Top 10 Foundation in Engineering Programmes at Malaysia’s Private Universities

Exceptional Foundation in Engineering Programme leading to BEM Accredited Engineering Degree Programmes in Malaysia

• The Foundation in Engineering course at Private Universities is an intensive, focused one-year Pre-University programme which prepare students for your engineering degree studies in Malaysia.
• The Foundation in Engineering Programme is recognised for entry into MQA Accredited and BEM Accredited Engineering Programmes at top private universities in Malaysia
• The Foundation in Engineering is the fastest pathway into engineering degree programmes and cheaper when compared to external Pre-University Programmes.

Foundation in Engineering courses are intensive, focused one-year Pre-University courses which prepare students for your degree studies in Malaysia and guarantee entry to the university of interest upon successful completion. The Foundation in Engineering courses provide a solid foundation for students to adapt to university education more confidently, both in terms of level and style of education of the particular university.

Foundation in Engineering is ideal for those looking to gain admission into engineering degree programmes, providing students with opportunities to develop fundamental knowledge and skills set in physical sciences, technical knowledge in engineering and language skills for tertiary education. Students are introduced to engineering-based subjects such as mechanics, electronics, and material science, enabling them to decide their specialised field of engineering to pursue upon completion.

You will get the chance to study a variety of subject areas in the Foundation in Engineering Programme. This will not only give you an idea of what subject you may like to progress on to, but also to develop the valuable learning skills necessary for pursue a degree.

You may also be interested to read:

• Which is the Best Engineering Course to Study in Malaysia with Future Most In-Demand Jobs
• Top Engineering Degree Courses to Study in Malaysia
• Top 8 Engineering Courses to Study in Malaysia
• Top 10 Private Universities in Malaysia for Engineering Degree, Foundation & Diploma
• Top 10 Private Universities in Malaysia for Engineering
• Why Study the Foundation in Engineering at a Top Private University in Malaysia?
• Why is the Accreditation by Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) important in my Engineering Degree Studies at Private Universities in Malaysia?
• Education Pathway to Professional Engineer in Malaysia after Studying a BEM Accredited Engineering Degree

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Find Out Why You Should Study Foundation in Engineering at Malaysia’s Top Private Universities after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels

The 1-year foundation in engineering programme at Malaysia’s top private universities equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a successful engineering degree. Students who complete this foundation in engineering programme are eligible to pursue degrees in engineering. The programme also places emphasises in learning by doing, and students are regularly required to immerse themselves in hands-on learning activities such as case studies and real-life projects.

As part of their course of study, students will be exposed to an innovative and technologically-driven programme that employs digital tools to enhance teaching and learning. Upon completion, students will develop core competencies in the field of Engineering, which gives them a head-start to becoming sought-after future engineers who are able to positively impact the world around them.

Which are the Top Private Universities to Study Foundation in Engineering?

Choosing a top private university in Malaysia to study after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels for your Foundation in Engineering course takes time, it is a process in finding out which one best fits you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced. Students should choose top universities in Malaysia for a solid Foundation in Engineering course to help prepare you for the rigours of the engineering degree programme.

1. Taylor’s College
2. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
3. University of Nottingham Malaysia
4. Asia Pacific University (APU)
5. Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya
6. Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka
7. First City University College
8. UOWM KDU Penang
9. UOWM KDU University, Utropolis Glenmarie
10. MAHSA University

Why Study Foundation in Engineering?

Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels interested in a career in Engineering can go for the 1-year Foundation programmes at top private universities in Malaysia instead of an external Pre-University Course like SAM, AUSMAT or A-Levels. The Foundation in Engineering programmes are cheaper than the external Pre-University programmes and generally easier.

If you do not plan on going overseas for your engineering degree programme, then it is better to go for the Foundation programme at a top private university in Malaysia. If you are sure that you want to study engineering for your degree in Malaysia, you can go for the Foundation in Engineering course. If not, you can go for the Foundation in Science which is more general and is still accepted for entry into engineering programmes at top private universities in Malaysia.

Many top private universities in Malaysia, have developed their own internal university foundation programmes. These Foundation courses are accredited by the Malaysia Qualification Agency (MQA) and recognised by the respective foreign partner universities. Unlike the external qualifications which focus on more general Science and Art-based subjects, the Foundation in Engineering provide specialisation in precise areas of study, and hence, cater to the specific needs of the students.

What are the Entry Requirements for Foundation in Engineering?

Below is a guide for the minimum entry requirements into the Foundation in Engineering course at private universities in Malaysia. Note that the requirements would vary from university to university. You may contact us for the exact entry requirements for a particular university.

Entry Requirements into the Foundation in Engineering or Foundation in Science programmes in Malaysia, students after SPM would need at least 5 credits in the relevant subjects with a pass in BM and Sejarah.

• Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM)
  Pass with min. C in Mathematics and credits in 4 other subjects including 1 pure science subject
• O Level
  Pass with min. C in Mathematics and credits in 4 other subjects including 1 pure science subject
• Unified Examination Certificate (UEC)
  Pass with min. 4Bs including English, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry
• Other Qualifications
  Students with other qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis

What is the Education Pathway after the Foundation in Engineering?

With 5 credits in SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels including the relevant subjects, you can go for the Foundation in Engineering at a private university in Malaysia.

Upon completion of the Foundation in Engineering, students may proceed on to the following engineering programmes below. The 4-year engineering degree programmes should be accredited by MQA and the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).

Students must meet the necessary entry requirements into the Engineering Degree Programmes. They can choose from the following:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical & Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Telecommunication Engineering

What is the Duration of a Foundation in Engineering Programme?

A Foundation in Engineering Programme in Malaysia can be 2 semesters with 6 months each semester or 3 semesters with 4 months each semester.

How much will it cost to study the Foundation in Engineering at a Private University in Malaysia?

The tuition fees for the Foundation in Engineering will vary from university to university. As a guide, the total cost for the 1-year Foundation in Engineering will range from RM15,000 to RM25,000.

What will You Study in a Foundation in Engineering Course?

The curriculum focuses on delivering engineering undergraduates with a preparatory programme that provides students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals and builds the confidence to excel at the undergraduate level.

In addition to strong analytical and technical knowledge, the Foundation in Engineering programme also focuses on preparing students with strong critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills to succeed not only in their undergraduate studies, but more importantly, as independent life-long learners.

In addition, you will get the chance to study a variety of subject areas in the Foundation in Engineering Programme. This will not only give you an idea of what subject you may like to progress on to, but also to develop the valuable learning skills necessary for pursue a degree.

Assessments comprise a mix of coursework (research project, presentations and assignments) and final examinations, which is conducted at the end of each semester.

The assessments will vary from subject to subject and would include the following:

• Written exams and quizzes
• Project-based coursework
• Tutorials
• Presentations
• Coursework percentage: 50%, written examination percentage: 50% (percentage may vary from course to course)

What are the Subjects in a Foundation in Engineering Programme?

Below are a sample of some of the subjects that you will study in a Foundation in Engineering course at a private university in Malaysia. The subjects will vary from university to university.

• Mathematics
• Engineering Maths
• Calculus
• Algebra
• Statistics
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Engineering Design
• Computing
• Computer Technology
• English
• Communication
• Writing
• Business

Foundation in Engineering Programme Recognition

What is the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)?

There are many private universities and colleges in Malaysia, not counting the academies and other education institutions. Many students can be confused by the many agents and sales people out there selling the courses. It is important for students planning to study a diploma or degree course in Malaysia to check to see if the course is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the university or college is recognised by the Ministry of Education.

If you do not study a course that is accredited by MQA, you will not be able to get a job nor continue on to degree studies.

The Malaysia Qualifications Agency (MQA) is an official body that is governed by the Ministry of Higher Education and is the only body that controls universities’ accreditation status, regulate curriculum and set operational standards for both public and private universities and other higher learning institutions in Malaysia. MQA also accredit individual courses and programmes at each university. MQA’s operation is important because it works to ensure that higher learning in the country is up to global standards and is fit for the future of the nation.

Accreditation is a formal recognition that a certificate, diploma or degree programme has attained the quality standards and criteria set by MQA and is in compliance with the MQF.

Institutions whose programmes have been accredited can use MQA recognition in their advertisements or any other statement. These programmes can be considered for recognition by the government for the purpose of employment in the public sector. Accreditation is a status or achievement as a result of quality assessment by MQA. It is a commitment by MQA to all stakeholders in higher education i.e students, parents, employers that the programme accredited by MQA is quality-assured. It is also a basis for other parties to recognise the programme for a variety of reasons. For example, the Public Service Department (PSD) will use this accreditation status to recognise the qualification for employment in the public service.

Accreditation status by MQA has many advantages. Besides being a benchmark for quality programme, it also has other advantages such as:-

• Students are eligible to apply for loan from funding agencies such as National Higher Education Fund (PTPTN).
• Students are eligible to continue their studies in higher education institutions and obtain credit transfer. However, the final decision lies with the institution concerned.
• Students can be considered for employment in the public sector. In many cases, even employers from the private sector prefer accredited programmes in their selection of graduates for employment.
• Institutions can franchise their accredited programmes to other institutions, subject to certain conditions.

What is the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM)?

The Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) registers graduates and professional engineers under the Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Revised 2002). The requirement for registration as a graduate engineer is a degree in engineering recognised by the Board. Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) is the only body certifying Professional Engineers in Malaysia.

This regulatory body for engineering practices in Malaysia was set-up by the Malaysian government under the Registration of Engineers Act (1967) to administer and to enforce the Engineering Act and its provisions to protect public interest.

Only Graduate Engineers and Professional Engineers registered with the Board of Engineers, Malaysia (BEM) are entitled to practice engineering in Malaysia.  All engineering practitioner MUST register with BEM within 6-months of practice.

A professional engineer (Ir or PEng) is a person who is licensed to practice to practice engineering in Malaysia after meeting all requirements of the  (e.g. pass PI Examination).

Which is the Best Engineering Degree Course to Study?

In order to choose the best university in Malaysia to study engineering, you would first need to identify which engineering field that you would like to specialise in. With that in mind, you can then choose the university that’s best for that particular engineering specialisation.

Moreover, engineering is an extensive subject, and with so many types of engineering to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down which one is for you. To help you to decide, you should try and identify what you’re passionate about and what you are good at academically. Additionally, engineering degree courses require SPM or IGCSE/O-Level students to be good in Maths, especially Additional Maths, and Physics. Chemistry would be required as well for Chemical Engineering and Petroleum Engineering. Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels should have strong credits in these subjects should they consider studying engineering.

What gets you excited, and what do you spend your free time on? All types of engineering include some form of problem-solving (and generally focus on making life easier). Malaysian students who enjoy solving problems and coming up with a solution, then engineering could be for you. If you enjoy maths, physics, science, technology and design, then this could be a rewarding career choice for you

If you choose a subject that you are interested in and good at, you’ll find it easier to stay motivated during your engineering course, and study well. Students should identify your true interests by asking knowledgeable and experienced counsellors who are able to provide information that’s supported by facts & evidence.

Taking a degree in a particular engineering discipline will typically influence what jobs you can apply for after university and the specialism you have in your career.

It is important to note that Engineering degrees are extremely varied and can focus on particular parts of the engineering industry or just a general overview of the technical processes. Whichever degree you choose to study, you will graduate with a host of transferable skills that will enable you to work in a variety of industries.

It’s important to consider which area of engineering you will specialise in, as they can lead to very different careers. Civil engineers build the structures that define our civilisation – bridges, buildings, transport systems. Electrical engineers study how technology can build new products, or develop new processes for manufacturing and design. Or you could design and build planes, aircraft, robots, medical equipment, or even computer programmes. Whatever you choose, you can create and develop projects that improve and change lives.

Think carefully about what area of engineering interests you most – what do you want to achieve in the long term with your engineering study?

How to Choose the Best University to Study Foundation in Engineering in Malaysia?

Here’s a guide on choosing a top private university or college in Malaysia to study the Foundation in Engineering course.

Recognition & Reputation of the Engineering Courses at Private universities in Malaysia

• Is the Engineering course popular at that university or college?
• What is the reputation or ranking of the private university in Malaysia? Global ranking by QS World University Rankings or locally by MQA in the SETARA
• Is the Engineering course recognised and approved by the Ministry of Education Malaysia?
• Is the Engineering course accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)?
• Is the Engineering degree accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM)?
• Awards won by the university, staff or students for the particular course of interest. The number of awards won would be a guide on how good the university is for the course.

Academic Quality of the Foundation in Engineering Course at the University in Malaysia

• Subjects offered in the Foundation in Engineering course (Are they relevant, up-to-date, and help you to achieve your career goals)
• Entry requirements for the Foundation in Engineering Course at the university or college in Malaysia
• Faculty contact/classes taught by full-time qualified & experienced faculty
• Quality of lecturers. What are their qualifications? How many years of experience in teaching?
• Ask your friends who have studied there or currently studying there for their opinion on the teaching quality, environment and facilities.
• Do they have enough students to start a class?
•  How many students do they have studying that course at the university?
•  What is the duration of the course? When are the intake dates?

General Facilities at the University

• When choosing a university or college in Malaysia, it is important for students to visit the campus and see the facilities and feel the culture of the students to see if it fits you.
• Size of the university.
• Campus resources (labs, library or resource centre, wifi, computer access, sports facilities, etc.)

Facilities for Engineering at the University or College in Malaysia

It is important for the college or university to have the necessary Engineering facilities so that you can gain the necessary skills in your undergraduate education in Malaysia. The university doesn’t necessarily need to have all the facilities needed but should have the basic ones. Special Engineering labs will depend on the area of specialisation. You will need to look at the subjects offered to see which one fits your career goals and area of specialisation that you want to pursue.

Cost for your Engineering Course Studies in Malaysia

• How much money do I have to pay for the course and cost of living? Ask your parents. Note that you will need to have enough to pay the tuition fees as well as your cost of living. (Costs for university studies in Malaysia would include tuition, hostel, food, transportation, entertainment, etc.)
• What are the Financial assistance available at the university? (Scholarships, PTPTN Loan, EPF withdrawal, etc)
• Is the PTPTN loan available for the course at the university?
• How much are the tuition fees? Does it include the exam and other fees?
• How much is on-campus accommodation?
• How much is off-campus accommodation? (Off-campus apartments, houses, condominiums) Note that it might be cheaper to find off campus accommodation on your own with friends. Is the accommodations near eateries, banks, entertainment, public transportation, safe & secure, etc.?

Student Environment at the University & College

• What is the student culture at the university? (English-speaking environment, ambitious, serious about studies, lifestyle or party university, etc) The language spoken mostly at the college by the students may also matter if you don’t know Mandarin or BM or English. If most of the students speak Mandarin at that university then it will not help you to improve your English. Having a good command of the English language helps you to get good jobs and promotions.
• Size of the university or college in Malaysia. Some students prefer a large campus with sports facilities and other resources while other students like small colleges with family-like environment. A small college may offer individualised attention, as well as a more intimate and personalised experience. for your studies You might even want to think about how far you want to walk to get from one class to another in a large university campus. Even those little details may affect your decision.
• Make up of the student body (diversity, international students, gender, etc.) Universities with a good proportion of international students will help you to improve your English language skills since you would need to communicate with them in English. In addition, you will learn about their culture, behaviour and discover new ideas. These skills will be useful to you when you work overseas or in a multi-national company.

Internships for the Engineering Course in Malaysia

• Does the university or college have a strong internship or Co-Op programme?
• What are the companies partnered with the university?
• How long is the internship programme? How is it carried out?

Safety of the Surrounding Area of the University or College

• Is the university or college campus a safe area? Safety within the campus and outside.
• Have there been many snatch thefts or robberies around the university or college?

Students Activities Available at the University

• What are the Extra-curricular activities available? (Student organisations, clubs, sports, etc.)
• What are the Student Support Services available?

Location of the University and Transportation

• Location of the university or college. Is it in the city, suburbs or country side? You should also consider the ambience of your surroundings when choosing a university. If you can’t live without nightlife, think city! If you’re into the great outdoors, you might want to go rural. Some students prefer a city life while other students prefer a quieter university environment away from the city. On the other hand, if you’re used to shopping malls and cinemas and choose a university in a rural area, you might get bored.
• Transportation. Is the university accessible to you? What are the public transportation available?
• Does the university provide a free bus shuttle to link to other transportation hubs?
• Is the university near bus stops or LRT station or MRT station?
• If you drive, is there enough parking spots? How much is the parking rate for daily or monthly?