DIPLOMA IN GRAPHIC DESIGN

About the Course

The Diploma in Graphic Design programme at MSU provides a comprehensive foundation in both traditional and digital design skills, focusing on creativity, visual communication, and industry-ready competencies. Students will explore a range of design disciplines including typography, illustration, advertising, corporate identity, packaging, multimedia, and animation. The curriculum emphasizes creative problem-solving, conceptual development, and technical proficiency through project-based learning aligned with industry standards.

Students will also develop transferable soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and management through embedded PEC modules. Industrial training and a final design project in the final year ensure real-world experience, preparing graduates for professional careers in design, media, and creative industries.

Duration
2 ½ years

Courses Offered

Year One

• History of Graphic Design
• Digital Illustration
• Introduction to Advertising
• Publication Design
• Typography
• Basic Drawing
• Photography

Year Two

• Corporate Identity
• Packaging Design
• Brand Identity Design
• Illustration
• 2D Animation
• Industrial Training

Year Three

• Advertising Design
• 3D Animation
• Cartooning and Comic Design

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Diploma in Graphic Design are equipped with strong creative and technical skills applicable across various design and media industries. Potential career paths include:
Graphic Designer
Art Director
Creative Visualizer
Advertising Designer
Branding & Packaging Designer
Multimedia / Motion Graphic Designer
UX / UI Designer
Illustrator / Comic Artist
Marketing & Communication Designer
Production Artist

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
A pass in SPM with a minimum of three (3) credits in any subject, or its equivalent; OR
● A pass in Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with a minimum of Grade C (GP 2.00) in any subject, or its equivalent; OR
● A pass in Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM) with a minimum grade of Maqbul in any subject, or its equivalent; OR
● A pass in SKM Level 3 / Sijil Vokasional Malaysia (SVM) in a suitable field (Note: The HEPs are to conduct screening and provide necessary guidance specific to the discipline of the programme); OR
● A Certificate (Level 3, MQF) in a related field with minimum CGPA of 2.00 or its equivalent; OR
● Other relevant equivalent qualifications recognised by the Malaysian Government.
AND
● Pass an interview OR submission of portfolio determined by the HEP as required.

English Competency Requirement (International Student)
● Achieve a minimum score Band 2 in the Malaysian University English Test (MUET) or equivalent.

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university