Which Foundation Programs to Choose in Malaysia?

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If you have just completed a major exam like SPM or  IGCSE, you’ve just marked the ending of your highschool journey in life. Chances are your mind is clouded with way too many questions like “What’s next?” or “Which Pre-University course should i choose? ” If you’re planning to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree, you would be required to earn a pre-university qualification beforehand to gain entry into the degree of your choice. 

What is a Foundation Program?

One of the most common choices of a pre-university qualification is a foundation program. A foundation program is generally a programme that will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to prepare you for the demands of an undergraduate degree. Courses are broad enough to offer a good introduction to a subject, but they also provide enough depth for you to gain credible vocational skills from expert tutors before progressing into a full degree.

Foundation programs are highly recommended as they : 

1. Allows you to explore a variety of subjects in your specific field of interest

Foundation programs of specific fields usually are streamed according to general subjects of the field which allows students pursuing foundation programs to get started on their studies whilst learning about different areas of expertise.  This aids as a guide for students that have an interest in a specific field but are still unsure of which specific speciality to go into. As an example, if you have an interest in Science, a “Foundation of Science” program concentrates on subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and information technology where you can go on to pursue your degree in various science related fields such as medicine, pharmacy, nursing, engineering and even computer science. 

2. Allows you to get a feel of the tertiary education life whilst improving your academic skills

A foundation program is known to be a low-commitment step into the world of tertiary education which can be a big change from what you are used to, with independent learning style, addition of assignments and different daily challenges as a whole. General subjects offered for foundation programs allow you to develop the skills needed to succeed in tertiary education such as academic writing, presentation skills, time management and independent research. Taking time to complete a foundation program gives you the opportunity to adjust to tertiary study before committing to a higher level. 

3. Cheapest, quickest and easiest pre-university program

A Foundation program is quicker in comparison to other pre-university programmes such as A-Levels and International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma, as it is only 1 year. In sync with it’s duration, it is also a cheaper option. However, prices may vary depending on the university of choice.

Duration & Assessment of Foundation Program

Foundation programs are generally 1 year, studied full time and 1.5 to 2 years studied part time. (50 credit hours, 3 semester, 14 weeks per semester)

Assessment

50% Coursework & Assignments – Writing paper, reports, presentations 

50% Final Examination 

Entry Requirements for Foundation Programs

Entry Requirements 

Score

SPM

Min. 5 Credits  and a pass in Bahasa Melayu & Sejarah

IGCSE

Min. 5 Credits 

UEC 

3B’s 

  • Important to note that entry requirements vary based on foundation of choice. For inquiries on other entry requirements, contact Excel Education. 

1. Foundation in Science

Foundation in Science aims to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and skills to pursue a science-related undergraduate degree. Examples of subjects offered in this program are such as algebra, chemistry, physics, biology, information technology and languages. 

A ‘Foundation in Science’ programme can lead you into industries as shows in the infographic below :

Photo Credit : The Global Scholars

a) International Medical University (IMU)

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Biology
  2. Chemistry
  3. Physics for Health Sciences 
  4. Mathematics
  5. Thinking Skills

Intake (2021)

March, July & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 24,900 (Malaysian & Non-Malaysian) 

b) MAHSA University

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Academic English 
  2. Psychology 
  3. Professional Development
  4. Mathematics
  5. Basic Laboratory Skills 

Intake (2021)

April, May, June and September 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 18,000 

c) Taylor's College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Chemistry 
  2. Human Biology 
  3. Mathematics 
  4. Quantitative Techniques 
  5. Critical & Creative Thinking 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25, 500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians) 

2. Foundation in Arts

Foundation in Arts program aims to equip students with knowledge on topics that focus on arts and humanities. Examples of subjects that are generally offered in this program are such as English, Economics, Marketing, Communication and Public Speaking. 

A ‘Foundation in Arts’ programme can lead you into industries as shows in the infographic below : 

Photo Credit : The Global Scholars

a) Taylor's College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. English 
  2. Critical & Creative Thinking Skills 
  3. Social Psychology 
  4. Public Speaking Skills 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25, 500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians) 

b) UOW KDU Malaysia

Foundation in Arts in UOW KDU provides you with 2 electives areas 

i) Law/Humanities 

ii) IT/Computer Science 

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Study Skills
  2. Principle of Management 
  3. Writing & Research Skills 
  4. Economics 
  5. Intro to Mass Communication 

Intake (2021)

January, March, May, July, September & October 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 16,850 (Malaysians)

RM 25,750 (Non-Malaysians) 

3. Foundation in Business

Foundation in Business aims to equip students with knowledge and skills on business-related topics by focusing on specific areas such as Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing and International Business. After furthering your studies with a Bachelor’s Degree, you will be able to embark on exciting careers in business such as accountant, consultant, human resource manager, entrepreneur and marketing analyst.

a) Asia Pacific University (APU)

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Essentials of Web Application 
  2. Fundamental of Finance 
  3. Principles of Accounts 
  4. Communication Skills 
  5. Further Mathematics 

Intake (2021)

April, June, July & September 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 24,800 (Malaysian)

RM 25,600 (Non-Malaysian) 

b) Taylor’s College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Business Expertise 
  2. Introduction to Business Law 
  3. People and Organization 
  4. Principles of Accounting 
  5. Quantitative Technique 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25, 500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians) 

c) University of Nottingham, Malaysia

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Introduction to Social Science 
  2. Elementary Economics & Mathematical Skills 
  3. Fundamentals in Economics 
  4. Business Accounting 
  5. Contemporary Global Issues 

Intake (2021)

April, June & September 

Duration

1 year (2-3 semesters)

Indicative Semester Fees (2021)

RM 8,500 (Malaysians)

RM 9,900 (Non-Malaysians)

4. Foundation in Engineering

Foundation in Engineering & Technology focuses on equipping students with the basics of engineering and technology which consists of areas such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, problem-solving techniques, programming and computer-aided design. After furthering your studies with a Bachelor’s Degree, you will be able to embark on exciting careers in engineering and technology such as mechanical engineer, industrial engineer, product & material testing technologist. 

a) University of Southampton Malaysia

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Computer Applications 
  2. Electricity and Electronics 
  3. Mechanical Science 
  4. Mathematics for Science & Engineering 
  5. Engineering Principles 

Intake (2021)

April, July & September

Duration

1 year (3 semesters) 

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 29,000 (Malaysians)

RM 34,100 (Non-Malaysians)

b) University of Nottingham, Malaysia

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Principles of Chemistry 
  2. Light, Waves & Electrons 
  3. Mathematics for Engineer 
  4. Advanced Calculus 
  5. Probability and Statistics 

Intake (2021)

April, June & September  

Duration

1 year (2 & 3 semesters)

Indicative Semester Fees (2021)

RM 9,900 (Malaysians)

RM 11,800 (Non-Malaysians) 

5. Foundation in Computing & Technology

Foundation in Computing & Technology focuses on equipping students with knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a degree related to computers. This course usually consists of fundamental skills as well as practical knowledge by engaging in hands-on projects. After furthering your studies with a Bachelor’s Degree, you will be able to embark on exciting careers in computer & technology such as data analyst, information security analyst, algorithm specialist, automotive software engineer and systems programmer

a) Asia Pacific University (APU)

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Essentials of Web Application Mathematics 
  2. Introduction to Computer Architecture & Networking Perspective in Technology 
  3. Introduction to Visual & Interactive Programming 
  4. Personal Development & Study Methods 
  5. Perspective in Technology 

Intake (2021)

April, June, July & September 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 24,800 (Malaysian)

RM 25,600 (Non-Malaysian) 

b) Multimedia University (MMU)

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Introduction to Business Management 
  2. Introduction to Computing Technologies 
  3. Communicative English 
  4. Multimedia Fundamentals
  5. Principles of Physics 

Intake (2021)

March, June & October 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 6,000

c) Taylor's College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Introduction to Algorithm
  2. Introduction to Computing
  3. Web Programming
  4. Practical IT Skills
  5. Critical and Creative Thinking Skills

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters) 

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25, 500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians)

6. Foundation in Law

Foundation in Law focuses on equipping students with a strong understanding of the legal system along with the basic skills and foundation needed to succeed in the law field. After furthering your studies with a Bachelor’s Degree, you will be able to embark on exciting careers in law such as lawyer, social worker, probation officer, legislative assistant and paralegal. 

a) Brickfields Asia College (BAC)

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Business Studies 
  2. Entrepreneurship
  3. Introduction to English Legal System 
  4. Practical Legal Skills 
  5. Critical Thinking Skills 

Intake (2021)

January, April & July 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 18,900

b) Multimedia University (MMU)

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Introduction to Law 
  2. General Principles of Law 
  3. Introduction to Criminal and Constitutional Law 
  4. Fundamentals of Business Management 
  5. Essential English 

Intake (2021)

March, June & October 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Annual Fees (2021)

RM 18,000

7. Foundation in Design

Foundation in Design focuses on building creative thinking skills, research and drawing skills with exploration of various art disciplines with a range of methodology, materials and approaches. After furthering your studies with a Bachelor’s Degree, you will be able to embark on exciting careers in design such as interior architect, industrial designer, graphic designer, photographer and even an animator. 

a) The One Academy

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Design Fundamentals & Art Finishing 
  2. Drawing Fundamentals 
  3. Figure Anatomy Studies 
  4. History of Art
  5. Letterforms & Typography 

Intake (2021)

May

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

Contact Excel Education 

b) Taylor's College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Introduction to Photography
  2. Fundamental Drawing
  3. Design Exploration
  4. Contextual Studies
  5. Design Basic 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25,500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians)

c) INTI University

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. 3D Design 
  2. Critical Studies 
  3. Design Project 
  4. Portfolio Design 
  5. Self-development Skills 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 19,188 (Malaysians & Non-Malaysians) 

8. Foundation in Natural & Built Environment

Foundation in Natural & Built Environment focuses on introducing studies to the different fields of study including designing and construction industry. Upon completion of the foundation programme and a relevant degree programme, you will be able to venture into careers such as construction manager, architect, quantity surveyor and building surveyor. 

a) Taylor's College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Constructed Landscape 
  2. Elements in Natural & Built Environments 
  3. Introduction to the Construction Industry 
  4. Introduction to Drawing 
  5. Critical & Creative Thinking Skills 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25,500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians)

b) USCI Kuala Lumpur

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Economics 
  2. Algebra & Trigonometry 
  3. Introduction to Built Environments 
  4. Introduction to Structure 
  5. Fundamentals of Oral Communication 

Intake (2021)

January, May & September 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 20,630 (Malaysians)

RM30,600 (Non-Malaysians) 

c) Lim Kok Wing

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Introduction to Built Environment 
  2. Introduction to Project Management 
  3. Professional Writing 
  4. Building Technology & Concepts 
  5. History & Cultural Studies 

Intake (2021)

April, May, September & November 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 20,500

9. Foundation in Communication

Foundation in Communication focuses on equipping students with conceptual, analytical and critical thinking skills with an emphasis on various fields of communication such as writing, computer, communication, marketing, design and even advertising. After furthering your studies with a Bachelor’s Degree, you will be able to embark on exciting careers in communications such as Branding Specialist, Cinematographer, Digital, Content Creator ,Strategy Planning Manager, Public Relations & Marketing Consultant.

a) UOW KDU

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Critical Writing and Research Skills
  2. Media Appreciation
  3. Introduction to Multimedia 
  4. Introduction to Marketing 
  5. Introduction to Sociology 

Intake (2021)

January, March, May, July, September & October 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM  20,470 (Malaysians)

RM  27,220 (Non-Malaysians)

b) Taylor’s College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Social Psychology 
  2. Discovering Mass Communication 
  3. Introduction to Media Workshop
  4. Audio Visual Production 
  5. Media Appreciation 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August 

Duration

1 year (3 semesters)

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 25,500 (Malaysians)

RM 38,790 (Non-Malaysians)

c) IACT College

Examples of subjects offered 

  1. Media and Communication
  2. Introduction to Academic Writing 
  3. Sociology 
  4. Introduction to Journalism
  5. Introduction to Radio & TV Broadcasting 

Intake (2021)

January, April & August

Duration

1 year (3 semesters) 

Indicative Fees (2021)

RM 9,900 

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About the Author

Raveena Rakni Suresh Raj
Leo baby & psych major
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