Doctoral of Professional Practice (DPP)
Bridging Industry Experience with Applied Research
The DPP Programme is Malaysia's first TVET-focused doctoral programme, proudly awarded Provisional Accreditation by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) in 2026.
Four Core Pillars
Professional Practice
Application of professional expertise, competencies and industry standards.
Applied Research
Systematic and focused research to address real industry problems.
Industry Innovation
Driving innovation and technological advancement in industry.
Real-World Impact
Delivering impactful solutions for national and global development.
Who Is It For?
Why Choose DPP?
More Than Research — It's About Industry Impact.
Industrial Practice & Innovation
Focus on solving real industry problems and driving innovation.
Industry Solution & Impact
Develop practical solutions that create measurable impact.
Innovation & Tangible Outcomes
Deliver innovation that leads to tangible and sustainable outcomes.
Practice Oriented
Address real industry problems with practice-oriented approaches.
Workplace / Industry
Enhance knowledge in the workplace and contribute to industry transformation.
Industry Transformation & National Development
Support national development through industry transformation and collaboration.
Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Align with and contribute to global sustainability goals.
Entry Requirements
Pathways to Professional Excellence
Minimum Qualifications — Choose One Pathway
Master's Degree (TVET)
- Master's degree in a related field; OR
- Master's degree not in a related field with relevant work experience; OR
- Master's degree not in a related field with relevant work experience and RIA by UTeM.
Master's Degree (Non-TVET)
- Master's degree in a related field with at least 3 years of relevant work experience and rigorous internal assessment by UTeM; OR
- Master's degree not in a related field with at least 5 years of relevant work experience and RIA by UTeM.
Other Qualifications Equivalent to a Master's Degree
- Other qualifications equivalent to a Master's degree recognised by the Government of Malaysia with at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
Bachelor's Degree With Prerequisites
- Bachelor's degree with First-Class Honours (CGPA 3.75 or higher) or equivalent from a TVET programme.
- Pass a rigorous internal assessment.
- Other requirements set by UTeM.
Admission Through APEL
- Admission through APEL is available for candidates with significant work experience and relevant credentials.
Entry Requirements (Continued)
Language Requirements for International Applicants
Language Requirements
International applicants must achieve the minimum scores in TOEFL / TOEFL iBT / IELTS / MUET as shown below.
← Scroll to see full table
| Related Programme | Level of Study | TOEFL (PBT) | TOEFL iBT | IELTS | MUET |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Practice | DPP | 550 | 3.5 | 5.0 | 4 |
Programme Structure & Fees
Transparent, Competitive, and Worth the Investment
Programme Structure
Total Credits
The programme has a total of 90 credits, comprising one compulsory university course (4 credits) and the main professional practice research component (86 credits).
Research Component
This component involves the preparation of three technical reports and a prospectus, emphasizing a balance between industry expertise and practical application.
Proposed Tuition Fees
Apply Now
Be Part of the Change. Lead Industry. Impact the Future.
Application Steps
Check Eligibility
Review entry requirements carefully before applying.
Prepare Documents
Prepare your application and research proposal.
Submit Application
Send your application via APEL or directly to UTeM.
Start Your Journey
Begin your journey towards industry excellence.
Contact Us
📍 School of Graduate Studies (SGS)
Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka
Hang Tuah Jaya,
76100 Durian Tunggal,
Melaka, Malaysia