Diploma: A Guide for Malaysian Students

What To Study

2023-08-28 | 3 MINS READ

What is Diploma?


A Diploma is an academic qualification that is higher than a Certificate and lower than a Bachelor’s Degree. Diploma programmes tend to focus on equipping students with practical skills and knowledge so that they are ready for the workforce. Popular fields for Diploma programmes include arts and design, business studies, culinary arts, nursing and information technology.


Structure and Assessment of Diploma Programmes


Diploma programmes are usually 2-3 years long. You can enrol into Diploma after completing SPM, O-Levels, or a Certificate course.

Diploma typically incorporates a combination of coursework and exams. Besides that, you are, for the most part, required to undergo internship/practical training as part of the programme. However, this component may be optional for some universities. regulators.


Your Pathway to Diploma


If you want to study Diploma, take note of the following general entry requirements:

  • SPM / O-Levels: Min. 3 credits (SPM holders must have a pass in Bahasa Melayu and Sejarah)
  • UEC: Mins 3Bs

    • *Diploma programmes from certain fields may have higher requirements. For example, a Diploma in Nursing typically requires 5 credits in SPM/O-Levels. In addition, you may also have to fulfil other subject requirements to be admitted into the programme. If you are unsure, contact us for clarification!


Advantages of Diploma


  1. Faster Entry into the Workforce
    2. Whether you want to start working early or pursue your studies at a lower cost, a Diploma programme can help you do just that. Your Diploma qualification is enough to enter the workforce after 2 – 3 years of study, giving you a head start in your career.

  2. Eligible for PTPTN Loans
    3. Did you know that Diploma programmes are eligible for PTPTN loans, while Pre-University programmes are not? If you are on a budget, consider choosing a Diploma for your studies.

  3. Lower Entry Requirements
    4. What if you don’t have enough credits in SPM/O-Levels to study Pre-U? Fret not, because most Diploma programmes only require a minimum of 3 credits. So, you still have a chance at education even if you don’t have stellar results.

  4. Gain Practical Skills
    5. You might be worried that a Diploma is seen as less desirable than a Degree. While it is undeniable that certain fields prefer—and even require—a degree (e.g. STEM), there are many fields in which a Diploma is sufficient, especially if those fields emphasise specific skills, such as culinary arts and design.


Disadvantages of Diploma


  1. Lower Earning Potential
    2. In many industries, diploma holders tend to have a lower starting salary compared to Degree holders. Reaching managerial positions may also be difficult without a Degree. Nevertheless, your qualification may play a lesser role in the pay scale in certain industries, where working experience and practical skills are key considerations.

  2. Less Academic Rigour
    3. As Diploma programmes offer practical and hands-on training, they are not focused on equipping you with in-depth knowledge. A Degree programme is more suitable if you prefer to focus on acquiring in-depth theoretical and academic knowledge.


Should You Choose Diploma?


Here are some of the reasons why you should consider studying Diploma:

  • You want to enter the workforce quickly
  • You want to work in an industry that emphasises practical skills
  • You have financial constraints which make it difficult to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree
  • You don’t have enough credits for Pre-U courses


So, What’s Next?


If you are unsure of whether to pursue Diploma, or need recommendations for universities and programmes, drop us a message today!
#Diploma
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