Best Universities for Computer Science in Malaysia 2025 | Top Rankings

Behind every AI breakthrough, fintech app, and cybersecurity system, there’s computer science at work. 

In Malaysia, this field is shaping how businesses grow, how people connect, and how the next generation of talent competes. That’s why choosing where to study computer science isn’t just about a degree, it’s about setting yourself up for the future.

In the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 and Times Higher Education (THE) Computer Science Rankings 2025, several Malaysian universities earned strong positions, proving the country is gaining global recognition for tech education. These rankings are important because they highlight not only academic quality but also employability, research impact, and industry relevance, all the things future employers look at.

So, if you’re a Malaysian student exploring the best universities for computer science in Malaysia 2025, or an international student curious about the latest Malaysia CS ranking, this guide has you covered.

Why Computer Science Rankings Matter in Malaysia

Malaysia is pushing hard into a tech-driven future. Under the MyDIGITAL blueprint, the digital economy is expected to contribute 22.6% to GDP by 2025, with RM163.6 billion in digital investments recorded in 2024. This rapid growth is creating thousands of high-skill jobs, especially for software engineers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts.

That’s where computer science rankings come in. They’re not just numbers on a chart, they influence real opportunities for students:

• Scholarships & funding: Many government and private scholarships consider global university rankings when awarding financial aid. Studying at a well-ranked university can improve your chances.
• Employer trust: Recruiters often look at university reputation as a quick benchmark of quality. A strong ranking signals that graduates are trained to global standards in teaching, research, and industry readiness.
• Graduate employability: Universities that perform well in rankings usually offer better industry links, internships, and career support, directly boosting your chances of landing a job after graduation.

For students choosing a computer science degree Malaysia, these rankings provide a shortcut to understanding which institutions are most likely to deliver quality education and outcomes. And when you pair that with metrics like graduate employability CS Malaysia, you get a clearer picture of how likely you are to get a job (or admission to advanced study) after you graduate.

Ranking Criteria: What Makes a Top Computer Science University in Malaysia

When looking at the best universities for computer science in Malaysia 2025, it’s important to understand how rankings are measured. For this guide, we used two trusted benchmarks: the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 and the Times Higher Education (THE) Computer Science Rankings 2025.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what they focus on:

Top 12 Universities for Computer Science in Malaysia 2025

Based on the latest QS Subject Ranking 2025, THE Computer Science Rankings 2025, and local graduate employability data, here’s the list of the best CS universities in Malaysia 2025.

Computer Science Universities Profiles & Strengths 

1. Universiti Malaya (UM) 

UM’s Computer Science program ranks #97 in QS Subject CS 2025, making it the top choice in Malaysia. With ~96% graduate employability, UM’s strong research culture and partnerships with global tech companies like Google and IBM give students a competitive edge. It’s the go-to university if you want global recognition and research-driven CS education.

2. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) 

UPM is ranked #121–130 in QS CS 2025, well-regarded for its smart systems and IoT research. Its ~95% employability rate and strong industry collaborations make it ideal for students interested in applied innovation. UPM is particularly appealing if you’re keen on combining CS with agriculture tech or sustainability.

3. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) 

UTM ranks #131–140 in QS CS 2025, excelling in software engineering and digital systems. With ~94% employability, UTM’s curriculum is designed with industry input, offering strong internship pathways. Students benefit from a campus culture that blends innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical training.

4. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) 

USM, ranked #151–160 globally in QS CS 2025, benefits from Penang’s “Silicon Island” tech ecosystem. Its ~93% employability rate and co-op placements make it attractive for students seeking real-world exposure. If you want to be close to Malaysia’s hardware and semiconductor hub, USM is a smart choice.

5. Taylor’s University 

Taylor’s is Malaysia’s highest-ranked private university for CS at #171–180 (QS CS 2025). With ~97% graduate employability and strong employer reputation, it’s a popular choice for international and Malaysian students. Taylor’s also emphasizes future-ready skills like AI, data science, and digital business.

5. Monash University Malaysia 

Monash Malaysia ranks #201–210 (QS CS 2025), offering the same degree as Monash Australia. With ~95% employability and global mobility options, it’s a strong pick for students who want international exposure. You’ll graduate with a degree that carries worldwide recognition while studying in Malaysia.

6. Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) 

UTP, ranked #221–230 (QS CS 2025), blends CS with energy and industrial applications. Its ~96% employability and strong industry partnerships, particularly in cybersecurity and AI, make it industry-relevant. UTP is especially attractive for students who want to work at the intersection of tech and energy.

7. Sunway University

Sunway University is ranked #251–260 (QS CS 2025) and is known for ~94% employability. With innovation labs, a strong focus on entrepreneurship, and ties with Lancaster University (UK), Sunway prepares students for global careers. It’s an excellent choice if you’re aiming to merge CS with innovation and start-up culture.

8. Multimedia University (MMU) 

MMU, ranked #271–280 (QS CS 2025), specializes in multimedia, game dev, and VR/AR. With ~94% employability, it’s one of Malaysia’s oldest private universities dedicated to tech. MMU is a top pick for creative students who want to combine coding with digital media and design.

9. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

UKM ranks #301–350 in QS CS 2025, offering strong expertise in natural language processing and cloud computing. With ~92% employability, it’s a strong choice for students interested in AI and linguistics-driven tech. UKM is steadily building its international research profile in digital innovations.

10. Asia Pacific University (APU) 

APU may not appear in QS CS subject rankings but is a QS 5 Stars Plus university and among the top 2.1% globally overall. With a near 100% graduate employability rate (MOHE tracer study), it’s one of the best private choices for CS. APU also has a highly international student community, making it great for networking.

11. Management & Science University (MSU) 

MSU holds strong QS overall recognition and is highly rated for graduate employability (~99%). Its dual-degree pathways and employer-linked teaching make it a popular option for private university CS studies. MSU’s strong industry connections ensure students are career-ready upon graduation. 

What Employers Value in CS Graduates

A computer science degree is only as good as the skills you graduate with. Employers in Malaysia are clear about what they look for:

• Problem-solving ability – tackling real-world challenges with critical thinking.
• Cloud & DevOps readiness – skills in AWS, Azure, automation, and CI/CD pipelines.
• Programming expertise – not just coding, but writing clean, scalable solutions.
• Soft skills – teamwork, communication, and adaptability in fast-paced workplaces.
• Industry exposure – internships, industry projects, and hackathons add major value.

Fresh graduates in Malaysia earn around RM 3,000/month across most sectors, but CS graduates start higher, often between RM 4,000–6,000/month depending on role and university background. Globally, Malaysian grads with strong portfolios or certifications can command salaries 2–3x higher in Singapore or Europe.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Future of Computer Science in Malaysia: What’s Next After 2025

The future of computer science in Malaysia is shaping up fast, and students enrolling today will graduate into a very different tech landscape. Some key trends to note:

• AI-powered learning: Universities in Malaysia are piloting AI teaching assistants and adaptive learning systems to personalise CS education.
• Green coding & sustainability: Expect courses and research on energy-efficient programming, as Malaysia aligns with global net-zero targets.
• Quantum-safe encryption: Cybersecurity programs are starting to integrate post-quantum cryptography, preparing grads for next-gen threats.
• Global mobility: More international student opportunities through dual-degree pathways, exchange programs, and global campus links (Monash, Sunway, MSU).
• AI research growth: Malaysia universities are investing heavily in AI labs, data science hubs, and partnerships with tech companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which university is best for computer science in Malaysia 2025?

Universiti Malaya (UM) is ranked #97 globally in QS Subject Rankings 2025, making it Malaysia’s top public choice. However, private universities like Taylor’s, Sunway, and APU are also gaining recognition for their CS programs. These institutions combine strong rankings with excellent graduate employability.

2. Is computer science in Malaysia good for international students?

Yes, Malaysia is a popular choice for international students because CS degrees are globally recognized, taught in English, and affordable. Private universities like Monash Malaysia and MSU offer strong global mobility and dual-degree options. Many also have international faculty and diverse student communities, making it easier to adapt.

3. Which private university is best for computer science in Malaysia?

Taylor’s University, Sunway University, and Asia Pacific University (APU) are considered among the best private universities for computer science in Malaysia. They provide industry-linked internships, and high graduate employability rates. These universities are ideal for students seeking industry exposure and global recognition.

4. What is the cost of studying computer science in Malaysia?

Tuition fees for computer science in Malaysia vary depending on the university. At private universities, fees typically range between RM 25,000–60,000 for the full degree, while public universities are more affordable. International students also benefit from Malaysia’s relatively low living costs compared to Singapore or the UK.

5. What are the job opportunities after a computer science degree in Malaysia?

Graduates can work in fast-growing fields like AI, software development, cybersecurity, fintech, and cloud computing. Starting salaries for computer science graduates in Malaysia range from RM 3,500–6,000 per month, with higher pay in multinational firms.

What’s Next?

Computer science is one of the most in-demand degrees in Malaysia, opening doors to careers in AI, fintech, and cybersecurity. The best universities to study CS in Malaysia give you both strong academics and real industry experience, helping you graduate job-ready. Picking the right university today means setting yourself up for a future in the digital world.