MASTER IN TROPICAL BIOLOGY | FACULTY OF SCIENCE

» MASTER IN TROPICAL BIOLOGY

MASTER IN TROPICAL BIOLOGY

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

The Master in Tropical Biology programme provides advanced training in tropical biodiversity, ecology, and sustainability. This 40-credit programme integrates coursework with field-based learning to strengthen both theoretical understanding and research skills. Students gain direct exposure to tropical ecosystems and species through applied study and exploration within Malaysia’s diverse environments.

The programme aims to develop professionals with advanced knowledge and practical expertise in sustainable biology. Graduates are expected to become competent researchers, academicians and professionals capable of critical thinking and problem-solving in tropical biology. Emphasis is placed on integrating ecology, physiology and genetics to address challenges in tropical biodiversity and sustainability. Graduates will be well-prepared for diverse career paths in both the public and private sectors that require expertise in tropical biology. The programme is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

WHY CHOOSE US?

Hands-On Tropical Experience- explore Malaysia’s rich rainforests and ecosystems.
Flexible Learning for All- designed for both local and international students with online and in-person classes.
Learn from internationally recognized experts
Build networks with researchers, universities and industries across Southeast Asia and beyond.
Future-Ready & Sustainable Curriculum- integrates tropical biology with sustainability and SDG-aligned solutions preparing graduates for careers in research, education and environmental management.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Local Applicants

Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 or equivalent, as accepted by the UPM Senate; or
Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related fields with a CGPA between 2.00 and 2.74 may be considered for admission, subject to an internal evaluation by the Faculty.

International Applicants

Must have an equivalent qualification as stated above and submit all relevant documents for Senate consideration.
All international candidates from countries where English is not the medium of instruction must obtain a minimum TOEFL score of 550 or IELTS band 6.0, or an equivalent qualification.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

The Master in Tropical Biology comprises 40 credits (28 core and 12 elective) and can be completed within one to two years, depending on the student’s pace. It is designed to be flexible, with classes held after working hours and on weekends, combining online and face-to-face sessions. Practical activities and field trips are scheduled on selected weekends and announced in advance to help students plan their schedules accordingly.

The following is the recommended study plan for the Master in Tropical Biology. Students may adjust their course load according to their own pace of study.

Semester 1 (16 Credits)

Course Code	Course Name	Credits
BGY5101	Biosystematics of Tropical Organisms	4(3+1)
BGY5301	Tropical Environmental Physiology	3(3+0)
BGY5508	Advanced Genetics	3(3+0)
BGY5701	Applied Biostatistics	3(3+0)
Elective 1	Elective Course	3(3+0)/(2+1)

Semester 2 (12 Credits)

Course Code	Course Name	Credits
BGY5404	Tropical Ecology	3(3+0)
BGY5901	Research Methodology	3(3+0)
BGY5902	Special Techniques in Tropical Biology Sciences	3(3+0)
BGY5990	Master Dissertation I	3(0+3)

Semester 3 (12 Credits)

Course Code	Course Name	Credits
BGY5990	Master Dissertation II	3(0+3)
Elective 2	Elective Course	3(3+0)/(2+1)
Elective 3	Elective Course	3(3+0)/(2+1)
Elective 4	Elective Course	3(3+0)/(2+1)

Elective Courses (select 12 credits in total)

Course Code	Course Name	Credits
BGY4304	Developmental Neurotoxicology	3(3+0)
BGY4406	Biology and Ecology of Seagrasses	4(3+1)
BGY5102	Commercial Tropical Organism Biochemistry	3(2+1)
BGY5103	Tropical Invertebrate Biology	3(2+1)
BGY5104	Advanced Mycology	3(2+1)
BGY5107	Conservation of Biodiversity	3(3+0)
BGY5108	Tropical Wildlife Conservation	3(3+0)
BGY5303	Endocrine and Reproductive Biology of Tropical Animals	3(3+0)
BGY5310	Advanced Ichthyology	3(3+0)
BGY5401	Advanced Ecotoxicology	3(3+0)
BGY5402	Marine Benthic Ecology	3(3+0)
BGY5403	Advanced Limnology	3(2+1)
BGY5405	Bioremediation of Tropical Aquatic Ecosystem	3(3+0)
BGY5406	Behavioural Ecology	3(3+0)
BGY5509	Conservation Genetics	3(3+0)
BGY5510	Advanced Genetic Polymorphism	3(3+0)
BGY5511	Genetic Technologies for Tropical Biology Research	3(2+1)

PROGRAMME FEE

Local Students

Semester	Credits	Fee per Credit (RM)	Semester Fee (RM)	Total (RM)
Semester 1	16	375	1,206	7,206
Semester 2	12	375	950	5,450
Semester 3	12	375	950	5,450
Total	40			18,106

International Students

Semester	Credits	Fee per Credit (RM)	Semester Fee (RM)	Total (RM)
Semester 1	16	400	2,206	8,606
Semester 2	12	400	1,950	6,750
Semester 3	12	400	1,950	6,750
Total	40			22,106