10 Best Computer Science Degree Courses to Study in Malaysia
Best Computer Science Course in Malaysia
Are you looking for the best computer science degree programmes in Malaysia?
As the world becomes more interconnected through the internet, businesses and organizations experience a growing need for qualified computer science professionals. Students after Secondary School planning to work in the booming computer science field can start with the Foundation in Computing & Information Technology or Diploma in Information Technology (IT) before continuing on to the Computer Science degree programme at a private university in Malaysia.
There are many universities in Malaysia offering the general computer science degree course as well as with specialisations. It can be confusing for students to figure out which degree programme would best fit them. In order to choose the best computer science course, students have to look at the content of the degree programme, the reputation of the university, the facilities, the qualifications and experience of its lecturers and the awards won in computing competitions. Going through these in a methodical step-by-step manner with a knowledgeable and experienced education counselor will help you to make the best choice for your future.
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For more information on how to choose the right course with high job demand, contact 01111408838
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Studying a Computer Science Degree Programme at a Top Private University in Malaysia
Harold, Diploma in Business IT at Asia Pacific University (APU)
Computer Science is about understanding computer systems and networks at a deep level. Computers and the programs they run are among the most complex products ever created by humans; designing and using them effectively presents immense challenges.
A degree in computer science can be expected to concentrate on the scientific aspects of computing, while a degree in information technology can be expected to concentrate on the business and communication applications of computing
The computer science degree is primarily focused on subjects such as software, databases, and networking. In general computer science degrees tend to focus on the mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing rather than emphasizing specific technologies.
The Computer Science degree is awarded for completing a program of study in the field of software development, software testing, software engineering, web design, databases, programming, computer networking and computer systems.
Many employers require software developers or programmers to have a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree; however, those seeking to hire for positions such as network administrators or database managers would require a Bachelors of Science in Information Technology or an equivalent degree.
Computer science offers a foundation that permits graduates to adapt to new technologies and new ideas. The work of computer scientists falls into three categories:
- designing and building software;
- developing effective ways to solve computing problems, such as storing information in databases, sending data over networks or providing new approaches to security problems; and
- devising new and better ways of using computers and addressing particular challenges in areas such as robotics, computer vision, or digital forensics (although these specializations are not available in all computer science programs). Most computer science programs require some mathematical background.
What will you study in Computer Science at Top Universities in Malaysia?
Since Computer Science is such a wide field, required Computer Science degree courses vary. Private Universities in Malaysia have designed their degree programmes into 5 areas:
- Computer architecture and organization
- How do I design a computer?
- Computer architecture deals with the design of computers, data storage devices, and networking components that store and run programs, transmit data, and drive interactions between computers, across networks, and with users.
- Programming
- How will the computer understand the human?
- Programming is a way to “instruct the computer to perform various tasks and solve problems”
- Operating systems
- How should the human interact with the computer?
- An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer’s memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer’s language.
- Data structures and algorithms
- How do we store and compute data efficiently?
- A data structure is a named location that can be used to store and organize data. And, an algorithm is a collection of steps to solve a particular problem. Learning data structures and algorithms allow us to write efficient and optimized computer programs.
- Networking and communication
- How can we make computers talk to each other?
- The field of networking and communication includes the analysis, design, implementation, and use of local, wide-area, and mobile networks that link computers together. The Internet itself is a network that makes it feasible for nearly all computers in the world to communicate.
What are some of the Subjects in a Computer Science Degree Course at Private Universities in Malaysia?
A typical list of standard courses that most Computer Science degrees require includes topics such as:
- Programming Principles
- Programming Paradigms
- Algorithms
- Data Structures
- Logic & Computation
- Computer architecture
Some schools which place more emphasis on mathematics will also require such courses such as:
- Linear Algebra
- Calculus
- Probability and Statistics
- Combinatorics, Discrete Mathematics
- Differential Equations
Beyond the basic set of Computer Science courses, students can typically choose additional courses from a variety of different fields, such as:
- Theory of computation
- Operating Systems
- Numerical computation
- Compilers
- Real-time computing
- Distributed system
- Computer Networking
- Data Communication
- Computer graphics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Multimedia
- Human-computer interaction
- Information theory
- Algorithm design & analysis
- Software testing
Some universities in Malaysia also offer concentrations in a certain area of computer science, such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Cloud Computing
- Cyber security
- Data Science
- Game Design
- Mobile Computing
What are the Subjects that you will study in a Computer Science Course in Malaysia?
Horng Yarng, Diploma in ICT at Asia Pacific University (APU)
Computer science requires a strong mathematical and scientific background. Depending on which private university in Malaysia you study at, the courses may vary in teaching subjects. While some universities prefer teaching theoretical aspect of computer science, others focus on advanced programming.
Subjects in a Computer Science course at private universities in Malaysia will include Theoretical computer science, Theory of computation, Information and coding theory, Algorithms and data structures, Programming language theory, Formal methods, Concurrent, parallel and distributed systems, Databases and information retrieval, Artificial intelligence, Computer architecture and engineering, Computer graphics and visualization, Computer security and cryptography, etc.
Other subjects in a computer science course in Malaysia could be:
- Programming Fundamentals
- Computer Architecture
- Fundamentals of Relational Database
- Discrete Mathematics
- System Analysis and Design
- Object-Oriented Programming
- Foundation of Human Computer Interaction
- Computer Networks
- Data Structures & Algorithms
- Program Design & Development
- Principles of Programming Languages
- Operating Systems and Concurrency
- Artificial Intelligence.(AI)
- Database Programming
- Computer Graphics
- Web Application Integration 1 (Web)/Image Processing(AI)
- Software Engineering
- Social and Current issues in Computing
- Parallel Computing
- Advanced Programming Language Concepts
- Algorithmics
- Real-Time Systems
- Ubiquitous Computing
- Emergent Technology
- Cloud Infrastructure & Services
- Information Storage & Management
- Computer Systems Security
- Multimedia Techniques for Animation, Games & Film Effects
- Investigations in Computer Science
- Engineering Software & Applications
- Data Structures
- Concurrent Programming
- System & Network Administration
- Computer Systems and Low Level Techniques
- Ai Methods
- Programming Concepts in C++
- Mobile & Wireless Technology
- Believable Models for Games & Virtual Reality
Major fields of computer science |
|
|---|---|
| Mathematical foundations |
|
| Theory of computation |
|
| Algorithms, data structures |
|
| Programming languages, compilers |
|
| Concurrent, parallel, distributed systems |
|
| Software engineering |
|
| System architecture |
|
| Telecommunication, networking |
|
| Databases |
|
| Artificial intelligence |
|
| Computer graphics |
|
| Human–computer interaction |
|
| Scientific computing |
|
| Note: Computer science can also be divided into different topics or fields according to the ACM Computing Classification System. | |
Computer Science is the study of computer systems including algorithmic processes and the principles involved in the design of hardware and software.
Qi Leem, Software Engineering Graduate from Asia Pacific University (APU)
Computer scientists are primarily concerned with the design of algorithms, languages, hardware architecture, systems software, applications software and tools. Applications range from simple game playing to the control of space vehicles, power plants and factories, from banking machines to intelligent fault and medical diagnosis. Computer professionals, in short, are concerned with the creation of computer and information systems for the benefit of society.
Computer science spans a wide range, from its theoretical and algorithmic foundations to cutting-edge
developments in robotics, computer vision, intelligent systems, bioinformatics, and other exciting areas.
We can think of the work of computer scientists as falling into three categories.
- They design and implement software. Computer scientists take on challenging programming jobs. They also supervise other programmers, keeping them aware of new approaches.
- They devise new ways to use computers. Progress in the CS areas of networking, database, and
human-computer-interface enabled the development of the World Wide Web. Now CS researchers are working with scientists from other fields to make robots become practical and intelligent aides, to use databases to create new knowledge, and to use computers to help decipher the secrets of our DNA. - They develop effective ways to solve computing problems. For example, computer scientists develop
the best possible ways to store information in databases, send data over networks, and display complex images. Their theoretical background allows them to determine the best performance possible, and their study of algorithms helps them to develop new approaches that provide better performance.
Computer science has more to do with theory of the computer and its computing abilities rather than hands-on applications. Computer science is basically the ability to solve a problem or getting the computer to do something without the help of a human. This field of data is not directly affected by the humans. Computing can also be done by hand and is used by many fields that are not related to primarily developing computers.
Scientists focus on developing algorithms that can create, alter and change the data depending on what they would like. The commands that the computer follows are done by certain algorithm that tells it what to do. Computer science can also be divided into two specializations: theoretical computer science and applied computer sciences.
- The theoretical science focuses on the classical theory of computation, along with other more abstract, logical, and mathematical aspects of computing.
- The applied computer sciences cover topics such as artificial intelligence, computer architecture and engineering, graphic designing, computing science, etc. It deals with mainly applications or additional programs.
Computer science requires a strong mathematical and scientific background. Depending on which university, the courses may vary in teaching subjects. While some universities prefer teaching theoretical aspect of computer science, others focus on advanced programming. It is important to look at the subjects offered at the private universities in Malaysia when choosing the right computer science course to study. You have to look at the subjects to see whether they fit your academic and career goals. For further advise and assistance in choosing the right course and university, you may contact us for a free consultation.
How to Choose a Computer Science Course that is Recognised and Accredited in Malaysia
Cavan Stefan, IT at HELP University
- Is the Computer Science course popular at that university or college?
- What is the reputation or ranking of the private university in Malaysia? Global ranking by QS World University Rankings or locally by MQA in the SETARA 2017
- Is the Computer Science course recognised and approved by the Ministry of Education Malaysia?
- Is the Computer Science course accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Audit (MQA)?
- Awards won by the university, staff or students for the particular course of interest. The number of awards won would be a guide on how good the university is for the course.
- Type of programme (local diploma or dual award diploma or diploma awarded by foreign university partner?)
Academic Quality of the Computer Science Degree Course at the University in Malaysia
Horng Yarng, Diploma in ICT at Asia Pacific University
- Subjects offered in the Computer Science course (Are they relevant, up-to-date, and help you to achieve your career goals)
- Entry requirements for the Computer Science Degree Course at the university or college in Malaysia
- What is the Class size for the Computer Science course?
- Faculty contact/classes taught by full-time qualified & experienced faculty
- Quality of lecturers. What are their qualifications? How many years of experience in teaching?
- Ask your friends who have studied there or currently studying there for their opinion on the teaching quality, environment and facilities.
- Does the university or college have a strong internship or Co-Op programme?
- Do they have enough students to start a class?
- How many students do they have studying that course at that college?
- What is the duration of the course? When are the intake dates?
What are the Facilities at the University that a Computer Science Course in Malaysia Should Have?
Hou Tung, Diploma in IT at First City University College
- When choosing a university or college in Malaysia, it is important for students to visit the campus and see the facilities and feel the culture of the students to see if it fits you.
- Location of the university or college. Is it in the city, suburbs or country side? You should also consider the ambience of your surroundings when choosing a university. If you can’t live without nightlife, think city! If you’re into the great outdoors, you might want to go rural. Some students prefer a city life while other students prefer a quieter university environment away from the city. On the other hand, if you’re used to shopping malls and cinemas and choose a university in a rural area, you might get bored.
- Size of the university.
- Transportation. Is the university accessible to you? What are the public transportation available? If you drive, is there ample parking?
- Campus resources (labs, library or resource centre, wifi, computer access, sports facilities, etc.)
How Much will it Cost for a Computer Science Course in Malaysia
Chin Mun (Left) with friends from INTI, now studying Business Computing at APU
- How much money do I have to pay for the course and cost of living? Ask your parents. Note that you will need to have enough to pay the tuition fees as well as your cost of living. (Costs for university studies in Malaysia would include tuition, hostel, food, transportation, entertainment, etc.)
- What are the Financial assistance available at the university? (Scholarships, PTPN Loan, EPF withdrawal, etc)
- Is the PTPTN loan available for the course at the university?
- How much are the tuition fees? Does it include the exam and other fees?
- How much is on-campus accommodation?
- How much is off-campus accommodation? (Off-campus apartments, houses, condominiums) Note that it might be cheaper to find off campus accommodation on your own with friends. Is the accommodations near eateries, banks, entertainment, public transportation, safe & secure, etc.?
Student Environment and Activities at the University & College
Cavan Stefan at HELP University
- What is the student culture at the university? (English-speaking environment, ambitious, serious about studies, lifestyle or party university, etc) The language spoken mostly at the college by the students may also matter if you don’t know Mandarin or BM or English. If most of the students speak Mandarin at that university then it will not help you to improve your English. Having a good command of the English language helps you to get good jobs and promotions.
- Size of the university or college in Malaysia. Some students prefer a large campus with sports facilities and other resources while other students like small colleges with family-like environment. A small college may offer individualised attention, as well as a more intimate and personalised experience. for your studies You might even want to think about how far you want to walk to get from one class to another in a large university campus. Even those little details may affect your decision.
- Make up of the student body (diversity, international students, gender, etc.) Universities with a good proportion of international students will help you to improve your English language skills since you would need to communicate with them in English. In addition, you will learn about their culture, behaviour and discover new ideas. These skills will be useful to you when you work overseas or in a multi-national company.
- What are the Extra-curricular activities available? (Student organisations, clubs, sports, etc.)
- Is the university or college campus a safe area? Safety within the campus and outside.
- Public vs. Private (STPM is tougher and choice of course & university is determined by the government)
Which are THE BEST PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES FOR A BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN Computer Science?
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
- Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya
- Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka
- University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus
- University of Wollongong (UOW) Malaysia KDU, Utropolis Glenmarie campus
- Monash University Malaysia
- First City University College
- UOW Malaysia KDU Penang
- HELP University
What is the Pathway to Study a Computer Science Course in Malaysia?
Jeremy Lee, Software Engineering Graduate from Asia Pacific University (APU)
Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels may go for the Foundation in Computing or Information Technology, Foundation in Arts or Foundation in Science at top private universities in Malaysia for 1 year before continuing on to the 3-year Computer Science degree. Students will need at least 5 credits including Maths.
With 3 credits in SPM or O-Levels including Maths, students may go for the 2-year Diploma in Information Technology, Diploma in Computer Studies or Diploma in Software Engineering and then enter into Year 2 of the Computer Science degree.
Finally, Pre-University students with the relevant results in STPM, A-Levels, SAM, CPU, AUSMAT, etc. can enter directly into Year 1 of the Computer Science degree at the best university in Malaysia. Foundation in Science programmes from premier private universities in Malaysia are also accepted for entry.
