About Bachelor's Degree in Accounting in Malaysia
Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting in Malaysia is a great choice for students looking to build a career in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and corporate finance. With Malaysia's rapid economic growth and the rise of global business hubs, accountants are in high demand across industries like banking, investment firms, fintech, and multinational corporations.
The Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) reported over 38,500 registered accountants, yet Malaysia aims to reach 60,000 accounting professionals by 2030 to meet market demand (MIA). This highlights the growing career opportunities for accounting graduates in Malaysia.
Many universities in Malaysia offer ACCA, CPA, and CIMA-recognized accounting programs, allowing students to earn professional certifications alongside their degrees. If you're considering a career in finance, auditing, or taxation, you may also explore related fields such as Finance, Business Administration, and Economics, which open doors to a broader range of job opportunities in Malaysia and internationally.
Program Overview
A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting in Malaysia is designed to equip students with essential skills in financial accounting, taxation, auditing, and business management. The program typically takes 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on the university.
1. Core Subjects
Throughout the program, students will study key subjects such as:
- Year 1: Introduction to Accounting, Business Mathematics, Principles of Economics, Business Communication, and Ethics in Business.
- Year 2: Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Business Law, Taxation, and Accounting Information Systems.
- Year 3 & Final Year: Advanced Financial Accounting, Auditing, Financial Management, Strategic Management, and International Accounting.
2. Electives & Specializations
Students can specialize in areas like:
- Forensic Accounting
- Islamic Banking and Finance
- Corporate Governance
- Environmental Accounting
Admission Requirements for a Bachelor's in Accounting in Malaysia
1. Local Students
- STPM: Minimum 2Cs in relevant subjects.
- Foundation in Business/Finance: Minimum CGPA 2.5.
- Diploma in Accounting or Finance: Minimum CGPA 2.5 (may allow direct entry into Year 2).
2. International Students
- A-Levels: Minimum 2 passes, including Mathematics.
- International Baccalaureate (IB): Minimum 24 points, with relevant subjects.
- Foundation or Diploma: Must be equivalent to a Malaysian pre-university program with a strong background in business or finance.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 or TOEFL 550 (paper-based) / 79 (internet-based).
For students with 11 years of education;
- Minimum 5 credits, including Mathematics and English in IGCSE/O-Levels.
- Must complete a pre-university program to qualify for bachelor's degree.
Why Study Accounting in Malaysia?
1. Top-Ranked Accounting Universities
Malaysia is home to top universities for accounting, offering high-quality education and strong industry connections. Universiti Malaya (UM) is ranked among the top 150 universities globally in the QS World University Rankings. Among private institutions, Asia Pacific University (APU) provides ACCA-accredited accounting programs with industry-driven curriculums, while Sunway University offers a dual-degree program with Lancaster University, enhancing global recognition.
2. High Demand for Accountants
The need for skilled accountants in Malaysia is increasing due to the growth of financial services, fintech, and multinational corporations. According to a report, Malaysia requires over 60,000 professional accountants by 2030 to meet industry demands. This presents strong job prospects for accounting graduates in fields such as auditing, taxation, corporate finance, and financial consulting.
3. Pathway to Professional Certifications
Many private universities in Malaysia integrate professional certification pathways into their accounting programs, allowing students to earn exemptions for ACCA, CPA, and CIMA qualifications. For example:
- Taylor’s University: Offers ACCA Accelerate Program, allowing students to complete ACCA exams faster.
- HELP University: Provides a CPA Australia-recognized accounting degree for a direct professional certification pathway.
Career Opportunities After an Accounting Degree
Graduates with an accounting degree in Malaysia can pursue careers in various industries, including banking, consulting, and corporate finance. Some common job roles include:
- Chartered Accountant
- Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Tax Consultant
- Forensic Accountant
Want to study accounting in Malaysia?
Studying accounting in Malaysia is a great investment for your future. With top universities, affordable tuition fees, and strong career prospects, it’s the perfect place to begin your journey.
Let EasyUni help you find the best universities for accounting and guide you through the admission process. Speak to our advisors today!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which accounting qualification is best in Malaysia?
The ACCA qualification (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is one of the most respected and recognized accounting qualifications globally and in Malaysia. It provides a strong foundation for various accounting roles such as auditor, tax advisor, and financial analyst. Many universities in Malaysia offer ACCA-accredited programs, making it a highly sought-after qualification for aspiring accountants.
2. Which university is best for accounting in Malaysia?
Top universities for accounting in Malaysia include Management and Science University (MSU) for its strong accounting programs. Universities like Asia Pacific University (APU) and Sunway University are also renowned for their ACCA-accredited accounting courses, providing excellent industry links and global recognition.
3. How long is an accounting degree in Malaysia?
A Bachelor's degree in accounting in Malaysia typically takes about 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on the university and the course structure. Some programs may offer accelerated paths or dual-degree options that could impact the duration.
4. Which field of accounting is best?
The best field of accounting depends on your interests and career goals. However, management accounting, taxation, and auditing are highly regarded fields with strong job prospects in Malaysia. Forensic accounting and financial analysis are also growing fields due to increasing demand for financial transparency and data-driven decision-making.
5. How can I become an accountant in Malaysia?
To become a qualified accountant in Malaysia, you need to earn a Bachelor's degree in accounting and gain professional qualifications such as ACCA, CPA, or CIMA. After completing your degree, you'll also need to gain practical work experience and may need to apply for membership with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) for certification.
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