City University Malaysia is one of Malaysia’s oldest private higher education institutions. It began as Petaling Jaya Community College (PJCC) and was awarded university status in 2016. Today, the university offers more than 80 programmes across Foundation, Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.

The university has campuses in Petaling Jaya, Cyberjaya, Johor Bahru, and a regional centre in Kota Kinabalu. Its academic offerings cover areas including business and management, information technology, engineering, education, creative industries, health sciences, architecture, hospitality, and other disciplines.

City University Malaysia states that it has welcomed students from more than 60 nationalities and has produced more than 38,000 graduates. Its educational approach emphasises industry-driven programmes, employability, innovation, technology, and the development of socially responsible graduates.

Founded with the vision of empowering students through accessible and industry-relevant education, City University Malaysia has grown steadily into one of the region’s recognised private universities. Its mission emphasizes social responsibility, inclusivity, and global citizenship, shaping students into professionals who contribute positively to society.

City University Malaysia was founded in April 1984 by a group of scholars with experience in local and international universities. It began as Petaling Jaya Community College (PJCC), established to complement Malaysia’s national higher education efforts and provide students with broader academic opportunities.

• 1984: Established as Petaling Jaya Community College (PJCC).
• Early development: PJCC pioneered programmes that prepared students for transfer to universities in the United States, with students progressing to more than 100 American universities and colleges.
• International collaborations: The institution later expanded academic cooperation with universities in England, Scotland, Wales, Australia, the United States, Indonesia, China, and Malaysian public universities.
• 2016: The institution was awarded university status and became City University Malaysia.
• Academic direction: The university's mission focuses on industry- and market-driven education, with an emphasis on producing knowledge-based and socially responsible leaders and managers.
• Global outlook: City University Malaysia's Centre for Global Engagement works on international partnerships, intercultural learning, and global learning opportunities for students.
• Current focus: The university continues to emphasise industry-driven programmes, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship, and employability as part of its educational approach.

Over the years, City University expanded its academic schools, enhanced its campus infrastructure, and built strong relationships with industry partners. Its development reflects a commitment to producing graduates who are skilled, adaptable, and globally aware.

City University Malaysia operates campuses in Petaling Jaya, Cyberjaya and Johor Bahru, along with a regional centre in Kota Kinabalu. The university states that its campuses provide modern facilities designed to support academic learning, practical training, collaboration, and student activities.

Campus Facilities

• Lecture & Learning Spaces: Classrooms, lecture halls, a multi-purpose hall, and an auditorium are available for teaching, events, presentations, and student activities.
• Computer & Science Labs: Students have access to computer laboratories and science laboratories for practical and technology-based learning.
• Creative Facilities: Photography studios, fashion studios, music learning spaces, and culinary arts classrooms support students studying creative and practical disciplines.
• Wireless & Technology Labs: The university lists modern wireless router laboratories and advanced computer labs among its facilities.

Cyberjaya Campus Facilities

• Innovation & Robotics Labs: The Cyberjaya campus includes dedicated facilities for innovation, robotics, and automation projects.
• Cybersecurity Labs: Students can access specialised cybersecurity laboratory facilities.
• Media & Communication Studios: The campus provides studios for media and communication-related learning and content production.
• Design & Technology Hub: A dedicated hub supports design, technology, innovation, and collaborative learning.

Library & Digital Resources

• Library Network: City University has libraries supporting its Petaling Jaya and Johor Bahru campuses.
• 10,790+ Resources: The university library reports approximately 10,790 printed books, media resources, theses, dissertations, and other supporting materials.
• Digital Resources: Students can access e-books and online journals through resources including ProQuest, EBSCOhost, Emerald Insight, and ScienceDirect.
• Wi-Fi Access: The university library states that all campuses are covered by Wi-Fi.
• Computer Facilities: The library provides 10 student PCs and an additional computer connected to a printer.

E-Sports & Recreation

• E-Sports Centre: City University has a dedicated E-Sports Centre featuring competitive gaming infrastructure.
• 30+ Gaming Stations: The centre includes more than 30 high-performance PC stations.
• Streaming Room: A dedicated studio is available for streaming activities.
• Tournament Stage: Students can use facilities designed for tournaments, competitions, and live events.
• Student Lounge: The E-Sports Centre also provides a dedicated student lounge.
• Competitions: The university states that it organises weekly tournaments, campus leagues, and opportunities for national esports participation.

Dining & Student Spaces

• Aida Brasserie: The campus restaurant provides meals and beverages, including breakfast, salads, desserts, and drinks.
• Table 8 Café: Students can also use the campus café for food, beverages, and informal interaction.
• Operating Hours: The university states that food and beverage options are available from 8:00 AM on weekdays.
• Social Spaces: The dining outlets also provide spaces where students, academics, professionals, and visitors can interact.

Health, Accessibility & Student Support

• Nearby Healthcare: Qualitas Health Clinic is located less than 1 km from the university and provides primary healthcare services.
• Mental Health Support: The university provides counselling, mental-health workshops, and crisis support.
• Accessibility: Facilities include wheelchair ramps, accessible toilets, parking bays, and an accessibility map.
• Visual & Hearing Support: Assistive technology, sign-language interpreters, note-takers, and accessible study materials are available for eligible students.
• Academic Assistance: Students with learning disabilities can access personalised tutoring, examination accommodations, peer mentoring, and inclusive teaching support.

Accommodation & Transport

• Hostel Options: City University lists accommodation at Damai Court, Mentari Court, and Clyde Setapak.
• Eligibility: The university's accommodation page currently states that these hostel options are offered to Malaysian students only, with priority given to students living more than 50 km from campus.
• Transport: Damai Court has access to public transportation, while City University also states that its transportation fleet includes 3 vans, 1 MPV, and 3 buses for student travel to campus.

International & Multicultural Environment

• Global Student Community: City University states that its students represent around 60 nationalities, creating a diverse campus environment.
• Student Activities: The university encourages clubs, societies, and interest groups and promotes student activities, recreation, leadership, and social engagement.
• Industry Connection: The university highlights its city-based campuses and industry partnerships as opportunities for students to gain exposure to real-world working environments.

City University Malaysia offers more than 80 programmes across foundation, diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, language, and executive study levels. Its current academic structure covers the following faculties and study areas:

1. Faculty of Business Management

• Business Administration
• Accountancy
• Accounting & Finance
• Engineering Management
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Business Administration
• Master of Accountancy
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• PhD in Business Administration
• Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons)
• Bachelor of Accountancy (Hons)
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Accounting and Finance

2. Faculty of Information Technology

• Information Technology
• Software Engineering
• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber Security
• Master of Information Technology
• Master of Artificial Intelligence
• Master of Cyber Security
• PhD in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) (Hons)
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Cyber Security) with Honours
• Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)
• Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons)

3. Faculty of Engineering

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Bachelor of Civil Engineering with Honours
• Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering with Honours
• Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• Engineering-related management programmes are also available through Business Management.

4. Faculty of Education & Liberal Studies

• Early Childhood Education
• Psychology
• Education
• Sport Studies
• Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
• Master of Education
• Master of Education (ODL)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Education
• Master of Sport Studies
• Doctor of Education
• PhD in Education
• PhD in Sport Studies

5. Faculty of Allied Health Sciences

• Nursing
• Biomedical Sciences
• Environmental Health
• Occupational Safety and Health
• Diploma in Nursing
• Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology
• Diploma in Environmental Health
• Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health
• Bachelor of Nursing (Hons)
• Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (Hons)
• Bachelor of Environmental Health (Hons)
• Bachelor of Occupational Safety and Health (Hons)

6. Faculty of Architecture & Built Environment

• Architectural Technology
• Interior Design
• Architectural Design
• Master of Architecture
• Master of Architectural Project Management
• PhD in Built Environment
• Diploma in Architectural Technology
• Diploma in Interior Design
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Architectural Design
• Bachelor of Interior Design (Hons)

7. Faculty of Creative Industries

• Communication
• Journalism
• Mass Communication
• Corporate Communication
• Graphic Design
• Multimedia
• Animation
• Game Design
• Fashion Design
• Master of Creative Industries and Communication
• Bachelor of Communication (Journalism)
• Bachelor of Mass Communication (Hons)
• Bachelor of Communication (Hons) in Corporate Communication
• Bachelor of Multimedia (Hons)
• Bachelor in Graphic Design (Hons)
• Bachelor of Animation (Hons)
• Bachelor of Game Design (Hons)

8. Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism

• Hospitality Management
• Hotel Management
• Culinary Arts
• Bachelor in Hospitality Management (Hons)
• Diploma in Hotel Management
• Diploma in Culinary Arts

Other Academic Offerings

• Foundation programmes: Foundation in Business, Information Technology, Arts, Communication, Fashion Design, Built Environment, English, and Science.
• Language programmes: General-Intensive English, MUET Preparation, and IELTS Preparation.
• Online & flexible study: Selected programmes are available through Open and Distance Learning (ODL), including Bachelor’s, MBA, and Education programmes.
• Executive & continuing education: The university also provides selected executive and continuing education programmes.

Programme Duration & Study Modes

Programme duration varies by qualification and course. For example, many bachelor's programmes take 36 months, while engineering and several health-science degrees generally take 48 months. Master's programmes can range from around 12 to 24 months, while doctoral programmes are generally listed at 36 months. Depending on the programme, students can study full-time, part-time, or through ODL.

When considering higher education, tuition fees and financial aid play a crucial role in decision-making. City University offers a transparent fee structure for both local and international students, along with various scholarships and financial aid options to support academic aspirations.

Tuition Fees

City University provides a competitive tuition fee structure that varies based on the program, student nationality, and level of study. Below is an estimated fee structure for undergraduate and postgraduate programs:

Tuition Fee Structure

Scholarships and Financial Aid

City University is committed to making education accessible by offering a range of scholarships and financial aid programs. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and assistantships for graduate students.

Scholarships Available

• High Achiever i-Scholarship – For Malaysian students entering Foundation based on SPM forecast results.
• High Achiever Scholarship – For Malaysian students entering Diploma or Degree programmes based on examination results.
• Foundation to Degree Scholarship – Provides up to 100% tuition-fee waiver for eligible Foundation students who continue to a Degree programme at City University.
• National Grant Bursary – Financial assistance for eligible Malaysian students from specified low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds. Benefits include free hostel accommodation or a monthly allowance of RM500, subject to the scholarship conditions.
• CityU Scholarship for Outstanding Student – For existing students demonstrating strong academic performance and contribution to the university/community; offers up to an 80% tuition-fee waiver subject to conditions.
• Leadership Excellence Scholarship – For eligible degree students with strong leadership performance.
• CityU Industry Scholarship – Supports eligible students through industry-linked scholarship opportunities, including the City U–Vatel Hospitality Scholarship, which can provide up to a 100% tuition-fee waiver for subsequent semesters, subject to conditions.
• Sports Scholarship – Available to eligible students based on sporting performance.
• Postgraduate Research Scholarship – Available for eligible postgraduate students.

Other Financing Options

For eligible Malaysian students, City University Malaysia also lists education-financing options through PTPTN, MARA, EPF/KWSP, Bank Rakyat and Affin Bank. Selected executive programmes may also qualify for HRD Corp Claimable support.
Scholarship availability, eligibility requirements and award amounts can vary by programme and student category. International students are advised to contact City University Malaysia for information about scholarships available to them.

City University Malaysia provides a multicultural student environment with students from 60 nationalities, creating opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and international friendships. The university supports student engagement through clubs, societies, sports, cultural activities and international student programmes.

Student Activities

• 20+ clubs and societies covering sports, culture, creative arts, technology, entrepreneurship and academic interests.
• Sports clubs and activities including football, rugby, badminton, futsal, bowling, taekwondo and netball.
• Cultural and interest-based groups such as the Chinese Language & Culture Club, Indian Cultural Society, Japanese Language Club, Korean Cultural Club and International Students Club.
• Regular sports tournaments, cultural events, leadership activities and e-sports competitions.
• International student activities, including trips and events designed to encourage interaction among students from different countries.

International Community

City University Malaysia describes its student community as globally diverse, with students representing around 60 nationalities. The university's Centre for Global Engagement also works on international partnerships, intercultural learning and opportunities that help students develop as globally engaged learners.

Campus Experience

Students have access to facilities including restaurants and cafés, sports and e-sports activities, libraries, computer and science laboratories, photography and fashion studios, culinary facilities, an auditorium and multipurpose hall. The university also provides counselling, mental-health support and accessibility services for students with additional needs.

• Supportive campus environment – Students have access to academic facilities, accommodation options, student activities, counselling and wellbeing support.
• Scholarships and financial assistance – City University Malaysia offers scholarships, study awards, bursaries and tuition-fee waivers for eligible students.
• Modern learning facilities – Students can access libraries, computer and science laboratories, creative studios, culinary facilities, e-sports facilities and other campus resources.
• Diverse multicultural community – With students from around 60 nationalities, the university provides opportunities for cultural exchange and international interaction.
• Industry-driven programmes – The university focuses on industry- and market-driven education designed to develop practical knowledge and prepare students for changing professional environments.
• Holistic student development – Beyond academics, City University Malaysia provides opportunities for leadership, sports, clubs, societies, cultural activities and community engagement.
• Global outlook – The university's Centre for Global Engagement supports international partnerships, intercultural learning and global learning opportunities.

International students applying to City University Malaysia must meet the entry requirements of their chosen programme and complete the university's application and student-pass process. The university advises applicants to check the specific requirements listed for each programme before applying.

Eligibility Requirements

The academic eligibility depends on the level and programme selected.

• Foundation: Applicants generally need a recognised secondary-school qualification meeting the specific programme's subject and grade requirements. For example, City University's Foundation in Arts (Communication) requires SPM or equivalent with at least five credits, including English. International applicants for this programme require a minimum IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent.
• Bachelor's degree: Applicants may enter through recognised qualifications such as STPM/A-Levels or equivalent, foundation or matriculation, diploma or other qualifications recognised by the Malaysian authorities. Exact academic and subject requirements vary by programme.
• Postgraduate programmes: Entry requirements vary according to the specific master's or doctoral programme. For example, City University's Master of Architectural Project Management requires a relevant bachelor's degree, normally with a minimum CGPA of 2.50, while applicants with a CGPA of 2.00–2.49 may be considered subject to the university's internal assessment. International applicants require IELTS 5.0 or equivalent for this programme.

English Language Requirements

International students must meet the English-language requirement specified by their programme. The required level is not identical across all courses.
Examples from City University's current programme pages include:

Applicants should therefore check the English requirement on the official page of their chosen programme before submitting an application.

Documents Required

For the application and immigration process, international applicants should prepare:

• Valid passport
• Academic certificates and examination/result documents
• Academic transcripts, where applicable
• English-language proficiency certificate, where required
• Passport-sized photographs
• Documents required for the Malaysian student-pass/visa application
• Completed City University Malaysia application form
• Any additional documents required for the selected programme

Application Process

1. Choose a programme

Select a programme and check its academic and English-language entry requirements.

2. Prepare your documents

Prepare your passport, academic qualifications/transcripts, photographs, English-language results and other supporting documents required for your application and visa processing.

3. Submit your application

Applicants can complete the City University Malaysia application process and submit the required supporting documents. The university also provides an online application option.

4. Application assessment

The university reviews the applicant's academic qualifications against the requirements of the selected programme. Successful applicants receive an official Letter of Offer.

5. Student-pass/visa processing

City University Malaysia applies for the student's approval through the relevant Malaysian immigration process. The university states that the student-pass process generally takes 6–8 weeks. Once approved, the Malaysian Immigration Department issues a Visa Approval Letter (VAL).

6. Obtain the entry visa

After receiving the VAL, students should contact the nearest Malaysian Embassy or High Commission regarding the entry visa requirements. City University advises students to inform the university seven working days before departing for Malaysia.

7. Arrival and enrolment

City University states that its representatives can meet international students at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and assist with the immigration process. Students then submit their passport to the International Student Services office for processing of the student visa sticker.

Passport & Student Pass Requirements

City University advises international students to have a passport with at least 18 months of validity when entering Malaysia. Students also need to maintain a valid student pass throughout their studies.

For student-pass renewal, the university states that students should apply at least 60 days before the pass expires and provide documents including a passport-sized photograph, tuition-fee payment receipt, medical-insurance payment receipt and the applicable immigration fee.

Important Note for International Applicants

Admission requirements, English-language scores and supporting documents can differ considerably between programmes, particularly for professional courses such as nursing, health sciences, engineering and other specialised programmes. Applicants should therefore verify the requirements for their specific programme before submitting their application.

• Career Development & Employment Support: The Career Centre helps students explore internship opportunities, prepare applications and interviews, and access career guidance through workshops and one-to-one consultations.
• Internship & Industry Placement: City University Malaysia states that it provides 100% internship and industry placement. Internships are often integrated into academic programmes, allowing students to gain practical workplace experience.
• Career Events: The university organises career activities with employers from different industries. One official career day at the Petaling Jaya campus involved more than 50 agencies and companies.
• Industry-Relevant Education: The university focuses on industry- and market-driven programmes and aims to develop graduates with professionalism, communication skills, ethical behaviour and lifelong-learning capabilities.
• Alumni Network: The City Alumni Association connects more than 10,000 City University Malaysia alumni worldwide and provides networking, professional development, continuing education and volunteer opportunities.
• Alumni Mentorship: Alumni can support current students by sharing professional experience, participating in talks and workshops, providing career guidance and offering information about internships and employment opportunities.
• Professional Networking: The Alumni Association facilitates social and professional networking, career development activities, workshops, seminars and continuing education programmes.
• Alumni Benefits: Alumni can access lifelong learning and specialised training opportunities, selected university facilities, and education discounts or scholarship benefits for eligible family members.
• Sustainability & Social Responsibility
• Sustainability Focus: City University Malaysia incorporates sustainability into its institutional activities and supports the development of socially responsible graduates.
• Community & Environmental Initiatives: The university has undertaken initiatives focused on recycling, waste management and community sustainability, including its Waste-To-Wealth and 1 Community 1 Recycling programmes.
• Social Responsibility: Its mission specifically emphasises producing knowledge-based and socially responsible leaders and managers, alongside employability attributes such as professionalism, ethical behaviour and communication skills.

Petaling Jaya (PJ) is one of Malaysia’s most vibrant, modern, and student-friendly cities. It offers affordable living, safe surroundings, and excellent public transportation. Students enjoy easy access to shopping malls, food courts, healthcare facilities, and entertainment centres.

The warm tropical climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, while Malaysia’s multicultural society provides exposure to diverse languages, cultures, and traditions. Staying in the City University Malaysia hostel further reduces living costs and enhances convenience for international students.

Key Highlights

• Tropical Climate: Petaling Jaya has a warm, humid tropical climate throughout the year. Malaysia generally experiences temperatures of around 23°C to 32°C, with high humidity and frequent rainfall.
• Weather: Students should expect warm days, humid conditions and periodic rain throughout the year. Official Malaysian Meteorological Department data shows that Petaling Jaya receives substantial rainfall, with wetter periods occurring at different times of the year.
• Food: Petaling Jaya offers access to Malaysia's diverse culinary culture, including Malay, Chinese, Indian and international cuisines. Food courts, restaurants and local stalls are common across the city and surrounding Selangor area.
• Multicultural Environment: Malaysia's population reflects Malay, Chinese, Indian and other cultural influences. Students can experience different languages, religions, festivals, traditions and cuisines while living in Petaling Jaya.
• Language: Bahasa Melayu is Malaysia's national language, while English is widely spoken. Mandarin, Cantonese, Tamil and other languages are also used within the country's multicultural communities.
• Shopping & Entertainment: Petaling Jaya and nearby areas have numerous shopping and leisure destinations, including 1 Utama, The Curve, Paradigm Mall, Atria Shopping Gallery, Amcorp Mall and Jaya One.
• Healthcare: Students have access to public and private healthcare facilities in Petaling Jaya and the wider Klang Valley. Malaysia's official tourism information notes that hospitals and clinics are available across its cities.
• Public Transport & Connectivity: Petaling Jaya forms part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley urban area, providing students with access to the wider metropolitan region for education, shopping, entertainment and other daily needs.
• Outdoor Lifestyle: Although the climate is warm and humid, students can enjoy outdoor activities and explore parks, recreational areas and attractions around Petaling Jaya and the wider Selangor region.
• Student Accommodation: City University Malaysia provides accommodation options for eligible students. International students should check the university's latest accommodation availability, eligibility and fees before making arrangements.

City University stands as a premier institution, offering world-class education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a diverse, inclusive campus environment. With a strong reputation for academic excellence, industry partnerships, and global recognition, the university ensures that students receive top-tier education and career-ready skills.
Key strengths of City University include:

• Globally Recognized Programs – Accredited degrees with international credibility
• State-of-the-Art Facilities – Advanced labs, libraries, and research centers
• Expert Faculty – Renowned professors and industry leaders guiding your education
• Vibrant Student Life – A dynamic campus with clubs, events, and networking opportunities
• Strong Career Support – Internship placements, job assistance, and alumni connections

Apply Now and Secure Your Future
Join a university that values innovation, academic rigor, and student success. Whether you aspire to pursue a degree in science, business, engineering, or the arts, City University offers the perfect platform to achieve your dreams.

1. Can working adults study at City University Malaysia?

Yes. City University Malaysia offers selected part-time and online programmes, allowing working adults and professionals to pursue higher education while managing their work commitments.

2. Does City University Malaysia offer APEL pathways for students without traditional qualifications?

Yes. City University Malaysia offers APEL pathways that assess formal, informal and non-formal learning gained through prior experience. This provides eligible learners with an alternative route to higher education.

3. Can students participate in international exchange programmes at City University Malaysia?

Yes. City University Malaysia offers student exchange opportunities with partner universities in several countries. Eligible students can study at a partner institution for a specified period as part of their academic experience.

4. Does City University Malaysia offer international degree pathway programmes?

Yes. The university offers International Degree Pathways that can help international students prepare for undergraduate or postgraduate study and progress to relevant degree programmes, subject to the applicable requirements.

5. Can international students work part-time while studying at City University Malaysia?

International students may work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays longer than seven days, subject to approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department and applicable regulations.

6. What happens if an international student's passport expires while studying at City University Malaysia?

Students who renew or replace their passport need to transfer their student pass to the new passport. They should provide their old and new passports to the university's International Office for guidance and processing.

7. What are the attendance requirements for international students at City University Malaysia?

City University Malaysia states that international students generally need at least 95% attendance for their first student-pass renewal and 80% for subsequent renewals. Students must also meet the applicable academic requirements.

8. Can exchange students study at City University Malaysia without paying tuition fees to the university?

Students participating through an established exchange partnership may be exempt from tuition fees at City University Malaysia while continuing to pay tuition fees to their home university. The applicable terms depend on the exchange agreement.

9. What support does City University Malaysia provide before international students arrive?

The university provides guidance on application procedures, student-pass processing, arrival arrangements and other pre-arrival requirements. International students can also receive assistance with airport arrival and immigration procedures.

10. Does City University Malaysia provide orientation for new students?

Yes. City University Malaysia conducts orientation activities for new students. These activities introduce students to the university, its rules and regulations, academic services and student activities.