To be a global university of educational excellence with transformative societal impact, UTAR has been instilling global perspectives in its teaching and learning in order to produce global citizens.

Since its inception on 13 August 2002 with 411 students for its first intake, the enrolment has now reached over 21,000 students with campuses located in Kampar, Perak and Bandar Sungai Long, Selangor. UTAR has more than 500 international students from more than 30 economies.
 
UTAR provides its international students with a unique multicultural environment to enhance their intercultural and social skills, and to prepare them for careers in the globalised word of the 21st century.

UTAR produces graduates that cut across barriers of culture and economics. A total of 11 international graduates were graduated from UTAR at its 36th Convocation held from 17 to 19 March 2023.

Below are some testimonials from UTAR international graduates.

What our international graduates say?

“What interests you to study in UTAR?”

“I am interested in pursuing a career in digital marketing, media management, content writing and graphic design currently. These were my reason why I chose UTAR to pursue my studies in Journalism. I believe that being an international student definitely distinguishes me from other graduates as I have experienced UTAR from an outsider perspective. I believe that I have an outsider perspective about what is being discussed in Malaysia such as political, social and economical issues. Secondly, I am a jack of all trades. I am able to adapt and learn quickly from my peers. I have gained several skills in my time in UTAR as well such as photography and videography.”

“Why do you choose to pursue your tertiary studies in UTAR?”

“I chose UTAR because the professor and lecturer in the Environmental Engineering have a very good Journal publication. As a chemical engineer that attracted me to do Master’s in Environmental Engineering (by research mode) which will enhance my ability in the field of research. Further, reaching here I found the studying environment very friendly and conducive. During my studies I have published 1 conference and 2 research articles from my dissertation. Overall, my experience as a master’s was phenomenal. Being a research student, I learned and used various equipment’s during my experimental work.”

“How do you think your studies at UTAR has helped you in your career?”

“During my internship while in UTAR, I got a job at a well-known Korean company. It is a public institution called the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Corporation, and literally almost all K-food in Malaysia are managed there. At that time, I went through the UTAR internship, and the experience was valuable. It was a time when my knowledge was further improved. Also, Koreans who speak English are highly valued in Malaysia, and it was an added advantage for me as a student of International Business programme in UTAR. It can be said that I have become a coveted talent for Korean companies that have entered Malaysia.”

“What do you think of the learning culture in UTAR?”

“UTAR has an attractive university compound, all-in-English education, also a gratitude to the entrepreneur who sponsors for my years of study. Using English language as the first language of study equips me with sufficient tendency of communication skills, it’s just helpful for me. Be always positively face all the challenges especially family members are not being your side. Study hard to score for the best of all time. It was an incredible experience, I won’t forget the merits that UTAR brings to me, and also it does as a ‘bridge’ for me to develop my friendships and future development here. Thank you UTAR!”

“What do you think of the learning culture in UTAR?”

“UTAR has a sustainable learning culture with course material being delivered both in the form of lectures and small group tutorials. Furthermore, the university encourages further learning through various research projects and third-party seminars and workshops. This can expand student knowledge beyond the realms of their subject area. UTAR has also implemented a USSDC programme and UTAR care programme system to motivate students in developing other useful life competency skills. However, semester weeks can be quite hectic with assignment deadlines, reports, presentations and midterms falling consecutively with no preparation break/ study break. It would be great to have these graded tests spanned out more evenly so as to create a less stressful environment. Encouraging group study sessions within the university would be productive as well.”

“How have you changed since you entered UTAR?”

“Being an international student, it was important for me to change how I was to survive university and to enjoy it to the fullest. I took a lot of time to adapt to UTAR and Malaysia culture. I started to step out from my comfort zone in order to connect to more people through extracurricular activities and class assignments. It was truly an enriching experience for me to be able to graduate from UTAR.”

“How do you make yourself comfortable in UTAR?”

“While living here in Malaysia and studying is easy you have to go out your way to meet with other students and talk to them to find any social interactions as students here are shy and would like to be in their own bubble. It was a good learning experience for me and I feel more confidents know going into my work life. One of the reasons for me coming to Malaysia was how friendly the environment is and how easy it is to get along with people compared to the western world.  Other than that, the cost of daily life and student bills were affordable. “

“As a UTAR graduate, what unique experience distinguishes you from other graduates?”

“As a UTAR student, I participated in research projects, internships, and community service activities. It helps me develop such as in communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills and expand our social and professional networks. Additionally, I did a chance to study abroad, participate in international conferences, and collaborate with students worldwide. Exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures can be a valuable experience. UTAR has a positive learning culture that fosters independent learning and encourages us to work in groups. We can participate in class discussions, ask questions, and seek help when needed. UTAR also provides a variety of resources and support services in academic advising, tutoring, and counselling.”