MSc by Research: Civil Engineering
PETRONAS built a university because it needed leaders who can challenge the standard. UTP is Malaysia’s top-ranked private university — discover hands-on engineering, science and computing programs tailored for industry 4.0.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Level | Postgraduate (research) |
| Faculty | Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering |
| Duration | 24–48 months FT / 36–72 PT |
| Intakes | January, May, September |
| Accreditation (EAC/BEM, MQA ref) | R3/526/7/0020 (12/29); MQA A8417 |
| Tuition (Total, Malaysian) | RM7,600/yr Eng & Geoscience · RM5,220 Mgmt · RM5,500 IS (Jan 2020 figures, UPDATE) |
Who is this programme for?
For candidates with an Engineering/Engineering Technology bachelor's degree (CGPA 2.50+, or lower with work experience and internal assessment) who want to research structural, geotechnical, transportation, environmental, water resources, construction management, or coastal/ocean engineering.
What will I learn, year by year?
Early stage — prerequisite programmes (Sustainable Concrete Technology, Construction Project Management — both fully online) if needed, plus your research proposal.
Core stage — independent research in your chosen specialisation, applying appropriate civil engineering tools and methods to real problems.
Final stage — thesis writing, submission, and viva, with training in presenting findings both orally and in writing.
Full-time: 2–4 years; part-time: 3–6 years.
Where do graduates work? Name employers and roles
Consulting firms, construction companies, government agencies, and research institutions.
Named roles: Engineering Manager, Project Manager, Environmental Consultant, Transportation Planner, Structural Engineer, and more.
One thing that makes it different at UTP
Seven specialisation tracks (from structural to coastal/ocean engineering) with fully-online prerequisite programmes for non-specialists, and outcomes explicitly built around solving real-world problems with limited information
The Research Behind It: Which area, centre and academics?
Seven focus areas: Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Construction Management, Coastal and Ocean Engineering.
Cost & Funding: Which scholarships and aid apply to this programme?
UTP GRA: available to full-time research students, subject to eligibility and grant availability; covers tuition and first-attempt Research Methodology, with a subsistence allowance based on grant affordability.
EPF withdrawal: available to Malaysian full- and part-time research students.
HRDF SBL: applicable where an employer sponsors an employee.
STUDENT LIFE: What should an applicant to THIS programme know?
Research students work closely with a supervisor and undertake substantial independent research. Students can access specialist geoscience software, research activities and industry-linked projects. The programme is suitable for those aiming for research, technical specialist or PhD pathways.
Next Intake + Application Deadline
January, May, September. UTP's current Master by Research listing confirms all three intakes. The specific application deadline should be confirmed with UTP Admission for the chosen intake.
Placement or internship route for this programme
January, May, September. UTP's current Master by Research listing confirms all three intakes. The specific application deadline should be confirmed with UTP Admission for the chosen intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specializations are available?
Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Construction Management, and Water Resources Engineering.
What career opportunities exist post-graduation?
Careers in “consulting firms, construction companies, government agencies, and research institutions,” with roles including “Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Environmental Consultant, Transportation Planner, and more.
Benefits of MSc vs. workforce entry?
An MSc can provide advanced technical knowledge, specialization in niche areas, and improved career prospects with higher salaries and leadership roles.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Programme Lead
More than 70% of UTP students receive financial sponsorship, study loans, or merit scholarships from PETRONAS, governmental bodies, or corporate partners.
Program Leader, MSc by Research: Civil Engineering
Ir Dr Idris Othman
idris_othman@utp.edu.my (+6053687357)
Target: Straight A SPM / IGCSE
Academic Executive
Mr Abdul Hafiz Mohd Arif
hafiz.arif@utp.edu.my (+6053687362)
Target: Straight A SPM / IGCSE