Admissions Open • Year 2026/2027
MSc by Research: Information Systems
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 | Department of Computing |
| Duration | 24–48 months FT / 36–72 PT |
| Intakes | January and July |
| Accreditation (EAC/BEM, MQA ref) | R2/545/7/0016 (03/30); MQA Ref: MQA/SWA9116 |
| 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 a computing, science, or technology bachelor's degree (CGPA 3.0+, or lower with internal assessment/work experience) who want to conduct research in areas like data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, or fintech.
What will I learn, year by year?
Early stage — Research Methodology programme (plus Software Engineering & OOP if you're from a non-computing background), leading to your Research Proposal Defence.
Following stages — semester progress papers reviewed by your supervisor and a faculty panel, plus presenting at the Biannual Postgraduate Conference (BAPC).
Final stage — thesis completion and submission.
Full-time: 1–2 years; part-time: 2–6 years.
Where do graduates work? Name employers and roles
IT Manager, Data Scientist, System Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist, Digital Transformation Specialist, Lecturer, e-Government Specialist, Tech Startup Founder, Researcher. Broader paths: IT/IS management, data & business analytics, software development, cybersecurity/IT risk, digital transformation consulting, education, public-sector e-government, and entrepreneurship.
One thing that makes it different at UTP
Dual-degree opportunities through international collaborative programmes, research attachment opportunities with external organisations, and access to advanced laboratories, research centres, libraries, and online databases.
The Research Behind It: Which area, centre and academics?
Ten focus areas named: Data Analytics & Business Intelligence, Cybersecurity & Information Assurance, Cloud Computing & Big Data, Enterprise Systems & Informatics, Blockchain, AI applications in IS, Information Governance & Compliance, Fintech/E-Commerce/E-Business, HCI & UX, and IS Strategy & Management.
Cost & Funding: Which scholarships and aid apply to this programme?
UTP's current page does not identify a programme-specific scholarship. Eligible research students should check Graduate Assistantship/Graduate Research Assistantship (GA/GRA) availability, supervisor-funded projects and external sponsorships.
STUDENT LIFE: What should an applicant to THIS programme know?
Research students have one-to-one supervision, access to state-of-the-art laboratories and HPC resources, workshops/seminars, online and on-campus support, and opportunities for collaborative, industry-driven research.
Next Intake + Application Deadline
January, May, September. UTP confirms these three intakes. The programme page does not state a specific application deadline, so applicants should confirm the deadline with UTP Admission for their intended intake.
Placement or internship route for this programme
Student may discuss with their supervisors on any potential industry collaborations and internships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my degree isn't in computing?
You may need to complete prerequisite programmes in Software Engineering and Object-Oriented Programming.
What if my CGPA is below 3.0?
CGPA 2.50–3.0 may be admitted via internal assessment; below 2.50 requires 5+ years of relevant work experience.
Is there a research attachment or industry component?
Yes — research attachment opportunities with external organisations are available.