Why Should You Invest Your Future at Muhammadiyah Colleges
Author: Raisha Azzahro
umkt.ac.id, Samarinda - “What sets studying at a Muhammadiyah institution apart from any other university?” you might ask. It’s a natural question for prospective students. Muhammadiyah—as both a non-governmental organization and a higher education provider—boasts a rich, cross-cultural history deeply rooted across generations. Muhammadiyah universities are not merely ordinary educational institutions; they are vibrant communities of learners that embody a culture of science, social movement, and Islamic values established for over a century.
Inclusivity and Character Building
For international students, a key advantage of Muhammadiyah universities is the inclusive and moderate religious values instilled on campus. Here, education goes beyond academics, actively building values of Islamic-based interfaith tolerance. This approach ensures Muhammadiyah graduates are ethical, appreciate diversity, and uphold humanistic values. Consequently, the learning environment across Muhammadiyah universities is open, supportive, and safe for everyone, regardless of their background.
Unmatched National Network
Furthermore, Muhammadiyah universities possess one of the largest educational networks in Indonesia. With 172 higher education institutions belonging to the Muhammadiyah–Aisyiyah Higher Education Association (PTMA), students gain expansive access to various opportunities, including student exchange and mobility programs, national conferences, academic competitions, and inter-campus collaborations. This robust network is unparalleled by other institutions. Through PTMA, students can learn from diverse perspectives, forge connections with peers across Indonesia, and significantly broaden their career prospects.
Commitment to Excellence and Quality
In terms of quality, Muhammadiyah universities strive to maintain measurable academic standards. Numerous majors have achieved "Good" or even "Excellent" accreditation. We employ competent lecturers who are active researchers and dedicated community servants. This assurance of quality is built upon a modern educational system and deeply rooted in Muhammadiyah’s values of Islam Berkemajuan (Progressive Islam).
A Safe and Holistic Environment
The studying environment is also notably safe and supportive. Muhammadiyah universities cultivate a culture of nonviolence and maintain drug-free campuses, while providing students with various character-development programs through student organizations like IMM, Tapak Suci, and Hizbul Wathan. Therefore, Muhammadiyah institutions truly offer the best of both worlds: a comfortable and safe on-campus environment alongside comprehensive skills development covering experience, teamwork, and leadership.
These advantages enable Muhammadiyah universities to cultivate distinctive talents in their alumni. Graduates are recognized for their ethical and professional excellence, diligence, adaptability, and willingness to take on leadership roles and calculated risks. They are equipped with critical thinking skills while remaining committed to moral values in their decision-making. These characteristics make Muhammadiyah alumni highly valued across various sectors: industry, government, and social organizations.
UMKT: The Frontier of East Kalimantan
Among the esteemed PTMA institutions in Indonesia, Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) offers its own unique strengths. Strategically located in the heart of Samarinda City, UMKT is a rapidly growing modern university featuring exceptional majors in health sciences, humanities, and engineering. UMKT actively pursues strategic cooperation with hospitals, government agencies, and international universities to ensure students receive valuable on-field experience.
Additionally, UMKT actively welcomes international students by ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. International students are encouraged to study here through various incentives, including fully-funded scholarships and dedicated international classes.
Ultimately, studying at a Muhammadiyah university, including UMKT, is a path not just to academic success, but also to build character, deepen your knowledge, and prepare for your future guided by religious and moral values.
Do you seek to excel academically while simultaneously developing strong virtuous character and essential leadership skills? UMKT is the ideal place for you to develop these abilities!

Author: Raisha Azzahro
Translator: M. Rafly Raihandy