Master of Science (Medical Psychology) by Research Mode is designed for individuals interested in conducting advanced research in the application of psychology to medical and healthcare settings. This research-focused program allows students to explore various psychological aspects related to health, illness, treatment processes, and healthcare practices, with the aim of improving patient care, health outcomes, and overall healthcare systems.

Students in this program can explore a variety of research topics within Medical Psychology, including:

• Psychological Aspects of Health and Illness: Examining how psychological factors influence health outcomes, chronic illnesses, pain management, and coping mechanisms.
• Mental Health and Medical Conditions: Investigating the psychological impact of medical conditions like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, etc., on patients' mental health and quality of life.
• Psychological Interventions in Healthcare: Researching the effectiveness of psychological interventions (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, stress management) in supporting patients with medical conditions.
• Health Behavior and Lifestyle: Exploring psychological factors that influence health behaviors, such as smoking cessation, exercise, diet, and adherence to medical treatment plans.
• Psychosocial Impact of Disease: Studying how diseases like HIV/AIDS, cancer, and neurological conditions impact patients' social relationships, identity, and psychological well-being.
• Psychology of Pain and Palliative Care: Researching psychological interventions for pain management, palliative care, and end-of-life issues.
• Psychosocial Factors in Healthcare Delivery: Investigating how healthcare professionals’ psychological well-being and stress affect patient care and healthcare outcomes.
• Psychological Assessment in Medical Settings: Developing and refining psychological assessment tools for use in hospitals and clinics to evaluate psychological distress, mental health, or adjustment to illness.

Expertise available in the following School:
School of Medical Sciences
https://medic.usm.my/

Applicants should possess the following:

A MBBS/MD or equivalent degree, BSc in Medical Sciences/Biotechnology/Biology/ Chemistry/Physics or other related fields from a recognised university.

A) CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00; or
B) CGPA of 2.50 - 2.74/4.00 with; or

• Research experience – 1 year; or
• Professional experience in related field- 1 year; or
• One(1) academic publication in related field; or
• Grade B for major/ elective courses; or
• Grade B+ for final year project.

C) CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49/4.00 (Honours degree) with; or

• Research experience - 5 years; or
• Professional experience in related field - 5 years, AND
• One (1) academic publications  in related field; or
• Grade B for major/elective courses; or
• Grade B+ for final year project.

(Applicable for International Applicants Only)

• A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
• A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
• A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
• A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English: Advance (CAE)/Proficiency (CPE) /Preliminary (PET) /First (FCE)/ Linguaskill Online; or
• A minimum score of 47 for Pearson Test of English (PTE); or
• A minimum of Band 107 for CIEP Level (ELS); or
• A minimum of Band 3.5 for Malaysian University English Test (MUET)

Exemption CAN BE CONSIDERED to candidate if:

• English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
• Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

• Full-time: Min 2 semesters / Max 6 semesters
• Part-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 12 semesters

** Fees are subject to change

** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

** Fees are subject to change