The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in public health at Universiti Malaya is a research-intensive doctoral programme designed to develop independent researchers capable of generating impactful knowledge to address contemporary public health challenges. The programme emphasises methodological rigour, interdisciplinary collaboration, and relevance to national and global health priorities.
Why This Programme
- Research-focused doctorate with strong emphasis on original contribution to knowledge
- Flexible research areas across core public health disciplines
- Supervision by experienced academic and clinical faculty
- Access to Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC)
- Access to two research centres
- Access to field-based research opportunities
- Engagement with national, regional, and international public health networks
Quick Facts
| Programme Type | Research (Thesis-based) |
| Minimum Duration | 3 years |
| Mode | Full-time / Part-time (no fully online mode) |
| Location | Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur |
| Intake | February and September |
| On-campus Requirement | Minimum one semester |
| Course Requirement | Advanced Research Methods |
| International Requirement | Bahasa Melayu module |
Who Should Apply
This programme is suitable for:
- Public health professionals and practitioners
- Researchers and academics
- Medical and non-medical graduates with relevant Master’s degrees
- Candidates seeking careers in research, academia, policy, or global health
Career Outcomes
Graduates are well-positioned for roles in:
- Academic and research institutions
- Government and policy-making bodies
- International and regional health organisations
- Non-governmental and development agencies
- Consultancy and advisory roles in public health
Programme Overview
The PhD programme is centred on conducting an original research project that contributes significantly to the field of public health. Candidates will undertake independent research under academic supervision, culminating in the submission and examination of a thesis. The programme supports the development of advanced competencies in research design, data analysis, scientific writing, and critical appraisal.
Research Areas
Candidates may pursue research in areas including, but not limited to:
- Epidemiology and biostatistics
- Occupational and environmental health
- Health systems and policy
- Community and behavioural health
- Global and planetary health
Research topics should align with departmental expertise and national or regional priorities.
Key Milestones for PhD Candidate
PhD candidates are required to complete the following milestones as part of their academic progression:
- Proposal Defence (1st–2nd Semester)
Presentation and approval of the research proposal by the faculty. - Progress Report (Every Semester)
Submission of structured progress reports to monitor research development and ensure satisfactory progression. - Candidature Defence (5th Semester)
Formal assessment to confirm readiness to proceed to the final phase of research and thesis preparation. - Thesis Seminar (Prior to Thesis Submission)
Presentation of research findings before submission for examination. - Submission of Thesis for Examination
Formal submission of the completed thesis for evaluation by appointed examiners. - Viva Voce (Oral Examination)
Defence of the thesis before the Board of Examiners. - Submission of Corrected Thesis
Incorporation of required revisions following the viva voce for Senate approval. - Senate Approval
Completion of the programme upon issuance of the official Senate letter. - Convocation Ceremony
Formal conferment of the doctoral degree.
How to Apply?
- The application is open all year round, for the two intakes, i.e., Semester 1 (September/October) and Semester 2 (February/March).
- Students are advised to first identify suitable supervisors before applying for the programme. The list of potential supervisors is available from our website.
- Complete the online application form at the MAYA portal.
- Upload all the required documents. “Click to Confirm Application” when you have completed the application and uploaded all the required documents.
- A processing fee is applicable.
Read more about What makes a good supervisor?
Those who are interested in applying can log in to MAYA.
What are the Fees?
Fee Structure for Citizen: MYR57,900.00
Fee Structure for Non-Citizen: MYR93,300.00
Disclaimer on Programme Fees
The fees stated are based on the published schedule as of October 2025 and are subject to revision by the University from time to time. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, please refer to the official Universiti Malaya website at https://study.um.edu.my.
Note: Applicants are advised to verify the latest fee structure prior to application or enrolment to ensure appropriate financial planning.
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