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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

CONTENTS

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

INTRODUCTION

This handbook provides important information for students (local and international) planning to pursue or
currently are pursuing postgraduate studies at the Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) as well as visiting and
exchange graduate students to UPM. The content covers information on admission, international
collaborative programmes, student mobility, academic matters, financial assistance, thesis, student affairs,
learning support, visa and student pass and other useful information on a range of available services and
facilities on-campus. The handbook is designed to guide students on the academic requirements and
procedures that will ensure successful completion of postgraduate studies.

The postgraduate programmes (research and coursework) included in this handbook are of doctoral
degrees and master’s degrees offered by various faculties and institutes at UPM. This handbook should be
read together with the UPM Graduate Studies Rule 2003 (Revision 2015 – 2016), individual programme
regulations and other general academic regulations set by UPM. General enquiries about the programmes
and admission can be directed to the School of Graduate Studies and the relevant faculties or institutes.

THE SGS HISTORY

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) is a service and administration centre that is established to assist
postgraduate students from admission to completion of their studies. SGS is the core support system which
helps ease and enhance the postgraduate experiences for UPM students and plays a crucial role in
fostering the relationship between UPM and its graduates.

SGS has been set up initially as a Graduate Study Unit in 1978, then progressed to become a fully
functioning Graduate School Office (GSO) in February 1993, to serve the growing population of
postgraduate students at UPM. In March 2002, it was officially renamed as the School of Graduate Studies
(SGS) which coordinates all postgraduate programmes at UPM and its related activities. SGS also plays
an active role in bolstering UPM’s status as a research university.

Among its main roles are:

i) To develop policy for the university to produce competent graduates.

ii) To cultivate and nurture a research culture through efficient and effective management of
postgraduate activities.

iii) To ensure quality of postgraduate programmes are in line with the national education standard.

iv) To increase the international student population that would contribute towards UPM’s
internationalization initiative.

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POSTGRADUATE STUDY GOVERNANCE IN UPM

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SGS’ ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

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SGS ADMINISTRATION
I. Academic Unit:

The unit provides academic services such as registration of courses, development and review of
programmes, appointment of Supervisory Committee, monitoring of student’s progress, and managing of
examination results, records, and convocation.

II. Financial Aid Unit:

This unit manages the financial assistance available for postgraduate students such as GRA, GRF, IGSS,
and PASS. The roles include advertisement of scholarship (internal and external), scholarships selection
and award, and management of contract and monthly stipends.

III. Thesis Unit:

The unit manages the process for thesis examination that includes appointment of Thesis Examination
Committee, submission of thesis to examiners, compilation of examination reports, and arrangement of
Viva Voce.

IV. Student Affairs and Media Unit:

The unit provides learning support to enhance academic development and experience of students,
oversees students’ general welfare, and manages the Pertanika Journal of Scholarly Research Reviews
(PJSRR).

V. Admission and Institutional Relations Unit:

The unit manages processing of admission applications, registration of new students and promotion of
postgraduate programmes.

The unit coordinates the linkages with international community and industry, promotes international
academic programmes and mobility, and manages financial assistance for students’ research attachment
and participation in international conference abroad.

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MANAGEMENT TEAM CONTACT DETAILS

Name Designation Telephone E-mail Office – SGS Building

Dean’s Office
dean.sgs@upm.edu.my
Prof. Dr. Zalilah Mohd Shariff Dean, SGS 03-9769 4201 1st Floor
zalilahms@upm.edu.my
Mrs. Norhasliza Hassan Chief Assistant Registrar 03-9769 8975 norhasliza_h@upm.edu.my 1st Floor
Academic & Financial Aid Unit:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nor Azowa Ibrahim Deputy Dean (Academic and Financial) 03-9769 4205 norazowa@upm.edu.my Ground Floor
Assistant Registrar
Mr. Muhammad Akees Abu Mansor 03-9769 4211 akees@upm.edu.my Ground Floor
Academic Unit
Thesis, Student Affairs & Media Unit:

Prof. Ts. Dr. Zuriati Ahmad Zukarnain Deputy Dean (Thesis, Student Affairs and Media) 03-9769 4208 zuriati@upm.edu.my 1st Floor

Sr. Assistant Registrar


Mrs. Maizatul Afzan Tajul Ariffin Thesis Unit 03-9769 4212 afzan_ariffin@upm.edu.my Ground Floor

Assistant Registrar
Mr. Mohamad Hafiz Mohamad Student Affairs and Media Unit 03- 9769 4245 mhafizm@upm.edu.my 1st Floor

Admission and Institutional Relations Unit:


Deputy Dean (Admission and Institutional
Prof. Dr. Firdaus Mukhtar Relations) 03-9769 4203 drfirdaus@upm.edu.my 1st Floor

Sr. Assistant Registrar


Mrs. Rahmawati Umar Admission Unit 03-9769 4228 rahwati@upm.edu.my 1st Floor

Assistant Registrar
Ms. Nur Nadjla Ahmad Razei 03- 9769 4216 nurnadjla@upm.edu.my 1st Floor
International Unit

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POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES

(a) Programme by Coursework

UPM offers 62 programmes by coursework at 12 faculties.

Faculty of Agriculture Faculty of Engineering


1. Master of Land Resource Management 1. Master of Communication Engineering
2. Master of Plantation Management 2. Master of Emergency Response and Planning
3. Master of Engineering Management
Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology 4. Master of Environmental Engineering
1. Master of Computer Science 5. Master of Environmental Technology Management
2. Master of Information Security 6. Master of Highway and Transportation Engineering
3. Master of Software Engineering 7. Master of Innovation and Engineering Design
8. Master of Manufacturing System Engineering
Faculty of Design and Architecture 9. Master of Process Safety and Loss Prevention
1. Master of Architecture 10. Master of Remote Sensing and GIS
2. Master of Landscape Architecture 11. Master of Structural Engineering and Constructions
3. Master of Tropical Urban Design 12. Master of Water Engineering
4. Master of Sustainable Landscape Management 13. Master of Electrical Power Engineering
Management (
Faculty of Forestry and Environment
Faculty of Economics and Management 1. Master of Environment
1. Master of Economics
2. Master of Entrepreneurship Faculty of Food Science and Technology
3. Master of Finance 1. Master of Food Technology
2. Master of Food Safety and Quality Assurance
Faculty of Educational Studies
1. Master of Education (Curriculum and Instruction) Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
2. Master of Education (Educational Administration) 1. Doctor of Public Health
3. Master of Education (Educational Psychology) 2. Master of Pathology
4. Master of Education (Guidance and Counselling) 3. Master of Medicine (Family Medicine)
5. Master of Education (Instructional Technology and 4. Master of Medicine (Family Paediatrics)
Innovation) 5. Master of Medicine (Psychiatry)
6. Master of Education (Physical Education) 6. Master of Medicine (Radiology)
7. Master of Education (Sport Science) 7. Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine)
8. Master of Education (Teaching of English as a Second 8. Master of Medicine (Anaesthesiology)
Language [TESL]) 9. Master of Public Health
9. Master of Education in Malay Language 10. Master of Surgery (Orthopaedics)
10. Master of Education (Technical and Vocational 11. Master of Surgery (General Surgery)
Education) 12. Master in Nutritional Sciences
11. Master of Human Resource Development 13. Master in Environmental and Occupational Health

Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication Faculty of Science


1. Master of Applied Linguistics 1. Master of Applied Statistics
2. Master of Corporate Communication 2. Master in Analytical Chemistry
3. Master of Malay Language 3. Master in Materials Physics
4. Master of Malay Literature 4. Master in Tropical Biology
5. Master of World Literature
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
1. Master of Veterinary Medicine

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(b) Programme by Research

UPM also offers more than 294 fields of study for programme by research.
Accounting Biodiversity and Conservation of Natural Resources
Advanced Materials Bioinformatics and System Biology
Aerospace Engineering Biomedical Engineering
Agribusiness Biopolymer, Pulp and Paper Technology
Agricultural Economics Bioresource and Technology
Agricultural Extension Bioresource Management
Agricultural Genomics Biotherapeutics
Agricultural Mechanization and Automation Business Economics
Agricultural Policy Business Law
Agricultural Process Engineering Cancer Biology and Oncology
Agricultural Technology Catalysis
Agricultural Waste Engineering Cell Biotechnology
Agronomy Chemical Engineering
Anesthesiology and Analgesic Chemical Pathology
Analytical and Structural Mathematics Chinese Literature
Analytical Chemistry Clinical Nutrition
Anatomy and Histology Clinical Pathology
Animal Behavior and Welfare Clinical Psychology (PhD Only)
Animal Biotechnology Communication Technology
Animal Nutrition Community Development
Animal Physiology Community Education and Development
Animal Production Community Nutrition
Animal Science Computable Structures and Scientific Computing
Animal Waste Management Computational Electromagnetics
Animal Welfare Computational Mathematics
Applied and Computational Statistics Computational Methods in Engineering
Applied Comparative Linguistics Computational Operations Research
Applied Mathematics Computer and Embedded Systems Engineering
Applied Physics Computer Networks
Aquaculture Consumer Science
Aquainformatics Control System Engineering
Aquaculture Biotechnology Corporate Leadership
Aquaculture Engineering Curriculum and Instruction
Aquatic Animal Health Database Systems
Aquatic Biotechnology Development Communication
Arabic Language Developmental Psychology
Architecture Studies Discourse Studies
Automotive Engineering Ecology
Avian Medicine Economics
Bacteriology Education in Malay Language
Biochemical Engineering Educational Administration
Biochemistry Educational Psychology
Biocomposite Technology and Design Educational Technology
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Electrical Engineering
Electrical Power Engineering Green Engineering
Energy Guidance and Counselling
English Language Halal Products Development
English Literature Halal Products Management
Entomology Halal Products Science
Environmental Biotechnology Health Education and Communication
Environmental Economics, Planning and Management Health Promotion

Environmental Education and Ethics Health Service Management

Environmental Engineering Hematology

Environmental Health Highway and Transportation Engineering

Environmental Hydrology and Hydrogeology History and Philosophy of Mathematics

Environmental Policy and Governance Horticulture

Environmental Pollution Control Technology Hospitality

Environmental Quality and Conservation Housing Studies

Environmental System and Modeling Human Anatomy

Enzyme Biotechnology Human Communication

Epidemiology and Biostatistics Human Computer Interaction

Epidemiology and Public Health Human Development

Equine Medicine Human Genetics

Ethnomathematics Human Physiology

Extension Education Human Resource Development

Family Ecology Human Resource Management

Family Economics and Management Immunobiology

Farm Structures Immunopharmacology

Finance Industrial Biotechnology

Financial Mathematics Industrial Design Studies

Fisheries Science Industrial Engineering

Fishery Science Information Systems

Fluid Dynamics Inorganic Chemistry

Food Biotechnology Instructional Technology and Innovation

Food Engineering Integrated Design Studies

Food Management Intelligent Systems

Food Safety Journalism

Food Science Laboratory Animal Medicine

Food Security and Climate Change Land Resource Management

Food Service Landscape Studies

Food Technology Leadership Studies

Forensic Science Literacy Studies

Forest Management and Ecosystem Sciences Literary and Cultural Studies

Gender and Development Malay Language

Genetics Malay Literature

Genetics and Breeding Management

Geographic Information System (GIS) Manufacturing Systems Engineering


Geospatial Engineering Mariculture

Geotechnical and Geological Engineering Marine and Freshwater Ecosystem

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Gerontechnology Marine Biology


Marine Ecology and Biodiversity Pharmacology and Toxicology
Marketing Philosophy and Civilization Studies
Mass Communication Photonics Engineering
Materials Engineering Physical Chemistry
Materials Science Physical Education
Mathematic Cryptography Physics
Mathematical and Computational Biology Phytochemistry
Mathematical Cryptography Plant Biotechnology
Mathematical Physics and Engineering Plant Pathology
Mathematics Education Plant Physiology
Mechanical Engineering Plant Science
Medical Biotechnology Plantation Technology
Medical Gerontology Politics and Government
Medical Microbiology Post-Harvest Technology
Medical Parasitology Project Management
Medical Sciences Psychological Medicine
Medicinal Chemistry Psychology of Child Development
Metabolomics Public Health
Microbial Biotechnology Pure Mathematics
Microbiology Radiology and Imaging
Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Remote Sensing
Molecular Biotechnology Ruminant Medicine
Molecular Imaging Rural Advancement
Molecular Medicine Safety, Health and Emergency Management
Moral Education Security in Computing
Multimedia Computing Sensor Technology
Music Shariah and Halal Laws
Nano Biotechnology Signal Processing
Nanomedicine Small Animal Medicine
Nanoscience Social Gerontology
Nanotechnology Social Psychology
Natural Resource Policy Sociology of Education
Neuroscience Software Engineering
Numerical Analysis Soil and Water Engineering
Nursing Soil Science
Nutrition Sport Science
Nutritional Sciences Statistics
Occupational Health and Safety Stem Cell
Organic Chemistry Structural Biology
Organizational Communication Structural Engineering
Packaging Engineering Surgery
Parallel and Distributed Computing Sustainable Plantation Management
Parasitology Sustainable Recreation and Ecotourism
Pathology Swine Medicine
Persian Language Teaching of English as a Second Language

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Pest Management Teaching of Malay Literature


Technical and Vocational Education Vaccine and Therapeutics
Theoretical and Computational Chemistry Virology
Theoretical and Computational Physics Water Resources Engineering
Theriogenology and Crytogenetics Weed Science
Tourism Wildlife and Exotic Animal Health
Translation and Interpretation Wildlife Ecology and Management
Tropical Rainforest Ecosystem Services Wireless Communication and Networks Engineering
Urban Planning and Design Youth Studies

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(c) UPM International Collaborative Programme

(d) PhD by Industry

PhD by Industry offers an alternative route for industry practitioners who wish to pursue a doctorate
degree without leaving their workplace. There is a wide range of fields of study available that
students can choose from particularly in engineering, business and economics, agriculture, food
technology, computer science, biotechnology, etc.

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SERVICES PROVIDED BY SGS

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(a) Admission

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(b) English Language Requirement

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(c) Registration Flow for New Postgraduate Students

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(d) Visa and Student Pass

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1. How do I apply for a postgraduate programme at UPM?


Application for postgraduate programme at UPM is via online at
http://sgsportal.upm.edu.my:8080/sgsportal/. Prior to application for admission, prospective
student is strongly advised to visit the website of School of Graduate Studies for more information
at http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/prospective_students-2964.

2. When can I submit my application for admission to UPM?


Application for admission is open throughout the year and UPM offers 2 intakes per year i.e.
September (First Semester) and February (Second Semester). If you miss the closing date of
application for admission into a semester, your application for admission is automatically
transferred to the following semester.

3. What is the minimum academic admission requirement for Master’s or PhD programme in
UPM?
Generally, UPM requires a CGPA of 3.00/4.00. However, admission into the programme is also
subject to requirements specified by the faculty / institute (refer to the faculty’s / institute’s website)

4. I have a Higher National Diploma (HND). Can I use this to apply for a Master’s programme at
UPM?
No. UPM only accepts a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programme.

5. I am in my final semester of undergraduate programme. Can I apply for admission for


postgraduate study at UPM?
Yes. A final year student of undergraduate programme can apply provided his current CGPA meets
the programme admission requirement.

6. How do I find a research supervisor for my study programme?


You can identify a potential research supervisor from the faculty’s or SGS’s website. There is a
‘List of Experts’ listed under each fields of study offered by the Faculty / Institute. If you are not able
to identify a research supervisor, the faculty will assign one for you.

7. I have received an offer letter to study at UPM next semester. Can I defer for one semester?
Yes. You can defer to the following semester by replying to the offer via online.

8. I was terminated from my study programme at UPM? Can I re-apply?


Yes. The criterion for application is as follows:

Type of Programme Criterion


Same programme/field of study 2 Semesters after being terminated
Different programme/field of study The following semester

You can use the same username and password for application at
http://sgsportal.upm.edu.my:8080/sgsportal/.

9. I am an international student and I took an IELTS 6 years ago. Is the test score still valid to
be used for my application for admission?
No. The validity period for IELTS or any other English Language Proficiency Test score which is
equivalent to CEFR should not be more than 5 years.

10. I am an international student with a degree from a Malaysian university. Can I be exempted
from English requirement for admission into postgraduate programme at UPM?
Yes. An applicant with a degree from any public / private university in Malaysia shall not be subject
to the English language proficiency requirement.

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11. I do not have any IELTS / TOEFL. Can I still apply to UPM?
Yes. If you meet the academic admission requirements, you will be granted a provisional offer
letter. However, you still need to fulfill the English language requirement before you can register in
the programme.

12. Can I take English programme at UPM if my IELTS / TOEFL does not meet the language
requirement?
Yes. You can join the Postgraduate Intensive English programme at the Centre for the
Advancement of Language Competence (CALC) or Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP)
at ELS Centre. For more information, please refer to this link:
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/content/english_language_requirement-40581

13. What documents should I bring to UPM for registration of new postgraduate students?
You must bring the original and photocopy of certificate and transcript of Bachelor and/or Master’s
degree, identification document, English language proficiency test score and other related
documents and forms as listed in the registration checklist:
http://reg.upm.edu.my/eISO/docs/2017061616364220170620PU-S-BR02-GS-04d%20(1).pdf

14. I have arrived at UPM to register as a new postgraduate student, but I have not applied for
VAL. Can I still register?
No. An international student must have a valid VAL to proceed with programme registration. You
are advised to contact Putra International Centre for more information or refer to
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/content/visa_and_pass-40593

15. I have just finished my Master’s programme in a Malaysian university and I have been
offered a PhD programme at UPM. Do I need to go back to my home country to apply for
VAL?
Generally, if you finish your Master’s programme less than 2 months before registration of PhD
programme, you can proceed with the registration without leaving Malaysia. For more information,
please refer to Putra International Centre at http://www.intl.upm.edu.my/.

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(e) Registration and Candidature

1) How to apply for a Supervisory Committee nomination?


 You may apply for a Supervisory Committee nomination by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> GS10a –> Fill the form
- Choose the supervisor’s name
- State the role of the main supervisor
- State the adding members of supervisory committee
- Submit the application.
 The application must be:
- Recommended by the main supervisor/ members of the supervisory committee
and supported by the faculty.
- Approved by the JKPSU
• The application must be made within the first semester of study.
• Refer to Section 35, 36, and 37 UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-
2016) for more info.

2) How to apply for reconstitution of Supervisory Committee or appoint external


supervisor?
 You may apply for change of supervisor by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> GS10b –> Change Supervisor
- Choose the external supervisor’s name or new supervisor name
- The external supervisor’s CV must be provided to the faculty and SGS.
- State the role of the new external supervisor (You may need to see the Change
Role of Supervisors section).
- State the justification for adding new supervisor.
- Submit the application.
 The application must be:
- Recommended by the main supervisor/ members of the supervisory committee
and supported by the faculty.
- Approved by the JKPSU.
 The application must be made within the first seven weeks of the semester. Application
must be made not more than 3 semesters for Master and 5 semesters for PhD.
 Refer to Section 39 and 40, UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016).

3) How to defer my study?


 You may apply for Deferment of Study by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> Deferment of Study (GS07)
- State the deferment reason.
- Upload the written approval letter by the sponsor (only for sponsored student by
KKM).
- Recommended by supervisor and supported by faculty.
- Approved by SGS

4) Will the deferred number of semesters be counted into the period of study?
 No, the number of semesters deferred will not be considered in the calculation of study
duration.

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5) What are the consequences of a deferment?


 For international students, the visa will be revoked and they must leave the country.
 The student will not be allowed to use UPM’s facilities.

6) How do I change my programme/field of study?


 You may apply for change of programme/field of study by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> Transfer (GS08)
- Click New Application
- State the justification for change the programme.
- Submit the application.
 The application must be made within seven (7) weeks of the current semester.
 The application must be recommended by supervisors (current and new – if applicable)
and supported by both faculties/institutes (current and new).
 Refer to Section 27, UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016) for more
info.

7) I am a Master by research student. I would like to convert my Master to a PhD level. How
do I do that?
• You may apply for conversion if you fulfil conversion requirement:
(a) have completed at least two (2) semesters or one (1) year but not more than
four (4) semesters or two (2) years of the Master’s degree programme;
(b) have completed the coursework requirements of the Faculty/Institute and
obtained a minimum CGPA of 3.670 (if applicable).
(c) have published or show proof of acceptance of an article in a refereed journal
or its equivalent (e.g. book chapter) based on research done during candidacy;
(d) submit an extended research proposal that meets the scope of a PhD degree;
(e) have passed the conversion examination.

 If qualified, the conversion process is as below:


- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> Conversion (GS09)
- Submit the application.
- The application must be:
 Recommended by the main supervisor/ members of supervisory committee.
 the faculty must arrange for the evaluation process comprises of appointment
of Independent Committee for Conversion to access both written and oral
examination
 Supported by the faculty.
 Approved by the JKPSU.
 Refer to Section 28 UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016) for more
info.

8) I am a full-time student. What do I have to do to become a part time student?


• You may apply for change of type registration by:
- Login SGS Web Site
- Click Useful Information –> Part Time Mode
- Submit the application.
- Recommended by supervisor and endorsed by faculty.
Note: International Students are NOT allowed to change their type of registration.

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9) This is my last semester, but I need more time to complete my thesis. How to apply for
extension?
• You may apply for extension beyond the maximum study period by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form –> Extension of Study Period
- State the reason why you have to extend especially the progress of your
study/thesis.
- Submit the application.
• The application must be:
- Recommended the main supervisor/ member of the supervisory committee and
supported by the faculty
- Endorsed by SGS
• The application must be made within four (4) weeks of the maximum semester.
• Maximum period of extension is 3 semesters for Master’s and PhD students but each
application will be approved only for one semester.
• Refer to Section 10 UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016) for more
info.

10) How to Add / Drop Courses?


• You may apply for Add/Drop Courses by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Registration –> Add/Drop Course
- Click Add or Drop relevant course
• The application is subject to the minimum and maximum credit allowed for a student.
• Student must add course within two (2) weeks of the semester.
• Student may drop course within seven (7) weeks of the semester.
• Refer to Section 26 UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016) for more
info.

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(a) Assessment

1) How do I submit progress report GS11 (SPS5999/6999)?


 You may submit for progress report GS11 by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> Progress Report (GS11)
- Click New Progress
- Complete the report based on research done every semester.
- Submit the application.
 The progress report must be submitted before the deadline stated in the current
academic calendar.
 The report must be recommended by the Chairman of Supervisory Committee/Advisor
and supported by the faculty/institute.
 Refer to Section 20 (iv), UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016) for
more info.

2) How do I apply for Review Against Termination?


 You may apply for Review Against Termination by:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> Review Against Termination (RAT) (GS13b)
- Click New Application
- Complete the form and provide the justification for RAT.
- Submit the application.
 The application must be made within two (2) weeks after the current semester result is
endorsed by Senate.
 The application must be recommended by the Chairman of Supervisory
Committee/Programme Coordinator and supported by the faculty/institute.
 Refer to Section 54 (iii) and 55, UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-
2016) for more info.

3) I have completed all the courses. What should I do to confirm my graduation?


 For graduation confirmation, please follow the process below:
- Login to Student Portal
- Click Form–> Study Scheme (GS05b) –> Graduation form (GS17)
- Click New Application
- Submit the application.
- Make a payment of RM200 for Graduation Fees
 The application must be made within two (2) weeks after the result for current semester
is announced.
 The application must be recommended by Programme Coordinator and supported by
the faculty.
 The Senate letter and transcript can be collected at the SGS in 7 days after Senate
endorsement.
 Refer to Section 57, UPM Rules 2003 (Graduate Studies) revision 2015-2016) for more
info.

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THESIS EXAMINATION PROCESS

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1) When should I apply for Notification of thesis submission?


Notification of Thesis Submission must be made at least 3 months before thesis submission.

2) What are the requirements for Notice of Thesis Submission?


i. Study status must be “Continue”
ii. Passed all compulsory courses with a minimum CGPA of 3.00
iii. Appointment of Supervisory Committee
iv. Passed Comprehensive Examination (CE) for PhD programme
v. Settled all outstanding fees.

3) What is the process for Notice of Thesis Submission?


i. Complete GS-14a form online through student portal.
ii. Print the form and get endorsement from the supervisory committee and the
faculty/institute.
iii. Submit the form to the faculty/institute together with thesis abstract and table of contents.

4) How long should I wait to submit my thesis for examination after submission of GS-14a?
You must submit within 6 months after submission of GS-14a. After submission of GS-14a, your
faculty/institute will recommend the Thesis Examination Committee to the University for
approval. The examination committee must fulfill the criteria set forth by the University.

5) What should I do before submitting my thesis for examination?


i. Complete GS-15a form online through student portal.
ii. Print the form and get endorsement from the supervisory committee and the
faculty/institute.
iii. Submit the form to SGS, together with 4 (for PhD)/3 (for Master) hard copies of thesis

6) How much tuition fee do I have to pay after thesis submission?


Your tuition fee after thesis submission is RM400 (for local student)/RM450 (for international
student). However full fees will be charged if submission is made after the deadline.

7) How long do I have to wait before the examination take place?


The examination usually take place within 3 months after thesis submission. You will be notified
if the examination is delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.

8) What if I need longer time to do my thesis corrections?


Students must apply for extension in writing to the Dean of SGS through the Chairman of the
Supervisory Committee should they require a longer time. Failure to submit thesis within the
prescribed time, will result in termination of student candidature.

9) Can I submit thesis without any journal publication?


Yes you can. However, you are required to show proof of publication or acceptance of journal
articles when you submit the corrected thesis after viva. The Senate will endorse the conferment
of a Master’s or PhD degree once all requirements for graduation (including publication) have
been fulfilled.

10) What are the alternative formats for thesis?


There are 3 styles of thesis format:

(i) Style 1 – Conventional Format


(See Appendices F1 and F2 in Guide to Thesis Preparation)
Chapter Item
1 Introduction (including objectives)
2 Literature Review
3 Materials and Methods/Methodology
4 Results/Findings
5 Discussion
6 Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations for Future Research

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(ii) Style 2 – Conventional Format


(See Appendices F3 and F4 in Guide to Thesis Preparation)

Chapter Item
1 Introduction (including objectives). The relationship between the research
chapters should also be explained in this chapter.
2 Literature Review
#3-5 Research chapters. Each chapter represents a separate study that has its
own Introduction (including objectives), Materials and Methods/Methodology,
Results/Findings,* Discussion,* and Conclusion
6 Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations for Future Research

* Results/Findings may be combined with Discussion in a single chapter for Style 1, or as


a sub-heading within a research chapter for Style 2.
# More of these chapters may be added if necessary.

(iii) Style 3 – Alternative Thesis Format


(See Appendices F5a and F5b in Guide to Thesis Preparation)

Chapter Item
1 General Introduction
2 Literature Review
3 Materials and Methods/Methodology
4-7 *Article 1 – 4
 Copyright Permission/Acceptance Letter
8 Conclusion
 Summary and Link to Articles
 Significant Findings/Contribution
 Recommendations

* A minimum of two (2) articles are required for a Master’s thesis, and four (4) for a PhD
thesis. Data published in the articles must not overlap.
* Articles accepted/published must be original and should normally be in citation-
indexed journals. Review articles are not considered as articles that count towards
thesis submission.

11) I received a letter from a publisher who wants to publish my thesis as a book. What should
I do?
The intellectual property from the thesis and copyright of thesis are fully-owned by Universiti
Putra Malaysia in accordance to the Universiti Putra Malaysia (Research) Rules 2012. The
publisher must obtain written permission from supervisor and the Office of Deputy Vice-
Chancellor (Research and Innovation) before the thesis can be published in any form.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(i) Financial Assistance

1. Where can I get information on financial assistance / scholarships?


The Financial Aid Unit, SGS will be able to assist or visit the SGS website:
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/financial_assistance_scholarships-1893 . All scholarship are
subject to availability of funds and details given here are subject to change at any time. Potential
applicants are urged to check information regularly for current procedures and deadlines.

2. When are the application deadlines?


Students may refer to the advertisement posted in the SGS website for the application deadline.
Applications submitted after the deadlines will not be considered.

3. How do I apply?
Application instruction is provided in the scholarships advertisement which can be found at
(https://sgs.upm.edu.my/financial_assistance_scholarships-1893) or in printed materials
distributed to the faculty/institute. Please read and follow the instructions carefully. If you need
any assistance, please email to zainaf@upm.edu.my.

4. What types of financial assistance are available for the graduate students?
No. Local Students: No. International Students:
1 Graduate Research Fellowships 1 International Graduate Research
(GRF) Fellowships (IGRF)
2 Graduate Research Assistantships 2 Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)
(GRA)
3 Special Graduate Research 3 Special Graduate Research Allowance
Allowance (SGRA) (SGRA)
4 International Graduate Student Scholarship
(IGSS)
5 Putra Alumni Scholarship Scheme (PASS)

Other Sponsorships Website

Khazanah Foundation: https://www.yayasankhazanah.com.my/scholarship/k


hazanah-watan-scholarship-programme
PTPTN (Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan http://www.ptptn.gov.my/
Tinggi Nasional)
Organization for Women in Science for The https://owsd.net/career-development/phd-fellowship
Developing World (OWSD)
Human Life Advancement Foundation (HLAF) https://www.hlaf.org.my/scholarships.html
Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate https://www.searca.org/scholarship/graduate-
Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) scholarship

Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships https://www.acu.ac.uk/funding-opportunities/for-


students/scholarships/queen-elizabeth-
commonwealth-scholarships/

5. What are the general criteria for application of financial assistance / scholarships?
a) Registered as a UPM student;
b) Current status of study must be in ‘Good Standing’; status of ‘Probation’ or ‘Defer’
are not eligible to apply;
c) Successful applicant is not allowed to receive any other financial support or
scholarship/fellowship and should not be engaged in any type of employment.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

6. Summary of Scholarship/Financial Assistance available under UPM’s sponsorship:


CGPA Monthly
No. Scheme: Program of Study: Duration: Tuition Fees-waived: Others:
requirement: Stipend:
1. Graduate  Masters (research) or Masters: Science/Technical: Masters: Partial waiver:  Masters students must have one (1)
Research PhD per CGPA at RM1,000.00  Masters: RM1,200 journal article published or accepted
Fellowships  Masters not > 4 semester Bachelor’s: 3.000 & (medicine), RM900 in JCR;
(GRF) semesters > PhD: (science), RM700 and PhD students must have two (2)
 PhD not > 6 semesters PhD: RM1,300.00 (humanities). journal articles published or accepted
 Not Split program per  PhD: RM1,600 at least one (1) in Q1 or Q2 journal
semester Arts/ Social (medicine), RM1,400 before completing the study &
Science: CGPA at (science), RM1,200 allowed to graduate.
Bachelor’s: (humanities)  To assist in teaching, tutorial,
3.500 & > practical activities, lab works,
supervising final year bachelor
students.
 NOT exceeding 6 hrs per week
including semester breaks.
 To record daily attendance at
Faculty/Institute.
 Is allowed to take a max of 2 days
leave per month with approval by
Supervisor.
 Absence shall be deducted RM77/-
per day. Absent for 10 days or more,
are not eligible for allowance for the
month.
2. International PhD only PhD: Science/Technical: PhD: Partial waiver:  Students must have at least two (2)
Graduate per CGPA at RM1,300.00 PhD: RM1,600 journal articles published or accepted
Research  Candidate must be at end semester Bachelor’s: 3.000 & (medicine), RM1,400 in Q1 or Q2 journal.
Fellowships of 2nd semester of PhD > (science), RM1,200  Must have a research proposal
(IGRF) program. (humanities) approved by supervisor.
 Not enrolled on split Arts/ Social  Must have progress report from
postgrad. Program. Science: CGPA at supervisor.
Bachelor’s: 3.500 &
>  Supporting Documents:
o Letter from Embassy verifying
that applicant is not a recipient of
any financial assistance from any
agencies or gov’t.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

3. Graduate  Masters (research) or Duration of  RM1,125 (3 Partial waiver:  Research grants balance of at least
Research PhD research teaching Masters: RM1,200 RM10k.
Assistantships  Masters not > 4 project. hrs/week) (medicine), RM900  Applicant nominated/ approved by
(GRA) semesters  RM1,300 (4 (science), RM700 Head of Research Project & Dean of
 PhD not > 6 semesters teaching (humanities). Faculty/Inst.
hrs/week) PhD: RM1,600  Students receiving this scheme are
 RM1,500 (6 (medicine), RM1,400 required to assist in teaching/
teaching (science), RM1,200 tutoring and or demonstrating as
hrs/week) (humanities) agreed accordingly.

4. Special  Masters (research) or Duration of Masters: No waiver  Students receiving this scheme are
Graduate PhD research RM1,800.00 not required to assist in teaching/
Research project. tutoring and or demonstrating BUT
Allowance  Master: Max 6 semester PhD: shall assist in research works as
(SGRA)  PhD: Max 10 semester RM2,300.00 instructed by the supervisor.
 Research grants balance of at least
RM10k
 Applicant nominated/ approved by
Head of Research Project & Dean
of Faculty.
5. International  PhD only Up to 6  CGPA Masters 30% of tuition fees  Has published at least 1 article in an
Graduate semesters 3.50 and > waived. academic journal and or has received
Student of study strong recommendation from
Scholarship subject to institutions.
(IGSS) annual  Priority to applicants from academic
review of staff members of institutions which
academic have MoUs with UPM
progress.  Supporting Documents: Letter from
Embassy verifying that applicant is not
a recipient of any financial assistance
from any agencies or gov’t.
6. Putra Alumni  Program by research only Up to 2 Bachelor or UPM Alumni’s children:  Recipient must graduate on time
Scholarship years for Master’s degree up to 50% tuition fee (GOT).
Scheme (PASS) Master & 3 with minimum waive.
years for CGPA of 3.500 UPM Alumni: 10%
PhD tuition fee waive.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(j) International Collaborative Programme (ICP)

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

1) What is the difference between Dual and Joint degree programme?


For a Dual degree, upon graduation student will get two certificates issued by each university.
A linking statement is stated on both certificates that the degree was obtained through a
collaboration between the two universities.

For a Joint degree, upon graduation student will get only one certificate with both universities’
logo on the certificate.

2) What are the entry requirements?


The entry requirements are shown below:

Minimum Entry Additional


Programme English Requirements
Requirement Requirements
PhD A First Class Bachelor Fulfil other  550 for the TOEFL Paper-based Test
degree or Master Degree academic (Academic Version); or
or its equivalent programme  Band 6.0 for IELTS (Academic
Master A Bachelor’s degree in a requirements as Training); or
relevant field with a specified by the
minimum CGPA of 3.000 relevant faculty  79-80 for TOEFL Internet-based Test
or its equivalent or institute (Academic Version); or
 Level 109 for CIEP at ELS Language
Centre;
 Any other English language
proficiency test equivalent to B2 of the
Common European Framework of
Reference for Languages (CEFR)

3) Is this a full-time or a part-time programme?


This is a full-time programme.

4) What is the duration of the programme?

Programme Duration
Master 1-3 years (2 – 6 semesters)
PhD 2-5 years (4 - 10 semesters)

5) Do I need to register as a student with the partner university where UPM signed the
ICP agreement?
Yes, you need to register in person at the partner University.

6) How long do I need to spend at the partner University?


In general, the minimum duration is 6 months for Master and 12 months for PhD. However,
for some ICP programmes different minimum duration is imposed:

University Master PhD


Kyushu Institute of Technology 1 year 2 years
Sharif University of Technology 1 year 2 years
University of Alberta - 6 months

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

7) What are the programme requirements that I should fulfil?


The followings are the programme requirements:
(a) Register as a full-time student every semester at both universities. UPM requires that
students register every semester and pay the fees at the beginning of the semester
unless stated otherwise.
(b) Complete Seminar, Malay language and compulsory coursework [six (6) credit for
Master / nine (9) credit for PhD)] including Research Methodology.
(c) Complete other courses as required by the faculty or supervisory committee;
(d) Nominate the members of supervisory committee. The supervisor at the host university
must be included when nomination is submitted to SGS.
(e) Submit progress report (GS-11) at the end of every semester. The progress report must
be presented to both supervisors prior to submission to SGS.
(f) Pass the Comprehensive Examination within 4 semesters of enrolment (PhD students
only). The process can be done either at UPM or partner university subject to agreement
by both supervisors.
(g) Produce a thesis and defend it in the oral examination (viva voce). For double degree,
two theses will be required and two vivas will be conducted.
(h) Produce journal papers (1 paper accepted/published for Master / 2 papers
accepted/published for PhD).

8) How will the viva be conducted?


For dual/joint degree, in general only one viva will be conducted, either at UPM or partner
university. The examination process will be arranged by the university where the thesis is
submitted. A joint Examination Committee will be formed which consist of 1 examiner from
UPM, 1 examiner from the host university and 1 examiner from independent university.
However, the viva for Joint PhD programme with University of Newcastle, Australia will be
conducted at UPM and therefore the thesis must also be submitted to UPM.

For Double Degree, the student will be required to produce two theses. One thesis will be
submitted to UPM and partner university. Each university will form a separate Joint
Examination Committee to examine the thesis.

9) How can I apply for this programme?


There are two options available:

Option 1: Apply the normal programme via http://sgsportal.upm.edu.my:8080/sgsportal/ and


convert to ICP programme within 1 year of enrolment.

Option 2: Download and complete the ICP Application form from SGS’ website at
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/programme_of_study/upm_international_collaborative_program
me_upm_icp/dual_joint_degree_programme-30853 and submit to Admission and Institutional
Relations Unit at: sgs_intl.programme@upm.edu.my

Note:

i) The admission approval process for ICP programme may take 1- 3 months as the process
requires approval from the two universities.
ii)
iii) The faster route is to apply for a normal programme and later convert to ICP programme.
iv) The application is open throughout the year. However, there are only two intakes per year
which is in September (First Semester) and February (Second semester).
v) For ICP programme with universities in Canada, UK and Australia, any interested applicant
must identify potential supervisor in UPM and in the partner university. Both supervisors
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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

must have agreed to collaborate as supervisors to supervise the project proposed by the
applicants.

10) What are the documents required to apply for the programme?
The documents required to apply for the UPM ICP programme are:
 A certified copy of Bachelor / Master degree certificate;
 A certified copy of Bachelor / Master degree transcript;
 A certified copy of Identification Card/Passport;
 A certified copy of TOEFL/IELTS result(s)
 Research proposal;
 Letter of scholarship/sponsorship award (if any);
 Passport-sized photograph.
 Proof of processing fee payment of RM60.00 (for local applicants) or USD60.00
(international applicants). For method of payment, please visit:
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/content/methods_of_payment-30092.

11) How much is the programme fee?


Programme Fees at UPM Fees at Partner University
UPM-University of For UPM students, UPM standard fees will be charged for Tuition fee at UoN is waived.
Newcastle (UoN) Australia the whole duration of study and paid to UPM only.
UPM–University of Alberta Tuition fee will be paid by the
(UAlberta), Canada host supervisor at UAlberta.
PhD Amount Per Semester (RM)
UPM–Maejo University Local Students RM 3,550.00  Thai & Malaysian students will
(MJU), Thailand be charged at the local rate.
UPM-Prince of Songkla International Students RM 8,100.00 
University (PSU), Thailand  Students from other countries
will be charged at the
UPM–Kasetsart University international rate.
(KU), Thailand Master PhD
Students
Cluster (RM) Per (RM) Per
semester semester
Local Science 2,750.00 3,550.00
(Thai &
Social
Malaysian 2,450.00 3,050.00
Science
Students)
Science 6,600.00 8,100.00
Social
International 5,850.00 7,100.00
Science
UPM–Naresuan University
(NU), Thailand
UPM-University of Science USC standard fees will be
and Culture (USC), Iran Amount Per Semester (RM) charged.
Students
Master’s PhD
Local 2,750.00 3,550.00
International 6,600.00 8,100.00

Ataturk University, Turkey Tuition fee at Ataturk


University is waived.
PhD Amount Per Semester (RM)
Local Students RM 3,550.00
International RM 8,100.00
Students

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

Kyushu Institute of Tuition fee at KYUTECH is


Technology, Japan Master PhD waived.
Students
Cluster (RM) Per (RM) Per
semester semester
Science 2,750.00 3,550.00
Local
Social
2,450.00 3,050.00
Science
Science 6,600.00 8,100.00
International Social
5,850.00 7,100.00
Science

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(k) PhD by Industry


1) I am a government staff. Can I enrol into this programme?
This programme is only open for those from the industry. Civil servants or staff from private
college / university are not eligible to apply.

2) Is this a full-time or a part-time programme?


This is a full-time programme.

3) What is the duration to complete this programme?


The duration is 2-5 years (4 – 10 semesters)

4) Do I have to leave the workplace to attend classes for this programme?


You are still required to attend classes for the compulsory courses like research methodology,
seminar and Malay language (international students only). However, the courses may be
offered in an intensive mode.

5) When can I apply for PhD by Industry programme?


The application is open throughout the year via http://sgsportal.upm.edu.my:8080/sgsportal/.
However, there are only two intakes per year which is in September (First Semester) and
February (Second semester).

6) What are the documents required to apply for the programme?


Submit your application to UPM through the UPM online application system at
http://sgsportal.upm.edu.my:8080/sgsportal/Admission/RegisterApplicant.jsp. The following
documents must be uploaded when application is made:

 A certified copy of Master’s degree certificate;


 A certified copy of Master’s degree transcript;
 A certified copy of Identification Card/Passport;
 A certified copy of TOEFL/IELTS result(s) – International candidates only
 Research proposal;
 Supporting letter from employer;
 Letter of scholarship/sponsorship award/proof of financial ability to pay fees to UPM;
 Passport-sized photograph.
 The proof of processing fee payment of RM60.00 (for local applicants) or USD60.00
(international applicants). For method of payment, please visit:
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/content/methods_of_payment-30092.

7) Can I apply for this programme if I do not have a Master’s degree?


No, you cannot unless you secured a first-class Bachelor degree.

8) What should be included in the supporting letter from my employer?


The supporting letter should include the following:
i) that the company allows and acknowledges your application to join the PhD by Industry
programme in UPM;
ii) that the company will provide you with necessary support (facilities, funding to conduct
research, etc).

9) How much is the programme fee?


The fee is RM5,550.00/semester (local student) or RM8,100.00/semester (International
student)

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10) Why is the fee so expensive as compared to normal PhD programme?


Your Main Supervisor from UPM will make regular visits to your workplace. The cost of his /
her visit is included in the fee.

11) Can I choose my Industrial Supervisor from another company?


Yes, you can but the person must be from the same industry and meet the criteria set by the
University.

12) What are the roles and responsibilities of an Industrial Supervisor?


The Industrial Supervisor is responsible to assist the Main Supervisor from UPM to supervise
your research work at the workplace.

13) What if the Industrial Supervisor is relocated/resigned from his/her current


responsibilities?
You need to appoint a new supervisor with your employer's approval and supported by your
Main Supervisor from UPM.

14) What if I change the company or relocated to a different location?


Your Industrial Supervisor can remain the same. However, a new agreement needs to be
signed with your new company and your previous company needs to issue a withdrawal letter
to indicate that it agrees to release its rights. If there is any conflict, it must be resolved before
UPM issues a letter agreeing to the change and your research will be put on hold until the
issue is resolved.

15) What happen if the company that I am working for ceased its operation?
You need to switch to a normal PhD programme. If you choose to continue with PhD Industry
programme, item 14 above is applied.

16) Normal PhD vs PhD by Industry

NORMAL PHD PHD BY INDUSTRY

Research topic can be anything related to the area Focus of the research is based on industrial issues or
of study problems

Research can be conducted anywhere Research must be conducted at workplace / industry

Not necessarily employed Must be currently employed by a private company

Everyone is eligible to apply Civil servant, private college/university staff are not
eligible to apply

UPM standard rate will be charged (according to RM5,550 (local) / RM8,100 (international)
the cluster of fields of study)

No agreement required MoA / MoU / LoI is required between UPM, student and
employer.

Minimum residential requirement is four (4) Minimum residential requirement for at least one month
semesters or two (2) years throughout study period

Intellectual property (IP) – 100% belongs to UPM Intellectual property (IP) – some percentage belongs to
company

Support from UPM only (financially or Support from the company / industry (financially or
academically) academically)

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(l) Learning Support (Putra Sarjana)


The Putra Sarjana is designed to help graduates to develop a range of skills that they can apply in
their studies and subsequent careers. Besides research skills, Putra Sarjana also provides training
in the cognitive, affective, psychomotor and social domains. The programme comprises four clusters,
namely academic development, professional development, ethics and morals, and community
service.

1) Why should I participate in Putra Sarjana Programme?


Graduate students who participate in the Putra Sarjana programme will be able to enhance
their skills to lead, communicate, think critically and in problem solving. The programme will
also help students to develop the emotional intelligence and sense of professional ethics
necessary for personal, academic and career success.

2) What kind of activities organized throughout the year/semester?


 Seminars;
 CEO Talk;
 Workshops;
 Intensive Courses;
 Briefing and Oath-taking Ceremony for New Postgraduate Students;
 Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition; and

3) What kind of workshops and seminars offered?


The list of seminars and workshops offered throughout the semester can be accessed at
http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/dokumen/SKPSI1_BUKU_PUTRA_SARJANA_2014.pdf

4) Is there any registration fee?


No registration fee will be charged to UPM students for seminars but a minimum fee may be
charged for workshops.

5) What is the difference between workshops and seminars? Between core/thrust courses
and certificate programme
Seminars are more lecture driven with less participant interaction other than answering
questions. Workshops get participants fully involved in the learning process: small and large
group discussions, activities & exercises, opportunities to practice applying the concepts that
are presented.

6) How do I register for workshops and seminars offered?


After receiving notification from email or website, registration can be made online or contact
our secretariat at (603) 9769 4245 or mhafizm@upm.edu.my.

7) What is Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition


3MT is a competition whereby PhD students present their research projects to a non-specialist
audience in just three minutes with the aid of a single slide. For more information, please visit
www.sgs.upm.edu.my.

8) Who is eligible to compete in 3MT?


Only active/continuing PhD students are allowed to participate. Also, eligibility applies to
semester three students onwards.

9) Who should I contact to participate in a 3MT competition?


Please send email to mhafizm@upm.edu.my.

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OTHER INFORMATION

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(a) Mobility
All postgraduate students in UPM particularly local students are encouraged to participate in any
mobility (outbound) programmes abroad. It provides a great opportunity for students to become
global citizens, interact with different cultures and at the same time acquire knowledge and learn
distinctive skills that are useful for future development. There are two types of mobility (outbound)
programme namely short-term mobility programme and long-term mobility programme. Short-term
mobility programme activities include training, seminar, workshop, summer school, benchmarking
visit, cultural visit and competition while for the long-term mobility programme, the activities include
research attachment, credit transfer programme and internship.

1) How do I apply for mobility (outbound) programme?


It depends on the type of mobility activities or your interest.
 For mobility activities such as training, workshop, seminar, competition and summer school,
please contact the organizer of the activities directly or please refer to the application
guideline provided in the advertisement.
 For other activities such as benchmarking and cultural visit, you can propose the activities
to the host university through your faculty.
 For research attachment or credit transfer programme, you are advised to contact the host
university directly. Refer to the UPM Website (www.upm.edu.my) if you want to do your
research attachment or credit transfer activity with the university that has signed MoU/MoA
with UPM. Be ready with your documents (research proposal, CV, supporting letter from
supervisor/faculty, certificates) so that they could process your application accordingly.
 All mobility (outbound) activities require an approval from the University. Upon receiving
confirmation/invitation from the host university/organizer, please download an application
form from http://www.intl.upm.edu.my/mobility/outbound/how_to_apply-4093 and submit to
Putra International (i-Putra).

2) Is financial assistance provided for mobility outbound programme?


UPM provides several types of financial assistance as below:

Name Eligibility Amount

Financial Aid to Attend  Open to LOCAL and INTERNATIONAL South East Asia (except
International Seminar students. Singapore and Brunei): Max
/ Conference RM1,000.00.
 Registered as a PhD student.
 Current status is “Good Standing”.
Asia (including Singapore
 Never received assistantship under this and Brunei): RM1,500.00
scheme.
 Priority is given to applicant who has not
exceeded 6 semesters of study. Other countries: RM2,000.00.

 Invited as an ORAL PRESENTER.


 The presentation is related to PhD research
work.
 Application is submitted at least 40
days before the date of the
seminar/conference;
 A presentation slides for the
seminar/conference is attached when
application is submitted (in English /
approved by SV).

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

 International applicant is only allowed to


apply if seminars / conferences are organized
outside their home country.
 Only attendance to
seminar/conference/symposium organized
by registered association / university /
research institute / academic organization /
government agency will be considered for
financial support.

Financial Aid to Attend  LOCAL students only. South East Asia (except
Research Attachment Singapore and Brunei): Max
 Registered in Masters (by research) or PhD RM3,000.00.
programme.
 Current study status is “Good Standing”.
Asia (including Singapore
 Length of attachment is between 1-3 months and Brunei): RM4,000.00
(justification is needed if the duration
exceeded three months).
 The research to be carried out during the Other countries: RM5,000.00.
attachment must be related to applicant’s
Master / PhD research.
 The offer letter from the host institution must
be provided when application is submitted to
SGS.
 The completed application form must be
submitted to the School of Graduate Studies
at least 30 days before the attachment date.
 Application form (GS-42) can be downloaded
from SGS website.

In addition, you can also apply mobility scholarships provided by international agency known as University
Consortium (UC) SEARCA. For more information, please refer https://uc.searca.org/grants/student/travel.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(b) The Pertanika Journal of Scholarly Research Reviews (PJSRR)


The Pertanika Journal of Scholarly Research Reviews (PJSRR) is the first postgraduate journal of
Universiti Putra Malaysia, and primarily features review articles or summaries of students’ current
state of research. These review articles consist of detailed explorations of the available literature in
any fields of study. In compiling these review articles, students will be better able to acquire the
knowledge and the skills necessary for both the completion of their postgraduate theses, and their
future careers as researchers and educators.

1) Focus and Scope


The PJSRR aims at the publication of review articles in all fields of Tropical Agricultural
Science, Social Sciences & Humanities and Science & Technology. The journal is a peer
reviewed journal and publishes original papers in English. Papers may be theoretical,
experimental or both. The contribution should be unpublished before and not under
consideration for publication elsewhere.

2) How do I submit my article?


The PJSRR uses an online manuscript submission and review system. Authors are required
to register at www.pjsrr.upm.edu.my via Open Journal System (OJS) and login before
submitting their manuscript online. They may also check the status of submissions after
logging in.

3) How much does it cost to publish in PJSRR?


The PJSRR is free of charge for authors: they don't have to pay neither for the reviewing nor
for the publishing processes.

4) Publication Frequency of PJSRR?


The PJSRR is published quarterly (3 issues per year - April, August and December).

5) Does PJSRR provide templates and Guidelines for preparing a journal article?
For your convenience PJSRR has developed templates to help you prepare your manuscript.
Kindly access www.pjsrr.upm.edu.my for further details.

6) Does PJSRR provide English language support?


For editors and reviewers to accurately assess the work presented in your manuscript you
need to ensure the English language is of sufficient quality to be understood. If you need help
with writing in English you should consider:
 Asking your supervisor to review your manuscript for clarity.
 Visiting the English language tutorial which covers the common mistakes when writing in
English.
 Using a professional language editing service where editors will improve the English to
ensure that your meaning is clear and identify problems that require your review.

7) What happens if my paper gets rejected?


The PJSRR is committed to your publishing success: If your research is of good quality, then
it may be suitable for another journal. Let us suggest an alternative journal within our esteemed
publishing portfolio for resubmitting your manuscript (and any reviewer comments).

8) How can I find out about the status of my journal manuscript?


For most of our journals the corresponding author can track the article online. Article Tracking
will guide you through the several stages from the moment your article has been accepted
until it is published. Every step is described and will let you know whether action is required.
Please log in to your personal OJS-PJSRR account to start tracking your articles. When action
from your side is required, this will also be announced by e-mail.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

9) What is the elapsed time from submission to publication?


The elapsed time from submission to publication for the articles averages 5-6 months. A
decision of acceptance of a manuscript is reached in 3 to 4 months (average 14 weeks).

10) Indexing of Journals?


As of now the PJSRR is indexed in Google Scholar, MyJurnal, Directory of Research Journals
Indexing (DRJI), i-Journals and i-Focus.

Further information on PJSRR, please email to pjsrr@upm.edu.my

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(c) Counter Services


To enable SGS to serve the students better, there are 4 Counters at the SGS’s lobby. These
counters are manned by staff for the following matters:

Counter We are here to assist on:


Counter 1: Helpdesk  General enquiry;
 EPF Withdrawal;
 Confirmation as Postgraduate Student;
 Matric Card
Counter 2: Admission  Application status;
 Offer Letter;
 Deferment Letter (before registration);
 Registration for new students
Counter 3: Academic Matters  Registration of continuing student;
 Nomination of Supervisory Committee;
 Research Progress Report (GS11);
 Deferment, extension of study, transfer programme /
field of study, status of study, Comprehensive
Examination;
 Senate Letter, Transcript, Certificates, Convocation.
Counter 4: Thesis  Enquiry about thesis;
 Notice of submission thesis (GS14a);
 Submission of thesis
(GS15a/GS15b/GS16a/GS16b);
 Viva Voce;
 Article / Journal (GS25);
 Certification of letter for thesis submitted.

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(d) Academic Calendar

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(e) Accommodation

TYPE NAME DETAILS PRICERANGE PERSON IN CHARGE


Mr. Azlan Ibrahim
Dormitory Head of Students Accommodation Section,
Kolej/Hostel Room 2-4(person max) RM 9/ day Student Affairs Division
Sharing bathroom Tel: +603 89471325
Email : zlan_ibrahim@upm.edu.my
10 pax per apartment
Air conditioned
Mrs. Rozlinawati Abdul Wahab
Fully Furnished RM 500 – RM
On Campus UPM Guest House Tel : =603 8946 7972
3 shared rooms 700/month
Email : upm@guesthouse@upm.edu.my
Shared bathroom
Washing machine
Air conditioned
KMR One Putra Residence, UPM
Fully Furnished
KMR OnePutra RM 500 – RM Tel : +603 8959 9146
Shared/single rooms
Residence 1,200/month Fax : +603 8947 1165
Shared bathroom
Email : oneputraresidence@gmail.com
Washing machine
Link to more rental house/room:
Private Condominium/ 1.www.iproperty.com.my/rent/
RM 500 – RM
Off Campus Apartment around N.A 2.www.hostelhunting.com/my/en
1,500/month
UPM 3.www.mudah.my
*Arrangement is to be made by student

* UPM does not arrange for OFF CAMPUS accommodation, students are required to make their own
enquiries and book with the homeowner. The above information is not meant to promote or endorse
any 3rd party accommodations.

(f) University Health Center


Phone : +603 9769 7332 (Emergency – 24 hours)
: +603 9769 7304 / 7342
Operating Hours : Monday – Friday (8.00 am – 8.45 pm)
: Saturday & Sunday (9.00 am – 11.45 pm)
Website : https://pku.upm.edu.my/

(g) Library
Phone : +603 9769 8642
Email : lib@upm.edu.my
Operating Hours : Monday – Friday (8.30 am – 10.30 pm)
: Saturday & Sunday (8.30 am – 3.30 pm)
Closed : Saturday (1st & 3rd week)
: Public Holiday
Website : https://lib.upm.edu.my/

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Postgraduate Handbook 2020

(h) Transportation
1) UPM Bus Service:
Students who wish to use the bus service are required to purchase a monthly pass at only
RM15, available at the Bursar Payment Counter, Ground Floor, Main Administration Building,
UPM. With a valid pass, students are entitled for an unlimited ride per month. The pass shall be
presented to the bus driver at all time.

2) GRAB:
The fare depends on distance of journey.

(i) Security and Emergency


1) Bilik Gerakan Polis Bantuan Kecemasan , UPM
Phone : +603 9769 1999 / 7990 / 7470 (Emergency)
Operating Hours : 24 hours

2) Other Emergency Contact Numbers


Serdang police Station : +603-9769 2222
Seri Kembangan Police Station : +603-9769 6122
Serdang Fire Brigade : +603-9769 7635, +603-894 17636, +603-894 16281

(j) Travel to UPM


Please be informed that students are required to plan their journey in advance. For night arrival,
students are advised to check-in and overnight at nearby hotels due to specific UPM
accommodation’s operation hours.

1) KLIA Express (KLIA/KLIA 2) to KL Sentral Station


First train : 4.55 am
Last train : 12.55 am

2) KTM Komuter to Serdang Station, then take a taxi to UPM


First train : 6.00 am
Last train : 11.00 pm

3) KLIA Limo, taxi, Grab from KLIA/KLIA 2 to UPM


Operation hours: 24 hours

4) Shuttle bus from KLIA / KLIA 2 to TBS, then take a taxi to UPM
Operation hours: 4.15am – 12.00pm – 1.00am

Note: The Universiti Putra Malayisa reserves the right to amend the information in this handbook without
any prior notice. Such amendments will be reflected in the online version of this handbook available at the
School of Graduate Studies homepage (www.sgs.upm.edu.my).

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