Interior Design in Malaysia
Fatma el hadad

Fatma el hadad

Nov 16, 2025

Interior Design in Malaysia allows students to explore a creative field that combines functionality and cultural diversity. With internationally recognized universities, practical training, and affordable tuition, Malaysia has become a leading destination for students seeking a strong academic foundation and global career prospects in interior design.

Overview of Studying Interior Design in Malaysia

The study of interior design focuses on teaching students the skills needed to transform interior spaces into functional and aesthetic environments that meet users' needs. The program includes the study of basic design principles such as color, lighting, spatial planning, and furniture, as well as the various materials and techniques used in construction and finishing. The study also combines aesthetics with practicality.

Through the diverse interior design programs in Malaysia, whether at the diploma or bachelor's level, students can gain an understanding of modern construction techniques. These programs allow students to face real-life design challenges and transform their creativity into practical solutions, qualifying them for excellence in the field of interior design.

Why Study Interior Design in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a distinguished destination for international students seeking to study interior design, both locally and from around the world, offering a stimulating academic environment and study programs that meet the highest international standards.

Global Educational Standards

Interior design programs in Malaysia offer high-quality education that aligns with international standards, ensuring students receive a modern and comprehensive education. The curriculum is distinguished by its precision and currency, ensuring students are familiar with the latest trends and techniques in the field of interior design, both globally and locally.

Modern Learning Facilities

Malaysian universities possess advanced educational facilities and modern infrastructure that provide an ideal environment for studying interior design. Many universities also provide specialized laboratories and creative spaces equipped with the latest technology, enabling students to develop their skills through practical experience and direct exposure to industry tools and innovation.

Reasonable Tuition Fees

Malaysia is an affordable educational destination, with significantly lower tuition and living costs compared to countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. Malaysian universities offer high-quality education at a lower cost, making them an ideal choice for students seeking exceptional educational value.

Internationally Accredited Degrees

Interior design degrees from Malaysian universities are widely recognized internationally. Students also enjoy excellent transfer opportunities, as they can begin their academic career in Malaysia and then easily transfer to universities around the world to complete their studies, whether at the undergraduate or postgraduate level. This gives them a strong competitive advantage in the global market.

Entrepreneurship and Career Opportunities

The construction and urban development sector in Malaysia is experiencing rapid growth, so a Bachelor of Interior Design degree provides you with the skills needed to establish your own business. After graduation, you can work as a freelance interior designer or manage your own projects, leveraging your creative thinking and managerial skills.

 Also Read: General information about studying in Malaysia

Study Pathway of Interior Design in Malaysia

It is the pathway of studying Interior Design that outlines the steps students can follow to build their skills, gain practical experience, and advance toward a successful career in the design industry, including:

  • Foundation in Liberal Arts for 1 year.

  • Diploma in Interior Design for 2 years and 4 months.

  • Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours) for 3 years 6 months.

  • Master of Design for 1 year.

  • Doctorate Program for 3-6 years.

Programs of studying Interior Design in Malaysia

Interior Design allows students to acquire advanced artistic and creative skills, through studying the following programs to obtain a Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours):

The Year of study

Study Programs 

Year 1

  • Drafting for Interior Designers

  • Design Principles

  • Colour Theory

  • Visual Design Communication

  • Philosophy and Current Issues

  • Interior Design Studio 1 (Human Factors)

  • Computer-Aided Design

  • Furniture Design and Prototyping

  • Building Constructions and Technology

  • Interior Design Studio 2 (Residential)

  • Computer Modelling and Rendering

  • Building Services for Interior Design

  • History of Design: Past and Present

Year 2

  • Interior Design Studio 3 (Commercial)

  • Design Communication and Technology

  • Design Theory

  • Sustainable in Interior Design

  • Interior Design Studio 4 (Hospitality)

  • Computer Visualization and Simulation

  • Regional Studies

  • Integrity and Anti-Corruption

  • Interior Design Studio 5 (Institutional)

  • Interior Design Materials Application

  • Environmental Lighting Design

  • Construction Legislation

  • Ethics Appreciation and Civilisation/ Malay Language Communication 2

Year 3

  • Interior Design Research Project

  • Project Management

  • Public Space Design Analysis

  • Professional Practice

  • Creative Thinking

  • Practical Training (6 months)

Year 4

  • Final Interior Design Studio

  • Elective

  • Working Drawing and Specification

Elective Modules

  • Morality & Design

  • Visual Studies and Exploration

  • Business Communication

  • Emotion & Motivation

  • System Analysis and Design

Best Universities to study Interior Design in Malaysia

Malaysia boasts several distinguished universities offering advanced educational programs in interior design, with a focus on developing practical and theoretical skills, thus preparing students for the local and international job market. Here is a list of the best universities in Malaysia for studying interior design, based on academic rankings, professional accreditations, and reputation in the field of technical education:

  • Taylor's University

  • Sunway University

  • UCSI University

  • Raffles University

  • SEGi University

  • Monash University

  • University of Malaya

  • INTI International University & Colleges

  • UNITAR International University

  • UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College

Requirements of studying Interior Design in Malaysia

Admission requirements for international students in Interior Design programs may vary between Malaysian universities; however, the core requirements shared by most universities generally include the following:

  • SPM with a minimum of 3 credits

  • O-level with a minimum of 3 credits

  • SVM pass with a minimum of 3 credits

  • Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) passes with a minimum of 3Bs.

  • STPM: Full Pass in 2 subjects

  • A-Level: Full Pass in 2 subjects

  • Foundation / Matriculation: min. CGPA 2.00.

  • Diploma / Advanced Diploma: min. CGPA 2.00.

  • Any other qualification considered equivalent and recognized by the Malaysian government.

  • English language requirements (IELTS Band 4.0, TOEFL iBT 31, or MUET Band 2).

Documents Required for Application:

  • 8 recent passport-sized photographs.

  • Certified copies of all academic qualifications translated into English.

  • One photocopy of the passport.

  • Completed Medical Report

Cost of Studying Interior Design in Malaysia 

Costs vary depending on the type of program (diploma, bachelor's, master's) and the university the student attends. Below are the tuition fees for interior design at some Malaysian universities:

University

Tuition fees

Sunway University

USD 7,056

UCSI University

RM 91,144

Raffles University

USD 27,500

Monash University

RM 48,480

SeGi University

RM 95,550

Skills needed to study interior design in Malaysia

To succeed in Interior Design programs in Malaysia, students should possess a combination of creative, technical, and interpersonal skills, including:

  • Creativity and Artistic Sense.

  • Technical Skills.

  • Attention to Details.

  • Communication Skills.

  • Problem-Solving.

  • Time Management.

Job opportunities for interior design graduates in Malaysia

Aspiring interior designers can look forward to a wide range of opportunities, with the chance to specialise in various areas, including:

  • Residential Interior Designer

  • Commercial Interior Designer

  • Sustainable Design Consultant

  • Furniture Designer

  • Kitchen and Bathroom Designer

  • Space Planner

  • Set Designer

  • Property Stager

  • Lighting Designer

  • Design Journalist or Blogger

  • Facilities project manager.

  • Art director

  • Production design manager 

Conclusion

Studying Interior Design in Malaysia equips students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the design industry. At StudyFans, we guide international students through every step, from choosing the right program to securing scholarships, making your journey to studying in Malaysia seamless and successful.

If you wanted to know more or have any questions, we are here to help you and you can always contact us:

Phone: 00905437394024

Or via WhatsApp through this link.

  • FAQs About Interior Design in Malaysia

    • English is the primary language of instruction in Interior Design programs in Malaysia.

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