This research programme is designed for graduates who wish to explore emerging technologies and innovations in immersive media and game studies through independent research.

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

• Specialised research in Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), Extended Reality (XR), and Video Game Studies.
• Conduct supervised research under experienced academics and researchers.
• Access to advanced computing laboratories and immersive technology facilities.
• Opportunity to develop innovative digital experiences and game technologies.
• Strong interdisciplinary research integrating computing, design, psychology, education, and digital media.
• Excellent preparation for doctoral (PhD) studies.
• Opportunities to publish research in conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
• Study in an international environment with students from more than 130 countries. 

Programme Structure

Students undertake supervised research leading to the completion of an original thesis.

Research Components

• Research Proposal
• Literature Review
• Research Methodology
• Independent Research
• Experimental Design and Evaluation
• Data Analysis
• Thesis Preparation
• Thesis Submission
• Viva Voce (where applicable)

Research Areas / Disciplines

Students may undertake research in areas such as:

• Virtual Reality (VR)
• Augmented Reality (AR)
• Mixed Reality (MR)
• Extended Reality (XR)
• Immersive Learning Technologies
• Video Game Design
• Serious Games
• Gamification
• Interactive Media
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
• Game Artificial Intelligence
• Digital Storytelling
• Game Analytics
• Simulation Technologies
• Metaverse Applications
• Educational Technologies
• Digital Heritage
• User Experience (UX) in Games
• Computer Graphics
• Interactive Visualisation

Programme Highlights

• Ranked among the Top 2% of Universities Worldwide.
• Malaysia's Premier Digital Tech University.
• Research-focused postgraduate qualification.
• Specialised research in immersive technologies and video games.
• Multiple annual intakes.
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options.
• Individual supervision by experienced researchers.
• Modern game development and immersive technology laboratories.
• Strong interdisciplinary and industry-linked research opportunities.
• Excellent pathway to PhD studies.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers such as:

• Immersive Technology Researcher
• Video Game Researcher
• Virtual Reality (VR) Developer
• Augmented Reality (AR) Specialist
• Mixed Reality (MR) Developer
• XR Solutions Consultant
• Game Designer
• Serious Games Developer
• Interactive Media Researcher
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Specialist
• Digital Innovation Consultant
• Simulation Technology Specialist
• UX Researcher
• University Lecturer (subject to further qualifications)
• Research Scientist
• PhD Research Candidate

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students are generally required to:

1. Receive an official Offer Letter from APU.
2. Accept the offer and pay the required initial fees.
3. Apply for a Malaysian Student Pass through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) with assistance from APU.
4. Submit passport copies, academic transcripts, English language results, passport-sized photographs, and other supporting documents.
5. Complete the required medical examination before or after arrival in Malaysia.
6. Obtain a valid Student Pass before commencing research.

Latest Updates (2026)

• The programme offers five intakes in August, September, October, November, and December 2026.
• Applicants may be required to pass an interview and submit a portfolio as part of the admission process.
• APU continues to strengthen its research ecosystem through investments in immersive technologies, game development research, and interdisciplinary innovation.
• The programme follows the latest Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) standards for research-based postgraduate education.

Special Requirements

Applicants should note the following:

• A relevant academic background is recommended.
• Interview and portfolio submission may be required during the admission process.
• Students must prepare a research proposal aligned with APU's research expertise.
• Regular meetings with the assigned supervisor are compulsory.
• Successful completion requires submission of an original research thesis and successful defence during the viva voce (where applicable).