Top Reasons to Study Diploma in Mass Communication after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels
Top Reasons to Study Diploma in Mass Communication after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels
Studying the Diploma in Mass Communication at a Private University in Malaysia
- A diploma in mass communication in Malaysia will take 2 or 2.5 years to complete. Upon completion of the diploma, students may continue on to Year 2 of the degree programme at the same university or transfer to another university.
- The diploma in mass communication will offer specialised subjects focused on communications and will be quite practical.
The Diploma in Mass Communication is the first step after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels if you are sure that you want to pursue this course. Going this route is the best choice as you will study subjects that you love and experience practical training in the areas of communication. Studying mass communication can give you the ability to understand and analyse the ever-changing landscape of the media. It can also help you develop the skills necessary to communicate effectively in a variety of settings. Whether you want to work in television, radio, print media, or new media, a degree in mass communication can give you the foundation you need to succeed.
The Mass Communication diploma course at a private university in Malaysia is an innovative media-based degree that allows you to develop specialist knowledge of the concepts, theories, practices and methods that characterise contemporary media, communication, and cultural studies.
From day one, you will be supported in developing an independent critical understanding of the key advances within mass communication, a field of study that encompasses a wide variety of media organisations, technological innovations, cultural industries, and audiences.
You will develop your knowledge, skills and abilities on a course that will enable you to critically evaluate contemporary mass communications industries and to understand the technological, social and political factors that shape those industries.
You may also be interested to read:
- Best Colleges & Universities for Mass Communication in Malaysia
- Top Private Universities in Malaysia for Mass Communication, Public Relations, Media & Advertising
- What will You Study in a Top Mass Communication Degree Courses in Malaysia?
- Best Universities in Malaysia to Study Diploma & Degree in Mass Communication
- Choosing to Study at a Top Private College or University in Malaysia for Mass Communication
Please fill up the Form below and I will WhatsApp you and provide you with sound advise on how to choose the best private university or college in Malaysia to study at.
What will You Learn in a Diploma in Mass Communication at a Top Private University in Malaysia
Hazel Hoh, Foundation in Arts (Communication)
Studying mass communication can give you the ability to understand and analyse the ever-changing landscape of the media. It can also help you develop the skills necessary to communicate effectively in a variety of settings. Whether you want to work in television, radio, print media, or new media, a diploma in mass communication can give you the foundation you need to succeed.
A diploma in mass communication course at a private university in Malaysia is more practical while a Foundation, external Pre-University programme and degree courses are more academic. Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels who obtained at least 3Cs and are sure of what they want to study can go for the Diploma in Mass Communication course.
The diploma generally is more practical while a degree course is more theoretical and academic. The Diploma in Mass Communication will require more hands on learning experience in the field of its study so that you are well trained and have specific knowledge the particular field of Communication.
There are many colleges and universities in Malaysia offering the Diploma in Mass Communication as well as the degree which makes it difficult for students to choose the best university for Mass Communication or Mass Comm. Diploma in Mass Communication courses are available for students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels. Today, more employers are looking for people with bachelor degrees, therefore, diploma graduates should continue on their studies after completion.
Top Reasons to Study a Diploma in Mass Communication Course at a Private University in Malaysia
Jacob Lean, Graduated with Mass Communication from KDU University College
- Facilities are generally better at private universities for Mass Communication
- Students will encounter English-speaking environments at most private universities and therefore enhance their communication abilities
- Generally, the English proficiency of private university graduates is better than government university
- The diploma course is more practical with mixed assessment.
- You have at least 3 credits in SPM, IGCSE O-Levels or UEC to enter the Diploma programme
- Students may apply for the PTPTN Loan for Diploma courses. There is no PTPTN Loan for Foundation & External Pre-University programmes
- You will study the subjects that you are interested in. The subjects are specific to your field of interest.
- Upon completion of the Diploma, you may choose to start work or continue on to Year 2 of the related degree
- Some diploma courses have internships which provides an opportunity for you to work for the company when you graduate.
- If you are considering going for Form 6, the STPM will take about 2 years, if you calculate the time after your SPM until you enter into Public University. The time you take for STPM, you would have completed the diploma course. Furthermore, the STPM exam is very tough and there is a chance that you might not do well.
- A diploma course is generally cheaper.
What will you Study in a Diploma in Mass Communication?
John Lai Wai Hong, Graduated in Mass Communication from KDU University College
According to the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), the programme aims for the Diploma in Mass Communication (MQF Level 4) at the Diploma level are to equip students with foundational knowledge and vocational skills that will prepare them to be employed in the middle level in the media and communications industries and to continue their studies at a higher level.
The Diploma in Mass Communication is a practical introduction to Media and Communications and you will explore the general areas related to it. You will only specialise during your degree programme. The 5 basic areas of study in your diploma are advertising, public relations, broadcasting, journalism and communication
Students will take 30-35 subjects in the diploma and it is a mix of Assignments, Coursework, and written examination percentage. Generally, students will take about 5-7 subjects including MPU subjects a semester. Students are required by the government to take about 3-4 MPU subjects during their diploma studies. You will need a Minimum of 90 Credits or 30 subjects to Graduate.
How Long will you Study the Diploma in Mass Communication?
A diploma in mass communication in Malaysia will take 2 or 2.5 years to complete. Upon completion of the diploma, students may continue on to Year 2 of the degree programme at the same university or transfer to another university. The diploma in mass communication will offer specialised subjects focused on communications and will be quite practical.
How is the Diploma in Mass Communication Assessed?
Jia Ping, Mass Communication Graduate from UOWM KDU University College
The assessments for a diploma programme at private universities and colleges in Malaysia is a mix of Assignments, Coursework, and written examination percentage. The diploma programme provides students with relevant, interesting, stimulating and practical experience via a variety of teaching and practical techniques.
Students will experience different dynamic learning processes are employed in the delivery of a diploma programme, such as lectures, tutorials, computer lab work, team-based project, real life system development, presentations, independent projects supervised by supervisors from university lecturers or industry experts. The learning is very much practical oriented.
Methods of Delivery
- Lectures
- Lab work (depends on the course)
- Tutorials
- Field visits (e.g. business organisations, universities, non-governmental organisations, government-related corporations, etc.)
- Scenario-based learning
- Guest lecture series (prominent speakers from the industry and academic institutions)
- Interactive learning
How many Subjects are there in a Diploma in Mass Communication Course at a Private University in Malaysia?
Students will take 30-35 subjects in the diploma and it is a mix of Assignments, Coursework, and written examination percentage.
Generally, students will take about 5-7 subjects including MPU subjects a semester.
Students are required by the government to take about 3-4 MPU subjects during their diploma studies. You will need a Minimum of 90 Credits or 30 subjects to Graduate.
What are some of the Subjects that I will Study in a Diploma in Mass Communication at a Private University?
Hui Lan, Mass Communication at KDU University College
Below are a sample of subjects that. you may study in a Diploma in Mass Communication course at a private university or college in Malaysia.
- Critical Thinking & Reading Skills
- Communication & Media
- Public Speaking
- Sociology or Psychology
- Writing and Referencing Skills
- Advertising
- Media, Culture & Society
- Radio Production
- Public Relations
- New Media
- Media Research Methods
- Principles of News-writing & Reporting
- Organisational Communication
- Film Studies
- Consumer Behaviour
- Creative Strategy
- Publication Design
- Copy Writing
- Media Planning
- Multimedia
- Web Development
- Human Communication
- Photo Communication
- Media Law & Ethics
- Creative Communication
- Visual Communication
- Journalism
- Broadcasting
- Digital Graphics
- Management
- Marketing
Internship during your Diploma in Mass Communication Studies
Diploma in Mass Communication Students programme are required to undergo internship for a period of time, usually a semester. Besides gaining real-life work experience, undergraduates have the opportunity to improve their communication skills, gain more confidence and enhance their employability
Who Should Study Mass Communication?
Students who excel in languages with a passion to write and communicate are great candidates for the Mass Communication course. They should have a track record of activities such as reading, writing, making videos, taking great photos, designing, and the ability to communicate well across all platforms.
Creativity is also an essential requirement to pursue this course. Students should be able to come up with unique ideas to send out their messages.
Generally, mass communication students are sociable, able to talk publicly and love to organise events.
What is the Education Pathway after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels into the Diploma in Mass Communication and then into the Degree?
Yee Mun, Mass Communication at UCSI University
Students are SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels may enter the affordable Diploma in Mass Communication programme at a private college or university. It introduces students to the world of communication. The course is more practical and focused. The duration is 2 years (6 semesters). To enter, students will need at least 3 credits in SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels.
Upon completion of the diploma programme, you can continue on to Year 2 of the Mass Communication degree. You will study for another 2 years to complete the degree programme. The diploma is a fast track 2-year programme for SPM or IGCSE/O-Level holders who are sure of pursuing a career in Mass Communication.
Students should ensure that both the Diploma and Degree are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). Furthermore, students are able to apply for the PTPTN Loan.
What are the Degree Options Available after Diploma in Mass Communication?
Students who have completed the Diploma in Mass Communication may transfer into Year 2 of Communication related degree programmes. If you are transferring to another university, you will need to submit documents for evaluation for exemptions.
- Mass Communication
- Public Relations
- Branding & Advertising
- Media Studies
- Broadcasting
- Film & TV
- Event Management
What are the Entry Requirements into a Diploma in Mass Communication at a Private University in Malaysia?
- SPM/IGCSE/O Levels : Min. 3 Credits (3Cs) inclusive of English
- UEC : Min. 3 Credits (3Bs) inclusive of English
- Any other qualifications deemed equivalent by the Ministry of Education, Malaysia (or as stated in the Document Senarai Nilai Taraf Kelayakan Akademik, Malaysian Qualifications Agency) :
Pass (Subject to review and approval of certified transcripts)
Where Can I Study the Diploma in Mass Communication in Malaysia?
Jacob Lean, Graduated with Mass Communication from KDU University College
Studying mass communication can give you the ability to understand and analyse the ever-changing landscape of the media. It can also help you develop the skills necessary to communicate effectively in a variety of settings. Whether you want to work in television, radio, print media, or new media, a degree in mass communication can give you the foundation you need to succeed.
Top universities & colleges offering the Diploma in Mass Communication courses are
- University of Wollongong (UOW) Malaysia KDU, Utropolis Glenmarie
- Taylor’s University
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- First City University College
- HELP University
- UCSI College
Check out the Facilities and Equipment for your Mass Communication Studies at the Private University
John Lai Wai Hong, Graduated in Mass Communication from KDU University College
It is important to choose the best private universities and colleges in Malaysia to ensure that you get the necessary training and skills to succeed in the competitive workforce.
Acclimatize with the industry early with industry standard facilities such as audio recording studio, iMac Lab, new media broadcasting studio. In addition, the university should also be equipped with the necessary facilities such as recording studio, photo studio, computer lab and some have Mac Computers. Experienced & qualified lecturers are essential to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the mass communication career.
The university’s state-of-the-art learning facilities provide experiences and knowledge found in the industry to enhance and enrich learning experiences.
Having access to these facilities, students will gain practical experience about videoing, photography, recording sound, design, writing and more, therefore, mass communication graduates will have the necessary skills to come up with creative ad campaigns and taglines, work with advertising agencies to design powerful ads, write great press releases, work on a radio jingle with confidence, organise events successfully, give public presentations, etc. All these will ensure a successful career.
And that is why, choosing a university with the right environment and facilities is truly important for you to climb up the competitive corporate ladder faster.
Students looking to studying Mass Communication should have access to these facilities to enhance their learning experience:
- Professional Recording Studio
- Mass Comm students will produce internal broadcasts as part of their assignment, learning to do Public Service announcements and voice-overs for Film Studies. This process builds their self-esteem, self-confidence and at the same time, they learn more about voice control, pitch and pace to enhance their speech over the microphone.
- Classes conducted here give students a chance to experience the process that goes behind a radio production.
- Photography Studio
- Mass Communication students will learn about basic photography, studio lighting and Adobe Photoshop. The photography studio may be equipped with studio lights, complete with softbox, barn door, snoot, reflector and portable backdrops for indoor and outdoor photoshoots.
- The Photography Studio is used for classes, photography workshops for outsiders and also for student assignments or projects, students learn the basics of of studio lightings and its effects in enhancing photos and functions of the camera. They take turns to be photographers and models as they apply their knowlege trying out the various angles of lightings and camera lenses.
- Mac laboratory
- Once a photography session has been wrapped up, students will move on to the Mac Lab, to continue with fundamental digital photography editing skills using Adobe Photoshop.
- Students will be taught on resizing and cropping images to get proper resolution for file sharing on the web or other media.
- Film & TV Production Studio
- There is no better way for students to get a glimpse of working in the broadcasting world than experiencing the tools and tricks behind the scenes at a TV production station.
Choose a Private University with an English-Speaking Student Environment
Hazel Hoh, Foundation in Arts (Communication)
It is important to choose a private university in Malaysia that has an English-speaking environment, students who are ambitious and serious about studies, and a globalised student body. Mixing around with international students will help to improve your English language skills and understanding of different cultures.
A good command of the English language is very important for a successful career in Mass Communication. Students need to choose a university where the students speak mainly in English and experience in offering the programme. If you are weak in English, it will be very difficult for you to maintain the image of your company with bad English.
You will not be able to write good press releases and copy for the brochures. Coming up with good taglines or campaign ideas for your product or company will be almost impossible.
Having a good command of both English and Mandarin would be very advantageous. However, if you are only proficient in Mandarin, you will not be able to get jobs in top multinational or global companies.
Can I Apply for the PTPTN Loan to Study the Diploma in Mass Communication Courses?
Yes, students may apply for PTPTN Loan for diploma courses that are accredited by the Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA)
Students whose parents are under Bantuan Rakyat 1 Malaysia (BR1M) may get the full PTPTN Loan amount of RM 13,600 (Arts-related Diploma). This is the total loan amount for the whole course.
Students whose parents’ combined income is not more than RM8,000 but not under BR1M will get RM10,200 (Arts-related Diploma).
Finally, students whose parents’ combined income is more than RM8,000 will get RM 6,800 (Arts-related Diploma).
The details of the loan level are as below:
| No | Level | Description of Eligibility |
| 1 | Maximum | Student’s or parents’ names are listed as recipient of BR1M |
| 2 | 75% from maximum loan amount | Family income lower than RM8,000 (names not listed in BR1M) |
| 3 | 50% from maximum loan amount | Family income higher than RM8,000 (names not listed in BR1M) |
Mode of Payment Payment from PTPTN will be made TWICE a year directly into the university’s account. Students must make payment of first semester’s tuition fees to the university and then apply for the PTPN Loan for it to come into effect for the second semester. Eligibility for the 2nd Payment and onwards Student must obtain GPA 2.0 and above in order to continue enjoying the loan.
PTPTN Loan Amount
| PERINGKAT PENGAJIAN UNTUK IPTS | JUMLAH PEMBIAYAAN SETAHUNMENGIKUT PERINGKAT* | ||
| MAKSIMUM(RM) | 75%(RM) | 50%(RM) | |
| Diploma in Business | 6,800 | 5,100 | 3,400 |
How do we Apply for the PTPTN Loan for our Diploma Course?
Most private universities and colleges will have a special department and staff to help you to make all the necessary arrangements for the loan so you do not need to worry about it. They will brief you about it during Orientation
Please note that generally, you have to pay the First Semester Fees first and then apply for the loan, which would take 2-3 months to process. The loan should be given out in time for the second semester but if it doesn’t happen in time, you have to prepare the fees for the Second Semester.
