Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

What you'll study

The programme is primarily a supervised research degree with an optional formal coursework component that strengthens research skills. Candidates undertake an original research project that contributes to theory and practice in engineering education. Typical thematic areas include curriculum design and programme accreditation, pedagogical innovation (including active learning and project-based learning), assessment and learning analytics, workplace and industry‑linked learning, laboratory and simulation-based learning, professional competency development, and policy and leadership in engineering education.

Common taught modules (where required by the candidate's study plan) cover:

• Research Methods in Education – qualitative and quantitative approaches, research design and ethics.
• Advanced Statistics and Data Analysis – statistical modelling, data interpretation and learning analytics.
• Theories of Learning and Instruction – learning theories applied to STEM and engineering contexts.
• Curriculum Development and Assessment – programme outcomes, assessment design and validation, accreditation frameworks.
• Educational Technology and Simulation – digital tools, virtual labs and blended learning design.

The degree culminates in a supervised thesis and an oral examination (viva voce). Throughout the candidature candidates are expected to publish in peer‑reviewed venues and to participate in academic activities, seminars and conferences.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a relevant Master’s degree in engineering, engineering education, science or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution. Those with a strong Master’s research record or substantial professional experience in engineering education or training may also be considered. Application materials typically include a research proposal that aligns with faculty expertise, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, and letters of reference.

Admission depends on the availability of an appropriate supervisory team and approval of the research proposal. International applicants are expected to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior education in English, where required by university regulations. Candidates must meet any additional university postgraduate research admission criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Engineering Education pursue roles across academia, industry and policy. Common career paths include:

• University lecturer or professor specialising in engineering education and curriculum development.
• Researcher in higher education research centres or national research institutes.
• Learning and teaching developer or director of teaching quality within universities.
• Curriculum designer or accreditation specialist for professional engineering bodies.
• Senior training and development manager, or competence and assessment lead within engineering firms and multinational companies.
• Policy advisor on STEM education and workforce development for government agencies and NGOs.

Graduates are equipped to lead educational research projects, secure research funding, and influence the design and delivery of engineering programmes at institutional and national levels.

Why study at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia has a long-established engineering tradition and hosts research groups and centres focused on engineering education, providing a supportive environment for interdisciplinary study. Students benefit from experienced academic supervisors who publish in international engineering education journals and from access to UTM’s engineering laboratories, simulation facilities and enterprise partnerships.

UTM’s industry links across Malaysia and the region support applied research and opportunities for collaborative projects, placements and knowledge transfer. The university’s postgraduate research framework emphasises scholarly publication, international engagement and development of leadership skills, preparing graduates to make impactful contributions to engineering education practice and policy.