The Complete Review Of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

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1. Introduction

1.1 Background

Established in 1821, Heriot-Watt University has become a world-leading institution in the field of higher education, staying true to its founding principles of personalised learning and societal impact. 

Recognised for its excellence, the university consistently ranks highly in global university rankings, with more than 80% of its faculty involved in cutting-edge research. It is particularly renowned for its strengths in engineering, business, and science disciplines.

In September 2014, the university opened its Malaysia campus in Putrajaya at a cost of £35m boasting state-of-the-art facilities and eco-friendly design. Through Heriot-Watt Malaysia, the university continues its tradition of innovation, sustainability, and academic distinction.

Malaysia is the only other country outside of its UK origins besides Dubai that Heriot-Watt has expanded to. It supports over 30,000 students across its 5 campuses.

Here’s some key stats about Heriot-Watt Malaysia:

Total student population2,000
% of international students30%
Graduate employability rate %95% in 6 months from graduation

1.2 Heriot-Watt University Rankings 2025

According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, the Heriot-Watt University ranks at #256 globally which is a reflection of its quality in education delivery and learning experience.

Below are Heriot-Watt University’s fields of study that made it on the QS Subject Rankings:

QS Subject CategorySubject World Ranking
Engineering – Petroleum#15
Architecture & Built Environment#101-150
Engineering – Civil and Structural#151-200
Business and Management Studies#201-250
Engineering – Electrical and Electronic#201-250
Engineering – Chemical#201-250
Engineering and Technology#254
Accounting and Finance#251-300
Engineering – Mechanical#201-250
Economics and Econometrics#351-400
Computer Science and Information Systems#351-400

2. Student Life Review & Living Cost

2.1 Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Putrajaya Campus Review

Roll with us in our Campus Unboxing of Heriot-Watt!!

Location and Surrounding Vibe: The investment Heriot-Watt made for the Malaysian campus did not go to waste as it is a statement piece in the administrative capital of Malaysia, overlooking the serene Putrajaya Lake. Students studying here will enjoy the balance of tranquillity and modernity of the area.

Ease of Accessibility to Campus: Putrajaya is a self-contained township and if you are travelling by public transportation, the campus shuttle bus links Putrajaya Sentral (the main bus and express rail station at Putrajaya) with the campus and student accommodation. There is more than 700 parking bays surrounding the campus.

The largest mall in Malaysia, IOI Putrajaya is also reachable by the public bus or a 20-minute drive away if you want to look for a place to hang out after classes.

Student Diversity: The international student community at the campus is 20%-30% of the population owing to the global reputation of Heriot-Watt and its Go Global programme (more on this later) where students of Heriot-Watt can easily transfer between campuses. Every year, Heriot-Watt Malaysia welcomes about 100 UK and Dubai students too.

2.2 Learning Resources

General Learning Facilities

Heriot-Watt Malaysia offers a conducive learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and libraries. 

The library, overlooking a tranquil lake, features a variety of study spaces, quiet rooms, and discussion areas, accommodating diverse learning preferences. With a commitment to sustainability, the university implements green initiatives and eco-friendly campus practices. 

Additionally, students benefit from 24/7 access to study spaces like the 365 Room and Wheesht Room, equipped with high-performance computers and individual study carrels. 

This combination of cutting-edge resources and environmental stewardship enhances the overall academic experience and campus life for students pursuing their educational goals.

Engineering Facilities

Being at the forefront of Engineering studies, the campus is equipped with the best machineries and engineering labs for you to apply your understanding using the latest technology.

2.3 Recreational Facilities & Student Activities

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s campus is located in the modern garden-city of Putrajaya. It provides easy access to extensive cultural, leisure, and retail amenities in the bustling metropolis. 

Additionally, Putrajaya boasts exceptional purpose-built leisure facilities, including numerous green spaces around its extensive 1,600-acre lake and a diverse range of sports and leisure amenities. 

Notably, there is a 200-meter-long freshwater sandy beach just five minutes from the campus. Facilities encompass a highly acclaimed Extreme Sports centre, several Futsal centres, an Equestrian Centre, and various multi-purpose sports centres. The lake offers a variety of water sports, and there are three public swimming pools available for use.

2.4 Student Activities

There are many things one can immerse into as a student of Heriot-Watt Malaysia.

Clubs and Societies: The KWIM Clubs offer students the opportunity to engage in various activities across five categories: Arts and Culture, Community Service, Professional Development, Sports, and Engineering and Sustainability.

Houses: Just like Harry Potter, the university features its own 4 houses – Hydra, Wyvern, Kraken, and Phoenix—where sports and e-sports competitions are regularly held.

Events: Regular events, such as AHappierU’s Tuesday Zumba, Wednesday Yoga Class, and Thursday Walk, keep students engaged and relaxed. Event schedules are available on the university’s platform calendar.

Sport and Recreation: Students can access numerous sports and recreational facilities in Putrajaya, with special rates and discounts offered to Heriot-Watt students, promoting a balanced and active lifestyle.

Study Tour: You can sign up for a 2-weeks study tour to Heriot-Watt UK and fulfil your bucket list of seeing the city of London and building new relationships. Best of all you only need to foot your own flight and accommodation. 

2.5 Student Services

Key services students can rely on by the university:

  • Student Service Centre administrative support
  • Career Advisory Service
  • Global Student Support Service

How Can Uni Enrol Help?

Uni Enrol’s experienced counsellors help you compare the pros and cons of studying at Heriot-Watt with different universities offering your preferred courses.

2.6 Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Student Accommodation

Off-Campus Accommodation

There are 4 off-campus accommodations located in Putrajaya and neighbouring Cyberjaya which are managed by the university itself or an official accommodation partner.

Free shuttle bus service is available for students to and fro from these accommodations to the campus.

Shaftsbury RYO Putrajaya

  • A service apartment attached to a 4-star hotel.
  • Link bridge to Alamanda Putrajaya shopping centre.
  • Facilities – gym, saltwater pool, launderette, 24-hour security
  • Air-conditioned, Wi-Fi, induction cooker, fridge, bi-weekly cleaning.
  • RM990 to RM1,210 per room, per month based on single or twin sharing and room sizes.

Kanvas SOHO

  • Located in Cyberjaya, near various amenities and food attractions.
  • Air-conditioned, Wi-Fi, induction cooker, fridge etc.
  • Facilities – gym, swimming pool, launderette, 24-hour security
  • 5-10 minutes walk to campus.
  • RM600 to RM1,600 per room, per month depending on single, twin or triple sharing configuration.

The Arc

  • Located in Cyberjaya, near amenities such as Street Mall, Cyberjaya Gardens, Cyberjaya Mosque, and convenience stores. 
  • Facilities – Swimming pool, gym, badminton court, launderette, 24-hour security etc.
  • Room comes with fully equipped kitchen, fridge and air-conditioning.
  • RM350 to RM800 per room, per month depending on single or twin-sharing arrangement and other configurations.

The Solstice Residence

  • Located in Cyberjaya with various amenities nearby.
  • A 1-room unit comes fully-furnished, including a washing machine, refrigerator, and microwave.
  • Facilities – Swimming pool, techno-gym, convenience store, 24-hour security, etc
  • RM1,200 and above per room, per month depending on single or twin-sharing arrangement and other configurations.

Living Cost

General cost of living around Cyberjaya and Putrajaya, excluding accommodation, for students studying on-campus typically ranges between RM800 and RM1,200 per month. This would cover expenses like food, transportation, books, and miscellaneous personal expenses. Subject to individual lifestyle.

Essential Comforts

Uni Enrol helps sort out your accommodation arrangements as well, should you need one. We work with partners to assist students to find one in their budget.

3. Courses Review, Fees & Scholarships

3.1 Courses You Can Study at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

These are well known areas of study offered by Heriot-Watt Malaysia Putrajaya Campus. Click the respective area of study below to see all courses offered:


Foundation
Foundation in Business, Foundation in Science

Business
Business Admin, Actuarial Science, International Business etc

Accounting and Finance
Accountancy and Business Finance

Architecture and Built Environment
Quantity Surveying, Construction Project Management

Computing and IT 
Computer Science 

Engineering
Civil, Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics

Language and Social Studies
Psychology, Psychology in Management

Science and Mathematics
Statistical Data Science

3.2 Course Fees At Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

We have also saved you the hassle and compiled the full list of Heriot-Watt’s detailed course fees into one article below. Check it out and share it!

3.3 Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Scholarships

These are some of the popular scholarships offered by Heriot-Watt Malaysia. Click here to see the full list of scholarships:

ScholarshipsDetails
Heriot-Watt High Achiever’s Scholarships – FoundationUp to RM10,000 in tuition fee waiver based on academic results.
Heriot-Watt High Achiever’s Scholarships – UndergraduateUp to RM10,000 in tuition fee waiver per year based on academic results.
Heriot-Watt Alumni Waiver20% discount for alumni enrolling into post-graduate course.
Heriot-Watt Foundation Progression DiscountRM5,000 per year tuition fee waiver if student progress from foundation to degree without any scholarship.
Heriot-Watt Foundation Excellence AwardRM15,000 per year tuition fee waiver for progression into degree and maintaining certain level of academic results.
Heriot-Watt 30% Psychology Discovery Scholarship30% tuition fee waiver for students enrolling into Psychology course.
Heriot-Watt Leaders with Impact Scholarship100% scholarship for deserving students with outstanding track record.
Heriot-Watt Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Scholarship50% tuition fee waiver for deserving female students with outstanding track record.
Heriot-Watt Chinese Independent School ScholarshipRM9,000 (RM3,000 yearly) for UEC students with good extra-curricular track record.

PTPN Financial Aids

Malaysian students can apply for the National Higher Education Fund or PTPTN (Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional) which is responsible for giving loans to students pursuing tertiary education. 

PTPTN falls under the purview of the Ministry of Higher Education. You can borrow from RM3,400 to a maximum RM50,000 per annum depending on the level and type of course you are taking. PTPTN only charges an annual interest rate of about 1%.

Furthermore, if you achieve a First-Class Honours for your Degree, your loan could be converted into a scholarship, exempting you from paying back the loan!

Got Scholarship?

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Engineering

Heriot-Watt University, a pioneer in engineering education, offers a comprehensive range of disciplines including Chemical (with oil & gas technology), Civil, Electrical and Electronic, and Mechanical Engineering, with the option to pursue either a BEng (Hons) or MEng (Hons) degree.

All its MEng Engineering courses are recognised by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and fully accredited by the Malaysian Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC).

MOU signing between Heriot-Watt Malaysia and Board of Engineers Malaysia.

Learning at Heriot-Watt mixes not just lectures and tutorial classes but also mentor sessions, workshops and laboratory activities supported by group and individual projects. 

Assessment is by examination, coursework, presentations, group project and individual project.

There are additional accreditations for these respective Engineering disciplines

  • (MEng) Chemical Engineering – IChemE
  • (MEng Hons) Mechanical Engineering –  IMechE 
  • (MEng) Civil Engineering – ICE, IStructE, CIHT, and IHE

With the MEng qualification and associated accreditations, you can work your way to obtaining a Chartered Engineer (CEng) status after fulfilling the required working experience. This means you can authoritatively sign-off on projects like a BOSS.

Actuarial Science

Heriot-Watt Malaysia offers a 3-year BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science course renowned for its specialty and excellence. 

Designed for students with a strong mathematical aptitude and a passion for problem-solving, this course prepares you for a rewarding career in managing risk and uncertainty. 

The Actuarial Science department works closely with industry partners like DBS Bank, Tokio Marine Life, Tune Protect and FWD Technology to hold competitions like this.

Accredited by the Royal Statistical Society, the curriculum includes preparation for the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) exams, crucial for aspiring actuaries globally. 

You will also receive 6 paper exemptions out of 13 IFoA papers which will fast-track your pursuit as a certified Actuarial. If you further your studies into Master in UK, you can get another 6 paper exemption and 20% tuition fee discount.

The average Heriot-Watt Actuary pathway is 6-7 years vs 9-10 years for most. This period includes undergraduate degree, Masters, time taken to pass exam peprs, and working experience.

Moreover, the course’s recognition by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) under UCAP-AC (Universities & Colleges with Actuarial Programs – Advanced Curriculum) further enhances its standing, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive and reputable education in Actuarial Science.

Course assessment is generally based on either coursework or an exam at the end of the semester or a mixture.

Quantity Surveying

Heriot-Watt Malaysia offers a 3-year BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying course that equips you with construction project management skills.

The scope of Quantity Surveyors continuously expands to involve all stages of the design and construction process including financial, contractual and technical advice ensuring clients get value for money from the buildings they construct.

The course is accredited by many industry bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES), and Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM).

Assessment is by a combination of coursework and examination. By the final year, coursework assessment, principally through the design project and research dissertations, accounts for 50% of the final assessment.

Statistical Data Science

The 3-year BSc (Hons) program in Statistical Data Science integrates theoretical and applied aspects of modern statistics. Students receive comprehensive training in modelling, analysing, and interpreting real-world data, vital across diverse sectors like economics, medicine, and environmental sciences. 

The first year emphasises foundational mathematics, probability, and statistics, while subsequent years delve into specialised topics such as statistical modelling and advanced mathematics and data science courses. 

Dr Chong Zan Kai, Head of Data Science from DCAP Digital Sdn. Bhd shared his profound insights in a presentation titled ‘Credit Scoring, Now and Then.’ Dr Chong Zan Kai, a renowned expert in the field, presented the evolving landscape of credit scoring. Attended by students from Data Science, Actuarial Science and Computer Science courses.

Accredited by the Royal Statistical Society, graduates may qualify for exemptions from the professional examinations conducted by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA). 

Furthermore, the course has also received full accreditation from BCS, The Chartered Institute of IT, UK, which also recognises courses in Computer Sciences.

This skillset can be applied to so many industries such as business, insurance, financial consulting, market research, government agencies, the pharmaceutical industry and the computing field.

Psychology

The BSc (Hons) Psychology is popular with students who want to understand the science of behaviour and the mind, utilising scientific methods to explore various facets, including biological influences, developmental stages, cognitive processes, and interpersonal dynamics.

The course emphasises real-world problem-solving, preparing you to address contemporary challenges. Psychologists contribute to fields spanning education, healthcare, sports, environmental studies, and forensic analysis, bridging theory with practice in diverse settings. 

The university also offers a more specialised application of under its BSc (Hons) Psychology with Management. While 70% of the course will still focus on the Psychology curricula such as exploration of biological, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, the remaining 30% focuses on management areas relevant to workplace psychology, including consumer behaviour, marketing, and human resource management. 

The courses are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as what you study in Malaysia is transferable to the UK should you wish to transfer to Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh campus.

3.3 Heriot-Watt Go Global Programme

Go Global is the university’s seamless inter-campus transfer programme which almost guarantees you a transfer spot as long as you have a passing record. Not all universities are so easily transferable. 

The transfer durations can be as short as 2 weeks, 1 semester, 1 year or more. You can choose to complete your course overseas and secure a student working visa for up to 2 years.

About 200 Malaysian students take the opportunity to go for a transfer every year.

As long as you transfer after the first yaer in the Malaysia campus, you will be entitled to a 20% tuition fee waiver for campuses in the UK and 10% off for the Dubai campus.

Read how Heriot-Watt’s Go Global boosts your chances for an overseas career.

4. Entry Requirements & Intake Dates

4.1 Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Entry Requirements 2025

Minimum entry requirements for Foundation:

  • SPM – 5 credits
  • IGCSE – 5 credits

(Including credit for Maths and English)

Minimum entry requirements for Diploma:

  • SPM – 3 credits
  • IGCSE – 3 credits

(Including pass for Maths and English)

Minimum entry requirements for Degree:

  • UEC: 2A3B
  • STPM: CGPA of 2.00
  • A-Level: 3C
  • SACE/WACE: ATAR 70
  • CPU: 70%
  • IB Diploma: 25
  • Foundation: CGPA 2.00
  • Diploma: CGPA 2.00

Please note that the entry requirements may vary depending on the chosen field of study as certain courses may have higher or specific qualifying conditions, especially for courses in Engineering.

4.2 Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Intake Periods For 2025

The intake periods for Heriot-Watt Malaysia in 2025 are as follows:

  • Foundation – Jan, Apr, Jul, Sep
  • Degree – Jan, Sep
  • Postgraduate – Jan, Sep

Please note that the intake periods may vary depending on the courses. For specific intake periods and dates, consult Uni Enrol’s counsellors.

4.3 Learn How to Choose the Right University

When you need life-changing advice, we often consult professionals such as teachers, lawyers, and bankers. However, many students are not aware that education consultants like Uni Enrol can help you choose the right education path to secure your future prospects.

Check out some articles on what education consultants do and the benefits:

Check Eligibility With Uni Enrol

Talk to our experienced counsellors who will instantly let you know the requirements for your preferred courses!

5. Student Testimonials & Alumni

Your new Pro-Chancellor is officially the world’s best squash player!

Former world number one professional squash player, Datuk (Dr) Nicol Ann David was appointed on 17 May 2024 as Heriot-Watt Malaysia’s new Pro-Chancellor for the next 5 years. 

Hear some glowing words from the recent graduates of 2022 about their time at Heriot-Watt Malaysia despite the challenging times of those years.

6. Summary Review

No time to read everything? Here’s our quick review!

Background, Status and Ranking: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, established in 2014, is the Malaysian campus of the esteemed Heriot-Watt University, which has a history dating back to 1821. The university is globally recognized, ranking #256 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It boasts a strong reputation in engineering, business, and science disciplines, with over 80% of its faculty involved in cutting-edge research.

Student Life: Located in Putrajaya, the campus offers a tranquil yet modern environment, overlooking the serene Putrajaya Lake. The university has invested £35 million in state-of-the-art facilities with eco-friendly designs. Accessibility is facilitated by a campus shuttle bus linking to Putrajaya Sentral, and the campus is in proximity to IOI City Mall. The student population is diverse, with 30% international students, fostering a multicultural atmosphere.

Courses Offered: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia offers a range of courses across various disciplines, including engineering, business, and science. The curriculum is designed to provide high-quality British education and global study opportunities, maintaining the standards of its UK counterpart. You can easily transfer to other Heriot-Watt campuses in the UK and Dubai, with no restrictions.

Popular Courses: The university is particularly renowned for its engineering programs, offering disciplines such as Chemical (with oil & gas technology), Civil, Electrical and Electronic, and Mechanical Engineering. These programs are accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and the Malaysian Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC), ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional practice.

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