Diploma in International Studies

Course Details

• Full Time
• Duration: 2+ years
• Intake Date: 29 May 2025, 03 July 2025, 25 September 2025
• Awarding Body: APU, Diploma

Admission Requirements

• General Requirements:
  • SPM: 3 Credits in at least 3 subjects including English at SPM level, with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History)
  • IGCSE/O-LEVELS: 3 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 3 subjects including English at IGCSE/O-Levels
  • UEC: 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects including English in UEC
  • CERTIFICATE: Pass relevant Certificate Programme or its equivalent
• English Requirements:
  • IELTS: 5.0
  • TOEFL IBT: 40
  • Pearson (PTE): 47
  • MUET: Band 3.5

Programme Outline

• This APU Diploma in International Studies is designed to:
  • Provide the academic aspect as well as the vocational aspects of International Studies
  • Prepare students for careers in the International Studies environment
  • Provide students with academic and professional skills to develop solutions requiring a holistic outlook in the area of International Studies
  • Provide students with critical, independent and cooperative learning skills so as to facilitate their response to continuous change in international arena
  • Develop students’ intellectual skills, communications ability and team working capability
  • Provide students with opportunity to progress into degrees of International standard in relevant areas

Semester 1

• Academic Research Skills
• Digital Thinking and Innovation
• Managing Business
• Practical IT Skills

Semester 2

• Professional Communications
• International Relations
• Critical International Film Studies
• Global Business Trends

Semester 3

• Globalisation and International Studies
• International History Since 1900
• Modern Political Ideas
• Foreign Affairs of Malaysia

Semester 4

• Introduction to International Political Economy
• People Power and Revolutions in World Politics
• Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
• Introduction to Comparative Politics
• Environment Issues and Case Studies 1

Semester 5

• Theories of International Relations
• International Organisations
• Regionalism in Southeast Asia
• Environment Issues & Case Studies 2

Semester 6 - Internship (8 weeks)

• Students will undertake an Internship/Industrial Training for a minimum period of 8 weeks to prepare them for a smooth transition from the classroom to the working environment

Further Studies

• Upon successful completion of this programme and fulfilment of requirements for credit transfer, you will be eligible to progress into Level 2 of the following degree programmes offered at APU
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Human Resource Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management

Fees & Certification

• Malaysian: RM45,200
• International: RM52,600 (USD12,235)
• MQA Cert: Programme code : (R2/0312/4/0002)(02/30)(MQA/FA4059)

Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU)

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Overview:

Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) is a private university located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is known for its diverse student body, with over half of its students coming from over 130 countries. APU focuses on technology-driven education, aiming to nurture innovation and produce graduates who can adapt and think differently.

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Services Offered:

APU offers a range of services to its students, including:

Visa Processing:

APU assists international students with their visa applications, including pre-arrival processing fees, airport assistance, and accommodation upon arrival.

Student Welcome Team:

A dedicated team welcomes and assists new students during their first few days in Malaysia and at APU.

Orientation Briefings:

Comprehensive orientation programs are provided to help students settle into the university environment, covering academic regulations, facilities, and other essential information.

Student Life Activities:

APU encourages student involvement through clubs, societies, and leadership opportunities like the Students' Representative Council and Student Ambassador program.

Part-time Working Opportunities:

On-campus part-time jobs are available for students, including library assistant, IT labs technical assistant, programmer, multimedia developer, and Student Ambassador roles.

Professional and Personal Development Workshops:

Free workshops are offered to equip students with the skills and attributes needed for successful careers.

Health Insurance:

Compulsory health insurance is provided to all international students through EMGS's insurance panel partners.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

APU fosters a vibrant and unique student life with over 60 clubs and societies. Students are encouraged to participate in social, sporting, and cultural activities on campus, building lifelong friendships and exploring new experiences.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Cosmopolitan Learning Environment:

APU's diverse student community from over 130 nations provides a truly international learning experience.

Technology-Focused Education:

APU's programs emphasize technology and innovation, preparing students for the demands of the digital age.

Affordable Living Costs:

Malaysia offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other countries, making it an attractive destination for international students.

Career-Oriented Approach:

APU focuses on developing students' professional skills and attributes, equipping them for successful careers.

Strong International Recognition:

APU's engineering degrees are internationally recognized, providing graduates with global career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

APU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Pre-University Studies:

Foundation programs, diploma programs, and certificate programs.

Undergraduate Studies:

Bachelor's degrees in Computing, Technology & Games Development, Design, Advertising, Animation & VFX, Business, Management, Marketing & Tourism, Accounting, Banking, Finance & Actuarial, Engineering, Media, International Relations & Psychology.

Postgraduate Studies:

Master's degrees and Doctor of Philosophy programs in various fields.

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Other: