Diploma vs Degree : Know Key Differences

Diploma vs Degree: Complete Study Pathway Guide for Malaysia

🎓 Diploma vs Degree: Complete Study Pathway Guide for Malaysia

After SPM or STPM, many students face a key question: Should I choose a Diploma or go straight for a Degree? This guide explains the differences to help you choose the best path for your future.

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1. What is a Diploma vs Degree?

Diploma

Type: Professional skills training
Duration: 2 - 2.5 years
Entry: SPM 3-5 Credits
Tuition: RM18,000 - RM35,000 (private)
Level: MQF Level 4
Best for: Quick employment, hands-on learners

Degree

Type: Bachelor's degree
Duration: 3 - 4 years (medicine up to 5 years)
Entry: STPM, Diploma, A-Level, Foundation
Tuition: RM35,000 - RM120,000
Level: MQF Level 6
Best for: Academic/professional advancement

2. Course Structure & Learning Style

Diploma

Focus: Practical skills, job training
Internship: Most courses include internship
Teaching: Group work, projects, class tests
Graduation: Complete all subjects & internship

Degree

Focus: Academic knowledge, theory
Internship: Some courses include internship
Teaching: Reports, research papers, theory exams
Graduation: Complete all courses + thesis/project

Summary: Prefer hands-on? Choose Diploma. Good at reading, writing, research? Choose Degree.

3. Career Opportunities

Diploma

Direct entry to workforce (technical/assistant roles)
Fields: admin, hotel, IT, mechanical, education assistant
Starting salary: RM1,800 - RM2,500
Can continue to Degree (credit transfer)

Degree

Higher positions: supervisor, manager, engineer, doctor, etc.
Preferred by MNCs, government, listed companies
Starting salary: RM2,800 - RM3,800 or higher
Can pursue Master's, PhD

4. Further Study & Advancement

Diploma

✅ Can continue to Degree (usually enter Year 2 or 3)
Some professions limited (e.g. can't sit for law bar exam)

Degree

✅ Can continue to Master's, PhD
Most professions require Degree for registration (doctor, lawyer, accountant, etc.)

Summary: Planning to study abroad or for a Master's? Degree is recommended.

5. Cost & Time Comparison

Diploma

Duration: 2 - 2.5 years
Total Fees: RM18,000 - RM35,000
PTPTN: ✅ Available
Scholarships: ✅ Available

Degree

Duration: 3 - 4 years
Total Fees: RM35,000 - RM120,000
PTPTN: ✅ Available
Scholarships: ✅ More options

6. Which is Best for You?

Best for Diploma

Average grades, want to work soon
Limited budget, want a qualification

Best for Degree

Want government/public sector jobs
Want to be doctor, lawyer, accountant, etc.
Plan to study abroad or for Master's/PhD

7. Real Student Cases

Student A (Zhang)

SPM: 5C
Family: Middle income
Path: Diploma in Hotel Management
Now: Hotel front office, RM2,300 starting

Student B (Lee)

SPM: 7A
Goal: Engineer
Path: Foundation → Bachelor of Engineering (UM)
Now: Graduated, >RM60,000 annual salary

8. FAQ

Q1: Can I go straight to Degree after Diploma?

Yes, usually you can transfer credits and enter Year 2 or 3 of a related Degree.

Q2: Is Diploma recognized by public universities?

Most Diplomas are from private colleges. To enter public university Degree, check transfer requirements.

Q3: My grades are average and my family has financial difficulties. Can I choose Degree?

You can apply for PTPTN and scholarships. But if you want to work sooner, Diploma is more practical.

Q4: Do overseas universities accept Diploma?

Some do, but most prefer Foundation, A-Level, or STPM results.

9. Conclusion & Advice

Diploma: Practical, faster, more affordable. Best for quick employment or limited budget.
Degree: Stronger theory, broader future. Best for high academic/professional ambitions.

Still unsure about your pathway?

Jul 17,2025