Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Logo Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)

Address: Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +605 468 8888
Email: info@utar.edu.my
Website: www.utar.edu.my


UTAR has specific English language proficiency requirements for admission:

  1. Undergraduate Programs:

    • IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0.
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 550 (PBT) or 80 (IBT).
    • MUET: Minimum band score of 4.
  2. Postgraduate Programs:

    • IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 580 (PBT) or 90 (IBT).
    • MUET: Minimum band score of 5.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) is a prominent private university in Malaysia, known for its commitment to providing quality education and its emphasis on research and innovation. Below are details regarding its course specialties, why it is famous, language requirements, Nobel Prize affiliations, and notable professors.

Course Specialties

UTAR offers a wide range of programs across various fields. Here are some of the key areas of specialization:

  1. Engineering and Technology

    • Bachelor of Engineering (Hons): Specializations in civil, mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering.
    • Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons): Focuses on software engineering, networking, and IT management.
  2. Business and Management

    • Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons): Offers specializations in marketing, finance, and human resource management.
    • Master of Business Administration (MBA): Emphasizes strategic management and entrepreneurship.
  3. Arts and Social Sciences

    • Bachelor of Arts (Hons): Specializations in psychology, communication, and social work.
    • Bachelor of International Relations (Hons): Focuses on global politics and international affairs.
  4. Health Sciences

    • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons): Covers pharmaceutical sciences and clinical pharmacy.
    • Bachelor of Nursing (Hons): Focuses on nursing practices and healthcare management.
  5. Information and Communication Technology

    • Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons): Focuses on software development and computer systems.
    • Bachelor of Multimedia (Hons): Emphasizes digital media and content creation.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) is home to many esteemed faculty members who are recognized for their contributions to research and education across various fields. Here are some notable professors at UTAR:

1. Prof. Dr. K. M. Kumar

  • Field: Civil Engineering
  • Contributions: Renowned for his research in sustainable engineering practices and infrastructure development. He has published numerous papers in international journals and is actively involved in industry collaborations.

2. Prof. Dr. Tan Geok Siong

  • Field: Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Contributions: An expert in drug formulation and development, he has made significant contributions to pharmaceutical research and education, focusing on improving drug efficacy and safety.

3. Prof. Dr. Lee Sook Ling

  • Field: Psychology
  • Contributions: Known for her work in mental health and clinical psychology, she has published extensively on psychological assessment and intervention strategies.

4. Prof. Dr. Cheng K. C.

  • Field: Business and Management
  • Contributions: Specializes in strategic management and entrepreneurship, contributing to research on business innovation and organizational behavior.

5. Prof. Dr. M. Y. Mohd Ali

  • Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Contributions: Focuses on power systems, renewable energy technologies, and smart grid development. His research plays a significant role in advancing energy sustainability.

6. Prof. Dr. Norazah Mohd Nordin

  • Field: Computer Science
  • Contributions: Specializes in software engineering, artificial intelligence, and data mining, contributing to advancements in computer science education and research.

7. Prof. Dr. Wong Fong Hwa

  • Field: Mechanical Engineering
  • Contributions: Known for her research in advanced materials and manufacturing processes, she has been instrumental in developing innovative engineering solutions.

8. Prof. Dr. Foo Say Yoon

  • Field: Sociology and Anthropology
  • Contributions: Focuses on social issues, community development, and cultural studies, contributing to the understanding of social dynamics in Malaysia.

As of now, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) does not have any Nobel Prize winners among its faculty or alumni. However, the university is known for its research contributions, which may contribute to advancements in various fields over time.

Top Professors

UTAR has a number of distinguished faculty members known for their contributions to research and education. Some notable professors include:

  1. Prof. Dr. K. M. Kumar (Engineering): Renowned for his research in civil engineering and sustainable practices.
  2. Prof. Dr. Tan Geok Siong (Health Sciences): Expert in pharmaceutical sciences and drug development.
  3. Prof. Dr. Lee Sook Ling (Social Sciences): Focuses on psychology and mental health research.
  4. Prof. Dr. Cheng K. C. (Business): Specializes in strategic management and entrepreneurship.

Established in 2002, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) is a leading university in Malaysia with two campuses in the Kampar district of Perak (around 190km from Kuala Lumpur) and in Kajang, Selangor (around 20km from Kuala Lumpur).


Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) offers over 78 undergraduate degree programs2 postgraduate diploma programs, 33 master’s degree programs,  12 Doctorate programs, and 4 Foundation programs in disciplines such as business, engineering, mathematics, creative industries and design, social sciences, education, medicine and Chinese studies. All degree programs are taught in English with the exception of the Chinese Studies programs. Students also have the opportunity to learn a foreign language as an elective course in their undergraduate degree.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman goes beyond imparting technical knowledge. It encourages students to enhance their soft skill competencies through various extracurricular activities such as soft skills development, student entrepreneurship, community projects, sports, and many other character-building events.


It’s also an ideal university for students who are looking for international exposure, experience, and friendship. Malaysia is a unique country with a rich diversity in culture where people interact with cultures from the West, Chinese, Islam, Indian, and Asians. Given this advantage, UTAR incorporates such multi-cultural dimensions into all aspects of its learning, teaching, research and collaboration.

UTAR is renowned for several reasons:

  1. Quality Education: The university is committed to high academic standards, producing well-rounded graduates who are equipped for the job market.

  2. Research and Innovation: UTAR emphasizes research across various fields, contributing to advancements in technology and social sciences.

  3. Industry Collaboration: Strong ties with industries facilitate internships and job placements for students, enhancing their employability.

  4. Diverse Student Body: UTAR attracts students from various countries, fostering a multicultural environment that enriches the educational experience.

  5. Scholarships and Financial Aid: The university offers various scholarships to support students, making education more accessible.