, etc. are expected, but these are not relevant in the corporate world that focuses more on monetising products or solutions they are selling. I have found the transition not easy to handle.

It has been hard to do justice with my PhD while holding my current corporate position. Despite the challenges, I dedicated my weekends and holidays to fulfil the demands of a PhD undertaking.

PhD itself is a full-time job and requires complete dedication. In an ideal world, I would have preferred to take a few years off from work and dedicate my time fully to pursue my PhD.

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Dr. Dehiwalage Anne Sharmini Perera, 38 GRADUATE OF PhD in Management/Business, Management and Science University

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

After finishing school, I found employment at a leading mobile telecommunication network in Sri Lanka, Dialog Axiata since year 2000 – 2009. During my tenure at Dialog, I preceded with my postgraduate studies by completing my masters with Edith Cowan University in Australia. Moving forward, my interest was in tourism management. During my stay at Dialog Axiata, I further developed myself as a Corporate Trainer. My MBA and the professional qualification as a trainer helped me immensely in my career.

For me, the most important criteria in selecting a supervisor is their ability to be a mentor who’d encourage and challenge me to my optimum potential. Other than that, their research background and both academic and professional engagement are added advantages. I must here mention that my supervisor, Prof Ali Khatibi from Management and Science University is the strongest pillar that stood by every student pursuing their PhD, continuously motivating and keeping us focused towards achieving our final outcome.

Choosing the course and institution

Mapping profession

After the end of the civil war in Sri Lanka, the tourism industry started to grow. Hence, my interest in starting a business in the tourism industry grew along with my passion as a corporate trainer. I searched for an institute that could help my professional growth in tourism and hospitality. That was when I discovered Management and Science University (MSU), Malaysia. What attracted me towards this university is the helpful professors and the culture that encourages students to discover new knowledge while developing the right skills and attitudes. MSU is also a QSranked, well-recognised university globally.

In my opinion, as much as knowledge is important, the skills and positive learning attitude are also crucial to be a competent graduate. The experience adds considerable amount of value in this regard. In my career, the experience I gained as a school leaver as well as my academic qualifications to professional experience enable me to reach the where I am now. Even to date, I keep updating my knowledge where I am a certified coach and a mentor by International Authority for Professional Coaching and Mentoring. I have also gained a qualification in Making Teaching Effective which adds a lot of value to my academic career apart from the research activities. Today, while I manage a business in tourism, I am also a Corporate Trainer, a Management Coach, a Mentor as well as an Academic and the Head of Faculty of Business Studies at Sri Lanka Technological Campus.

My research My research was about heritage tourism where I conceptualised a model to identify the relationship between tourist motivation, satisfaction and loyalty. Sigiriya Rock Fortress is identified as the iconic tourism attraction in Sri Lanka and my research was a case study regarding this historical UNESCO heritage site. My research interest areas were in tourism development, human resource management and organisational behaviour. Currently, I am conducting a research on the relationship between work from home and remote working practices on employee engagement.

Postgrad perks and quirks My most favourite part, other than gaining knowledge and skills in research, is the opportunity I got to be involved in community projects where I developed my sense of responsibility towards the community and involved myself in sustainability and continuous improvement.

In particular, I would concentrate more on managing my time and work on priorities to create a better balance in worklife that leads to better efficiency.

2020/21 | 71

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Chin Chen Fai, 24 CURRENTLY PURSUING Master of Computer Science, Tunku Abdul Rahman University College

Starting postgrad

My research

During the first year of my postgraduate study, my friends and I were focusing on finding ways to contribute our research to benefit the industry.

The main topic of my research was Industry 4.0. During my second year, I understood more about the research and its opportunities in the industry 4.0 framework. I also attended the event “Industry 4WRD” organised by MITI. This event showed us the basic concept and Malaysia’s standard in Industry 4.0.

This made me feel blessed to be a part of the researchers for this revolution.

During the second year, I focused on software development to prove the algorithm that I have designed in my first year to help meet the user’s needs. I published a paper in ICDXA and submitted the journal paper to MJCS on the asset-oriented data in production planning and the framework of Industry 4.0.

Thank you to Tunku Abdul Rahman University College and Kian Joo Can Factory Berhad in providing me a chance for my postgraduate study.

My research is about production planning algorithm and its application in RAMI 4.0 functional layers, which is in asset-oriented format. The most important contribution of this research is showing the significance and to showcase RAMI 4.0 to the industry and other researcher. The main contribution is one of the basic of RAMI 4.0, with most of the application can be grouped and provide a better result.

Choosing the course and institution My supervisor is Dr Lim Yee Mei who introduced me to the Master of Computer Science programme. At the early state when I joined the TARUC Incubator, I realised my experience and skills were not enough to start a company. Dr Lim told me that there was a chance for me to go further with a postgraduate qualification as she explained to me the growth of this industry and its future. The sponsorship from Kian Joo Can Factory Berhad, in the form of monthly allowance, for my postgraduate research is one of the reasons that I could join this programme. Another reason I choose the institution is because the lecturers are very kind and helpful.

72 |

2020/21

Choosing your supervisor My current master’s degree supervisor was my bachelor’s degree Final Year Project supervisor, and is also in charge of TARUC Incubator. My supervisor has excellent knowledge in Artificial Intelligence (AI) topic. I am proud to have her as my supervisor.

Mapping profession Industry 4.0 will still be a hot topic in the future; therefore, I believe that this knowledge could help in my future career.

Postgrad perks and quirks My favourite part is that the industry that sponsored my study allowed me to test my algorithm and explore more possibilities in the real-life testing while applying them. I believe the practical part of this practice, including testing, is very meaningful than just studying theories.

If there is a chance to change anything, I would love to communicate more with the users in order to understand their needs. During the research stage a lot of information were obtained from the internet. This means that I had to filter them, otherwise they might cause conflict when they were applied to the industry. I believed I could have saved a lot of time in completing my research, if only I could narrow down my focus during my online research.

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Bi Lei, 30+ GRADUATE OF Master of Business Administration (Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Centre for Postgraduate Studies and Research)

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

I am a mother with 10 years of working experience, and my son was just three years old when I was a master’s student. I have a well-paid job in Beijing and a husband who loves me very much, but I would like to have the experience of studying abroad. I chose Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (TARUC), which is in Malaysia because of security, distance, cost and other factors. My dream of studying abroad has become a reality and I embraced the warm welcome and care from the TARUC’s staff.

The criteria to choose my supervisor are; he should be very patient and enthusiastic in sharing professional knowledge with me, a professional with original views in his field of specialisation, and is willing to help me improve. I am very lucky to have such a person for my current supervisor.

Choosing the course and institution The reasons why I chose this university is that, first of all, the Chinese culture here is strong, which have indirectly helped me to practise my English; secondly, the staff at the Department of International Student Office (DISO) is very helpful and makes me feel welcome. It is not easy for a mother with a three-year-old son to study in a foreign country. The staff from DISO have helped me to solve many other problems besides my study. The tuition fees and living expenses in Malaysia are very reasonable, I can live here with my family comfortably.

My research The title of my paper is “The Influence of perceived teacher support on the cooperative learning engagement in K12 internet education: The mediation effect of study motivation.”

With a Bachelor in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (TCSOL), I also want to continue my career in the internet education field after completing my master’s degree.

Mapping profession I think it's more suitable for me to work for a period of time before pursuing postgraduate for these few reasons. Firstly, I have the financial strength, so I can pay all the expenses for myself and family. Secondly, I have my own ideas about why I should continue to study and what to major in, and thirdly, the major I plan to pursue and skills I choose to learn will be of great help to my career.

Postgrad perks and quirks First of all, my English proficiency has improved, as I can speak English much more fluently now. I become more interested in product management. The knowledge gained during the graduate studies has been a great help to my future development and my teaching job. Thirdly, the knowledge learned during my postgraduate study is totally different from my undergraduate study. The graduate programme has provided me with good knowledge and I learned a lot about problem solving methods and skills. With the knowledge that I have gained during my undergraduate and graduate studies, I find that I still have rooms for improvement.

I should have studied abroad earlier. It is too difficult to study abroad when I have to care for a young son. If I studied abroad much earlier, I have the leisure to learn more and get to know more of the host country. Nevertheless, I’m still glad for the opportunities I’ve had.

2020/21 | 73

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Teoh Chia Wen, 23 GRADUATE OF Master of Corporate Governance, Tunku Abdul Rahman University College

Starting postgrad I came across the Master Programme (MCG) during my bachelor’s degree and pursued it as a mean to push my limits.

The MCG has provided an excellent platform for intellectual discussions and exchange of ideas, hence improving my confidence in public speaking and enhancing my understanding of corporate governance matters and secretarial practices.

Furthermore, the MCG also helped me develop important skill sets, such as interpersonal and communication skills. With the professional qualification that I'm pursuing, i.e. Grad ICSA (Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators), and the opportunities to develop professionally, I am convinced that the MCG would enable me to stand out from the crowd and open up more career opportunities for myself.

Choosing the course and institution The duration of the programme and the reputation of the institution are my primary considerations in selecting a course and institution. The MCG programme offered by TARUC was on the top of my list as it requires a reasonable period of full-time study, i.e. 1.5 years and TARUC graduates are highly reputed, particularly in the commercial industry. Besides, the opportunity to complete the professional qualification (ICSA) is what ultimately encouraged me to join the said programme.

My research I am currently conducting research on employee’s organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) from the perspective of corporate governance. The OCB is affecting an organisation’s performance, survival and success, especially in instances such as the present Covid-19 pandemic where organisations are struggling in all aspects. My research also aims to incorporate the unique idea and concept of corporate governance in the literature of OCB to enhance the awareness

74 |

2020/21

to focus on corporate governance and subsequently improve the values of company secretaries/governance advisor.

Choosing your supervisor My current supervisor is Assoc. Prof. Dr Amy Yeo Chu May who has published numerous research papers since 1999 and is an experienced scholar. I am very thankful to have Dr Yeo as my supervisor as she provides immediate guidance whenever I needed them. She also frequently checks on my progress, listens to my ideas and respects my decisions. She allows students to express ideas and thoughts freely while ensuring the quality of the paper is maintained. Hence, I would not hesitate to say that Dr Yeo is absolutely my ideal supervisor.

Mapping profession My ambition is to work in a multinational organisation. The programme has prepared students for better career promotion and a lucrative management position. It is entirely up to the individual to pursue a postgraduate degree immediately after completing an undergraduate degree or not. I chose to do the former as I wish to equip myself with more in-depth technical knowledge and professional skills before starting my career.

Postgrad perks and quirks My favourite memory of MCG would be the lecture-discussion sessions. I was given abundant opportunities to engage in interactive learning with the lecturers and my peers. We were often given a topic and are encouraged to voice our opinion, hence, contributing to a constructive and fruitful discussion.

I enjoy studying with my course mates and I truly appreciate all the knowledge and sharing sessions given by my lecturers and professors. Postgraduate life is neither easy nor hard; it depends on how you choose your path. It will be easy when you choose to accept and embrace your choice to pursue your postgraduate programme.

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Lim Pei Shan, 25 GRADUATE OF Master of Science (Life Science), Tunku Abdul Rahman University College

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

During my bachelor’s degree, I was introduced to a research environment when I did my industrial training in a research laboratory at the University of Malaya. From there, I discovered my passion to do research. With the support from my family and friends, I enrolled in the Master of Science (Life Science) (MLS) programme at Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (TARUC).

I am blessed to have met my supervisor. We had a brief discussion regarding the research project before I decided to apply for the MLS programme. She is very knowledgeable in her research area. She not only provided me with valuable advice and support, but also trained me to write a good thesis and journal.

Choosing the course and institution As an alumna, I am familiar with TARUC which has highquality teaching staff and an environment conducive for research. The fees are affordable as well. I wished to gain more knowledge and professional skills related to research.

Therefore, a master programme with full research mode is my first choice. Since the MLS programme offered by TARUC is full research-based, I applied for the programme and had been offered a merit scholarship by the institution.

My research My research work focuses on the lowering effects of cholesterol using probiotics isolated from traditionally fermented food. This study field was interesting because the impact of probiotics in cholesterol-lowering effect remains unclear and elusive. I hope the isolates would be beneficial to society by serving as a nonpharmacological alternative to reduce cholesterol levels.

Mapping profession I must admit that postgraduate study was not easy. Although I had sacrificed my leisure time for research writing, I believe that my hard work will eventually pay off. In my opinion, it is better to pursue postgraduate study immediately after one’s bachelor’s degree because the skills we attained will strengthen our résumé, and thus improve our career prospects. It helps us to stand out among fresh graduates who lack postgraduate qualification.

Postgrad perks and quirks One of my favourite parts about my postgraduate study is the research environment in TARUC. Although it may be stressful sometimes, I am grateful that my supervisor, friends and lab mates were always there to lend me a hand. You could never understand the feeling of excitement when you get the expected experiment results after endless trials until you have taken a postgraduate study in research.

I would not change or do anything differently. I don’t regret choosing to embark on this journey. I am satisfied and appreciative of every single moment throughout my postgraduate journey.

2020/21 | 75

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Hadrian Numpang anak Hollis Awell, 40 COMPLETED MSc. International Development Management, University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM)

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

My postgraduate journey took close to fifteen years of applications, interviews and many rejections before fruition.

I am blessed that the Malaysian Government provides competitive scholarships for postgraduate studies for civil servants under the Federal Training Award (HLP). As a serving Administrative and Diplomatic Services (PTD) officer, a postgraduate degree was not only important for my career advancement, but it also provided the necessary knowledge, tools and networks I needed for my work.

At PHIR UNM, we had the opportunity to present our topics and outlines and were then matched with our supervisors according to their expertise. I was delighted to be paired with Dr Benjamin Barton, an EU expert. He is meticulous and passionate, constantly bouncing ideas off me while letting me roam about in academia, researching my topic. A constant voice of reason, he guided me well throughout the process. I am grateful and humbled for this.

Choosing the course and institution When I was awarded the HLP in 2018, we were only allowed to apply to local institutions. In terms of rankings and reputation in Development Studies, UNM ranked among the highest in Malaysia. It was also a Top 100 university globally.

In the end, I applied to UNM after talking to the late Dr Parfitt and meeting Dr Mandal of the School of Politics, History and International Relations (PHIR). Their enthusiasm and professionalism for the programme impressed me greatly.

My research Having worked on the European Union (EU)’s 2018 Renewable Energy Directive II (REDII) issues pertaining to palm oil-based biodiesels, I was intrigued and wanted to see how this affected our local smallholders. Though the research was fun, time was a challenge. I had to minimise my scope and focused on the beginnings of the biofuels debate and the role played

by EU environmental lobbies. I hope to be able to expand this research, to aid in future policymaking for the palm oil industry.

76 |

2020/21

Mapping profession Of course, career advancement was somewhere in my mind.

I wanted to also challenge myself, to see how far I could go. Continuing my studies after many years of working, was not an easy transition. I had doubts and worries. However, I could relate easily to what was being taught and loved the discussions in classes. It also gave me a sense of focus and maturity, to make the best out of my studies.

Postgrad perks and quirks This journey has been enriching! My lecturers and supervisor were awesome! I am truly indebted to them. I thoroughly enjoyed researching, spending hours at the library in Semenyih, even once sleeping overnight at the lab. Furthermore, I had a cool bunch of course mates, who were constantly pushing one another. Importantly, I realised that academia can be fun and that there are many research opportunities, still. Who knows, perhaps a PhD one day?

For me, I am thankful it all fell perfectly into place. If you are thinking of applying to further your studies, take that step. I promise you, it will be the start of a beautiful journey, one that will enrich you forever. All the best!

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Wong Xin Yi, 27 CURRENTLY PURSUING PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia

Starting postgrad

Mapping profession

I graduated with a first-class degree in BSc (Hons) Biotechnology in University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) in the year 2016. With a passion for research, I started my PhD in the same year. My main motivation for doing a PhD was to challenge myself with something different to be better equipped before “officially” entering the working world. PhD is indeed a journey with big challenges AND bigger rewards.

Honestly, I did not consider my future career path before doing a PhD. I am more of a flexible person and I do not like to restrict myself to a certain option. I believe, the more I see/experience, the more I will know what I want in my life. Starting postgraduate after having gained a few years of working experience can be an option, but the candidate has to acknowledge that research life can be different from working life. Research life is full of un-expectation and can be a lonely journey. Postgraduate students will have very limited (or even zero) income/stipend.

Choosing the course and institution It was by destiny. My current supervisor was looking for a student to work on a research grant project. A co-supervisor during my final year project introduced me to her. I met with the supervisor and we discussed about the project. The project looked interesting, especially with the possibility of overseas lab attachment. Most importantly, I am familiar with the study and research environment in UNM, so I signed up!

My research Colon cancer is the second deadliest cancer in Malaysia. My research is about designing and developing gold nanoclusters, a nanomaterial with a size of around 2 nm, for biosensing, imaging and therapy of colon cancer cells. This is a research grant project under the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia.

Postgrad perks and quirks Having a chance to join a year of lab attachment in Spain! I was invited to join a research group based in an international research institute known as The Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), located near Barcelona. It was truly an unforgettable and eye-opening experience. I met friends of different nationalities, exposed to diverse research fields, experienced new things in my life, travelled to different countries, etc.

I would tell myself to be more confident with myself. It is fine to make mistakes and sometimes things do not go as planned. So just trust your instincts and back them up.

Choosing your supervisor Selection of a supervisor is something very critical and personal. I would advise choosing a supervisor whom you feel connected with and the supervisor has a SOLID research grant/fund. Postgraduate study takes a minimum of 3-5 years commitment and for these few years, your supervisor will be your partner. So think conscientiously before you decide. The student may seek advice from the seniors who work under the same supervisor to foresee their PhD journey before enrolling.

2020/21 | 77

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Goventhamah Subramaniam, 40 RECENTLY GRADUATED PhD in Nursing – KPJ Healthcare University College

Starting postgrad

Choosing your supervisor

It was a hard-hitting moment when I decided to be a successful nurse. I know I will never be just a normal nurse; I believe my passion will lead me to further develop my career and education. It has always been my dream since childhood to obtain a PhD. I feel that it is not enough for a nurse to just stop at having a bachelor’s degree. It is also important to have career progression with consistent experience-gaining and education development.

A supervisor should be supportive, encouraging in their mentoring, and understand that students' lives extend beyond the PhD. They should share the students’ interest and enthusiasm to make things work between them, and this should also manifest in the student’s career. Good communication with them makes everything clear, especially with constructive feedback that provides direction and structure.

My supervisor is a nurse well-experienced in nursing and whose priority is in patient safety goals, and my co-supervisor is a clinician who has a vast experience in clinical research.

Both my supervisors suited very well into my criteria.

Choosing the course and institution KPJUC is a well-known private university that produces quality nurses throughout Malaysia, with a well-established postgraduate facility. It is nationally and regionally accredited with MQA. I am also satisfied with the academic quality of the lecturers, supervisors and staff of the university.

KPJUC has always been transparent in their ads in the media about the courses they offer, and as a KPJ staff, I was very well aware of the course.

My research My research is about anticipated physiological patient fall.

Patient falls is a common occurrence in hospitals throughout the world. Patient falls are categorised as one of the most hazardous incidences that could happen to patients seeking treatment at the hospitals. The best portion of this research is development process of the bundles. The developed bundles are integrated with the current fall policy to prevent fall. The challenge is making change among nurses to practice the integrated bundles. Developed bundles can be patented and used in the private and public hospital to enhance their safety practices. My greatest hope is to patent my bundle and being accepted nationally and internationally.

78 |

2020/21

Mapping profession I pursued my PhD both for my career advancement and my long-time life goal. A PhD qualification encompasses our knowledge and skills neatly into our professional portfolio.

I believe that advanced academic qualification is important, although one must know the limit of their own capabilities.

Waiting for too long can dim your motivation. I waited for two years to pursue my master, but after my master I enrolled immediately into my PhD.

Postgrad perks and quirks What I love most is the university’s well-organised coordination.

I never feel left out and my progress were being closely monitored. KPJUC also have great resources and classes for postgraduate students. My study went smoothly from the beginning to the end. I was able to complete it within the estimated timeline. I do think I should have widened my research to more than just one private university, as well as including consultants as respondents in my research.

EXPERIENCING POSTGRADUATE

Ooi Chia Sin, 27 CURRENTLY PURSUING Master of Philosophy (Social Science), Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman

Starting postgrad

Mapping profession

I have a keen interest in doing research and always wanted to pursue a postgraduate degree after getting my bachelor’s degree. I was looking around for a good research university and discovered that my alma mater was still the best choice.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) provides students with research scholarships to give students financial support and the opportunity to be involved in different research. I was involved in two of UTAR’s research projects.

I believe that if you are really interested in research and academia, it is best to finish your postgraduate study including PhD as soon as possible. The qualifications that most universities look for when hiring a lecturer is a PhD in that particular field. Different fields have different requirements but an extra qualification will definitely help in the long run.

Choosing the course and institution UTAR was my alma mater and it has always been voted as one of the top universities in Malaysia by Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The lecturers in my faculty are also extremely helpful and knowledgeable in their fields. UTAR also provides scholarships to financially support their students.

My research My research is about the perception of Malaysian Chinese elderly on social networking sites, and how social networking sites can reduce their loneliness. The results of this study will be able to highlight the potential of social networking sites to reduce loneliness among the Malaysian Chinese elderly.

Postgrad perks and quirks My favourite part of my postgraduate degree would be the data collection part. This is the moment when you realised that you are doing this research to help this particular group of people to get a better quality of life. There are also a lot of elderly participants that shared their life stories that had changed my perspective in many aspects of my life. It was an eye-opening experience that I will treasure for the rest of my life.

Statistics is a very important part of the research. Although I had attended a lot of workshops about statistical software, there is still a lot for me to learn. There are a lot of lecturers in UTAR that specialises in different statistical software such as SPSS, AMOS, MPlus and Lisrel. It is best to learn and master as many as you can!

Choosing your supervisor One of the best parts of my supervisor is that he does not spoon-feed his students but he will be willing to help whenever they face difficulty. He is also very knowledgeable in his field and has a wide range of international research network. With the guidance of my supervisor, I managed to publish the paper in academic journals. I believe these are the criteria you should seek from a supervisor.

2020/21 | 79

The Experts’

Portfolios

The first and foremost important factor of postgraduate studies – the super mentors.

Selected lecturers’ portfolios from postgraduate institutions with their list of researches to broaden your perspectives.

THE EXPERTS’ PORTFOLIOS

Evgeny Kanaev

Professor School of International Regional Studies, Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs, HSE University ekanaev@hse.ru https://www.hse.ru/en/staff/ekanaev

Academic qualifications Speciality and Degrees Specialist (History), Moscow State Pedagogical University (1997); Candidate of Sciences (PhD) in Historical Sciences and Archaeology, Moscow State Pedagogical University (2001); Doctor of Sciences in Historical Sciences and Archaeology, Moscow State Pedagogical University (2009) Professional Retraining Moscow State Pedagogical University, Professional Retraining Programme “Philology” (2001); RUDN University, Professional Retraining Programme “PR and Advertising” (2009); HSE University, Professional Retraining Programme “Doing Business” (2019) Refresher Training Courses HSE University, Refresher Course “Strategic Management of the University” (2017); E-NANO (branch of RUSNANO Group), Refresher Course “ICT Technologies in the University Digital Environment” (2017); Moscow Business School, Refresher Course “The Eastern Vector of Foreign Economic Activity: Doing Business in Southeast Asia” (2019); Moscow Business School, Refresher Course “International Contracts and Transactions: Legal and Tax Aspects” (2020)

Path of a student Post-graduate students should constantly broaden their professional horizons, be self-motivated and eager to perform challenging and time-pressing tasks. They should have a good command of the regional and global perspectives of the issues under consideration, as well as be proficient in understanding the development priorities and the prospective plans of the countries they specialize in. They need to have good soft skills and team-work competences from the perspective of communicating with people of various social and professional backgrounds. They should be able to link their professional expertise to the grass-root practical cases. Lastly but importantly, they are expected to have good presentation and debate skills, which is a major prerequisite for success in

the present-day competitive professional environment. These competencies are paid special attention to at the courses and projects implemented under the academic supervision of Professor Evgeny Kanaev.

Research interests • International Relations in the Asia-Pacific Region; • Doing Business in the Asia-Pacific Region; • Russia’s Policy in the Asia-Pacific Region.

Latest research More than 250 research papers on the current Asia-Pacific political, economic and security issues published in eight countries in the Russian, English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese languages.

Status

Duration

Subject of study

Ongoing

2019 – 2020

Discourses and Narratives of Regional Security in the XXI Century: Humanitarian Security vs/and Military Security

2020/21 | 81

THE EXPERTS’ PORTFOLIOS

Ooi Boon Keat

Associate Professor Dr School of Education and Social Sciences bkooi@msu.edu.my

Academic qualifications

Bachelor of Education (Counselling and Guidance) (Hons), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM); Master of Science (Counselling and Guidance), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM); PhD (Psychology) Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Professional qualifications

Registered and Licensed Counsellor (K.P., P.A), 2003; Member of American Psychological Association (APA), 2013 – current; Licensed Administrator – Qualification “C” for Psychological Assessment Resources (PAR) products; Licensed Administrator – CL2 for Pearson Clinical Assessment (PsychCorp); Life member of Malaysia Counselling Association (PERKAMA), since 2003

Path of a student

Research interests

Postgraduate study requires self-regulated learning and intrinsic motivation in achieving the outcome. The consistency and regular contact with the supervisor is crucial in determining the completion of study. Most of postgraduate students finish on time and are capable of delivering what is expected as long as they are willing to learn, unlearn and relearn from time to time. Throughout their study, students may be facing this experience and the process will change their thinking frame and depth of thought. This learning process not only prepares an individual to a higher level of reasoning but also may shape the change in the attitude of the individual.

Perseverance and determination are the two attitudes that would be inculcated in the postgraduate study other than the qualification. I would encourage life-long learners to strive for a higher level of attainment not for the paper qualification but as a challenge to oneself for the path of self-actualisation.

1. Cognitive Processing in Learning 2. Individual Psychology of Addictive Behaviour 3. Learning Difficulties among young children 4. Self-Consciousness and Happiness 5. Second Language and Acquisitions

Latest research The classification of learning difficulties will be made based on their academic skills achievement and cognitive abilities, the involvement of students’ performance tests and LINUS achievement. This study helps to ascertain the root problem based on cognitive processing according to the students’ learning difficulties. With the help of classification by types of difficulties, it will reduce the gaps for intervention. More thorough screening is needed to detect children who just turned into a primary level of learning.

Status

Duration

Subject of study

Completed

2014 – 2018

The Classification of Learning Difficulties Among Malaysian Primary Schoolchildren According to their Cognitive Processing. Project Leader - Ref No. FRGS/2/2014/SS02/MSU/02/1 (RM74,700).

Completed

2010 – 2013

The Role of PASS Cognitive Processing in Ascertaining Reading Ability. Experimental Research at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Tun Hussien Onn, Cheras.

Completed

2002 – 2003

Using Adlerian Psychology in Understanding the Addictive Behaviour Among Drug Addicts.

Qualitative Study at Pusat Serenti Sungai Besi, PERSADA.

Completed

1999 – 2000

Parental and Peers Attachment Among Drug Addicts. A Descriptive Study (Pusat Serenti Kemumin, Kelantan & Pusat Serenti Sungai Besi Besut, Terengganu.)

82 |

2020/21

THE EXPERTS’ PORTFOLIOS

Mohd Zaki bin Awg Isa

Associate Professor Dr Department of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences m_zaki@msu.edu.my

Academic qualifications Bachelor of Optometry (Hons), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM); Master of Health Science (MHSc) (Optometry), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM); Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (Biomedicine), Management and Science University (MSU)

Path of a student

Research interests

Five qualities could help you on your postgraduate journey: • Setting up clear goals at the beginning of the study could lead you to have clarity on the objectives to be achieved.

Your specific goals and planning will direct you to focus on the objectives and timeline you set.

• The use of SMART strategies. ‘S’ refers to specific. Anything you do along your postgraduate journey embedded clearly with your schedule and objectives. You also must ensure that the action plans are manageable, attainable, and realistic to you.

• The next one is the timeline. You must work and commit yourself to abide by the deadline set for your postgraduate study.

• The following qualities are to have sufficient financial and support, as well as the right supervisor. The supervisor's support is vital to determine your success in your postgraduate journey.

• Other than that, you need to equip yourself with all related soft skills to ensure that your research activities will be smooth.

1. Prevention of blindness: Research topics include myopia, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macula degeneration. Research activities are focused on early detection, health care delivery system, epidemiology, patient behaviours, and rehabilitation intervention to prevent disease progress and blindness.

2. Visual Function in myopia: Research activities include visual field, contrast sensitivity, and colour perception abnormalities.

3. Advance instrument and system used in IT such as AI and IR for vision rehabilitation and detection.

Latest research Currently, my works include research related to visual function defects in high myopia and vision rehabilitation in patients with diabetes mellitus and occupational-related vision problems.

Status

Duration

Subject of study

Completed

2016 – 2018

Visual status in relation with occupational safety and health amongst visual terminal display (VDT) users in Malaysia

Completed

2019 – 2020

Ocular injuries among construction workers in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Ongoing

2019 – 2021

Vision Rehabilitation: Smart and affordable visual aids and system for visually impaired and blind people

Ongoing

2020 – 2021

Prevention of Blindness: Binocular vision anomalies among Orang Asli in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Ongoing

2020 – 2023

Visual dysfunctions in the Malay population with low to high myopia

2020/21 | 83

THE EXPERTS’ PORTFOLIOS

Dr Teo Wing Leong

Associate Professor, Head of School of Economics (UNM) School of Economics wingleong.teo@notttingham.edu.my http://www.nottingham.edu.my/Economics/People/wingleong.teo

Academic qualifications Bachelor of Arts Economics, State University of New York at Buffalo; Master of Arts Economics, Johns Hopkins University; PhD. Economics, Johns Hopkins University

Path of a student

Latest research

I welcome PhD students who are interested in the research of macroeconomic topics. The research can be done using either Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) models or applied econometrics methods. Prospective students should have master’s degrees in economics before applying to the PhD programme. A good PhD student should be disciplined and eager to conduct in-depth studies of research topics.

Most of my research involves using Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) models to evaluate the nature of business cycles, inflation dynamics, asset price dynamics, as well as the optimal design of monetary and fiscal policies in both closed economy and open economy settings.

I also have a few research projects which involve the use of applied econometrics methods, including time series and panel regression methods to look at issues such as the effects of capital flows on exchange rates, determinants of economic growth etc.

Research interests • Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) modelling • Optimal design of monetary and fiscal policies • Cross-country comparison of growth performances and economic policies • Malaysian Economy

Status

Duration

Subject of study

Ongoing

2019 – 2021

Determining optimal lag time selection function with novel machine learning strategies for better agricultural commodity prices forecasting in Malaysia.

Completed

2012 – 2014

Macroeconomic challenges and policy responses to trade and financial integration in Malaysia.

84 |

2020/21

THE EXPERTS’ PORTFOLIOS

Siah Poh Chua

Associate Professor Department of Psychology siahpc@utar.edu.my https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=TyLvhioAAAAJ&hl=en (Google Scholar portfolio) orcid.org/0000-0003-0991-1313 (orcid.org portfolio)

Academic qualifications

Doctor of Philosophy, University of Exeter, U.K; Master of Psychology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taiwan; Bachelor of Science, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taiwan

Path of a student

Research interests

The faculty of Arts and Social Science provides four postgraduate programs. One PhD (Doctor of Philosophy in Social Science) and MPhil (Master of Philosophy in Social Science) in the research mode, one Master in a mixedmode (Master of Psychology in Industrial & Organisational Psychology), and one Master program (Master of Strategic Communication) in the course mode.

No matter what the mode of study is, having a positive attitude toward postgraduate study is an essential factor for the success of the study. In other words, the student needs to have a strong passion and belief in pursuing it. The student not only enjoys the process of pursuing answers and learning knowledge; they also believe that the research questions he/she asks and the knowledge they learn have important implications for theoretical development and practical application. Besides, they need perseverance in improving his/ her research skills and updating his/her knowledge.

Therefore, the student needs to be very good at selfregulation. Through the attitudes and self-regulation, they would be able to ask creative research questions, have enough research skills to look for the answer, have enough knowledge to solve practical issues, and to publish the findings to share with others.

• Social Psychology • Gender study • Health behaviours

Latest research • Siah, P. C., Low, S. K., Lee, W. Y., Lim, Y. Y., & Tan, J. T. A. (2020). Discrimination perceived by child refugees in Malaysia: from the views of representatives from refugees’ community service centres and non-government service.

Vulnerable Children and Youth Studies, 15(2), 110-113.

• Siah, P. C., Tun, P., & Chan, M. (2020). Non-attachment and happiness: mediating versus moderating roles of grit personality. Current Issues in Personality Psychology, 8(1), 31-40.

• Siah, P. C, Ng, M. K., Wong, K. M. S., and Pheh, K. S. (2019). Intentions to smoke and conventional cigarettes smoking among Malaysian adolescents: The mediating effect of experiencing alternative tobacco products.

Education and Health, 37(4), 102 – 107.

Status

Duration

Subject of study

Ongoing

2019 – 2020

A need assessment among refugee teachers: Their job demands, job resources and quality of life.

Ongoing

2018 – 2020

The social impacts of cyberbullying on psycho-social health: the mediating effects of primary appraisal and coping strategies in general aggression model.

Completed

2018 – 2019

A Focus group study to identify the problems and needs of refugee teachers in coping with teaching problem.

Completed

2018 – 2019

The Formation Of Islamophobia And Perception Of Islam Among Non-Muslim Undergraduates.

Completed

2017 – 2018

Does Social Network Sites Improve Quality Of Life Among Malaysian Elderly? Examining The Predictors Of Intention To Use SMN.

2020/21 | 85

A-Z of

Course Providers All the information you need from top postgraduate studies institutions neatly compiled and curated.

Advertiser Index

1.

2.

Asia e University [86] 87 Hong Kong Baptist University [88] 89

4.

HSE University [90] 91 Tunku Abdul Rahman University College [92] 93

3.

International Medical University (IMU) [94] 95 KPJ Healthcare University College [96] 97 BERJAYA University College 98 Sarawak Skills Development Centre (SSDC) 99 5.

Multimedia University (MMU) [100] OBC Management & Science University (MSU) [101] IBC International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF) [102] 1 1.

Visit the institution's official website

University of Nottingham Malaysia [103] IFC

2.

Essential contact information

Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) [104] 105, 106, 107

3.

Learn the facts and figures before you enrol

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) [108] 109

4.

A brief write-up about the institution

5.

List of postgraduate courses offered

MS

Malaysian students

C

Consultation

IS

International students

C

Coursework

DL

Distance learning

D

Dissertation

EL

e-Learning

M

Mixed mode

FT

Full-time

R

Research

PT

Part-time

T

Taught

ODL

Open Distance Learning

T

Thesis

Project

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS [112-113] 114, 115 Universiti Tenaga Nasional [116] 117

LE G E N D S

P

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) [110] 111

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) [118] 119 Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) [120] 121 University of Strathclyde [122] 123

OBC: Outside back cover IBC: Inside back cover SI: Special insert

IFC: Inside front cover [ ]: Profile

Course Providers

ASIA e UNIVERSITY www.aeu.edu.my Mr Michael Nathan: +(6013) 350 7270; Mr Budiman Hairuddin: +(6016) 696 4798; Mr Philip Tan: +(6017) 548 2275

Hazrani Binti Hanafiah, Manager, Sales and Marketing Department Asia e University, Wisma Subang Jaya, No. 106, Jalan Ss15/4, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor

IMPORTANT DATES

+(603) 5022 3567

enquiries@aeu.edu.my

facilitator and enabler for IHLs in Asia on mutual accreditation and recognition of the academic degree and professional programmes and leverage on the sharing of resources and facilities.

As a spearheading institution of choice in the new wave of e-learning, AeU is the major catalyst in promoting the Asia wide networks for cooperation in e-education today. Through its shared collective expertise and strategic linkages with numerous educational partners, AeU delivers programmes that are imbued with the goals of flexibility, quality and relevance to provide a truly personalised learning experience for all.

Asia e University (AeU) is a unique collaborative multinational university initiated by the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), a body established in 2002 to promote Asian cooperation at a continental level. AeU is established as a Malaysian initiative and prime mover to champion e-Education, affirmed at the ACD Ministerial Meetings in Islamabad (2005) and Doha (2006) and supported by 34 ACD member countries.

AeU collaborates with Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs) and Training Centres in the ACD member countries to offer quality and affordable academic degree and professional training programmes. The University acts as a

Intakes January, May, September

Deadlines Applications are open throughout the year

OTHER INFORMATION Scholarships and financial aid * For Malaysian and International students: • Merit Scholarship available for top performing student • 10% discount on tuition fee available through Student Loyalty Scheme * For Malaysian students only: • 10% discount is offered to students who pay in full their Annual Tuition Fee in one payment • 50% discount for senior citizens age 60 years and above • 75% discount for the disabled • Employees Provident Fund (EPF) assistance

Entry requirements To view the entry requirements, please click this link: https://aeu.edu.my/study/entrypathway/

Applications Online Application via this link: https://myaeu.aeu.edu.my/student_signup.jsp

88 |

2020/21

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost

Awarding body: Asia e University (AeU) Master of Business AdministrationChartered Management Institute (MBA-CMI)

FT PT

Master of Education

PT

Master of Information and Communication Technology Management

PT

Master in Management- Chartered Management Institute (MIM-CMI) (Awarded by AeU and CMI)

ODL

PT

ODL

FT PT

Doctor of Business Administration

PT

Doctor of Philosophy (Business Administration)

FT PT

Doctor of Philosophy (Education)

FT PT

Doctor of Philosophy (Information and Communication Technology)

FT PT

ODL

T

ODL

ODL

ODL

1 yr 1.5-2 yrs

PT ODL

T

FT

R

R

R

R

R

FT

MS IS

1.5-2 yrs

MS

1.5-2 yrs

MS

1 yr 1.5-2 yrs

PT ODL

PT ODL

T

ODL

FT

PT ODL

PT ODL

T

ODL

Master of Science in Management

T

T

ODL

FT PT

Master of Human Resource Management

ODL

1.5-2 yrs

2 yrs 3 yrs

IS

IS

MS IS MS IS MS

PT ODL

IS

4 yrs

MS

FT

3 yrs 4 yrs

PT ODL FT

3 yrs 4 yrs

PT ODL FT

3 yrs 4 yrs

PT ODL

IS MS IS MS IS MS IS

RM15,888-RM31,120 RM27,330-USD13,800 RM9,800-RM16,230 RM16,230-USD7,725 RM19,230 RM19,320-USD9,075 RM16,080-RM24,800 RM19,320-USD11,100 RM12,230-RM16,380 RM16,380-USD8,865 RM12,020-RM18,020 USD8,040-USD9,410 RM35,000 USD14,010 RM33,013-RM33,420 USD14,404-USD15,310 RM25,386-RM33,420 USD14,404-USD15,310 RM25,386-RM33,420 USD14,404-USD15,310

For further information about the courses, visit https://aeu.edu.my/study/programme/

Course Providers

HONG KONG BAPTIST UNIVERSITY www.hkbu.edu.hk +(852) 3411 7400

Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

September

Deadlines

Application deadline by June every year

OTHER INFORMATION

Scholarships and financial aid

MSc in Advanced Information Systems Refer to https://www.comp.hkbu.edu.hk/ais/ up to HKD74,000 (approx. RM37,000) MSc in Analytical Chemistry Refer to https://chem.hkbu.edu.hk/programmes/ msc up to HKD60,000 (approx. RM30,000) MSc in Green Technology (Energy) Refer to http://physics.hkbu.edu.hk/ up to HKD30,000 (approx. RM15,000) MSc in Information Technology Management Refer to https://www.comp.hkbu.edu.hk/msc/itm/ up to HKD74,000 (approx. RM37,000) MSc in Mathematical Finance Refer to http://www.math.hkbu.edu.hk/MFFM/ up to HKD50,000 (approx. RM25,000) MSc in Operations Research and Business Statistics Refer to http://www.math.hkbu.edu.hk/MSCORSTAT/ up to HKD50,000 (approx. RM25,000)

Entry requirements

MSc in Advanced Information Systems Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering or IT relevant fields MSc in Analytical Chemistry B.Sc. (Hons.) degree in Chemistry or in other Physical and Life Sciences MSc in Green Technology (Energy) Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university MSc in Information Technology Management Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, Business or other relevant fields MSc in Mathematical Finance Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, Business or other relevant fields MSc in Operations Research and Business Statistics Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, Business or other relevant fields (English proficiency is required for all the programmes above.)

90 |

2020/21

+(852) 2338 7644 excellence in teaching and learning, conducting cutting-edge academic research, and proactively contributing to the advancement of society. Our missions are to provide students with comprehensive education, to engage in innovative and high-impact research, and to promote scientific and technological literacy.

In 1956, Hong Kong Baptist College was founded by the Baptist Convention of Hong Kong as a post-secondary college committed to the provision of whole person education. In 1983, Hong Kong Baptist College became a fully-funded public tertiary institution. It gained university status in 1994 and was renamed Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU).

Today HKBU encompasses eight Faculties/Schools offering a range of undergraduate programmes, associate degree and higher diploma programmes as well as taught postgraduate programmes and research postgraduate programmes leading to the award of master and doctoral degrees. It prides itself on its dual focus on teaching and research and encourages service to society among its staff and students.

Over the years, HKBU has remained committed to academic excellence and the development of the whole person, and has gained a reputation as one of Asia’s finest institutions of higher learning.

HKBU Science Faculty strives to play a key-leading and innovative role in science and technological education by delivering

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Awarding body: Hong Kong Baptist University & University of Kent Master of Science in Advanced Information Systems

FT

T

1 yr

70,000

Master of Science in Analytical Chemistry

FT

T

1 yr

60,000

Master of Science in Green Technology (Energy)

FT

T

1 yr

55,000

Master of Science in Information Technology Management

FT

T

1 yr

70,000

Master of Science in Mathematical Finance and Master of Science in Finance (Financial Markets)

FT

T

1.5 yrs

105,000

Master of Science in Operations Research and Business Statistics and Master of Science in Business Analytics

FT

T

1 yr

80,000

Master of Science in Analytical Chemistry • English-medium education • Taught courses, laboratory, and supervised research works • Professional certification • Exchange study in France and UK • Excellent prospects of employment and further study • Scholarships (up to HK$60,000) https://chem.hkbu.edu.hk/msc Phone: (852) 3411-7063 Email: analchem@hkbu.edu.hk

Master of Science in Operational Research and Business Statistics (HKBU) and Master of Science in Business Analytics (Kent)1

Master of Science in Mathematical Finance (HKBU) and Master of Science in Finance (Financial Markets) (Kent) 1 This is an exempted course under the NON-LOCAL HIGHER AND PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION (REGULATION) ORDINANCE CAP 493 (Ref. no.:452850). It is a matter of discretion for individual employers to recognize any qualification to which this course may lead.

Course Providers

HSE UNIVERSITY https://admissions.hse.ru/en/ +7 495 531 0059 / +7 916 3118521 (WhatsApp) Room 623, 11 Pokrovsky blvd., building D, Moscow 109028, Russian Federation

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

For graduate applicants: • Scholarship application: November 1 – August 10, 2021 • Classes start on September 1 (for some programmes October 1) For Preparatory programmes: • Basic course: September 21 – 30, 2021 • Intensive course: January 25 – January 29, 2022 • English Preparatory Programme in Economics: February 1 - 15, 2022

Deadlines

For graduate applicants: August 10, 2021 For Preparatory programmes: • Basic course: July 31, 2021 • Intensive course: November 15, 2021 • English Preparatory Programme in Economics: November 15, 2021

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

• Libraries • Co-working areas • Cultural Centre • Gym • Dancing and yoga classes • Canteens • Cafes • First-aid post

Other

Visiting and exchange programmes: • Semester in Moscow • Math in Moscow • Summer University • Doing Business in Russia • International Study Tour Experience Internship • Class Experience for Graduate applicants

Scholarships and financial aid

• HSE University provides 100% scholarships and up to 75% grants for all international students based on the results of entrance exams (for undergraduate applicants) and portfolio competition (for graduate applicants).

• Graduates of the HSE Prep Year programme and other similar programmes offered by Russian educational institutions get 50% discount.

• International students can enter HSE by winning International Competition ‘Open Doors: Russian Scholarship Project’ (for graduate applicants).

Entry requirements

• Results of entry tests/portfolio competition • Motivation letter • 2 Recommendation letters • Results of international language exams • Personal achievements (volunteering, internships, etc.)

Applications

All the international applicants can submit their application online free of charge on the website https://admissions.hse.ru/en/

92 |

2020/21

inter@hse.ru study in double degree programmes or to spend at least one semester abroad.

Moreover, summer and winter schools either in Russian or in English are conducted annually in different subjects.

HSE diploma has proved to be a bright career start for both domestic and international labor market, ensuring rapid and successful career growth in leading Russian and foreign companies. Many graduates continue their education at Stanford, Harvard, Princeton, and New York University (NYU).

For more information on international admissions and the graduate programmes offered at HSE University, please scan the QR code below:

HSE University is the National Research University where students can study a great variety of subjects about everything but medicine – from philosophy, political science and design to supercomputer engineering, mathematics and physics.

For the recent two decades HSE University has gained a reputation of national leader in higher education according to the national and international rankings: the QS, THE, ARWU and others. Since 2013 HSE University was chosen for participation in the project for promotion of competitiveness of leading Russian universities among world leading educational centres (Project 5-100).

HSE University offers 44 graduate programmes taught entirely in English what makes studying at HSE University even more attractive for international students. HSE University has more than 400 partner universities from 27 countries, that enables its students to

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RUB)

Business Analytics and Big Data Systems

FT

T

R

2 years

400,000 RUB

Cognitive Sciences and Technologies: From Neuron to Cognition

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Comparative Social Research

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Critical Media Studies

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Data Science

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Economics and Economic Policy

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Economics, Politics and Business in Asia

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Governance of Science, Technology and Innovation

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Law of International Trade, Finance and Economic Integration

FT

T

R

2 years

400,000 RUB

International Management

FT

T

R

2 years

460,000 RUB

Political Analysis and Public Policy

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Politics. Economics. Philosophy

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Population and Development

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Socioeconomic and Political Development of Modern Asia

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Strategic Corporate Finance

FT

T

R

2 years

390,000 RUB

Awarding body: HSE University

BECOME ONE OF 4, 000+ INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT HSE!

ASPIRE TO A BRIGHT FUTURE WITH HSE UNIVERSITY!

Course Providers

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE www.tarc.edu.my/cpsr/index.jsp +(603) 4145 0100 (ext. no. 3637, 3725, 3590)

Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Lee Wah Pheng; Ms. Chu Shuk Lee (Julie) Centre for Postgraduate Studies and Research, Tunku Abdul Rahman University College

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

Jan/May/Sep

Deadlines • By Research: Throughout the year • By Coursework: May/September

+(603) 4142 3166

of studies, including Management, Accounting and Finance, Science, Psychology, IT, Built Environment and more. TAR UC is equipped with stateof-art libraries and excellent laboratory facilities to facilitate students’ learning and research. TAR UC has become well-recognised both locally and internationally among the academic fraternities and professional bodies.

As an institution that is well- regarded by the industries for its high academic standards and well-trained graduates, TAR UC counts some of the national leaders, successful entrepreneurs and professionals among its 210,000 alumni.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (‘TAR UC’) is a premier educational institution with more than 50 years of excellence in providing quality and affordable education. Known then as Tunku Abdul Rahman College (‘TAR College’) since its inception in 1969, the institution has been upgraded to University College in 2013. With this upgrade, TAR UC is now able to offer Bachelor degrees and postgraduate programmes. TAR UC receives subsidy/ grant from the Government which enables the University College to provide affordable education to all Malaysians.

As of today, the Postgraduate programmes have more than 25 field

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration Cost (RM)

OTHER INFORMATION

Awarding body: TAR UC

• IBM Centre of Excellence • Big Data Analytics • Computer Science Labs • Mobile Development Lab • Games Experience Lab • Cisco Networking Lab • Cybersecurity Lab • Digital Forensics Lab • Applied Science Research Labs • Engineering Research Labs • Postgraduate Centre and Library • Food Microbiology Lab • Food Processing Lab • Biochemistry Lab

Master of Business Administration

FT PT

T

C

Master of Investment Management

FT PT

T

C

Master of Corporate Governance

FT PT

T

C

Master of Accounting and Finance

FT PT

T

C

Facilities

cpsr@tarc.edu.my

1 yr 2 yrs

19,000 20,000 IS FT 28,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

1 yr 2 yrs

19,000 20,000 IS FT 28,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

1 yr 2 yrs

19,000 20,000 IS FT 28,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

PT

1.5 yrs 4 yrs

22,000 23,000 IS FT 31,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

FT

2 yrs

20,000 40,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

FT

2 yrs 3 yrs

11,000 12,000 IS FT 18,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

2 yrs 3 yrs

11,000 12,000 IS FT 18,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

2 yrs 3 yrs

11,000 12,000 IS FT 18,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

2 yrs 3 yrs

12,000 13,000 IS FT 19,000 (Exclude EMGS fees)

3 yrs 4 yrs

16,000 17,000 IS FT 23,000 (Exclude EMGS fees) Include Thesis Fee RM3,000

MS FT

Scholarships and financial aid • Scholarship Scheme • Loan Scheme • Industry Grant

Entry requirements

FT PT

MS FT

FT PT

For online application, visit: https:// www.tarc.edu.my/account/login. jsp?fappcode=cpsr

MS PT

MS FT

FT PT

MS PT

MS FT

FT

MS PT

MS FT

Master of Architecture

FT

T

C

Master of Science

FT PT

R

Master of Science (Life Science)

FT PT

R

Master of Science (Food Science)

FT PT

R

Master of Arts (Psychology)

FT PT

R

IS FT

MS FT

PT

For more information, visit: https://www.tarc.edu.my/cpsr/index.jsp

Applications

MS PT

MS PT

MS FT

FT PT

MS PT

MS FT

FT PT

MS PT

MS FT

FT PT

MS PT

MS FT

Doctor of Philosophy (Computer Science)

94 |

2020/21

FT PT

R

FT PT

MS PT

Course Providers

INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL UNIVERSITY (IMU) www.imu.edu.my +(603) 2731 7272 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

March and July • Postgraduate Diploma in Diabetes Management and Education March and September • MSc in Public Health • MSc in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry • MSc in Molecular Medicine • Master in Pharmacy Practice • Business Administration in Healthcare Management (Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Masters) March • Health Professions Education (Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Masters) April • Postgraduate Diploma in Prosthodontics June • Postgraduate Diploma in Endodontics September • MSc in Acupuncture • Master of Counselling October • Postgraduate Diploma in Implant Dentistry Throughout the year • MSc in Medical and Health Sciences (By Research) • PhD in Medical and Health Sciences (By Research)

+(603) 2731 1018

enquiry@imu.edu.my

International Medical University (IMU) is Malaysia’s first and most established private medical and health sciences university with over 28 years of dedicated focus in healthcare education. Established in 1992, IMU pioneered the world’s first Partner Medical School programme and has since gained international recognition with over 30 world class university partners in Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland and China. IMU’s main campus is located at Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur with branch clinical campuses located in Seremban, Kuala Pilah, Batu Pahat and Kluang. Committed to its brand promise, “Delivering the Future of Better Healthcare”, in 2010, IMU became a fully integrated healthcare institution offering Education, Healthcare services in both medical and complimentary alternative

medicine and Research to serve and improve the quality of lives. IMU is part of IMU Health, a wholly-owned subsidiary of IHH Healthcare Berhad, a leading international provider of premium healthcare services and known as the World’s second largest listed healthcare operator.

IMU is a university wholly specialising in medicine, health sciences and complementary medicine programmes which means that all resources are devoted to excellence in this area of education. Comprising of five schools in the Faculty of Medicine and Health, the IMU has something to offer everyone interested in pre-university, undergraduate, postgraduate and continuous learning programmes in the field of healthcare.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

PT

Part-time Local Track: 2.5 - 5 yrs Double Degree Track: 3 - 5 yrs

Local Track: 50,000 Double Degree Track: 120,000

Awarding body: IMU MSc in Acupuncture (Degree track awarded by IMU & Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine) MSc in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry

T

R

FT PT ODL T

FT PT

R

1 - 2 yrs 2 - 6 yrs

Deadlines • Registration: Depending on the programme • No closing date for application

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

Auditoriums, ATM , Cafeteria, Carpark, E-learning laboratories, Healthcare centres, Lecture theatres, Library, Multi-purpose halls, Research laboratories, Sports and recreation/gymnasium, Student hostel, Wi-Fi

Scholarships and financial aid Bursaries are available for eligible students pursuing postgraduate studies at IMU. More information is available at http://www. imu.edu.my/imu/admissions/scholarshipbursary/postgraduate-bursaries/

Business Administration in Healthcare Management Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Master

FT PT

T

R

Master of Counselling

FT PT

T

R

T

R

Postgraduate Diploma in Diabetes Management and Education Postgraduate Diploma in Endodontics

FT PT

FT PT

T

Entry requirements Available at www.imu.edu.my/imu/ admissions/entry-requirements/ postgraduate/

Applications Online application

96 |

2020/21

Health Professions Education Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, Master

FT PT

T

R

FT PT

FT PT FT PT

15 mths – 2.5 yrs 2.5 – 6 yrs

2 yrs 4 yrs 1 yr 3 yrs

1 yr 2 yrs Full-time Postgraduate Certificate: 6 mths - 2 yrs Postgraduate Diploma: 1 - 3 yrs Master: 2 - 4 yrs Part-time Postgraduate Certificate: 1 - 4 yrs Postgraduate Diploma: 1.5 - 5 yrs Master: 3 - 6 yrs

Conventional Mode: MS 43,000 IS 57,500 ODL 34,400 Postgraduate Certificate: MS 18,000 IS 19,800 Postgraduate Diploma: MS 26,800 IS 29,480 Master MS 40,000 IS 44,000 MS IS

55,000 60,500

25,200

FT

MS

PT

IS

55,000 68,750

Postgraduate Certificate: MS 18,000 IS 23,700 Postgraduate Diploma: MS 28,800 IS 37,920 Master MS 37,800 IS 49,770

Course Providers

KPJ HEALTHCARE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE www.kpjuc.edu.my +(06) 794 2692

Prof Dr Zaher Zain Persiaran Seriemas, Kota Seriemas, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

July and December • Master of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery • Master of Radiology • Master of General Surgery

+(06) 794 2662

info@kpjuc.edu.my jointly set up an Academic Research Centre focused on the three major aspects of healthcare objectives namely academic excellence, quality research and best patient care. KPJUC also fosters valuable research projects at its best by all postgraduate students led by academic staff recruited from various healthcare fields. Many forms of postgraduate work have also been supervised by KPJ group of hospitals' medical specialist physicians.

With the dedication of KPJ 's 28 state-of-the-art hospitals containing more than 3,500 beds, more than 900 medical professionals and 10,000 staff have so far handled more than 3 million outpatients and 350,000 inpatients annually to the level that would surpass the aspirations of well-rounded healthcare practitioners.

KPJ Healthcare University College is a subsidiary of KPJ Healthcare Berhad, a major private health-care provider in the Asia Pacific region. Founded in 1991, KPJUC has 29 years of dedicated emphasis on healthcare education.

Twenty years later, KPJUC became the first private university to offer a specialist medical program, namely Master of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Never turn back, today KPJUC offers 45 programs through its four campuses at Nilai, Bukit Mertajam & Johor Bahru.

The Care For Life tagline leads KPJUC to be committed in all postgraduate studies to supporting the healthcare sector with quality research projects. It has been seen that this year KPJUC and KPJ Seremban Specialist Hospital have

December • Master of Orthopaedic March and September • PhD in Nursing • Master of Nursing Sciences • Master of Physiotherapy • Master of Sciences in Pharmaceutical Technology • MBA Healthcare Management

Deadlines 3 weeks before the intake * Candidates for Master of Medical Specialist programmes should pass an entrance interview

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

OTHER INFORMATION

Awarding body: KPJ Healthcare University College

• Auditoriums/lecture theatres/discussion room • Cafeteria • E-learning laboratories • Library • Research laboratories • Sports and recreation/gymnasium • Student hostel • Wi-Fi • Input by medical specialist doctors • One-to-one mentorship – medical specialist programme • Alternate weekend class for MBA

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

PT FT DL

Master of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

FT

Master of Radiology

FT

Master of General Surgery

FT

Master of Orthopaedic

FT

Facilities

Entry requirements Visit www.kpjuc.edu.my/programme

Applications • For medical specialist programme, please email to ucn.norihan@kpjuc.edu.my • For other programmes, please email to ucn.huda@kpjuc.edu.my

98 |

2020/21

MBA Healthcare Management

PT

T

Master of Sciences in Pharmaceutical Technology

PT FT DL

Master of Physiotherapy

PT FT DL

4 yrs

MS

4 yrs

MS

4 yrs

MS

4 yrs

MS

FT

T

PT FT DL

FT

FT

T

Master of Nursing Science

3 yrs 6 yrs

FT

T

T

PT

FT R

C

R

PT

2 yrs

FT

2 yrs 4 yrs

PT FT

R

PT FT

R

Cost (RM)

PT

2 yrs 4 yrs 2 yrs 4 yrs

MS

IS

IS

IS

IS

40,000 56,000 200,000 280,000 250,000 350,000 250,000 350,000

IS

250,000 350,000

MS

32,000

MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS

28,000 50,000 28,000 50,000 28,000 50,000

Intake

DKU 017 (N)

March July Sept Dec

30

YEAR OF TRAINING PROFESSIONAL FRONTLINERS S I N C E

1 9 9 1

Supported by;

KPJ Healthcare Berhad [27 hospitals nationwide]

Course Providers

BERJAYA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE www.berjaya.edu.my/university +(603) 2687 7000

+(603) 2687 7001

info@berjaya.edu.my Through our strong global and local industry networks presented through our various faculties, BERJAYA UC students are uniquely exposed to the dynamic worlds that they are being prepped for in our city campus.

Our Master's programme is backed by the Berjaya Group of Companies – One of Malaysia’s largest and most diversified conglomerates. The Company’s executives form part of the pool of resource talent that gives this programme a unique edge over other postgraduate courses. Not just that, all our programmes are accredited by the Malaysians Qualifications Agency (MQA).

Malaysia’s premier University College specialising in Business, Culinary Arts, Communication & Media Arts, Hospitality, Tourism and Services Industries with emphasis on experiential learning.

Liew Kah Wei Level 11 West, Berjaya Times Square, No.1 Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Enrolling into BERJAYA University College offers any of our students the unique opportunity to prepare themselves for their future careers in a manner that is unlike any other. Due to our established heritage in business and entrepreneurship, we intimately understand what it takes to enable our students to excel as young professionals; which strongly increases their employability in the global marketplace.

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

January, May, September

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

• Auditoriums • Carpark • E-learning laboratories • Lecture theatres • Learning Resource Centre • Classrooms • Student hostel • Wi-Fi

Scholarships and financial aid Fees are HRDF Claimable

Entry requirements • A recognised bachelor’s degree with a minimum of CGPA 2.5.

• 5 years of working experience if CGPA is below 2.5 or any equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.

Fulfilled English requirement on one of the following: • MUET (Band 5 or higher) • IELTS (Level 6.0 or higher) • TOEFL 550/ CBT 213/ iBT 79-80 • Other English certification proving the same level of competency as one of those indicated above • Successful completion of an Englishmedium bachelor’s degree

Applications https://www.berjaya.edu.my/university/ apply-now/

100 |

2020/21

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Awarding body: BERJAYA University College Master of Business Administration (Online)

FT

T

1 yr

5,320 per semester

Master of Business Administration (Online)

PT

T

2 yrs

3,360 per semester

Master of Business Administration (Full-Time)

FT

T

1 yr

9,600 per semester

Master of Business Administration (Part-Time)

PT

T

2 yrs

5,400 per semester

Master of Science in Logistics & Supply Chain Management (Full-Time)

FT

T

1 yr

9,900 per semester

Master of Science in Logistics & Supply Chain Management (Part-Time)

PT

T

2 yrs

5,500 per semester

COURSE PROVIDERS

SARAWAK SKILLS DEVELOPMENT CENTRE (SSDC) www.ppks.edu.my +(6082) 362 086

Mr Shahmi, Marketing Executive Jalan Canna, Off Jalan Wan Alwi, Tabuan Jaya, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak

IMPORTANT DATES

+(6082) 364 197

info@ppks.edu.my

Sarawak Skills Development Centre (SSDC) or Pusat Pembangunan Kemahiran Sarawak (PPKS) was established in June 1994 under the Societies Act 1966 with the objective of producing well-trained, skilful and competent workforce by offering training programmes which are practical and skills-based, and technical competence in all professional areas.

Meanwhile, on the academic front, we have International College of Advanced Technology Sarawak (i-CATS), wholly owned by PPKS Ilmu Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary company of SSDC. The College

was set up to meet the requirement for Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) for the Centre to be able to conduct academic programmes from Diploma up to Post Graduate level.

Intakes

November 2020 • Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons) in E-Commerce • Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons) January 2021 • Academic Foundation & Diploma Programmes (Business, Accounting, Hotel Management, Culinary Arts, Plantation Management, Engineering, Software Engineering) • Malaysian Skills Programmes (Graphic Design, Computer System, Office Management, Industrial Electronics, Electrical, Mechatronic, Air-Conditioning, Plantation, Draughtsmanship, Automotive & Welding) February 2021 • Malaysian Skills Programmes (Graphic Design, Computer System, Office Management, Industrial Electronics, Electrical, Mechatronic, Air-Conditioning, Plantation, Draughtsmanship, Automotive & Welding)

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

Auditoriums, ATM, Cafeteria, Carpark, Lecture Theatres, Library, Multi-Purpose Hall, Sports & Recreation, Student Hostel, Wi-Fi

Scholarships and financial aid • Yayasan Sarawak (Sarawakian only) • PTPTN (Malaysian only)

Entry requirements • Bachelor’s Degree – STPM / Diploma in related field* • Diploma – PASS SPM with 3 credits* • Malaysian Skills Programmes – Malaysian, Completed Form 5

Applications Online

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons) in E-Commerce (Awarded by Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur)

FT

T

3 yrs

43,000

Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons) (Awarded by Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur)

FT

T

3 yrs

44,500

Diploma in Accounting (Awarded by i-CATS)

FT

T

2 yrs

19,200

Diploma in Civil Engineering (Awarded by i-CATS)

FT

T

2.5 yrs

17,400

Diploma in Plantation Management (Awarded by i-CATS)

FT

T

2.5 yrs

17,400

Malaysian Skills Certificate: Engineering Draughtsmanship (Awarded by Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran)

FT

T

1 yr

8,800

Malaysian Skills Diploma: Graphic Design (Awarded by Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran)

FT

T

2.7 yrs

19,200

Malaysian Skills Diploma: Mechatronic & Industrial Automation (Awarded by Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran)

FT

T

2.7 yrs

24,000

2020/21 | 101

Course Providers

MULTIMEDIA UNIVERSITY (MMU) www.mmu.edu.my +(603) 8212 5136/5177

Multimedia University, Persiaran Multimedia, 63100 Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

• Coursework: February, April, June, July, October (depend on program) • Executive MBA: May, November • Master Cs. Software Engineering: February, October • Research: Throughout the year

+(603) 8312 5088

ips@mmu.edu.my; pginfo@mmu.edu.my

Multimedia University (MMU) is one of Malaysia’s leading universities particularly in the area of digital and information, communication and technology (ICT) education since its establishment in June 1997. As a Government Linked University (GLU), MMU has produced more than 60,000 highly skilled graduates and currently has more than 12,000 students across its Melaka and Cyberjaya campuses with approximately 1,000 international students from 56 countries.

MMU was granted the SelfAccreditation status and Premier Digital Tech University status from Malaysian government, formally acknowledging that MMU is a trustworthy institution in providing high quality education.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Deadlines

The Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings 2021 listed MMU as the top 10 among all Malaysian universities while the QS World University Rankings 2021 has ranked MMU as Top 7 among Malaysian private universities. A study

by Gartner and MSC Malaysia found that MMU is among the top five universities preferred by major ICT players for graduate employment.

As an entrepreneurial university, MMU offers a well-rounded education and industry-ready programmes in the fields of Engineering, Information & Communication Technology, Creative Multimedia, Cinematic Arts, Business & Management, Finance, Accounting, Law, and Strategic Communication.

Mode

Local: One month before registration date International: Two months before registration date

Awarding body: Multimedia University

OTHER INFORMATION

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

FT PT

M

T

Scholarships and financial aid • MMU Postgraduate Merit Scholarship (coursework) • MMU Achiever Research Scholarship (research-based) • Yayasan Multimedia University • MMU Siblings Discount • MMU Sports Excellence Scholarship • MMU Alumni discount • Graduate Research Assistance

Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering/ Information Technology/ Management/ Creative Multimedia/ Communication)

FT PT

Doctor of Philosophy (Laws)

FT PT

Applications For application, visit: bit.ly/mmuregister

FT 3-5 yrs (weekends classes)

MS

4-7 yrs (weekends classes) FT

3-5 yrs

PT

4-7 yrs

R

FT

3-5 yrs

PT

5-7 yrs

FT

2-3 yrs

PT

3-5 yrs

R

Master of Science (Information Technology/ Creative Multimedia)

FT PT

R

Master of Philosophy (Management/ Communication)

Master of Business Administration

Master of Laws

FT PT

FT 1-3 yrs (weekdays classes)

C

T

2-5 yrs (weekends classes) PT

FT PT

Online & Distance Learning: • Executive Master of Business Administration • Master of Multimedia (Digital Learning) • Master of Computer Science in Software Engineering

FT PT DL

FT

2-3 yrs

PT

3-5 yrs

FT

1-3 yrs

PT

2-5 yrs

R

T

C

For further information about the courses, visit www.mmu.edu.my

102 |

2020/21

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

49,300 52,200

3,000/yearly 3,750/yearly 2,900/yearly 3,550/yearly

Master Of Engineering Science

Entry requirements For more information on entry requirement, visit: https://www.mmu.edu.my/ postgraduate/

Cost (RM)

PT

Facilities

• Swimming Pool • MOCAP Studio • 3D Cinema • MCP Studio • Library (Cyberjaya & Melaka) • Mini Stadium • Gymnasium • Clinic • Mosque • Hostel

Duration

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

3,000/yearly 3,750/yearly

27,000 33,750

2,900/yearly 3,550/yearly

MS 15,400 to 19,000 IS 16,900 to 21,000

COURSE PROVIDERS

MANAGEMENT AND SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (MSU) www.msu.edu.my +(603) 5521 6888

Norizah Mohd Said, Vice President – Media & Strategic Communication University Drive, Off Persiaran Olahraga, Seksyen 13, 40100 Shah Alam, Selangor

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

February, July, September

Deadlines To refer engagement & enrollment department For more information, go to http://www2. msu.edu.my/enquiry/

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

• MSU Medical Centre • Chancellor Hall • Performing Art Theatre • Science Lab • IT Lab • Library & Resources • Wireless Internet Access • The Residence – In campus housing • The Hub – Eateries facilities

Scholarships and financial aid • EPF • President Scholarship • Flexible payment

Entry requirements For more information, visit http://www2. msu.edu.my/enquiry/

Applications For more information about registration, visit http://www2.msu.edu.my/enquiry/

+(603) 5511 2848

enquiry@msu.edu.my MSU mission for excellence in human capital development is benchmarked by industry employability, entrepreneurship, and community sustainability; supported by research, lifelong learning, and flexible education.

With 98.7% of its graduates successfully securing employment within six months after graduation, MSU is ranked by the Ministry of Higher Education as Malaysia’s #1 for graduate employability as well as SETARA Tier-5 Excellent Status University.

Blending technical vocational education and training (TVET) with traditional academic curricula, MSU enhances competencies with industry internship, community and creative entrepreneurship, as well as global exposure; empowering MSU graduates with the wellroundedness desired and sought after by employers.

Extensive partnerships and collaborations with institutions in over 40 countries worldwide provide comprehensive mobility opportunities for all MSUrians, enhancing their graduate employability through global exposures by studies and internships abroad.

Various national and international accolades were gained for the university’s involvement in the regional higher education landscape. Aptly cradled by its tagline of “Transforming Lives, Enriching Future”, MSU looks poised as a university that is progressively relevant in the 21st century.

Management and Science University (MSU) has become synonymous with quality education that is both transformative and enriching. Making an impact in Malaysia, Asia, as well as globally, MSU focus on developing and delivering quality human capital in critical-need areas.

MSU currently ranks in the Top 47% of the world’s best universities in the QS WUR 2021 as well as listed among the world’s Top 100 young universities and Top 200 among Asia’s best universities in the QS ranking.

In recent QS WUR by Subject 2021, MSU has emerged Malaysia #1 in for Subject’s Art and Design category, at World Top 151-200 list, listed at World Top 51-100 and Top 2 in Malaysia for Hospitality and Leisure Management programmes. Another new entrant securing a QS ranking is Business and Management Studies, placing at Malaysia Top 11 and World Top 451-500.

University’s initiatives for United Nations Sustainable Development Goals recognized in Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2021.

MSU has also been awarded Platinum 5 Crowns by the UK’s Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities (ASIC); and QS-rated 5-Stars on the metrics of Teaching, Employability, Facilities, Social Responsibility, and Inclusiveness.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost

Awarding body: Management & Science University PhD Management/ Business

FT

R

2 yrs

PhD (Accounting/ Finance)

FT

R

2 yrs

Doctor of Philosophy (Computer Science)

FT

R

2 yrs

PhD (Information and Communication Technology)

FT

R

2 yrs

Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering

FT

R

2 yrs

PhD - Biomedicine

FT

R

2 yrs

PhD (Food Service Technology)

FT

R

2 yrs

Per Course: MS RM18,000 IS USD7,760 Per Course: MS RM18,000 IS USD7,760 Per Course: MS RM21,500 IS USD9,140 Per Course: MS RM21,500 IS USD9,140 Per Course: MS RM60,000 IS USD22,000 Per Course: MS RM24,000 IS USD10,520 Per Course: MS RM24,000 IS USD10,520

For further enquiries on more MSU's postgraduate programme offered at MSU, please visit www.msu.edu.my

2020/21 | 103

Course Providers

INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR EDUCATION IN ISLAMIC FINANCE (INCEIF) www.inceif.org +(603) 7651 4000

+(603) 7651 4071

info@inceif.org

Ms. Nik Atifah Fauzana, Ms. Nur Syakirin (Sales & Marketing) Lorong Universiti A, 59100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

January, June, September

Deadlines

UPCOMING June 2021 • Face-to-face (currently conducted online until further update on COVID-19 status) • International – 14 March 2021 • Malaysian – 21 May 2021 Online Programme – 21 May 2021 (International & Malaysian) MSc & PhD – Jan & Sep intake eMIF, PCIF, MIFP, MBA – Jan, June, Sep

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

• KMC (Knowledge Management Centre) • Student lounge | PhD Lounge • Computer lab • Car park/ Disabled car park • Swimming pool | Gym | Tennis & Badminton court • Musolla (Muslim Prayer room)

Scholarships and financial aid

• Chancellor’s Scholarship • President’s Scholarship • INCEIF Bursary • Khazanah-INCEIF Scholarship • Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)

Entry requirements

• Executive Masters In Islamic Finance (eMIF) • Masters in Islamic Finance Practice (MIFP) • Master of Science in Islamic Finance (MSc in Islamic Finance) • MBA (Sustainable Business) ––Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution of higher learning with at least CGPA 2.50 out of 4.00.

––Candidates with CGPA of below 2.5 but above 2.0 may be considered subject to additional internal assessments.

• PhD in Islamic Finance • PhD in Islamic Finance ((by Research) ––Master’s degree or equivalent (with high distinction) from a recognized institution of higher learning.

––Mathematics / Quantitative proficiency.

• Professional Certificate in Islamic Finance ––A recognised Bachelor Degree in Muamalat, Islamic Finance or Finance or its equivalent with minimum CGPA of 2.5 with minimum one (1) year working experience; or Diploma/STPM/ Matriculation/A-Levels certification (or the equivalent qualifications) with minimum five (5) years relevant working experience; ––Must be aged over 35 years old on the 1st January of the application year.

Applications

Online at https://www.inceif.org/ programmes/

104 |

2020/21

INCEIF, founded by Bank Negara Malaysia, aims to develop professionals and specialists in Islamic finance to chart the future of the global Islamic financial industry, and drive innovation for the industry. Through its specialised academic programmes, customised executive education and industry-focused applied research, INCEIF’s vision is to become a knowledge leader in Islamic finance. It is the first and only university in the world dedicated to Islamic finance studies.

In November 2018, INCEIF received accreditation from AACSB International, joining the ranks of the top five per cent of business schools in the world. It is the only Islamic finance university in Malaysia to be accredited.

INCEIF was recently honoured with

`The Most Outstanding Islamic Finance Education and Research’ award at the Kuala Lumpur Islamic Finance Forum (KLIFF) 2019 for Islamic finance industry experts and key players. The award acknowledges an institution’s research and educational institutions or initiatives, compliance and standardisation, thought leaders and authors.

The university has actively embarked on initiatives to encourage policy change to directly impact the society’s wellbeing by utilising Islamic finance through Islamic Social Finance, Responsible and Sustainable Finance in the context of UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Bank Negara Malaysia’s Value-based Intermediation (VBI) framework for the Islamic banking industry.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Awarding body: INCEIF Executive Masters in Islamic Finance (eMIF)

PT FT

Master of Science in Islamic Finance (MSc)

PT FT

Masters in Islamic Finance Practice (MIFP)

PT FT

MBA (Sustainable Business)

PT FT

PhD in Islamic Finance, PhD in Islamic Finance (by Research)

PT FT

Professional Certificate in Islamic Finance (PCIF)

FT

T

DL EL

T

R

C

T

R

C

T

R

C

T

R

C

FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT

T

DL EL

PT

1-2 yrs 3-6 yrs 2-3 yrs 2-4 yrs 1-2 yrs 1.5-4 yrs 1.5-2 yrs 2-3 yrs 2-4 yrs 4-5 yrs

14 weeks

MS IS MS IS MS IS MS IS MS IS MS IS

13,770 16,350 30,370 40,527.40 27,270 37,707.40 27,270 37,707.40 58,070 73,557.40 3,120 3,720

COURSE PROVIDERS

UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM MALAYSIA nottingham.edu.my +(603) 8924 8686

University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga 43500 Semenyih, Selangor

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

Sports • Gym • Pool • Squash courts • Badminton hall • Basketball courts • Multipurpose court • Jogging track • Football field

study@nottingham.edu.my

The University of Nottingham Malaysia opened in September 2000 and is consistently ranked in the top 100 Universities worldwide, we offer a range of study opportunities for students from foundation level courses through to doctoral degrees. A broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes are available from different specialist schools and departments across the Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Engineering and Science. We host a community of around 5000 students from over 85 different countries worldwide

who work with and receive a world-class higher education experience from leading academics in their field. The campus provides excellent teaching, learning and research facilities including a wellequipped library, dedicated study areas and computer, language, and science and engineering laboratories.

As a graduate of the University of Nottingham, you will join our global community of over 300,000 alumni.

Health • Medical clinic Religion • Prayer rooms • Islamic Centre Shops and conveniences • Indoor/outdoor cafeteria • Convenience stores • Electronic store Community spaces • Student meeting and activities rooms • Great Hall • Amphitheatre

Scholarships and financial aid • Alumni Scholarships • Alumni of Universitas 21 (U21) Institutions Scholarship • Arts and Social Sciences Excellence Award • Future Leaders Award

Entry requirements Information available on our University prospectus https://www.nottingham.edu.my/Study/ Download-our-brochures

Applications For online application, go to https://www.nottingham.edu.my/ applications

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Awarding body: University of Nottingham MBA

FT PT

MSc Environmental Engineering

FT

MSc Finance and Investment

FT PT

MA Education

FT PT

MSc Civil Engineering

FT

MSc Occupational Health and Safety Leadership

FT PT

MSc Management Psychology

FT PT

MA Special and Inclusive Education

FT PT

FT

1 yr

PT

2-4 yrs

T

1 yr

T

FT

1 yr

PT

2 yrs

FT

1-2 yrs

PT

2-4 yrs

T

T

1 yr

T

FT

1-2 yrs

PT

2-4 yrs

T

FT

1-2 yrs

PT

2-4 yrs

FT

1-2 yrs

PT

2-4 yrs

T

T

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

MS

IS

62,600 68,365 53,300 59,900 47,500 56,900 47,200 56,900 53,300 59,900 49,500 54,900 50,100 55,300 47,200 56,900

For more postgraduate programmes, please visit nottingham.edu.my/pgstudy

2020/21 | 105

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI KUALA LUMPUR (UniKL) www.unikl.edu.my +(603) 2175 4000 Miss Nur Salamiah Mohamed Hanib, Marketing Executive 1016 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

By Coursework: January, July, September

By Research: January, April, July & October

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

Sport & recreation, Classroom/laboratories/ library/information, Resources centre, Wi-Fi, Student lounge

Scholarships and financial aid

EPR withdrawal, MARA, UniKL Excellent Research Grant Scheme, Bank Loans

Entry requirements

Master’s Degree Programmes – By research & mixed mode • Bachelor’s degree in a related field with minimum CGPA of 2.75 from local or any other institutions of higher learning as approved by the Senate of UniKL; or • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in related field with a CGPA between 2.50 to 2.75 is acceptable for admission depends on rigorous internal assessment (for UniKL the internal assessment is at least 2 years working experience in a related field); or • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with CGPA less than 2.50, with at least 5 years relevant working experience is acceptable for admission • Bachelor of Medicine MD, MBBS or equivalent medical qualification recognised by the Senate (Master of Medical Science only) Master’s Degree Programmes – By Coursework • Bachelor’s degree in a related field with minimum CGPA of 2.50 as approved by Senate of UniKL; or • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with CGPA below than 2.5 is acceptable for admission subject to a minimum of 5 years working experience in a related field • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/ Engineering Technology/Science with CGPA of at least 2.75 as approved by Senate of UniKL; or at least with 2 years working experience in a field to this master programme (Master of Engineering Technology – Green and Energy Efficient Buildings) Doctor of Philosophy Degree Programmes • Master’s degree from UniKL; or • Master’s degree from other institutions of higher learning, local or international, or equivalent, and approved by the Senate of UniKL

Applications

Apply online: https://postgradadmission. unikl.edu.my

+(603) 2175 4001

marketing@unikl.edu.my Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) is one of highly competitive National Grants under MOHE which was established for the development of basic research that can produce new theories, concepts and ideas for the development of knowledge.

On top of that, UniKL and all its research community have been awarded The Most Improved Award conferred during MyRA (Malaysia Research Assessment) 2020 held by the Ministry of Higher Education of Malaysia.

Moreover, we’ve received a few awards in the International Invention, Innovation & Technology Exhibition (ITEX 2020). The ITEX is an internationally recognized competition that serves as a platform for inventors and innovators to showcase their findings and is well-known for its prestigious awards with over 500 participants from local & overseas industries.

The university aims to provide our graduates with the knowledge, skills and attitude required to contribute towards and play major roles in a globalized and knowledge-based economy. We’re committed to helping you to develop skills and attributes that will enhance your ability to compete in the job market, to progress your career, and to achieve your full potential within the global community.

UniKL is the leading entrepreneurial technical university in Malaysia and one of the country’s leading technical universities. UniKL is ranked among the Top 10 Malaysian universities in the field of Business & Economics, Computer Science and Engineering in the Times Higher Education (THE) World Subject Rankings 2021.

We deliver quality and affordable postgraduate programmes. Your postgraduate experience at UniKL will be supported and enhanced by the wealth of resources and opportunities that a university of our size can offer.

Our programs come with features of Innovative Teaching and Learning consisting of Teaching Factory, E-Learning Online Assessments, Experiential Learning, Active learning – Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Project-Oriented Problem-Based Learning (POPBL), Cooperative Learning and Blended Learning. UniKL, being a High TVET institution, offer a broad range of study of technologies, as well as acquisition of practical skills, attitudes, comprehension and knowledge relevant to a variety of career fields.

Our research activity is focused on developing new technologies and products to support our techno-entrepreneurship ventures with our researchers, graduates and industrial partners. UniKL Researchers have succeeded by obtaining grants in the

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Master of Business Administration

FT PT

Master of Manufacturing Management

FT PT

Master in Computer Science

FT PT

Master of Public Health

FT PT

Master of Maritime Operations and Management

FT PT

Master of Science (Water and Hydropower Engineering)

FT PT

Duration FT

C

PT FT

C

M

PT

FT PT

FT C

PT FT

C

PT FT

C

PT

1.5 yrs 3 yrs 1.3 yrs 2.5 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.4 yrs 1 yr 2 yrs 1.5 yrs 2.5 yrs 2 yrs 4 yrs

Cost (RM) MS

IS

MS

IS

2020/21

20,000 30,000

MS

FT

MS

PT

IS FT

MS

IS

18,000 18,100 29,500

18,000 22,000

IS

20,790 27,027

IS

115,785

MS

Awarding body: Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and IHE Delft Institute for Water Education (IHE Delft) Master (by research)

FT PT

R

FT PT

2 yrs 3 yrs

MS

FT

MS

PT

IS FT

Please browse https://www.unikl.edu.my/programmes/ for other programmes

106 |

20,790 27,000

1,880/sem 1,250/sem 2,500/sem

Electrical, Electronics, Medical Electronics and Telecommunication

Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Medical Imaging and Pharmaceutical Technology

Marine, Offshore, Naval Architecture, Marine Electrical Electronics and Maritime Management

Computer Systems, Networking Systems, Software Engineering, Computer System Security, Business Technology, Multimedia Design and Computer Animation

Accounting, Business Administration, Management and Entrepreneurship, Islamic Finance, International Business, Marketing and Tourism Planning and Development

Aviation and Aircraft Maintenance Technology

Automotive Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, Applied Electronics and Automotive Management

Food, Process, Environment, Polymer, Bioprocess and Chemical Engineering

Biomedical, Medical Assistant, Environmental Health and Occupational Safety

Design, Manufacturing, Precision Engineering, Engineering Business Management, Technology Management and Railway Engineering Technology

Quality Engineering, Instrumentation and Control, Facilities Maintenance, Petroleum Engineering and Industrial Logistics

Mechanical, Industrial Automation, Electromechanical, Manufacturing, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Automotive, Welding and Water Engineering Technology

PURSUE YOUR POSTGRADUATE STUDIES WITH UniKL THE ELITE UNIVERSITY IN THE WORLD SUBJECT RANKINGS

WHERE KNOWLEDGE IS APPLIED AND DREAM REALISED

Universiti Kuala Lumpur - DU011(W)

AREAS OF SPECIALISATION

BY COURSEWORK & MIXED MODE

.. .. .. .. ..

Business Administration Data Science Maritime Operation & Management Manufacturing Management Public Health Structural Integrity Water & Hydropower Engineering Computer Science Quality Engineering & Management Supply Chain Management

BY RESEARCH

.. .. .. .

Industrial Automation Mechanical Chemical Engineering Electrical and Electronics Manufacturing Aerospace Maritime

.. .. .. .

Information Technology Management Medical Science Pharmacy Creative Digital Media Applied Bioscience Islamic Finance

WE FULFILL YOUR POSTGRADUATE EXPERIENCE

BY OFFERING THE FOLLOWING PRIVILEGES: Varieties Of Learning Modes

Education Financing Assistance

Affordable Fees

MOHE & MQA Approved & Accredited

Program Designed By The Experts

Building Career Development

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAH (UMS) www.ums.edu.my/pascav2/ +(6088) 320 000 (ext. 206200); +(6088) 495 064 (WhatsApp Helpdesk) Admission and Student Record Section, Centre for Postgraduate Studies, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

February, September

Deadlines

Throughout the year

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

Auditorium, ATM, Cafeteria, Carpark, Healthcare Centre, Lecture theatres, Library, Multi-purpose halls, Research laboratories, Sports and recreation Centre/Gymnasium, Student hostel, Wi-Fi

Scholarships and financial aid

• UMS Teaching Assistance Scheme • UMS International Tuition Fee Scheme • UMS Postgraduate New Student Voucher Scheme

Entry requirements (BY RESEARCH)

For more information, visit https://www. ums.edu.my/pascav2/images/Admission%20 Requirements%2030%20April%202015.pdf

Applications

For online application, go to https://mohon. ums.edu.my/pasca/

+(6088) 320 233

UMS is an institution of higher education that produces human resources, experts and professionals in a variety of fields with the focus on the quality of graduates, quality of institutions, and quality of the overall system. With the vision to strive to be an innovative university of global standing, UMS strives to achieve academic excellence and international recognition through its attention to learning and teaching, research and publications, social services and balance in knowledge specialisation. The university also prioritises the personal growth of its students, resulting in greater

ppps@ums.edu.my

innovation and productivity for the benefit of society and the nation as a whole.

UMS employs a holistic approach towards teaching and learning, where both theory and practice are equally emphasised to get the best out of students’ academic development. Our teaching and learning modules and niche areas of research are designed to impart knowledge of current issues and modern perspectives. UMS has committed to harnessing the power of online learning to widen access to good quality content and enhance the quality of teaching and learning.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

R

2-6 yrs

14,545 – 16,545

FT PT

R

1 yr 1-4 yrs

7,695 – 8,695 8,965 – 11,770

Awarding body: Universiti Malaysia Sabah Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Master of Philosophy (MPhil.)

Master of Science (MSc.)

FT PT FT

R

Master of Engineering (MEng.)

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs

8,965 – 11,770

Master of Arts (MA) Master of Accounting (MAcc.) Master of Agriculture Science (Magric.Sc.) Master of Economics (MEcons.)

FT PT

R

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs 1-4 yrs

7,695 – 10,270 7,695 – 10,270

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs

8,965 – 11,770

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs

7,695 – 10,270

Master of Finance (MFin.)

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs

7,695 – 10,270

Master of Education (MEd.)

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs)

7,695 – 10,270

Master of Psychology (MPsy.) Master of Busines (MBuss.)

FT PT

R

7,695 – 10,270 7,695 – 10,270

FT PT

R

1-4 yrs 1-4 yrs

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

FT PT

C

2 yrs

17,170 – 19,345

Master of Human Capital Management (MHCM)

FT PT

C

2 yrs

17,170 – 19,345

Master of Economics (MECONS.)

FT PT

C

2 yrs

17,170 – 19,345

Master of Education – Education Management

FT PT

C

2 yrs

19,345 – 19,745

Master of Education – TESL

FT PT

C

2 yrs

19,345 – 19,745

Master of Education – Science

FT PT

C

2 yrs

19,345 – 19,745

Master of Education – Curriculum And Instructional Design

FT PT

C

2 yrs

19,345 – 19,745

Master of Education – Physical And Health Education

FT PT

C

2 yrs

19,345 – 19,745

Master of Education – Computer In Education

FT PT

C

2 yrs

19,345 – 19,745

Master of Counseling Psychology

FT PT

C

2 yrs

23,370 – 24,245

Master of Counseling Psychology (Drug Abuse)

FT

2 yrs

7,695 – 14,545

C

For more postgraduate programmes available at UMS, please visit www://mohon.ums.edu.my/pasca/

110 |

2020/21

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA (UiTM) https://ipsis.uitm.edu.my/ +(603) 5544 8319/8323

Dr Faiz Izwan Anuar, Head of Graduate Studies (Recruitment & Admission) Institut Pengajian Siswazah (IPSis), Level 4, Bangunan Sarjana, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes September 2021

+(603) 5522 5335

ipsis@uitm.edu.my

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) is a public university, with its main campus in Shah Alam, the state capital of Selangor, just 28 kilometres west of the country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. Established in 1956, UiTM today has expanded to become a university of international repute. The largest higher education institution in Malaysia, UiTM offers extensive physical infrastructure, qualified academic and non-academic staff support and massive student population.

With one main campus, 13 autonomous state campuses and 21 satellite campuses supported by 17,000 academic and nonacademic staff, UiTM offers 500 quality programmes ranging from foundation to postgraduate levels. Home to about 190,000 students, both local and international, UiTM stands out as one of the most popular higher education destinations in Malaysia.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED

Deadlines

Course name

31 July 2021

OTHER INFORMATION

Mode Duration Cost (RM)

Awarding body: Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Doctor of Philosophy (Business Management) BA950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

• One Main Campus • 12 Branch Campuses • 22 Satellite Campuses

Doctor of Philosophy (Education) ED950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,320

Doctor of Philosophy (Financial Criminology) AR952

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Art & Design) AD950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Scholarships and financial aid

Doctor of Philosophy (Applied Language Studies) LG950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Music) MU950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Accountancy) AC950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Information Management) IM950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Built Environment) AP991

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Hotel & Tourism Management) HM950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical Engineering) EE950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

C

1.5 yrs

13,280

3 yrs

27,570

C

1.5 yrs

13,280

Facilities

For more information, visit: • Scholarship: https://endowment.uitm. edu.my/scholarship/index.php/ • Funding: https://ipsis.uitm.edu.my/index. php/admission/uitmfunding

Entry requirements For more information on entry requirements, visit: https://study.uitm.edu. my/index.php/information-for-applicants

Applications For online application, visit: https://study. uitm.edu.my/index.php/applicationprocedures

Master (Forensic Accounting & Financial Criminology) AC703 Doctor of Philosophy (Law) LW951 Master (Medical Imaging) HS772

FT PT

T

FT PT FT PT

R T

Doctor of Philosophy (Islamic Finance & Muamalat) AR951

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Administrative Science) AM990

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical Engineering) EM950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

39,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Medicine) MD990

FT PT

R

3 yrs

39,570

Master of Science (Electrical Engineering) EE750

FT PT

R

1.5 yrs

13,280

Master of Science (Dental Science) DS750

FT PT

R

1.5 yrs

27,560

Doctor of Philosophy (Transport & Logistics) LT990

FT PT

R

3 yrs

27,570

Doctor of Philosophy (Plantation) AT950

FT PT

R

3 yrs

39,570

Visit https://ipsis.uitm.edu.my/index.php to browse for the rest of postgraduate programmes offered in UITM

112 |

2020/21

Over

200

Postgraduate Programmes ipsis.uitm.edu.my

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI PETRONAS https://ucs.utp.edu.my/ 1-300-22-8887

Mr Meor Naqiuddin, Executive of Admission & Marketing; Ms Nurfarahin M Suffi, Executive of Admission Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes • January (Masters by Coursework, Masters

by Research & PhD) • May (Masters by Coursework) • July (Masters by Research & PhD) • September (Masters by Coursework)

Deadlines Registration closing date differ from each semester intake. Please visit https://

https://ucs.utp.edu.my/

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) was established on 10 January 1997 and is a leading private university in Malaysia.

The campus is built on a 400-hectare (1,000 acres) site strategically located at Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia. The university is a wholly owned subsidiary of PETRONAS, the national oil and gas company of Malaysia.

UTP offers a wide range of industryrelevant engineering, science and technology programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It aims to produce well-rounded graduates with excellent leadership qualities and communication abilities.

The university conducts extensive research activities in collaboration with PETRONAS and other institutions and industries, locally and abroad, on six research focus and niche areas.

They are self-sustainable building, transport infrastructure, health analytics, hydrocarbon recovery, contaminant management and autonomous system.

UTP has produced more than 19,000 graduates and currently has an enrolment

of over 1,200 foundation students, 6,000 undergraduates and 1,200 postgraduates from more than 60 countries around the world.

UTP has continuously achieved numerous national and international recognition in only 23 years of its establishment.

admission.utp.edu.my/ to know more.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED

OTHER INFORMATION

Course name

Facilities

Awarding body: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (MQA 6 Stars – MyRA)

• Research Labs & Facilities

MBA in Energy Management

• Research & Development Building • Information Resource Centre

MBA in Energy Management (ODL)

Mode

FT PT

FT PT

C

ODL

Duration

T

C

T

2-3 yrs

MS

2-3 yrs

MS

1.5-3 yrs

MS

1-3 yrs

MS

1-3 yrs

MS

1-2 yrs

MS

1.5-3 yrs

MS

1.5-3 yrs

MS

1.5-3 yrs

MS

1-3 yrs

MS

1.5-3 yrs

MS

• Teaching Learning Labs • Green Room • Auditorium • Postgraduate Lounge • Multipurpose Hall • Sports Complex (Including Sports Court, Fields, Gymnasium & Swimming Pool) • Student Centre • Mosque • Hostels • Cafeterias

MSc in Asset Management & Maintenance

FT

MSc in Asset Management & Maintenance (ODL)

FT PT

MSc in Applied Computing

FT

MSc in Corrosion Engineering

FT

MSc in Drilling Engineering

FT

MSc in Electronic Systems Engineering

• Marts • ATM Centre • Self-Service Laundry • Wi-Fi • Shuttle Bus

MSc in Electronic Systems Engineering (ODL) MSc in Industrial Environmental Engineering MSc in Offshore Engineering

114 |

2020/21

C

ODL

C

C

T

C

T

C

ODL

FT

FT PT

T

T

C

FT PT

FT PT

T

T

C

C

T

T

C

T

Cost (RM)

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

35,300 45,700 27,800 29,300 28,800 37,600 24,300 31,600 28,800 37,600 39,500 40,000 70,000 100,000 30,300 39,600 24,300 31,600 25,000 50,000 31,150 40,550

COURSE PROVIDERS

Scholarships and financial aid • Graduate Assistance Scheme (GA) • Graduate Research Assistance Scheme (GRA) • Tuition Financial Assistance Scheme (TFA)

MSc in Offshore Engineering (ODL) MSc in Petroleum Engineering MSc in Geoscience

FT PT

ODL

FT

C

C

FT PT

T

T

C

T

1.5-5 yrs

MS

1-3 yrs

MS

1-3 yrs

MS

1-3 yrs

MS

1-4 yrs

MS

1-4 yrs

MS

1.5-3 yrs

MS

Entry requirements Entry requirements differ from each

MSc in Geoscience (ODL)

FT PT

ODL

C

T

programme of studies. Please visit https://www.utp.edu.my/Pages/Admission/

MSc in Process Integration

FT PT

C

T

IS

IS

IS

IS

IS

Home/Postgraduate.aspx to know more.

Applications Apply at https://admission.utp.edu.my/

MSc in Process Integration (ODL) MSc in Process Safety

FT PT

ODL

FT PT

C

C

T

MSc in Chemical Engineering

FT PT

R

MSc in Petroleum Engineering

FT PT

R

MSc in Civil Engineering

FT PT

R

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

FT PT

R

MSc in Electrical & Electronics Engineering

FT PT

R

MSc in Information Technology

FT PT

R

Master of Science (MSc)

FT PT

R

MSc in Information Systems

T

FT

FT PT

R

PT

2-4 yrs 3-5 yrs

IS

IS

25,000 32,350 28,800 37,600 28,800 37,600 23,100 30,000 29,000 37,900 23,300 30,300 28,800 37,600

10,000 3,220 (Annually) MS

FT

MS

PT

13,000 4,190 (Annually) IS FT

IS PT

FT PT

2-4 yrs 3-5 yrs

11,600 3,600 (Annually) MS

FT

MS

PT

11,600 3,600 (Annually) IS FT

IS PT

MPhil in Management MPhil in Social Science & Humanities

FT PT

FT

2-4 yrs

PT

3-5 yrs

R

7,620 3,220 (Annually) MS

FT

MS

PT

9,900 4,190 (Annually) IS FT

IS PT

PhD in Chemical Engineering PhD in Petroleum Engineering PhD in Petroleum Geoscience PhD in Civil Engineering PhD in Mechanical Engineering

FT PT

R

FT PT

3-8 yrs 4-10 yrs

14,600 3,600 (Annually) MS

FT

MS

PT

19,000 4,800 (Annually) IS FT

IS PT

PhD in Electrical & Electronics Engineering PhD in Information Technology PhD in Applied Science

PhD in Information Systems

FT PT

R

FT PT

3-8 yrs 4-10 yrs

24,000 4,800 (Annually) MS

FT

MS

PT

124,000 4,800 (Annually) IS FT

IS PT

PhD in Management PhD in Social Science & Humanities

FT PT

R

FT PT

3-8 yrs 4-10 yrs

11,000 3,600 (Annually) MS

FT

MS

PT

14,400 4,800 (Annually) IS FT

IS PT

2020/21 | 115

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI TENAGA NASIONAL www.uniten.edu.my +(603) 8921 2020 (ext. 2144)

Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Ewe Lay Sheng Jalan IKRAM-UNITEN, 43000 Kajang, Selangor

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

January, June, September

OTHER INFORMATION Entry requirements

PHD (BY RESEARCH) • Masters in the relevant domain, or • Masters in a related domain with 2-year experience in the domain, or • Bachelors in the domain with 1st class with honours or CGPA 3.67* and above.

For this qualification, candidates must register for Master Programme (research), and apply for conversion to PhD in not earlier than six months and within one year of registration but subject to assessments and approval by Senate. For details of conversion scheme, refer to COGS Academic Regulation.

MASTER (BY RESEACH/MIXED MODE) • Bachelors in the relevant domain with 2nd class upper with honours or CGPA 2.75* and above, or • Bachelors in the relevant domain with 2nd class lower with honours or CGPA 2.50*-2.74*, and 1-year experience in the domain, or • Bachelors in the relevant domain with CGPA below 2.50-, and 5-year experience in the domain • Bachelors in a related domain with 2nd class upper with honours or CGPA 2.75* and above, and 1-year experience in the domain MASTER (BY COURSEWORK) • Bachelors in the relevant or related domain with 2nd class lower with honours or CGPA 2.50* and above, or • Bachelors in a related domain with 2nd class upper with honours or CGPA 2.75* and above, and 1-year experience in the domain *The CGPA is out of 4.0 **Entry requirements are correct at the time of printing and Senate UNITEN may decide on eligibility of students as and when required

Applications For online application, visit: https://apply.uniten.edu.my/uniapps/ Register.aspx

118 |

2020/21

+(603) 8921 2119

azizatun@uniten.edu.my

Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) is a private university with a GovernmentLink University (GLU) status, wholly owned by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB). Universiti Tenaga Nasional operates from two campuses, one main campus in Putrajaya and the other is in Bandar Muadzam Shah, Pahang. The main campus is located in the south of Kuala Lumpur. It is adjacent to the administrative centre of the Federal Government of Malaysia, malls, hotels and resorts. The Putrajaya campus offers courses in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Economics and Energy Economics. The second campus, Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah (KSHAS) in Bandar Muadzam Shah, Pahang offers courses in Accountancy,

Finance, Marketing, Human Resource and Business courses. The university has produced over 33,192 graduates from its diploma, degree and postgraduate programmes. Furthermore, UNITEN graduates are highly sought-after by the industry with the employability rate of 94% employed (Employed after 6 months upon completion of studies (Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia) and 6% was job creators. UNITEN continuously provides a high-quality education through close industry linkages, innovative and experiential learning. UNITEN is awarded the rating of Tier 5 (Excellent) for SETARA (Rating System for Malaysian Higher Education) and Tier 5 for D-SETARA (Discipline-Based Rating System) in Engineering.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Awarding body: Universiti Tenaga Nasional Master of Electrical Engineering

FT PT

Master of Electrical Engineering

FT

Master of Mechanical Engineering

R

FT R

FT PT

C

R

Master of Civil Engineering

FT PT

Master of Industrial Science

FT PT

R

Master of Information Technology

FT PT

R

Master of Information Technology

FT

R

C

Master of Science in Accounting

FT PT

R

Master of Science in Finance

R

FT PT

R

FT PT

Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering

FT PT

R

Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Science

FT PT

R

FT PT

R

FT PT

R

Master of Business Administration

PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT

Master of Science in Management

Doctor of Philosophy in Information and Communication Technology Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management

FT PT

FT PT

R

T

Master in Engineering Management

FT PT

T

Master of Structural Engineering

FT PT

T

Master of Energy Management

FT PT

T

PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT FT PT

2 yrs 3 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 1-3 yrs 2-4 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 1-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 2 yrs 3 yrs 3.5 yrs 5 yrs 3.5 yrs 5 yrs 3.5 yrs 5 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs 1.5-3 yrs 2.5-4 yrs

MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS MS

IS

2,850/sem 3,600/sem 6,175/sem 6,925/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 6,175/sem 6,925/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 2,850/sem 3,600/sem 4,750/sem 5,250/sem 4,750/sem 5,250/sem 4,275/sem 4,775/sem 4,275/sem 4,775/sem 7,840/sem 8,588/sem 7,840/sem 8,588/sem 6,175/sem 6,925/sem 11,250/sem 12,000/sem

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN (UTAR) study.utar.edu.my +(605) 468 8888 / +(605) 9086 0288

Kampar Campus Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Darul Ridzuan Sungai Long Campus Jalan Sungai Long, Bandar Sungai Long, Cheras, 43000 Kajang, Selangor Darul Ehsan

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes • By Research – Throughout the year • By Coursework/Mixed Mode – Jan, May, Oct

OTHER INFORMATION Scholarships and financial aid UTAR offers financial aid in the form of research assistantship: • Project Research Assistantship • Research Scholarship Scheme • Student Assistantship For more details, please refer to ipsr.utar.edu.my

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) is highly reputed as one of the fastest growing private higher education institutions in the country since its inception in 2002. From only 411 students, the University now has about 22,000 students with campuses located in Kampar, Perak and Bandar Sungai Long, Selangor. UTAR has graduated over 69k students since its inaugural convocation in 2005. The University currently offers more than 120 programmes from Foundation Studies to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees in the fields of Accounting, Business and Economics, Actuarial Science, Mathematics and Process Management, Agriculture and Food Science, Arts, Social Sciences and Education, Chinese Studies, Creative Industries and Design, Engineering, Technology and Built Environment, Information and Communication Technology, Life and Physical Sciences, and Medicine and Health Sciences. UTAR was awarded self-accreditation status by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency of

For more information on entry requirements, visit study.utar.edu.my

Course name

Download application form online, complete the form and send to Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research in UTAR

Mode

Duration

Cost (RM)

Awarding body: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) MS FT

Master of Environmental Technology (R/545/7/0077)07/26 (MQA/SWA8007)

FT PT

C

FT PT

1-4 yrs 2-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT MS FT

(R2/481/7/0662)10/25(MQA/FA0185)

FT PT

C

FT PT

1-4 yrs 2-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT MS FT

Master of Engineering (Mechanical)

Applications

the Ministry of Higher Education in 2017.

UTAR also ranked 501-600th World University and 111-120th Asia Pacific University in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2020.

Our University programmes conducted are recognised by local and international professional bodies such as The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, UK (RICS), The Royal Society of Chemistry, UK (RSC), The Society of Actuaries, USA (SOA), The Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC), Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Certified Public Accountants Australia (CPA), The Society of Logisticians Malaysia (LogM), The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), ACCA, CIMA, ICSA, MIA, Chartered Tax Institute of Malaysia (ctim), Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia (LAM), Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM) and many more.

For more details, kindly visit UTAR website at study.utar.edu.my

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED

Master of Information Systems

Entry requirements

postgrad@utar.edu.my

(R/521/7/0041)09/22(MQA/FA1990)

FT PT

C

FT PT

1-4 yrs 2-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT MS FT

Master of Arts (Communication) (R2/321/7/0002)03/26 (MQA/FA0473)

FT PT

R

FT PT

2-4 yrs 3-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT MS FT

Master of Communication (R3/321/7/0001)05/26 (A7014)

FT PT

M

FT PT

1.5-4 yrs 2-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT MS FT

Master of Mathematics (R2/461/7/0004)04/23(A8216)

FT PT

M

FT PT

1.5-4 yrs 2-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT MS FT

Master of Engineering (Electrical) (R/522/7/0061)09/22(MQA/FA1989)

FT PT

C

FT PT

1-4 yrs 2-6 yrs

MS PT IS FT IS PT

17,450 18,250 26,650 27,850 17,450 18,250 26,650 27,850 17,450 18,250 26,650 27,850 8,450 9,300 16,150 17,350 11,550 11,550 19,850 19,850 18,250 18,250 27,850 27,850 20,950 21,750 30,900 32,100

For more postgraduate programmes available at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, please visit study.utar.edu.my

120 |

2020/21

Course Providers

UNIVERSITI UTARA MALAYSIA (UUM) www.uum.edu.my +(6019) 520 4807 (WhatsApp)

Norazlin Abd. Jalil / Syazani Marzuki Marketing Division, Chancellery, Universiti Utara Malaysia, 06010 UUM Sintok, Kedah

IMPORTANT DATES

marketing@uum.edu.my

Universiti Utara Malaysia, situated in the lush greenery north of West Malaysia, was founded in 1984, focusing primarily on developing and promoting management education with a wide spectrum of academic knowledge and intellectual skill in the area of mainly management, humanities and social sciences. Since its inception, UUM has continued to strive for excellence in its teaching and learning, research and innovation through its synergy partnership with industries and other universities worldwide.

UUM continues to climb higher into the world ranking and has garnered international accreditations and accolades in various field, proving our dedication and professional commitment in providing outstanding education experience to our 140,000 alumni with more than 30,000 students from 55 countries. We pride ourselves as being in the top 5% business school in the world and being able to secure 92.9 percent graduate employability.

Intakes

Three intakes a year (January, May & September)

Deadlines

A month before (local) and two months before (international) the registration date

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED Course name

Mode

Awarding body: Universiti Utara Malaysia

OTHER INFORMATION

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

• Growing International Accreditation and Awards • Smart campus • 15 residential halls • 18-hole golf course • 1.2km go-kart circuit • Camping site • Deer and ostrich farm • Olympic size swimming pool • State-of-the-Art Sport Centre • UUM International School • Manager’s Coffee: UUM’s own café • Varsity Mall • U-Assist: a one stop student centre • UUM Kuala Lumpur Campus

Master in Applied Linguistics

C

M

R

Master of Arts (Contemporary Malay Language Studies)

C

M

R

Master of Education

C

M

R

Facilities

Scholarships and financial aid

FT

R

PT

Master of Science (Counselling)

C

R

Master of Science (Decision Science)

M

R

Master of Science (Data Analysis) Master of Science (Information Technology)

C

M

Entry requirements

Master of Science Multimedia Journalism

C

M

Applications

Please refer to http://www.uum.edu.my/ index.php/admissions-uum/postgraduate

C

Master in Islamic Finance and Banking

C

FT PT FT PT

FT PT FT PT R

Master of Islamic Business Studies (MIBS)

C

R

Master of Science (International Accounting)

FT PT FT PT FT

C

Master of Science (Management)

C

Master of Commercial Law

PT FT

R

PT FT

C

C

PT

M

C

FT PT

FT

C

Master of Science (International Business)

FT PT

PT

Master of Human Resource Management

Master of Public Management

FT

R

C

Master of Business Administration

FT PT

FT

Master of Science (Managerial Communication)

M

FT PT

PT

M

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

FT PT

PT

C

• PTPTN • EPF withdrawals

Master’s programme (other than MBA) • A bachelor’s degree with honours from any institutions of higher learning recognised by the University Senate with a CGPA of at least 2.75; or • A bachelor’s degree with honours from any institutions of higher learning recognised by the University Senate with a CGPA of 2.00 to 2.74 and relevant work experience; or • Any other equivalent qualifications recognised by the University Senate; and • Fulfil the English language requirement as set by the University Senate.

Doctor of Philosophy • A master’s degree from any institutions of higher learning recognised by the University Senate; or • Any other equivalent qualifications recognised by the University Senate; and • Fulfil the English language requirement as set by the University Senate.

Duration

R

R

FT PT FT PT

3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 4-7 yrs (12-21 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (3-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (5-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 4-7 yrs (12-21 sem) 2-3 yrs (3-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem) 2-3 yrs (6-9 sem) 3-5 yrs (9-15 sem)

Please browse http://uum.edu.my/index.php/admissions-uum/postgraduate for other programmes

122 |

2020/21

601-800 3rd in Malaysia World 2021

92.2%

graduate employability

Top 5% business school in the world

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) was established in 1984 as a higher learning institution that focuses primarily on management education. Today, UUM has progressed into a renowned, respected and leading-management institution with various international accreditations offering various career-driven programmes.

Our beautiful main campus is located in Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia while our contemporary and state-of-the-art UUM KL Campus is in the hub of bustling KL metropolitan city centre.

UUM KL Campus which is the heart of Kuala Lumpur combines the best of everything. Students will enjoy the benefits of vibrant and affordable living while pursuing knowledge on campus with our dynamic faculty members and diversified international communities. To date, UUM is a host to a population of 34,000 students with 1,300 faculty members.

Accredited to only 2% of the world business school

>30,000 students from 55 countries

Course Providers

UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE www.cdc.edu.my +(603) 7660 8950 (ext. 109) Edahani Wan Yahya, Senior Marketing Executive 501 Level 5 Block F, Phileo Damansara 1, No. 9 Jalan 16/11 46350 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

IMPORTANT DATES Intakes

• Full-time: September • Part-time: April & October

Deadlines Full-time: 30 June Part-time: 28 February & 31 August We may still accept candidates even after the closing date, as long as we still have the capacity for the intake.

OTHER INFORMATION Facilities

Classrooms, Group discussion rooms/ Study rooms equipped with LCD projector and whiteboard, Resource centre/Library, Examination centre, Wi-Fi enabled environment

Scholarships and financial aid (MBA in Malaysia – Part-time): • Partial Scholarships* • Group discount: RM12,000 (approx..) reduction in fees per candidate for 6 candidates commencing in any particular intake* • Alumni discount: 10% off of tuition fee for Strathclyde Alumni candidates* • Education bursary: RM4,000 reduction in fees for candidates from education industry* • Travel discount: RM4,000 reduction in fees for candidates based outside of KL & Selangor* • PSMB (HRDF) reimbursement – subject by subject reimbursement for companies subscribing to PSMB* Full-time study: • Various scholarships & funding opportunities available for different school (https://www.strath.ac.uk/studywithus/ scholarships/) (*for April 2021 intake, Terms & Conditions apply)

edahani@cdc.edu.my

The Strathclyde MBA – established in the UK since 1966 and in Malaysia since 1989 – is a pioneering MBA with many accolades. It also boasts of the prestigious ‘triple crown’ accreditations, namely AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS making it part of the 77 prestigious schools to have it among 5000+ business schools worldwide.

Press rankings • 15th in the UK (The Guardian’s University Guide 2021) • Scottish University of the Year 2020 (The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2020) • UK University of the Year (Times Higher Education Awards 2019 & 2012/2013) • Top 100 in the world, 1st in Scotland (Executive MBA Ranking, Financial Times, 2020) • Top 100 in the world (Global MBA Ranking, Financial Times, 2018) • 1st in the world for Shortest Payback Period (QS TopMBA.com ROI Report, Full Time MBA 2018) • Top 10 in the world for Biggest Salary Uplift (QS TopMBA.com ROI Report, Full Time MBA 2018) • Top 50 in the world, top 10 in UK, 1st in Scotland (European Business School, Financial Times, 2018) • Top 65 in the world, top 20 in Europe (WhichMBA Executive MBA Ranking, The Economist, 2018) • 6th in the world for Corporate Strategy (Global MBA Ranking, Financial Times, 2017) • Top 100 in the world, top 10 in UK (WhichMBA Full-time MBA Ranking, The Economist, 2017) • UK Business School of the Year by the Times Higher Education Awards 2016 • Top 10 MBA Program Produces Highest Paid Graduates in Western Europe (QS TopMBA.com Jobs & Salary Trends 2015/16)

• UK Entrepreneurial University of the Year by the Times Higher Education Awards 2013/14 The Strathclyde MBA is one degree, which can be achieved via several routes: • Full-time (UK) • Part-time (evening classes in Glasgow) • Part-time via international centres – Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Oman, Greece and Switzerland • Flexible learning Each study route has the same: • Entry criteria • Course content and core learning materials • Assessments • Degree parchment The Strathclyde MBA is based on collaborative learning where work experience, knowledge understanding and applicable skills are shared, worked with and reflected on.

The Strathclyde MBA process is summarised as follows: • You start with skills and processes of learning vital to the adaptive manager • You will then explore, from a managerial perspective, the contribution of specialist areas to management and organisation • Following that, you will develop understanding of techniques and theories of management and strategy, and integrate the diverse areas of theory and practice • Subsequently, you will choose a path of further development • And, lastly, you will reflect on your learning, which launches you on your post-MBA career as an ongoing learner able to understand, work with and manage different forms of thinking and practice

Entry requirements

POSTGRADUATE COURSES OFFERED

• MBA: 24 years of age (Degree with 3 years working experience / Diploma with 7 years working experience) • Full-time study: Each faculty has its own entry requirements (http://www.strath.ac.uk)

Course name

MBA

FT PT

Applications

Other Postgraduate Programmes: • Engineering • Humanities & Social Science • Science • Business School

FT PT

For online application, visit http://www.strath.ac.uk

124 |

2020/21

Mode

Duration

Cost

Awarding body: University of Strathclyde FT

1 yr

PT

2 yrs

T

R

MS

IS

GBP32,000 RM75,000

More details are available at https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/

University of Strathclyde PGA 200mmx280mm-2018-OL.pdf

1

31/01/2020

16:56

EFMD

Register now at

www.mcasf.com

L A T I G I D S R E E R A C A MEG DY FAIR U T S & F S A C M #