
What is the Foundation in Engineering and Why Study it at Top Private Universities in Malaysia?
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Foundation in Engineering courses are intensive, focused one-year 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. Private universities in Malaysia, have developed these internal engineering foundation programmes that are accredited by the Malaysia Qualification Agency (MQA). Unlike the external qualifications which focus on more general Science and Art-based subjects, the internal qualifications provide specialisation in precise areas of study such as the fields of engineering, and hence, cater to the specific needs of students planning to pursue an engineering degree.
The Foundation in Engineering will allow direct entry into degree programmes such as Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Telecommunication Engineering and more.
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Which are the Popular Private Universities in Malaysia Offering the Foundation in Engineering Course

Chong Han, Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University
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. Below is a list of universities offering the Foundation in Engineering course:
- Taylor’s College
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
- University of Nottingham Malaysia
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya
- Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka
- First City University College
- UOWM KDU Penang
- UOWM KDU University, Utropolis Glenmarie
- MAHSA University
Why Study the Foundation in Engineering?

Lyngkaran, Engineering at Taylor’s University
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 programme is cheaper than the external Pre-U programmes and generally easier. If you do not plan on going overseas for your degree programme, then it is better to go for the Foundation programme at a top private university in Malaysia.
- Recognised and accepted for entry into engineering degree programmes at top private universities in Malaysia.
- More focused on engineering related subjects.
- Duration is 12-months which is shorter than the A-Levels or STPM.
- 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
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 are the Entry Requirements for Foundation in Engineering

Darren Fong, Foundation in Engineering at Asia Pacific University
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 will you Study in a Foundation in Engineering Course?

Melvern, Engineering Graduate
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.
A Foundation in Engineering Programme in Malaysia can be 2 semesters with 6 months each semester or 3 semesters with 4 months each semester.
What are the Foundation in Engineering Subjects?

Chong Han, Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University
- Mathematics
- Engineering Maths
- Calculus
- Algebra
- Statistics
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Engineering Design
- Computing
- Computer Technology
- English
- Communication
- Writing
- Business
What are the Engineering Degree Courses that I can Study after Foundation in Engineering?

Aun Jie, Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
The Foundation in Engineering will allow direct entry into any degree course offered a private universities in Malaysia as long as you meet the minimum entry requirements. The Foundation in Engineering course may be used to enter another private university as well depending on the evaluation.
You can enter popular engineering degree programmes such as:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Telecommunication Engineering
Foundation in Science Leading to Engineering Degree Courses at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Students in Malaysia will be getting a first class education from a top ranked UK University right here at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s state-of-the-art campus at Putrajaya.
In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016, Heriot-Watt University is ranked Top 150 worldwide for Civil & Structural Engineering and Ranked in the top universities worldwide for eight subjects: Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Civil & Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mineral & Mining Engineering, Computer Science & Information Systems, Mathematics and Physics & Astronomy.
Heriot-Watt was ranked fourth in Scotland in the 2016 Complete University Guide. Heriot-Watt University ranked 5th for Chemical Engineering, 9th for Electrical & Electronic Engineering and 9th for Civil Engineering in the UK.
Heriot-Watt University’s Ranking in the Guardian University Guide 2016 is 18th in the UK and 2nd in Scotland. Heriot-Watt University is ranked 3rd for Electronic and Electrical Engineering, 17th for Chemical Engineering, 2nd for Civil Engineering and 10th for Mechanical Engineering.

Chong Keat, Electrical & Electronic Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
The Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Foundation Programme offers the following tailored pathways into the some of the best undergraduate degree programmes in Malaysia. Students after SPM or O-Levels with at least a Minimum 3 Bs and 2 Cs, in SPM or O-Levels, including B in Mathematics, English and Physics or Chemistry and a minimum of C in Additional Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry – or equivalent global qualifications to enter into the Foundation in Science at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
Students interested in registering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, please go to this link. Affordable hostel accommodation is provided at safe and conducive condominiums in Cyberjaya with free bus shuttle to and from Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
Scholarships are available at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia to deserving Malaysian students who have achieved high results in their SPM or O-Levels examinations.
Programme content for the Foundation Programme at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

The programme content for the Foundation Programme at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia is taught over three semesters (18, 14, 14 weeks) through lectures, seminars and group work.
Students will be supported and mentored throughout your studies to ensure a smooth academic and cultural transition to higher education, and the British university style of teaching and learning.
All the subjects relate directly to the progression degrees offered with strong emphasis on English language skills appropriate to the pathway (spoken, written and academic English). You will develop an awareness of the links between the subjects and the world of work in general.
The Foundation in Science is a focused programme of academic subjects, study skills and English language training designed to provide you with a direct route into a professionally relevant and internationally recognised degree at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
Upon successful completion of the Foundation in Science at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, students can enter into the following engineering programmes:
- BEng (Hons)/MEng Chemical Engineering
- BEng (Hons)/MEng Civil Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Construction Project Management
- BEng (Hons)/MEng Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical Engineering
- BEng (Hons)/MEng Petroleum Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
*Some degree programmes are subject to MOE approval and may change.
University of Nottingham Malaysia Foundation in Science Leading to Engineering Programmes

The Foundation in Science programme at the University of Nottingham Malaysia is a passport to the undergraduate degrees offered by the Faculty of Science. The modules offered are specifically tailored for direct progression to our undergraduate programmes.
With plenty of opportunities to interact with students and staff, you will be given the chance to fully explore the Faculty of Science. This will help support you to identify, and then pursue, a degree in the science field of your choice. Students after SPM or O-Levels wanting to obtain a UK Top Ranked degree can enter the Foundation in Science first at the University of Nottingham Malaysia.
To fully prepare you for your chosen area of study, the Foundation in Science has specialist module pathways in biomedical sciences, bioscience, biotechnology, computer science, geography, psychology and pharmacy, as well as covering topics in mathematics, chemistry, and biology. You will also be given extra support in English language and study skills, so you can progress to the undergraduate level with confidence.
You will follow a dedicated pathway through the foundation programme, based on your choice of degree programme – for example, psychology or computer science. Additional optional modules give you the opportunity to study science topics outside of your pathway which can provide complementary pathways into other degrees offered by the Faculty of Science.
Foundation in Engineering Courses in Malaysia at Top Ranked Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya & Melaka Campuses

If you have your heart set on making engineering your career, MMU is the university for you. Listed in the Top 200 QS World University Rankings in Electrical and Electronic Engineering for three consecutive years in 2015, 2016 and 2017, Multimedia University (MMU) offers award-winning, practical and industry-ready degrees that will allow you to make a real and lasting impact as an engineer of the future in Malaysia and globally.
Having won hundreds of awards, Multimedia University (MMU) offers the best courses in Electrical and Electronics Engineering in Malaysia. Therefore, it is undeniably the best university for students to pursue the Foundation in Engineering in Malaysia that’s also affordable.
Students may apply for PTPN Loan for the Foundation in Engineering as well as the degree programmes. Upon completion of the recognised Foundation in Engineering, students will continue on to the various degree programmes at the Faculty of Engineering at Cyberjaya campus or Faculty of Engineering & Technology at Melaka campus. All of the engineering degree programmes at Multimedia University (MMU) are accredited by the Board of Engineering Malaysia (BEM) and MQA.
Be connected and gain benefit from Multimedia University’s state-of-the-art labs established by their industry collaboration with ZTE, Microsoft, Intel and many more. Students after SPM or O-Levels in Malaysia with at least 5 relevant credits can enter the Foundation in Engineering course at Multimedia University (MMU).

Foundation in Engineering is the preferred foundation programme for many Malaysians as well as who wish to study engineering courses at Multimedia University (MMU). At Multimedia University, students pursue Foundation in Engineering programme in a campus environment which enriches their preparation for degree studies. The Foundation in Engineering is offered at both Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya & Melaka campuses.
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 Multimedia University.
In addition to strong analytical and technical knowledge, the 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.
Upon completion of the Foundation in Engineering at Cyberjaya or Melaka, students will continue on to the various BEM accredited engineering degree programmes.
Multimedia University (MMU) Faculty of Engineering (Cyberjaya)
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electrical
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics Majoring in Telecommunications
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics Majoring in Computer
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics Majoring in Nanotechnology
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics Majoring in Optical Engineering
Multimedia University (MMU) Faculty of Engineering and Technology (Melaka)
- Foundation in Engineering
- Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics Majoring in Robotics and Automation
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Mechanical
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) Electronics Majoring in Telecommunications
Foundation in Engineering & Technology at Asia Pacific University (APU)

Darren Fong, Engineering at Asia Pacific University
Asia Pacific University Foundation in Engineering (Pre-University) programme is designed to help those with SPM, O-Levels or similar qualifications to develop the skills and knowledge to progress into the first year of degree of choice. Throughout the programme, our academic staff will advise you on the options available at each stage of your university degree study.
If you have 5 Credits in “SPM’ or “O” Levels or equivalent then the Degree Foundation at Asia Pacific University (APU) is ideal for you because it is purposely designed to prepare you for entry into a degree in many areas of Information Technology, Business or Engineering.
Asia Pacific University’s vast experience in delivering degrees means we know what students need to do well in a degree. We have used this to design a Degree Foundation which gives you the skills in communications, research, English, Maths, technology (including Information Technology) and general study methods to do well whichever of our wide range of degrees you choose.
And APU goes further by providing you with an introduction to Business and IT or Engineering so that you can make an informed choice of degree when you have completed the Foundation. Depending on your choice you can go on to study full time for a 3-year Honours degree in IT, Games, Media, Business, Design, Accounting, Finance, International Studies areas or a 4-year Honours degree in Engineering, which is internationally benchmarked.
What you will study at Asia Pacific University’s Foundation in Engineering
The modules studied help develop your study skills, introduce you to what you can expect on your degree and also allow you to discover what you can study depending on whether you choose a degree in Business, Accounting & Finance, Banking & Finance, Actuarial Studies, Media, Information Technology or Engineering.
Upon completion of the Foundation in Engineering at APU, students can continue on to the following BEM accredited engineering programmes:
- BEng (Hons) in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- BEng (Hons) in Electronic Engineering with specialism in IT
- BEng (Hons) in Telecommunication Engineering
- BEng (Hons) in Mechatronic Engineering
Exceptional Foundation in Engineering Programme leading to BEM Accredited Engineering Degree Programmes at Taylor’s University

The 1-year foundation in engineering programme at Taylor’s University equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a successful engineering degree. As part of Taylor’s University education pathway, students who complete this foundation in engineering programme are eligible to pursue degrees in chemical, mechanical or electrical & electronic 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.
Students after SPM who are sure of taking the engineering degree programme may go for the 1 year

Justin Moo, Mechanical Engineering graduate from Taylor’s University
Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University. If you are unsure of whether engineering or other science programmes, you should go for the Foundation in Science. Intakes for the Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University are in January and July of each year. Students who are not sure whether to go for engineering or other science programmes may go for the Foundation in Science. There is a March intake for the Foundation in Science at Taylor’s University.
Upon completion of the Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University, students may proceed on to the following engineering programmes below. The 4-year engineering degree programmes at Taylor’s University are accredited by MQA and the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Chemical Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering
Most Affordable Foundation In Engineering, Science & Technology at First City University College

This affordable Foundation in Engineering, Science & Technology Programme in Malaysia prepares students for undergraduate degree studies in Engineering or Computing at First City University College. The duration for the Foundation is 1 year (3 semesters) with intakes in January, March and May of each year.
With 5 credits in SPM or O-Levels including the relevant subjects, you can go for the Foundation in Engineering, Science & Technology at First City University College. After the 1-year Foundation, you can continue on to the 4-year Electrical & Electronic Degree at First City University College.
Students should choose top private universities in Malaysia for their electrical & electronic engineering education so that you can gain the best knowledge and skills for a successful career.
The Faculty of Engineering and Computing at First City University College provides students with the latest in learning experience through the use of state-of-the-art facilities. Students are inspired and motivated through a hands-on approach in the teaching of engineering and computing.
Why Study Engineering at First City UC?
- Students are taught problem-solving skills
- Attend talks by industry experts
- Use of advanced software tools such as Mainframe Computing Technology and Mentor Graphics of Electronic Design Automation (EDA)
- 19 State-of-the-art engineering and computing laboratories
Foundation in Engineering at UOWM KDU University

Engineering plays a pivotal role in our lives and it’s no surprise engineers are in great demand all over the world!
UOWM KDU 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.
Upon completion, students will be able to articulate seamlessly into engineering degree programmes offered at UOWM KDU.
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Mechanical
- Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Mechatronic