Nursing Education in Malaysia

Nursing education in Malaysia

Nursing in Malaysia is a rapidly growing profession, driven by the country’s ageing population, increasing chronic illnesses, and a rising demand for quality healthcare services. Nurses are essential pillars of the healthcare system, providing patient care, health education, and emotional support across both public and private facilities.

Why Choose Nursing in Malaysia?

Top Nursing Institutions in Malaysia

Programme Types:

Diploma in Nursing (3 years)
Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) (4 years)
Post-Basic Certificates (6–12 months for specialisation)

University of Malaya (UM)

Malaysia’s oldest public university, offering a research-focused Bachelor of Nursing Science. Known for strong academics and ties with UMMC.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

A top research university in Penang offering nursing programmes with a focus on community health and critical care.

International Medical University (IMU)

A leading private university offering a globally recognised nursing degree. Emphasises holistic care and international exposure.

MAHSA University

Offers diploma to postgraduate nursing programmes with hands-on training in its own hospitals and partner facilities.

KPJ Healthcare University College

Part of the KPJ Group, this college provides practical training in KPJ hospitals and strong job placement support.

UCSI University

Offers a Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) focusing on patient care, leadership, and critical thinking, with strong industry links.

Sunway University

Provides diploma and nursing courses with modern facilities and a focus on practical, industry-ready skills.

International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)

Offers a nursing degree that includes Islamic values and prepares students for ethical, culturally sensitive care.

Tung Shin Academy of Nursing

Offers diploma programmes with early clinical exposure at Tung Shin Hospital in Kuala Lumpur.

International Medical College (IMC)

A sister school to IMU offering a practical, skill-based Diploma in Nursing with strong private hospital ties.

Nursing Course Fees in Malaysia

Institution	Programme Level	Duration	Total Tuition Fees (MYR)	Notes
University of Malaya (UM)	Bachelor’s	4 years	RM 10,100	Approx. RM 2,525 per year for Malaysian students.
MAHSA University	Bachelor’s	4 years	RM 103,100	Source
International Medical University (IMU)	Bachelor’s	4 years	RM 88,000	Source
UCSI University	Bachelor’s	4 years	RM 85,925	Source
Sunway University	Bachelor’s	4 years	RM 88,460	Source
International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)	Bachelor’s	4 years	RM 67,200	Source
KPJ Healthcare University College	Diploma	3 years	RM 46,200	Source
International Medical College (IMC)	Diploma	3 years	RM 48,410	Source

Note: These fees are approximate and may vary depending on course specifics and eligibility for subsidies.

Industry Partners & Scholarships

Malaysia offers strong institutional and industry support for aspiring nurses, including hospital training partners and scholarships that make education more accessible.

Partners &
Career Opportunities

These partner hospitals provide clinical attachments, internships, and job placements for graduates—helping students gain hands-on experience in real-world medical settings.

KPJ Healthcare Group

One of Malaysia’s largest private healthcare providers with over 28 hospitals nationwide. KPJ University College students are prioritised for training and often offered full-time roles after graduation.

Pantai Hospitals

Part of IHH Healthcare, Pantai Hospitals offer clinical placements in areas like surgical wards, maternity, and emergency care. These placements often lead to job opportunities.

Columbia Asia Hospitals

Well-known in urban healthcare, Columbia Asia provides structured training for nursing students. Their modern facilities focus on international-standard care, ideal for those interested in working in city environments.

Gleneagles Malaysia

With locations in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, and Medini, Gleneagles trains student nurses in specialised areas such as ICU, OT, and paediatrics. Many graduates go on to work within the IHH group or take on international roles.

Other Financial Support Options

EPF Education Withdrawal Scheme

Parents or guardians can use funds from their EPF Account 2 to pay for their child’s nursing tuition at approved institutions.

PTPTN Education Loan

A government loan for Malaysian citizens studying at accredited public or private universities. It offers low interest and flexible repayment. Students who graduate with first-class honours may have their loan converted into a full scholarship.

Scholarships &
Financial Aid

Malaysia offers several ways to finance your nursing education, from government schemes to private hospital sponsorships

MARA Scholarships & Loans

MARA provides loans and scholarships for Bumiputera students taking diploma or degree programmes at selected institutions. Some cover full tuition and living costs, especially for fields like healthcare.

JPA Scholarships (Public Service Department)

Awarded to top-performing students who agree to work in government hospitals or agencies after graduation. Covers tuition, living costs, and job placement support.

Institutional Scholarships

Many private universities in Malaysia offer scholarships to support nursing students. For example, IMU provides both merit-based and financial need scholarships.

Private Sponsors & Hospital-Linked Funding

Some private hospitals, NGOs, and companies offer full or partial sponsorships in exchange for a service bond. Students get free education, while hospitals gain trained staff. The bond usually lasts 2 to 5 years.

Tip

Apply for financial aid as early as possible. Scholarships are competitive and often awarded on a rolling basis. Most universities have a financial aid office to help with applications and guidance.

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Nursing education in Malaysia

Why Choose Nursing in Malaysia?