Perdana University
Perdana University stands as Malaysia's first dedicated graduate university specializing in health sciences and medical education, established in 2011 under the auspices of the Perdana University Foundation with strong governmental support. The university was founded with the strategic vision of developing Malaysia as a regional hub for medical and health sciences education, attracting international collaborations while producing healthcare professionals to address the nation's growing healthcare needs. This focused mission distinguishes Perdana from comprehensive universities, allowing deep specialization in medical and allied health disciplines. The university operates in partnership with prestigious international institutions, most notably Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine through the Perdana University-Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (PU-RCSI) School of Medicine program. This collaboration brings globally recognized medical education frameworks to Malaysia, with curricula developed and quality-assured by partner institutions. Such partnerships reflect the Malaysian government's initiative to attract top-tier international universities to establish presence in the country, elevating the nation's medical education standards to international benchmarks. Perdana University's mission emphasizes producing healthcare professionals who are not only clinically competent but also research-oriented, ethically grounded, and prepared for leadership roles in healthcare systems. The university maintains commitment to research in areas relevant to Malaysian and regional health challenges, including tropical diseases, traditional medicine integration, and healthcare delivery systems. Despite its relatively recent establishment, Perdana has quickly built a reputation for academic rigor and has attracted faculty members with distinguished international credentials. The university continues to expand its program offerings while maintaining focus on quality and relevance to healthcare sector needs.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Perdana differs fundamentally from undergraduate campus experiences or even typical graduate schools. The professional school format serves working adults who come to campus for classes and return to careers and families. Traditional campus life barely exists. Classmates tend to be mid-career professionals rather than recent graduates. This maturity affects classroom dynamics, with discussions drawing on professional experience. Networking among classmates provides valuable professional connections. Cohort bonds can be strong despite limited campus time together. The Kuala Lumpur location provides urban context for student life. The city's amenities, dining, and entertainment are accessible to students who find time between work and study. Malaysian cultural experiences surround the campus. Group projects and study sessions bring students together outside formal classes. These working sessions often happen in cafes or offices rather than campus facilities. Digital communication supplements in-person collaboration. Student services exist but operate differently than at residential universities. Career services matter less for students already employed but provide some support for career transitions. Library resources support research and study needs. Administrative services handle the logistics of part-time professional education. The absence of traditional campus culture suits students who want focused credential acquisition without college-style activities. Those seeking a complete campus experience should look to different institutions. International students find Malaysia accessible and affordable compared to many destinations. The multicultural society eases adjustment. English proficiency throughout the country reduces language barriers.
Location & Surroundings
Kuala Lumpur provides a major metropolitan setting for Perdana's graduate programs. Malaysia's capital city offers everything expected of a modern Asian metropolis: shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers symbolize Malaysia's development aspirations that also inform the university's mission. The city's multicultural character blends Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences with international expat communities. This diversity shows in food, festivals, and daily life. Students experience genuinely cosmopolitan Asian culture. Climate remains consistently tropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a rainy season bringing afternoon thunderstorms. Air conditioning is essential for comfort. The weather doesn't vary seasonally like temperate climates. Transportation includes an extensive public transit network of trains and buses alongside abundant taxis and ride-sharing services. Driving in Kuala Lumpur traffic can be frustrating, but alternatives exist. The city remains navigable without personal vehicles. Cost of living in Kuala Lumpur stays moderate by international standards. Housing ranges widely by neighborhood and quality. Food costs little, especially at local establishments. Entertainment and shopping span budget to luxury options. Regional travel from Kuala Lumpur reaches Southeast Asian destinations easily. Budget airlines connect to Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and other countries inexpensively. Weekend trips to beaches, islands, or neighboring countries are entirely feasible. Healthcare in Malaysia provides good quality at reasonable costs, relevant for students in medical fields. The healthcare system reflects both local development and medical tourism industry investment.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Perdana varies significantly by program, with specialized medical programs costing more than general offerings. Fees range from tens of thousands to over one hundred thousand Malaysian ringgit for complete programs. These costs sit below comparable international programs but require serious financial commitment. Living expenses in Kuala Lumpur add to total costs. Part-time students often live at home or continue existing arrangements, reducing incremental expenses. Full-time students must budget for housing and daily needs. Employer sponsorship funds some students, particularly government employees pursuing public policy credentials or healthcare workers in institutional development programs. These arrangements reduce personal financial burden. Payment plans and financing options help students manage tuition. Malaysian banking products address education financing. International students may have different financing options. Career outcomes depend heavily on program and individual circumstances. Healthcare professionals often seek credential enhancement for career advancement rather than career change. Public policy graduates may pursue government positions or consulting roles. The partnerships with international institutions add credential value in some contexts. Johns Hopkins connection in public health carries recognition. Whether that recognition translates to career advantages depends on specific job markets and employer perspectives. Networking among classmates provides professional value beyond formal credentials. Mid-career professionals in specialized programs often help each other with career opportunities. These connections may prove more valuable than formal career services. Alumni networks continue developing as the institution matures. Graduates occupy positions in healthcare, government, and related sectors. Building these networks takes time given the institution's relative youth.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Perdana University
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free