The induction of higher-degree programmes in Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) was initiated in 1970 and has evolved considerably in response to new and tougher demands and expectations from various stakeholders, such as the government, the business community and society at large.
To address the steady increase of candidates enrolling in higher-degree programmes, the Institute of Postgraduate Studies (IPS) was officially established in 1991 to strategies, manage and monitor the progression of higher degree programmes in USM. The initiative was intended to incorporate joint efforts between the Institute and all Schools/Centres to ensure quality postgraduate education and augment enrolment into postgraduate programmes. Accordingly, the Institute will undertake tasks that complement the academic functions of the Schools and Centres as stated below:
- implement the visions, missions and policies of the University espoused by the University management as well as the University Senate,
- function as a secretariat to the Board of Postgraduate Studies,
- administer all facets of postgraduate work from intake of students, their progress and also` the evaluation of their theses and examinations, and
- ensure uniformity in the implementation of various programmes as well as coordinating and organising thrust courses.
