Find Out Which are the Top Private Universities & Colleges in Malaysia for an Affordable Diploma in Graphic Design
Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels with a flair for design may go for the practical 2.5-year Diploma in Graphic Design at a top private university or college in Malaysia. In the diploma, you will gain an understanding of design thinking, visual communication and art principles. Students will learn about current professional design practices, branding, advertising strategies and various creative content published in both print and digital media in order to create relevant and in-demand designs. Some of the subjects that you will study include illustration, form and composition, colour theory, typography, character development, packaging, corporate identity and advertising.
A well developed curriculum supported by excellent facilities and experienced lecturers at a top design school will greatly enhance your design skills for a successful career.
Study Diploma in Graphic Design at Top Private Universities in Malaysia

Eric Lau, Graduated from Graphic Design at First City University College
The 2.5-year Diploma in Graphic design will equip students with design fundamentals and provide you with an overview of the history and contemporary practices of graphic design. You will learn about typography, advertising, photography, drawing, multimedia, and the latest computer graphic studies. Students will also acquire skills in using design computer software like Illustrator and Photoshop.
Students after SPM or O-Levels with at least 3 credits may enter the Diploma in Graphic Design. Upon completion of the diploma, you may find a job or continue on to a degree in Graphic design. You will enter into Year 2 of the Graphic design degree and complete it in 2 years.
How do I become a Graphic Designer?

Tan, Design graduate from First City University College
To become a graphic designer, you will need to have IT and drawing skills. You will need to be able to find practical solutions to design problems. Good communication skills is also important. You will also need a working knowledge of desktop design software, such as Illustrator or InDesign, and image-editing packages such as Photoshop.
An employer will be as interested in your design skills and creative ideas as they are in your qualifications. Therefore, a diploma or degree in Graphic Design is important to ensure job stability and career success.
Top Private Universities to Study Diploma in Graphic Design in Malaysia that You can Afford
Malaysia’s best private colleges & universities for graphic design diploma programmes are:
- UOW Malaysia
- Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
- TARUMT
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Saito University College
- First City University College
- Dasein Academy of Art
- INTI International University
- Sunway University
- SEGi University
What are the Entry Requirements for a Diploma in Graphic Design Course in Malaysia?
| Entry Level | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|
| SPM | 3Cs and pass in Art subjects |
| UEC | 3Bs and pass in Art subjects |
| STPM | Minimum 1C and minimum CGPA 2.00 |
| A Level | Pass ‘A’ Level with minimum 1 subject |
| SKM | Level 3 in Art and Design Field with 1 credit in SPM |
| Certificate | Pass the certificate in related field |
| Technical and Vocational Certificate | Related Technical and Vocational Certificate or equivalent which is recognized by the Malaysian Government |
| Others | Recognized Art and Design Certificate or equivalent qualification that recognized by the Malaysian Government; AND Pass Portfolio Review or Art Test conducted by the College for candidate who does not have a pass in Art Subject. |
Students who do not have a credit in Art may be required to take a Placement Test to determine their suitability for the course. Some universities may also require students to demonstrate proficiency in English, a pass in SPM/O-Levels English or have studied subjects that require a satisfactory level in English.
What is the Duration of the Diploma in Graphic Design Course?
A typical diploma in graphic design course is 2.5 years including internship. The internship may last from 4-6 months.
What you will learn in a Diploma in Graphic Design at a Top Private University in Malaysia
A Diploma in Graphic design is a highly practical course. Students will learn a wide range of skills including desktop publishing, photography, typography, editorial, illustration, packaging design, advertising design & marketing.
What will you Study in a Diploma in Graphic Design in Malaysia?
Below are a sample of subjects that you would take in graphic design diploma course in Malaysia.

Kin Fen, Design course at Saito College
- Color Studies
- Drawing
- Design Principles
- Introduction to Art History
- Illustration
- Typography
- Photography
- Digital Imaging
- Visual Culture
- Creative Studies
- Graphic Design History
- Advertising Design
- Publication Design
- Narrative Drawing
- 2D Animation
- Professional Practice
- Digital Publication
- Packaging Design
- Motion Graphics
- 3D Animation
- Corporate Identity Design
- Design Showcase
- Brand Communication
- Environmental Graphic Design
What are some of the Design Software that you will learn in a Diploma in Graphic Design?
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Indesign
- Adobe Dreamweaver
- Adobe Premier
- Adobe Flash
- Adobe Audition
Fees, costs and funding for a Diploma in Graphic Design in Malaysia
The tuition fees for a 2-year degree at a top private university or college in Malaysia can range from RM20,000 to RM40,000 total. In addition, students may apply for the PTPTN Loan and their parents may withdraw from their EPF Account 2 to fund their studies.
What does a graphic designer do?

This could be for all kinds of purposes, from advertisements to product packaging. Working as a graphic designer would include:
- discussing the requirements of the project (the brief) with clients and colleagues
- providing costs for the project
- choosing the most suitable materials and style
- producing rough sketches or computer visuals to show the client
- using specialist computer software to prepare designs
- producing a final layout with exact specifications for typefaces, letter size and colours
- working to budgets and deadlines
- This role may also involve producing 3D designs for packaging, exhibitions and displays.
Career Opportunities for Diploma in Graphic Design Graduates

Jia Jin, Foundation in Design at Taylor’s University
Graphic design concentrates on the use of art, text and layout to create visually interesting and noticeable images. Graphic designers may work in advertising, publishing, digital design or branding in order to create unique designs that get the attention of customers and can be easily recognized in a busy world.
- Graphic Designer
- Illustrator
- Printmaker
- Creative Director
- 2D/3D Animator
- Multimedia Specialist
- Editor
- Production Designer
- Art Director
- Copywriter
- Magazine Designer
- Packaging Designer
- Photographer