Course Focus - 3 March 2015

THE STAR Tuesday 3 March 2015
StarSpecial COURSE FOCUS:

PRE-UNIVERSITY
Your
journey
begins
Learning beyond the classroom > 7
Holistic approach to learning > 17
2 COURSE FOCUS StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015
THOUGHTFULLY chosen
pre-university programme
is the bedrock of a successful
tertiary education.
Every application season,
school-leavers are overwhelmed
with numerous options for higher
education. One of the decisions
that an SPM school-leaver has
to make is taking the right preuniversity programme a course
that is taken before entering a
university programme.
There are many different
pre-university programmes
available in Malaysia. Here is
some information on the most
popular ones to help you make an
informed choice.
Navigating the pre-U maze
College Foundations/Asasi
Offered in both local private

and public universities, this preuniversity programme is suited for
students who wish to experience
university life. In terms of content,
foundation programmes are
focused and designed to help
students increase their academic
knowledge and study skills as
well as improve English language
competence.
Foundations can be an excellent
choice for students who want to
pursue a degree via a fast route.
Students planning to take up
medicine, pharmacy, dentistry
or engineering should consider
taking this programme because
it saves time and money. There
are foundation courses for almost
every field of study.
College foundations or asasi
come in two general types: open
Choosing the righ pre-university programme is vital for a successful tertiary education.
and closed programmes. An open
foundation course allows you to
switch courses and institutions
whereas the latter is designed to
suit a specific programme offered
by a university. With that said,

foundation programmes have
their limitations as it narrows
down ones opportunities to
study in other local and
foreign universities.
In terms of difficulty, college
foundations/asasi are relatively
easy as examinations are taken
at the end of each semester,
which allows students to focus

on subjects and take exams
piecemeal.
A-Levels
Offered by local private

institutions, Advanced Levels
(A-Levels) is a popular choice
among students who wish to study
abroad. To qualify, a student must
have at least five credits in SPM,
including in English. The cost of
this pre-university programme
varies depending on the
institutions, stream (for example,
science or arts) and the number of
subjects.
The A-Levels programme is
governed by Edexcel International
or Cambridge University, which
are both renowned international
boards. Although the syllabus of
these programmes might differ,
these programmes are recognised
by colleges, universities and
employers around the world. More
than 450 universities in the United
States, including all Ivy League and
Ivy Plus universities, recognise the
A-Levels qualification.
There is no difference in the
level of difficulty between the
two A-Levels programmes.
Students can choose three to four
subjects among the 40 subjects
available. They need to find the
right combination of subjects that
will qualify them for the degree
programme that they wish to
pursue in the future.
>> TURN TO PAGE 13
StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015
COURSE FOCUS 3
Paving the
way forward
The wide range of pre-university programmes offered at SEGi University

prepares students to pursue further studies in any field they wish.
EEKING a smooth
transition to a bachelors
degree? SEGis preuniversity programmes provide
an ideal pathway in qualifying
entry into most private higher
education institutions locally
and abroad.
Many students who have
completed SEGis pre-university
programmes have gained
placement in the degree
programmes of their choice.
The range of pre-university
programmes available at SEGi
prepares students in pursuing
further studies in any field at
SEGi University.
Beyond a foundation
Upon completing a preuniversity programme at
SEGi, students can also
further their studies at wellknown universities such as
Cardiff University, Queens
University Belfast and
Swansea University in the
United Kingdom, Auckland
University of Technology (AUT)
in New Zealand and Shanghai
University of Traditional
Chinese Medicine in China.
Students can also choose
from SEGis comprehensive
list of 3+0 and 2+1 twinning
degree programmes, which are
programmes in collaboration
with global partners from the
UK, the US and Australia.
SEGis consortium of global
partners includes Abertay
University, University of
Greenwich, Teesside University,
University of Sunderland and
University of London from the
UK, Troy University from the
US and University of Southern
Queensland from Australia.
Award-winning university
SEGi has also won numerous
awards in the past few years,
reflecting on the trustworthiness
of the brand and the high quality
of its delivery.
The most recent one was
the prestigious World Branding
Awards in the United Kingdom
where SEGi won in the education
category.
Other awards from
independent organisations
include the Putra Brand Award,
Readers Digest Trusted Brand
Award, BrandLaureate Award
and many more.
Students at SEGi have the
privilege of learning from some
of the best experts from the
industry.
These experts are appointed
industry advisors who give talks
directly to students, sharing their
experience and knowledge of the
industry.
The industry advisors play a
part in making the programmes
at SEGi relevant to the job
market.
With know-how gained
from an immense amount of
experience at the workplace,
students can be assured that
they can graduate with the most
competitive edge in line with
market demands.
n For more information, call
03-6145 1777 or 1800 887 344
(SEGi University), 03-8600 1888
or 1800 888 622 (SEGi College
Subang Jaya), 03-2070 2078 or
1800 888 028 (SEGi College Kuala
Lumpur), 04-263 3888 (SEGi
College Penang), 082-252 566
(SEGi College Sarawak), e-mail
askme@segi.edu.my or visit
www.segi.edu.my
Programmes at SEGi are relevant to the job market and equip students for
working life.
Unleashing
creativity
T
WENTY-eight groups of
Foundation in Arts (FIA)
students unleashed their
creativity at a two-day exhibition
at Sunway College to create
awareness about what our society
has become. The theme of the
exhibition was Consumerism and
Human Rights Awareness.
As part of their assignment
to educate the public on human
rights and on reducing the impact
of consumerism on the world, the
students decorated their booths
and invited the public to sign their
respective mock petitions based
on various topics.
The exhibition discussed issues
of recycling used items, privacy

rights, childrens education rights,
human trafficking and child
labour through the use of posters,
handmade recycled products,
videos and props.
A group named Trashformers
showcased its handmade recycled
products such as bracelets,
bangles, vases and decorative
accessories made from plastic
bags and plastic bottles. The
Trashformers comprised Melissa
Jeena Roch, Ann Marie Daphene
Phillips, Crystal Lee Guat Er, Ian
Kok Kye Xuen, Ruburn Raju and
Ali Nasser.
Aside from learning new do-it-
From left: Ma Xiang Long, Lim Mei Qi, Low Chi Lam, Kam Yoke Kwan, Liew Jia Yee and Yong Sze Kay simulate a dreadful future
for our world if the exploitation of consumerism does not stop.
yourself skills, the group
learned about the impact of
consumerism on the environment.
From left: Melissa

Jeena Roch, Ann Marie
Daphene Phillips,
Crystal Lee Guat Er, Ian
Kok Kye Xuen, Ruburn
Raju and Ali Nasser
call themselves the
Trashformers and
transform unwanted
items into new
decorative objects.
It takes a plastic water

bottle at least 450 years to
decompose, so we must learn to
reduce our waste by recycling
unwanted items. This will help
preserve our environment,
says Roch.
Ma Xiang Long, Lim Mei Qi,
Low Chi Lam, Kam Yoke Kwan,
Liew Jia Yee and Yong Sze Kay
from another group approached
consumerism in a different way.
They simulated their concept of
Our Future World in a box using
dim lights, smoke and dreadful
images of garbage and wars.
Visitors could stick their head
through a hole into the box to
experience the deteriorating
world. Through this simulation,
the group hoped that visitors
would learn to reduce their
levels of consumerism to avoid
such a future.
Another team comprising
Kenneth Suthan Kee, Ng Weng
Tat, Seek Chan Seng, Darryl Tan
Khuan Shung, Ong Ze Ming and
Goh Yit Chin used eye-catching
artwork and props to represent
human trafficking chains to
enslave and boxes to cage and
transport victims. They learned
from the United Nations official
website that Malaysia is one of
the top five countries that have
the worst
record of human trafficking.

The group consisting of Tan
Vi Chard, Liew Kok Long, Ling
Zun Hoo, Hing Ka Seng and
Ng Yi Jiang chose to highlight
childrens education rights.
Through their research of reallife stories and facts from the
Internet, they learnt of the
importance of education.
As part of Sunways FIA
programme, which advocates
learning through alternative
channels, the exhibition helped
enhance students exposure to
knowledge not contained in a
textbook.
FIA has been interesting
and challenging. It made us
think outside the box through
activities such as creating blogs,
adverts, documentaries and
presentations. I truly enjoy
it, says Khor Han Cen, one of
the students at the exhibition.
Sunway Colleges Foundation
in Arts places emphasis on
its students all-rounded
development.
The Sunway Education Open
Day will be held on March 7 and
8 and on March 14 and 15.
n For more information,
call 03-7491 8622 or e-mail
info@sunway.edu.my or visit
sunway.edu.my
From left: Kenneth Suthan Kee, Ng Weng Tat, Seek Chan Seng (white T-shirt),
Darryl Tan Khuan Shung (in chains), Ong Ze Ming (in cage) and Goh Yit Chin
raise awareness about human trafficking.
COURSE FOCUS 5
Cultivating educational excellence

I
N line with its mission

to provide high-quality
education locally and
internationally, KBU
International College moves a
notch higher by introducing
industry-relevant programmes
to students.
Moving forward, the
college has been invited by
the Ministry of Education to
upgrade to be a university
college soon, where it will be
known as First City University
College.
Not only that, a new phase
comprising state-of-the art
facilities, sports amenities and
well-equipped hostels are also
expected to be completed by
next year.
The college currently
conducts eight franchised
3+0 programmes of its
partners Anglia Ruskin
University, Nottingham Trent
University and Sheffield
Hallam University in design,
engineering, computing or
software engineering, business
management, and accounting
and finance.
The outstanding
achievements of KBU graduates
in the corporate environment
symbolises the colleges
commitment in establishing
strong ties with well-known
organisations and professional
bodies.
The colleges three major
Business, Hospitality and Tourism

Management participate in visits
to top companies such as Royal
Selangor Pewter, Gardenia, Proton
and KPMG that give them a
glimpse of the corporate world.
The school also organises
public lectures delivered by wellknown speakers such as McMillan
Woods Datuk Raymond Liew
and Petra Groups Datuk Vinod B.
Sekhar.
KBU engages its students in

more hands-on training and
activities to prepare them for
the competitive job market.
School of Engineering and

Computing
schools School of Design,

School of Business, Hospitality &
Tourism Management and School
of Engineering and Computing
always engage their students
through fun learning approaches.
School of Design
KBUs School of Design cultivates
top award-winning designers
through its industry-based teaching
and learning. The students are
constantly exposed to live briefs
through competitions such as
Packaging Design Project, BROS
collaborative project and Ralph
Laurens The Big Pony Collection.
Besides that, the school is well

equipped with facilities such as
spacious studio space, advanced
computer hardware and software,
printing studio, 3D workshops and
a range of other equipment.
In recent years, KBU design
students have received numerous
awards, including Philips Lightover
Challenge, International Design
Award and Samsung Wonderland
Media Award.
School of Business,
Hospitality and Tourism
Management
Students of the School of
KBUs School of Engineering

and Computing is a strong
advocate of fun learning activities
and state-of-the-art equipment.
Rather than focusing on theories
and text book learning, the
school engages its students in
more hands-on training and
activities to prepare them for the
competitive job market.
Other than that, the school also
engages with leading industry
players to train and keep students
informed with current trends and
innovation.
The school is also known as the
first private college in South-East
Asia to purchase the sophisticated
electronic design automation
(EDA) software Mentor Graphics
for teaching chipset design.
It is also the first and only
private college to collaborate
with IBM Malaysia on mainframe
computing technology.
About KBU International

College
KBUis a private institution
of higher learning known for
its relevant programmes and
in-keeping with the requirements
of various industries.
KBU has an excellent track
record of providing UK 3+0
degree programmes. Programmes
offered include study areas in
design, business, hospitality and
tourism management, computing
or software engineering,
engineering, languages (English
and German) as well as preuniversity programmes such
as the Australian Matriculation
(AUSMAT) and Cambridge GCE
A-Levels.
Since its inception in 1990, KBU
has produced hundreds of first
class honours degree graduates
through collaborations with
reputable partner universities
in the UK Nottingham Trent
University, Sheffield Hallam
University and Anglia Ruskin
University.
KBU graduates have
successfully gained employment
in diverse fields within a short
period of time and in many
instances, immediately upon
graduation.
03-77273200 or e-mail
enquiry@kbu.edu.my or visit
www.kbu.edu.my
ELP University is the first

centre in the country to
offer both the Edexcel
International Advanced Level (IAL)
and the Cambridge International
Examinations (CIE) programmes.
Both top-ranked examination
boards operate under guidelines
for quality, standards and
consistency specified by the Joint
Council for Qualifications (JCQ) of
the United Kingdom.
The IAL follows a modular
system, which allows students
to retake any module to improve
their subject grade without having
to repeat an entire level. Thus,
only the highest mark scored
in any sitting will be taken into
account.
Unlike the IAL, the CIE follows
a linear system. This requires
students to take the exam in two
phases, AS level and A2 level, to
make up a full pass. While each
level accounts for 50% of the total
marks, any dissatisfied student
must sit the entire level and
the last score will be taken into
account.
HELP A-Levels students
Dual options for A-Levels
Students at HELP, ecstatic over their A-Level results.

continue to score high in both
IAL and CIE and have an excellent
track record for admission to
top universities. Last year, Wong
Tzer Chyuan, who scored A*s
in mathematics and further
mathematics and As in physics
and chemistry, was admitted to

the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT) to study computer
science.
MIT along with Harvard,
Yale, Columbia, Princeton, Cornell,
Stanford and UCLA are some
universities in the United

States that accept HELP
students.
The number of admissions
of HELP students to top
UK universities such as the
London School of Economics
and Imperial College
London has also increased
substantially in the previous
year.
Vigneesh Ravindra, who is
currently pursuing his BSc in
Actuarial Science at London
School of Economics (LSE),
scored A*s in maths, further
maths and chemistry and an
A in physics in his A-Levels
exams.
Three students have been
admitted to Cambridge
University. Teh Kuok Ren, who
obtained A*s in maths, physics,
biology and chemistry, will be
studying medicine. Cheyanne
Xie will study chemical
engineering while Andrew
Foong will study electrical and
electronic engineering.
Admission to Cambridge
University has become
common for our A-Levels
students. This is possible not
only because of the quality
of the teaching, but also the
coaching and the nurturing
provided by our lecturers,
says Datuk Dr Paul Chan, HELP
University president and vicechancellor.
Hundreds of students
score straight As, but our
students possess a certain
edge over others; they display
strong character, confidence
and an intelligent mastery of
the subject matter that goes
beyond the mere regurgitation
of facts, says Dr Chan. This
is crucial when they face the

interviewers from Cambridge who
have to separate the wheat from
the chaff.
Jahn Cheah, dean of the HELP
Faculty of University Foundation
Studies and director of the
A-Levels programme, is especially
proud of HELPs achievement in
its first sitting of the Cambridge
exams with 42% of students
obtaining straight As.
Our lecturers track record of
achieving outstanding results in
the Edexcel exams has now been
strengthened with their success
in the Cambridge exams, says
Cheah.
HELPs A-Levels centre is part of
HELP Education Groups strategy
in diversifying and reinforcing
the modes of entry to higher
education.
Last year, its status as a centre
of first choice was reaffirmed
when it was given a number
of awards by Pearson Edexcel,
the worlds leading A-Levels
examining board.
Five of its top A-Levels
students were given the Pearson
High Achiever Awards for their
exceptional overall performance
in the 2013 Edexcel exams (out
of 10 winners in the whole of
Malaysia). They are Laura Oh, Lim
Xiang Pei, Loi Kuan Jon, Ooi Wen Li
and Melissa Chee.
In tribute to HELPs A-Levels
centre, Pearson honoured it with
the Centre of Excellence Award
in recognition of the outstanding
academic performance of its
students in receiving Pearson High
Achiever Awards during the 2013
examinations.
n For more information, visit
www.help.edu.my
Heading in a new direction

AHMAD Thaqif Afnan
Abdullah (pic), a former
student of SMK Jalan Empat,
Bandar Baru Bangi, decided
that business education was
the direction he would take
after finishing high school.
He was offered to do the
Foundation in Business at
Nilai University (Nilai U). He
planned to finish a one-year
before proceeding to do the
BBA (Hons) in International
Business at Nilai U.
The 19-year-old says that
his primary reason for opting
for Nilai U was the peaceful
ambience of the campus.
I get distracted easily and
wanted to study somewhere
away from entertainment
centres, he says. After visiting
both campuses, Thaqif finally
decided on Nilai U as it also
allowed him to step out of his
comfort zone.
Thaqif enjoys his classes at
Nilai U. He appreciates that his
classmates comprise people of
different ethnicity as it allows
him to learn about different
cultures.
I know that this will
greatly benefit me as I intend
to major in international
business and must learn how
to communicate and deal with
people from different cultural
backgrounds, he says.
He also says that there is an
open and easygoing student
culture where seniors and juniors
are free to mingle without
any sense of enforced student
protocol.
He believes that students
should opt for private institutions
such as Nilai U as the diversity
of students gives them the
opportunity to improve their
English.
To build a career in
international business, my
mastery of the English language
has to be of a high standard.
The lecturers here are good
and patient in guiding us in our
studies. Being in this environment
can help improve ones English,
says Thaqif.
Nilai Us
programmes
are validated by
the Ministry of
Education and
accredited by
the Malaysian
Qualifications Agency.
n For more
information,
call
06-850 2308 or
07-2262 336 or
visit
www.nilai.edu.
my
COURSE FOCUS 7
Learning beyond
the classroom
UCSI vice-chancellor and president Senior Prof Datuk Dr Khalid Yusoff (middle) standing proudly
with UCSIs top scorers for the GCE A-Levels November 2014 exam.
UT your heart and soul into what you

are doing for your future because
all those years ahead of you will
mean nothing unless you do something
substantial today, says UCSI Universitys
(UCSI) vice-chancellor and president Senior
Prof Datuk Dr Khalid Yusoff.
Those were Dr Khalids words of advice
to the top scorers of the GCE A-Levels
November 2014 exam during an informal
tea session that was held last month.
The session was a gathering of top
scorers and their parents as well as UCSI
academics, including Centre for Pre-U
Studies director Assistant Prof Dr Mabel
Tan, who was proud of the students
determination and effort in achieving good
results.
Notably, the universitys A-Levels
Academy under the Centre for Pre-U studies
has a long track record of high achievers.
In last Novembers exam, the academy
recorded a 99.5% passing rate and almost
30% of its students scored straight As.
These statistics successfully illustrate
that excellence is an integral part of the
culture at the academy.
More important than that is its steadfast
commitment in ensuring that all aspects of
its students growth, whether personal or
academic, are nurtured during their studies
at the university.
Well-rounded learner
High-achiever Neo Wan Qing scored
4A*s in the exam and is also an active
participant in various district and statelevel competitions.
Inspired by her older brother, who
is currently pursuing the Bachelor of
Pharmacy (Hons) at UCSI, Neo decided to
follow her siblings footsteps and enrol in
the A-Levels programme at the university.
She explains that the programme has
benefited her greatly and fuelled her desire
to further her studies in medicine.
A-Levels taught me to think proactively
and helped me become more mature and
independent. And although I found some
of the subjects challenging, I learned a lot,
says Neo.
A prodigious student who enjoys
learning inside and outside the classroom,
Neo is the treasurer of UCSIs Hope Revive
Club and part of the committee for Go
Green Week 2013, an event highlighting
the importance of the 3Rs reduce, reuse,
recycle among students.
Embracing new experiences

Kevin Yapp Jun Hao is another highachieving and well-rounded student of
UCSI. Yapp, who scored 2A*s and 2As in the
A-Levels exams, was also the organising
chairperson for UCSIs first leadership
forum, Meet the Leaders. The forum
included Shanghai Coffee Bean and Tea
Leaf business development director Phng
Li Kheng who shared her entrepreneurial
story with the students.
This was my first time leading an event
so at first I felt intimidated by the pressure.
Im grateful that our advisors were very
helpful and encouraging, says Yapp, who is
also in the UCSI Scholars Club (U-SchoS), a
student association formed by scholarship
recipients.
UCSI provided me with the platform
from which I could familiarise myself
with the process of organising events and
work with people at various levels an
opportunity I would not have had if I wasnt
studying here.
Yapp is also a member of Hands of Hope,
a community project initiated by U-SchoS.
Under the project, he spent a month
teaching underprivileged children from the
Chin tribe in Burma.
Everything I have experienced so
far, from leading an event featuring top
industry leaders to volunteering as a
teacher to underprivileged children, are
all new and incredible. I made the right
decision signing up for my A-Levels at UCSI,
he says.
As evidenced by Neo and Yapp, the
A-Levels programme at UCSI can be so
much more than just learning by the book.
The experience shapes students to become
all that they can be.
www.ucsiuniversity.edu.my
Top scorer Kevin

Yapp, who scored
2A*s and 2As in
the GCE A-Levels
November 2014
exam, is grateful
for the new
experiences gained
after joining
the A-Levels
programme at UCSI.
Owning
your future
I
N todays increasingly
competitive world, education
is a crucial enabler, giving
students skills that are essential
for their future.
According to last years HSBC
Global Report (The Value of
Education), on average, Malaysian
parents allocate 42% of their
savings for their childrens
education.
However, a survey in the United
States by Fast Company Inc has
reported that up to 60% of current
working adults regret their career
choices.
It is also stated that an
astounding number of college
students 80% are not sure

about their study and career
choices, and out of these, 50%
have changed their majors
at least once in university
(survey by Pennsylvania State
University 2012).
Closer to home, a survey of
Malaysian youth by the Asia
Foundation in 2012 revealed
that up to 73% of Malaysian
youth agree that the problem
is not in getting a job, but in
getting a job that is suited to
their skills and interests.
According to 2012
TalentCorp reports, only 83% of
Malaysian university students
Fresh graduates should make choices that will help them own their future.
completed their course, while
the rest dropped out.
So, how do you ensure that
you become part of the 40%
who are happy with their
career choice?
To help students make
the right decision, Taylors
University has developed the
Taylors Career Profiler.
By mapping students
interest, values and abilities to
possible careers that they will
likely succeed in, the career
profiler helps to identify the
most suitable area of study and
career pathway for them.
In addition to knowing
their possible career pathway,
it is of utmost importance
that students choose the right
institution that will help them
own their future.
There are a few important
factors to look out for when
selecting a programme and
institution of higher learning.
Some of these factors are
the teaching and learning
pedagogies, extra academic
support, campus life, graduate
employability and track
records.
As Malaysias leading
private institution and peoples
preferred education choice,
Taylors University believes in
providing the best platform
that will allow its students to
excel in their respective field of
study and beyond.
Over the years, Taylors
has successfully developed
and implemented innovative
teaching and learning
pedagogies and facilities within
the campuses.
This is to ensure that its
students are able to tap into the
best education for their future
starting from foundation and
diploma programmes.
Taylors also prides itself
in the delivery of a holistic
education that results not
just in excellent academic
accomplishments but also in
graduates with qualities that
are highly sought after in the
global marketplace.
In todays job market, having
a university degree is no longer
the sole criterion required to
succeed in a career or even to
secure a job upon graduation.
Multiple surveys have
uncovered that employers want
top graduates who possess
five critical skills, namely

communication, collaboration,
cultural adaptation, critical
thinking and problem solving,
and creativity and innovation.
To address this need,
Taylors University has
introduced the SHINE Award
that provides recognition for
its students extracurricular
involvement both on and off
campus through a second
transcript.
By doing this, it aspires
to help students unlock
their potential, encourage
individuality and gain
employability skills that will
prepare them for the future.
The second transcript will
complement and supplement
the academic transcript
in providing expanded
opportunities for students to
develop intellectual, personal
and social skills.
Taking holistic learning
to the next level, Taylors
University is the first
university in Malaysia and
South-East Asia to introduce
this second transcript, which
is now acknowledged by a
number of notable industry
partners who are top
employers.
These employers include
Shell, Microsoft, BMW, Accor
Group, Nielsen and LOreal,
among others.
Taylors has also adopted
a transformative teaching
approach that allows students
to learn through smart
devices in a self-directed and
personalised manner, anytime
and anywhere.
These devices enable
students to review recorded
lectures and gain access to
notes whenever needed.
Students also learn in
X-space technology-rich
collaborative classrooms
that are designed to
facilitate learning in a highly
collaborative and engaging
manner.
Taylors believes in
providing access to education
to deserving students and to
that end offers various types
of scholarships and bursaries.
call 03-5629 5000, e-mail
admissions@taylors.edu.my
or visit www.taylors.edu.my
COURSE FOCUS 9
UTAR-Takaful
Ikhlas Berhad
collaboration is
one of UTARs
recent initiatives
to enhance
its universityindustry link.
Advancing in
business studies
NIVERSITI Tunku Abdul

Rahman (UTAR) is
committed to encouraging
lifelong learning and
reinforcing the governments
mission to enhance national
competitiveness by investing in
human capital development.
Economic resilience is
always one of the major
national and organisational
concerns. It explains the
trends where employers across
the board seem drawn to
candidates holding an advanced
business degree. Given the
competitiveness of the job
market, it can be the advantage
that makes all the difference for
the candidates, says
Dr Sia Bee Chuan, head of UTARs
postgraduate programmes
and assistant professor at the
Faculty of Accountancy and
Management (FAM).
Dr Sia attributes the
competitive advantage held by
professionals and students with
postgraduate business degrees
such as Master in Business
Administration (MBA) to the
strategic and holistic coverage
of the courses.
The cross-area expertise
gained equips an MBA degree
holder with the desired
competencies and foresights to
contribute to given jobs in any
positions. Here at UTAR, we
ensure that our MBA graduates
possess this trait, says Dr Sia.
The programme is designed
to nurture comprehensive
understanding of all aspects that
make up business, so students
will be well versed in a variety
of areas.
The coursework-based
MBA programme comprises a
major coursework component
and a research component
termed research project. Its
coursework components consist
of core subjects, including
research methodologies and two
elective subjects.
For added learning
enrichment activities,
candidates are encouraged to
participate in enhancement
courses such as the Project
Writing Workshop and attend
organised lecture series.
Supplemented with the drill
on specialised in-demand skill
sets, the course designed for
candidates from all academic
disciplines prepares
students with the right blend
of theoretical and technical
mastery to face management
issues of todays global business
environment.
Like its MBA, most UTAR
FAM postgraduate courses
have a flexible schedule.
This would be ideal for those
with existing commitments,

including working professionals
vying for better employment
opportunities, academics
or even individuals seeking
personal enrichment.
FAM postgraduate
programmes are suitable
for candidates who favour
innovative research
qualification as they will be
guided to conduct research in
specific and interdisciplinary
areas that have significant
impact on the nations
competitiveness.
Such areas include
accounting, international
economics and international
business.
All UTAR FAM postgraduate
programmes are mounted
to provide students with
maximum industry-relevant
experience by incorporating
real-life consultancy practices
and facilitating good
networking opportunity.
To realise and facilitate
this, the university has forged
partnerships and collaborates
with local and global
institutions for mutual benefits
and supports.
To date, UTAR FAM has
formed bonds with industrial
players and professional bodies
across the globe.
These include Takaful
Ikhlas Berhad, The Building
Management Association
of Malaysia (BMAM), The
Malaysian Institute of Chartered
Secretaries and Administrators
(MAICSA) and Chartered
Institute of management
Accountants (CIMA).
Established in 2002 with just
411 students, UTAR offers more
than 110 programmes to more
than 24,000 students in its nine
faculties.
It has a total of more than
35,000 alumni. UTAR graduates
have an employability rate
of 97% within six months of
graduation over the years.
In conjunction with this
years May student intake, UTAR
is inviting school-leavers, their
friends and families to attend
the UTAR Open Day to find out
more about the programmes
offered and participate in the
open day activities.
UTAR Open Day will be held
on March 7 and 8 and on April 4
and 5 from 9.30am to 5.30pm at
the Bandar Sungai Long campus
and Perak campus.
call 03-7958 2628 (PJ campus),
05-468 8888 (Perak campus)
or 016-223 3559 or e-mail
enquiry@utar.edu.my or visit
www.utar.edu.my
Sunway Foundation in Arts (FIA) has been such

a great journey for me as it has provided me
with knowledge, exposure to new experiences
and has built my character for the better.
Sunway FIA has truly equipped me as I pursue
further on in my academic studies.
John Paul Felix
Psychology
Sunway University, Malaysia
Former student of SMK USJ 13, Subang Jaya
Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT)
JPT/BPP(K)(R/010/3/0122/A8757)04/18
Cambridge GCE A-Level (A-Level)

JPT/BPP(K)(R/010/3/0053/A7670)10/16
Canadian International
Matriculation Programme (CIMP)
JPT/BPP(K)(R/010/3/0056/A7535)07/16
Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY)

JPT/BPP(K)(R/010/3/0266/A5694)10/19
Sunway Foundation Programme (FIA, FIST)

JPT/BPP(U)(R/210/3/0001/A6381)09/15
New Programme
Foundation in Science and Technology (FIST)
JPT/BPP(K)(N/010/3/0270/PA4687)08/19
The Engineering Foundation Year programme is tailored to suit individuals.
Specific modules
approach
T
HE University of Southampton has

received approval from the Malaysia
Qualifications Agency (MQA) to run
its innovative Engineering Foundation Year
course at its Malaysia campus in Educity,
Johor.
The first cohort of students is expected
to begin their studies next month.
The Engineering Foundation Year is a
three-semester, 14-month programme
specifically tailored to students who hold
SPM/O-Levels or equivalent qualifications.
Upon successful completion of the
programme, students are guaranteed
progression into undergraduate degrees
either in Malaysia or at the universitys
parent campus in the United Kingdom in
the following areas of study:
University of Southampton Malaysia
Campus
l Aeronautics and astronautics
l Electrical and electronic engineering
l Mechanical engineering
University of Southampton UK
l Acoustical engineering
l Aeronautics and astronautics
l Electrical engineering
l Electronics
l Electrical and electronic engineering
l Civil engineering
l Computer science
l Geophysics
l Mechanical engineering
l Ship science
l Physics and astronomy
The University of Southampton is well
known for its engineering programmes and
is ranked in the top three for engineering
education in the UK.
The University of Southampton is
recognised among the top 1% of the
worlds universities and our engineering
programmes are consistently rated highly
in university league tables. We are very
proud of this reputation and believe
that students who choose to study at
the University of Southampton Malaysia
Campus will receive a first-class education
from a world-leading institution, says
Prof John W. McBride, the campus chief
executive officer.
Unique curriculum, excellent

teaching
The Engineering Foundation Year is
unique in that the curriculum is not a
generic, one-size-fits-all programme.
Rather, students take specific modules,
including engineering principles, electricity
and electronics, mechanical science and
computer applications.
These modules are designed to
strengthen students skills and knowledge
in engineering science and mathematics,
which are vital for those pursuing an
engineering degree at the University of
Southampton.
Students will study full-time through
a combination of lectures, workshops,
laboratories and private study and will be
taught in small groups by a team of highly
qualified and experienced educators who
are specialists in pre-university education
studies.
Critical thinking is also an important
component of the modules. Assessment is
mainly through written examination and
coursework assignments.
The standard entry requirements are
5As at SPM/O-Levels, inclusive of an A in
mathematics and physics.
Students with UEC qualifications require
6Bs, including B+ in mathematics and
physics.
Scholarships with up to 100% tuition
fee waiver are available for students with
exceptional results for SPM or O-Levels.
n For more information, call 07-560 2560 or
e-mail marketing.malaysia@soton.ac.uk or
visit www.southampton.edu.my
The University of Southampton is a top choice for

engineering studies.
COURSE FOCUS 11
INTEC equips students to be adept intellectually, socially, physically, creatively and spiritually.
Developing wellrounded students
NTEC Education College in Shah Alam,

Malaysia, has more to offer than just
education and research facilities.
The campus is located in a secluded area,
away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Besides the buses run by INTEC, students
have easy access to public transportation in
the area such as buses, trains and taxis to
move around.
The information service centre is located
in the library. The library was established in
1985 to assist students and staff in studies
and research by providing information,
library materials, services and the facilities
to support their academic needs.
INTEC also accommodates students from
various overseas preparatory programmes
with Residential Colleges Cemara, Akasia
and Cendana which are located in
Section 18 and Section 6, Shah Alam.
The residential colleges provide living
quarters for about 2,500 students.
Cemara, Akasia and Cendana Residential
College are strategically located beside
Mydin Supermarket, Giant Hypermarket,
Ole Ole Mall and near a host of convenience
stores as well as a park.
An important part of the residential
colleges mission is to ensure that students
have a smooth transition in adapting to
university life with guidance and support
provided throughout their stay there.
Events such as inter-college sports,
College Day, environmental campaigns
and other activities are organised to
provide opportunities and encouragement
for intellectual and cultural exploration.
Students get to participate in non-academic
activities that expose them to a different
kind of intellectual challenge.
INTEC strives to form well-rounded
students who are adept intellectually,
socially, physically, creatively and
spiritually.
It strongly believes in the development of
its students creative side. This development
is accomplished by encouraging students to
participate in art and music events.
In terms of physical activities, students
are encouraged to participate in sports
such as silat cekak hanafi and taekwondo.
In terms of spiritual development, Muslim
students can participate in a camp where
they learn how to pray and read the Quran

and listen to talks by religious teachers.
INTEC strongly believes in cultivating
the spiritual side of students. In this
context, Islamic and moral courses are
mandatory for all students to take.
Students of INTEC have diverse
opportunities to be involved in
extracurricular activities.
There are student volunteer
opportunities such as assisting in soup
kitchens and tutoring orphans.
The college encourages students to
engage in extracurricular activities to gain
experience, learn to manage their time and
priorities and maintain a good balance in
their lives. The self-management skills that
they pick up will be useful to them in the
future.
Apart from focusing on the development
of students intellectual, social, physical,
creative and spiritual side, students gain
an entrepreneurial experience where they
get opportunities to participate in business
projects.
Having an entrepreneurial experience
is important because universities and
employers look favourably on students
with work experience.
Furthermore, INTEC takes students
attendance, attitude and participation
seriously. Class attendance is important for
successful achievement in college.
Students are expected to attend all
sessions for each course that they are
enrolled in and to make up for any work
that they miss during excused absences.
Students at INTEC are taught to take on
a positive attitude as it is the key to success
and achieving personal goals.
At INTEC, classroom participation is
never taken for granted and students are
encouraged to regularly ask and answer
questions as well as join class disscussions.
Besides reinforcing a sense of
responsibility in students, these
regulations also encourage them to develop
other qualities that will be important
when they leave college to pursue further
studies.
www.intec.edu.my
Foundation students have the opportunity to interact with students from various disciplines.
A head start
to world-class
education
HE University of Nottingham Malaysia

Campus (UNMC) offers four foundation
programmes: Foundation in Arts and
Education, Foundation in Business and
Management, Foundation in Engineering
and Foundation in Science.
These programmes are ideal as an
entry pathway for Nottingham degree
programmes and will provide the level
of academic literacy required in an
undergraduate student. Upon successful
completion of a foundation programme,
progression to an undergraduate degree is
automatic and unconditional.
While all foundation programmes have
an English language component, the other
subjects within each foundation course is
designed to target the specific needs of the
student.
The Foundation in Science, for example,
covers topics such as biology, computing,
mathematics and psychology, whereas
the Foundation in Arts focuses largely on
language and communication skills.
All foundation students will receive
guidance through non-academic tutorials,
which will expose them to topical issues for
discussion.
UNMC foundation programmes
have an edge over similar programmes
in the market as they offer students
an opportunity to gain the skills and
knowledge needed in undertaking a range
of bachelors degrees while studying at a
world-class university.
The courses offered are carefully
designed to prepare students for degreelevel study and have a high rate of
progression.
A UNMC foundation student is a full
member of the university and has access to
all the opportunities, support and facilities
offered by the institution.
Nottingham graduates are part of a
global community of 250,000 alumni since
its inception in 1881. Key alumni of the
university are Malaysian Prime Minister
Datuk Seri Najib Razak, senior members of
the Malaysian judiciary, industry leaders
and successful entrepreneurs.
Malaysias 100 leading graduate
employers such as Accenture, BDO, Deloitte,
A UNMC foundation
student is a full
member of the
university and has
access to all the
opportunities, support
and facilities offered
by the institution.
Ernst & Young, Nestle, PwC, Proctor &

Gamble and Shell have actively participated
in UNMCs campus careers fair and other
recruitment events organised for students
and graduates.
The latest report byHigh Fliers
Researchshows that Nottingham come in
second in the list of universities targeted
by the largest number of top employers in
2014-2015. The report is based on research
conducted in December last year with
the UKs 100 leading graduate employers
including BP, EDF Energy, the Civil Service,
IBM, Goldman Sachs, PwC, Google and
HSBC.
Our success as a university stems from
the success of our graduates, many of whom
hold key positions in leading organisations
in Malaysia and internationally. It
demonstrates that a Nottingham degree is
recognised worldwide and is highly sought
after by employers, says Prof Christine
Ennew, professor of marketing and provost
of UNMC.
The University of Nottingham advocates
a well-rounded experience while studying.
Therefore, it is important for its students to
participate in work placements.
TheNottingham Advantage Award
enables students to take extra-curricular
modules alongside their academic studies to
build skills and experience.
UNMC is currently accepting students for
its April intake.
n For more information, visit the
universitys Open Day on March 14 or
e-mail study@nottingham.edu.my
COURSE FOCUS 13
There are a myriad of study options for students to choose from.
Options aplenty
>> FROM PAGE 2
IN Malaysia, the A-Levels
qualification is recognised in
private institutions of higher
learning. For public universities,
only Universiti Sains Malaysia and
Universiti Malaysia recognise this
pre-university programme.
Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan

Malaysia (Form 6)
Available in selected secondary

schools in Malaysia, this preuniversity programme is governed
by Majlis Peperiksaan Malaysia
(MPM). It is automatically offered
to students who do not receive an
offer for matriculation. To qualify,
students must have credits in
Bahasa Malaysia and three other
subjects for SPM.
Form 6 is the most affordable
pre-university programme in
pursuing overseas study. It is
recognised by universities in the
United Kingdom, the United States
and the Republic of Ireland.
This pre-university
qualification also allows students
to gain entry into local private
and public institutions of higher
learning.
Students taking Form 6 can
take a maximum of five subjects.
The Form 6 curriculum follows
a modular system. Instead of
sitting for a final exam at the end
of each semester, students sit for
three term examinations. In the
modular system, students can
improve their first and second
term results by retaking the
examination at the end of the
third term.
Those who do not attain good
results in the third term may also
retake the papers.
American Degree Transfer

Programme/American
Degree Programme
Available in private institutions

of higher learning, the American
Degree Transfer Programme
(ADTP) or American Degree
Programme (ADP) is an ideal
pre-university programme for
students who wish to study in
reputable universities abroad.
ADTP/ADP is recognised in the
United States and Canada and
there are a number of universities
in Australia, New Zealand and the
United Kingdom that have begun
to accept students with ADTP/ADP
qualifications.
To qualify, students need to
have at least five credits in SPM,
including English and either
mathematics or one science
subject. Students with UEC
qualification are also eligible for
this course with a minimum of
3Bs and 2Cs.
Students of ADTP/ADP study
one to two years in Malaysia
before transferring to an
American or Canadian university
to complete the final two years.
Students need to complete their
English evaluation papers such
as IELTS (International English
Language Testing System) or
TOEFL (Test of English as Foreign
Language) before going abroad.
A minimum score of 550 (TOEFL)
and 6.0 (IELTS) is required.
Malaysian Matriculation
Available in government
schools, matriculation is a
governed by Kementerian
Pelajaran Malaysia (KPM).
Students interested in taking up
matriculation must apply in July
through the Ministry of Education
portal (www.moe.gov.my).
This pre-university programme
is ideal for students who wish to
enter local public universities. It is
also suitable for those who need
more time to decide on which
course to take in university.
Matriculation can take one to

two years and is generally divided
into Program Satu Tahun (PST)
and Program Dua Tahun (PDT).
PST intake is in April while PDT
intake is in May.
The difference between PST
and PDT is that PDT students are
required to complete their studies
within two years whereas PST
students are required to finish
their studies in one year. PDT is
offered to students who need
extra time to complete their
course.
In terms of recognition,
matriculation is recognised
by some universities in the
UK, including University of
Birmingham, University of
Nottingham, University of Surrey,
Kings College London, University
of Manchester, University of
Southampton and University of
York.
Diploma
Available in local public and

private institutions of higher
learning, a diploma programme
is a perfect choice for students
who want to spend less time
and money on their education.
A diploma is similar to a degree
except that its level and syllabus
only covers the first year of
university studies. It is also a good
option for students who wish to
start working early.
A diploma programme trains
students to qualify for a particular
business or trade because the
programme focuses on skills
development and the use of
technologies and programmes
relevant to your field of choice.
Students who wish to take
design studies (such as in
fashion, multimedia, interior and
graphics), culinary arts, nursing,
radiography, medical imaging
and other technical fields will
benefit from this pre-university
programme.
>> TURN TO PAGE 15
UNKU Abdul Rahman

University College (TAR
University College) has
established itself as one of
the leading providers of the
Cambridge GCE A-Levels
programme in Malaysia. This
programme is conducted by
the University of Cambridge
International Examinations
(CIE).
Since the commencement
of the A-Levels programme
in 1987, the Centre for PreUniversity Studies (CPUS)
in TAR University College
has produced many highperforming students who have
excelled in their examinations.
These students have been
accepted into top-notch
universities in the world such as
University of Oxford, University
of Cambridge and National
University of Singapore.
From its humble beginnings
of just 49 students, the A-Levels
programme has grown by leaps
and bounds. Now 27 years
old, TAR University College
has become one of the largest
Leading ground for success

A-Levels providers in the country.
We have always believed in the
importance of having a quality preuniversity education as a requisite
to gaining entry into world-class
universities, says Looi Li Chin, head
of the Centre for Pre-University
Studies. A student needs a strong
foundation to prepare him or
her for the challenges of further
tertiary education and the A-Levels
programme is possibly the strongest
preparation for an undergraduate
degree.
TAR University College students
have consistently shown stellar
performance in their overall grades
in the A-Levels examination and
have won prestigious scholarships
offered by private and governmental
bodies and universities from around
the world.
There have been many success
stories throughout the years with
students achieving unrivalled feats.
One of them is Phung Cheng

Shyong, who scored five A*s in the
A-Levels (Science) programme
in 2013. In the recent A-Levels
examinations in June last year, Lee
Jong Wey, a student from A-Levels
(Science), scored four A*s while
Hassan Ali Huzam from A-Levels
(Arts) scored three A*s.
Many of TAR University
Colleges A-Levels high achievers
have outperformed others in
the past eight years, catapulting
them to the top in the world
and top in Malaysia titles of the
Outstanding Cambridge Learner
Awards.
Last year, four students were
awarded top in the world titles
for mathematics in the AS Level
June examination. Two other
students were awarded the top in
Malaysia titles for general paper
and computing respectively in the
Outstanding Cambridge Learner
Awards 2014.
TAR University College has also
registered an impressive A-Levels
pass percentage of 97.3% and 34%
of the students obtained excellent
results of A-A-B and above in
the June Cambridge GCE A-Level
examination last year.
The percentages are a result
of a consistent upward trajectory
of the institutions A-Levels
performance since its inception.
These excellent achievements
are proof that TAR University
Colleges A-Levels programme
provides students a strong
academic grounding, allowing
for a successful progression into
tertiary education.
Since the introduction
of the A-Levels programme
in TAR University College in
1987, our teaching faculty
has demonstrated its utmost
commitment and the students
excellent results are a

testimony of our strength in the
programme delivery, says Datuk
Dr Tan Chik Heok, president of
TAR University College.
Our track record speaks for
itself. Many of our students have
emerged top in the world and
in Malaysia and have gained
admission to some of the worlds
most selective universities, he
continues. Moving forward, the
Centre for Pre-University Studies
will continue to scale greater
heights in its quest to make TAR
University College the definitive
institution in providing A-Levels
education.
www.tarc.edu.my or TAR
University College Open Day
from March 2 to 22 (9.30am
5pm) at the Kuala Lumpur
Main Campus.
President of TAR University College Datuk Dr Tan Chik Heok (standing sixth
from left) with CIE regional director Dr Ben Schmidt (standing seven from left),
head of the Centre for Pre-University Studies (CPUS) Looi Li Chin (standing
eighth from left), and lecturers from CPUS. In the front row are recipients of
the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards 2014 (from left) Alvina Ng Jia Yee,
Low Miing Pin, Yap Yong Wei, Tiew Kee Hui, Shawn Edgar Miranda and
Law Hui Eng (standing).
A multicultural experience
SWINBURNE University of
Technology Sarawak Campus
offers foundation courses that
allow SPM graduates to make
a smooth transition from
secondary school to tertiary
studies.
The university offers oneyear foundation courses in
business, design, engineering,
science and information
technology or multimedia
studies.
These undergraduate
courses may be completed
either in Swinburne Sarawak
or in one of Swinburne
Universitys campuses in
Melbourne.
The university plays an
integral role in producing
graduates who are geared
towards the development of
the state and key research
projects that enable innovation
in industries, says Prof
Anthony Cahalan, deputy vicechancellor and chief executive
officer of Swinburne Sarawak.
Quality assurance ensures
that high quality is maintained
throughout Swinburne
campuses. The courses are
identical to those of its home
campus in Melbourne so
local graduates are awarded
the same internationally
recognised Australian
parchment.
The cultural diversity at
Swinburne Sarawak is an
opportunity for students to

interact with and learn more
about their peers and staff from
abroad.
Going on an exchange
programme where they
can spend a term or two
at Swinburnes Melbourne
campus while continuing to
pay the same Malaysian tuition
fee can enrich their university
experience.
Newly enrolled students
whose public exam results
meet the criteria may be
eligible for scholarships.
The university also helps
students to apply for loans from
Mara, PTPTN, Yayasan Sarawak
and Sarawak Higher Education
Foundation. Scholarships
are also offered by private
and charitable bodies via the
university.
03-5637 2202 or e-mail study@
swinburne.edu.my
The cultural diversity at Swinburne

Sarawak allows students to learn
from peers and staff from abroad.
>> FROM PAGE 13
South Australian
Matriculation/Australian
Matriculation
Available in local private

institutions of higher learning,
South Australian Matriculation
(SAM) or Australian
Matriculation (AUSMAT) is
equivalent to Year 12 in the
Australian secondary school
system.
The only difference between
the programmes is that SAM
is regulated by the South
Australian government while
AUSMAT is regulated by the
West Australian government.
These governing bodies ensure
that the programmes are
implemented properly.
Students need to obtain at
least five credits, including
English in their SPM to qualify
for SAM or AUSMAT.
In this pre-university
programme, students take five
subjects, including English. The
SAM/AUSMAT subjects lead to
a variety of university courses,
depending on the students
choice.
Students may take the
necessary subjects in one
year, but there is flexibility for
students to complete it over a
longer period.
Students may also increase
their university aggregate
score by repeating subjects in
a second year without penalty.
Although it is an Australian
Choosing the right course

programme, students have
to take Moral/Islamic studies,
Bahasa Malaysia as well as
Malaysian studies. Additionally,
students must sit for an English
studies paper and obtain a
satisfactory score.
SAM and AUSMAT are
very popular pre-university
programmes for overseas study.
Students study in Malaysia
and earn the South Australian
or West Australian Certificate
of Education upon successful
completion.
This award is recognised
within the Australian
Qualifications Framework
(AQF) and opens doors to top
universities in Australia, New
Zealand, the UK, the US and
Asia.
Canadian Pre-University/
Canadian International
Matriculation Programme
Offered by private
institutions of higher learning,
Canadian Pre-University (CPU)
and Canadian International
Matriculation Programme
(CIMP) are approved by
the Malaysian Ministry of
Education. These programmes
take one year to complete.
CPU and CIMP are very
Pursue your medical career

MELAKA-Manipal Medical
College (MMMC) is the
education choice for future
doctors and dentists.
It has received many
accolades, including six-star
ratings by MyQuest in its last
two consecutive assessments.
The Brandlaureate-Institute of
Superbrands, South-East Asia,
named it a Superbrand Medical
Education in 2011.
MMMC twinning programme
allows students to go overseas
first and subsequently return
to Malaysia for their clinical
training in Malaysian hospitals.
This ensures that MMMC
students gain excellent
groundwork in basic sciences
in the tradition of renowned
Indian medical education in
the first phase of their studies
in Manipal, India, which is then
reinforced with clinical training
in Malaysian hospitals in the
second phase.
Manipal is consistently listed
among the top five medical
schools in India and has been
a favoured destination for
Malaysians for medical and
dental studies since the 1960s.
The Bachelor of Dental
Surgery is a popular course
at MMMC, and also allows
dentistry students to visit
Ministry of Health dental clinics
and organised dental camps in
Orang Asli villages in Malacca.
The course is usually fully filled
12 to 18 months ahead of the
intakes.
Students stand a better
chance of entry into the course
by qualifying through MMMCs
homegrown Foundation in
COURSE FOCUS 15
Students can gain some educational

experience at Manipal University in
its India campus through MMMCs
twinning programme.
Science (FiS).
Students of FiS are given
priority over other applicants
provided they obtain the
mandatory minimum entry
requirements.
MMCs alumni are
practicing medical
professionals from across the
globe, including Singapore,
Australia, New Zealand, the
United States and the United
Kingdom.
Locally, Malaysian hospitals
have given encouraging
feedback and MMMCs
vision in producing medical
professionals with a broad
range of knowledge, skills and
attitudes together with its
commitment to excellence has
been spot on.
With outstanding facilities
and a dedication to ensure
quality education, MMMC aims
to instil in its students the idea
that there is more to being a
doctor than merely passing
exams. It is not just a job, it is a
vocation.
1800 226 662 or 06-289 6662
or visit www.manipal.edu/
melaka
different from some of the other

programmes and are far more
student-centred. Very similar to ADP/
ADTP, CPU and CIMP do not have
a particular governing body. The
respective universities govern it.
Both CPU and CIMP are of the
same module (Ontario High School
curriculum).
The different names are brands
under Taylors University and Sunway
University respectively.
Students are required to complete
six Grade 12 subjects, 10 hours of
community service, and pass the
Ontario Secondary School Literacy
Test to graduate.
Upon graduation, students are
conferred with Ontario Secondary
School Diploma.
To qualify, students have to obtain
a minimum of five credits in their
SPM examinations, including English,
science and mathematics.
It is a recognised qualification for
entry into universities in Canada

and most universities in the US,
Australia and New Zealand and the
UK.
In Malaysia, CPU/CIMP
qualification is recognised by
International Medical University,
International Islamic University
Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi
MARA, Monash University
Malaysia, Sunway University,
Multimedia University, Penang
Medical and Manipal Medical
College.
International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate

(IB) Diploma is governed by the
International Baccalaureate
Organisation (IBO) in Geneva,
Switzerland, and administered by

the International Baccalaureate
Curriculum and Assessment
Centre in Cardiff, Wales.
The IB Diploma is a rigorous
because it is demanding and
requires a significant amount of
responsibility from the student.
The IB diploma is suited for
those who are academically
motivated, open minded, critical
and creative thinkers, principled,
inquisitive and caring towards
society.
The IB diploma is recognised
internationally and locally for
admission into universities in
Malaysia, including University
of Malaya, Universiti Tenaga
Nasional and International Islamic
University.
The list of universities that
recognise the IB diploma can be
viewed at www.ibo.org/recognition
Lending a helping hand

I
BAC staff and students worked together to provide relief for flood victims in the East Coast.
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman

Tier-5 Excellent University (SETARA 13)
al
sion on
s
e
f
Pro ogniti
Rec
MQAition
n
c
re og
nt
d eo
u
t
s pp rt
su
dy
Stu ur
to
st
lo udy
an
sc
l
ho
iring
insp turer
lec
ip
low g
livin st
co
opresea
po rc
good
rtu h
nit facilities
y
ble
a
t
u
y
rep iversit
un
e
abl
d
r
affofees
sh
ar
innovative
teaching
ents
studards
aw
soft skil
ls
comp
etent
WHAT ARE
YOU
LOOKING
FOR?
unity
comom
cts
je
pr
ke
maends
clubs & fri
societies
rd
awa
ing
n
winmpus
ca
ly
earreer n
a
c aratio
p
r
pe
ly ble
h
g a
hi loy
p
m
e
Industrial
training
r ia
eu
ren es
p
iti
t re
en act i v
Accounting,
Business
and Economics
Actuarial Science,
Mathematics and
Process Management
Agriculture and
Food Science
Arts, Social
Sciences
and Education
Creative Industries
and Design
Engineering and
Built Environment
Information and
Communication
Technology
Life and Physical

Sciences
Medicine and
Health Sciences
OPEN DAY
MAY 2015 INTAKE
7 March - 21 June 2015
7-8 March 2015 9.30am - 5.30pm

Sg. Long & Perak Campus
03-7958 2628/016-2233 559 (PJ)
05-468 8888 (Perak)
enquiry@utar.edu.my
PJ & Perak Campus

9.00am - 5.00pm
(Closed on Public Holidays)
www.utar.edu.my
UTAR Petaling Jaya Campus No. 9, Jalan Bersatu 13/4, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. DU012-01(B)
UTAR Perak Campus Jalan Universiti, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak Darul Ridzuan. DU012-03(A)
Wholly owned by UTAR Education Foundation (Co. No. 578227-M)

03-2274 4165 or visit www.bac.edu.my
Media Ed Counsultant
specialises in
providing advice on
medical education.
Foundation
Programmes
(for SPM students)
WEEKEND
COUNSELLING
(CIE) A-Levels is the ideal pre-university

programme for students who have yet to
decide on a specific tertiary education path
because the programme leads to a broad
range of possible fields.
Students who are interested in
furthering their studies in law, business,
medicine, finance, engineering or
communication, can select from a wide
range of A-Levels subjects that BAC
offers, including biology, chemistry, law,
economics, accounting, English literature
and mathematics.
Those looking to get a head start in their
careers will find the BAC A-Levels Express
Route the perfect option for them. This
specially designed 11-month programme
gives BAC students an edge over those
on the standard 18- or 24-month route.
Coupled with BACs UK Transfer Degree
Programme in law or business, students
will be able to graduate up to two years
ahead of their peers, making BAC the fastest
and smartest pathway to more than 70 UK
law and business degrees.
Alternatively, students can opt for the
BAC Foundation in Arts programme. It has
been designed and developed to allow
students to proceed into a wide range of
undergraduate degrees.
To make tertiary education more
accessible, the BAC Education Fund awards
Merit Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships to students based on their
academic excellence and financial need.
BAC has also collaborated with The Star,
MAPCU and Sin Chew Education Funds to
provide more options for students.
y
indusutrs
c
o
f
Look no further as we offer more than 70 types of programmes in the various fields of study.
Part-time honours degrees and postgraduate programmes

are available for working adults.
N December last year, the east coast

region of Peninsular Malaysia has
experienced monsoon downpours that
caused severe flash floods and landslides.
Consequently, many buildings, roads and
houses were destroyed.
In response to the catastrophe,
Brickfields Asia College (BAC)s charity
arm BAC Gives Back organised a relief
operation together with several local NGOs.
A total of RM30,000 worth of supplies,
including drinking water, dry rations,
blankets, toiletries and other sundries
were collected in a collaborative effort by
students and staff.
BAC Gives Back produced a series of
limited edition T-shirts and the proceeds
went towards the fundraising effort. It
organised a blood donation drive that
garnered more than 100 registrations and
82 successful donors in response to the
urgent need for blood in the East Coast.
BAC students also supported the SOS East
Coast Relief Blood Donation Campaign at Nu
Sentral Shopping Mall. The students worked
on shifts, manning registration counters
and lending their support in any way they
could. Almost 800 donations were made
in total, of which about 200 were by BAC
students.
BAC believes in a holistic education as
evidenced by its co-curricular activities
and academic track record. Two of BACs
A-Levels students received the Outstanding
Cambridge Learner Awards for Best Student
in the World for Law and Business in 2013.
Amanda Kong was awarded the Best
Student in the World for Law while Lau
Foong Yee was awarded the Best Student
in the World for Business Studies. The
Cambridge International Examinations
Broadening Horizons, Transforming Lives
Building a medical career

THROUGH hard work and perseverance,
Medic Ed Consultant Sdn Bhd was
established in 2002 and has attained a
good status in Malaysias medical education
landscape.
The company was founded by Dr Lau
Haw Ming and is operated by a group
of professional doctors. It has become a
leading consultation firm in Malaysia that
specialises in providing advice on medical
education.
Medic Ed Consultants principle is to
aid students in their ambition to become
physicians. It does this by providing them
with adequate guidance in choosing the
right medical programme with affordable
fees in colleges and universities that are
recognised by the Malaysian government.
Medic Ed Consultant is unique because
it underwent a series of strategic mergers
and acquisitions to become a leading
consultation company.
Many medical bodies are now part
of Medic Ed Consultant, including TMC
College, Hospital Aman, Skin Medic, Clinic
Mediviron and Red Apple Dental.
Education is vital in building a
developing country. After years of research,
Medic Ed has created a 360 concept, which

is a simple and effective tool for students.
It describes the process that students
undergo upon registering with Medic Ed
Consultant. From the start, students are
supported in their medical career path and
are provided jobs with medical pioneers
associated with Medic Ed.
n For more information, call 03-7981 1821
or e-mail admin@mediced.com.my
Students are given guidance in choosing the right

medical programme.
COURSE FOCUS 17
Holistic approach to learning

M
AKING the decision to

pursue the A-Levels
programme may seem
simple, yet deciding on the best
institution is not an easy task.
After all, there are numerous
institutions that offer not just
A-Levels but a variety of preuniversity programmes.
Before you pick a college,
you will need to decide what
you want out of your higher
education. Fear, self-doubt,
anxiety, cost and benefits are all
at play in the search for the best
college.
At Advance Tertiary College
(ATC), your learning experience
is its priority.
Since it began operations in
1987, ATC has offered education
at the pre-tertiary level with
the objective of giving students
an opportunity to pursue
further education in most fields.
In the last five years, the college
has expanded regionally with
branches in Penang, Singapore
and Hong Kong.
ATC has committed itself
to providing students with
unparalleled quality of
education. The more than 2,000
students pursuing professional
and pre-tertiary studies at ATC
is proof of its strong reputation
and leadership in private
education.
Jeevitha Thurai, last years
recipient of the Malaysian Law
Scholarship Award, is a former
ATC has produced a string of high achievers over the years.

A-Levels student of ATC who is now
pursuing the University of London
LLB degree at the prestigious Kings
College, London.
Jeevitha achieved remarkable
results for the A-Levels examinations
and went on to perform well during
her first year of the LLB programme
at ATC.
Being offered the prestigious
Kings College scholarship is a
remarkable achievement as it
has provided Jeevitha with an
opportunity to complete her law
degree in the United Kingdom.

Only one Malaysian is presented
with the scholarship annually.
ATC has had an outstanding
track record of having more than
10 of its students become scholars
over the years.
Jeevitha has truly benefited
from the foundation that she has
received from the solid teaching in
the A-Levels programme at ATC.
The A-Levels qualification has
provided her with the proper tools
to take on subjects that are more
challenging in her degree.

Designed with the objective of
giving students an opportunity
to pursue further education in
almost any field, the A-Levels
qualification is awarded by the
University of Cambridge.
The subjects offered at ATC
include English literature,
thinking skills, law, business
studies, economics, accounting
and mathematics.
Examinations are held twice
a year, allowing students time
to prepare themselves in their

respective subjects.
ATC demonstrates a steady
continuity in its list of high
achievers throughout the years.
The high achievers of 2012 and
2013 from the School of PreTertiary are Ting Ee Linn, who
obtained the highest scores in
the world for law and Chan Heng
Joe, who scored top marks for
economics in Malaysia at the
AS Level.
This is a testament of the
strong commitment of ATCs
faculty in ensuring its students
excel in their education at the
institution.
One can discover the neverending possibilities of studying
at ATC. A holistic, integrated
approach to learning is what ATC
firmly believes in.
With highly dedicated and
experienced lecturers, the
educational experience offered
will allow students to develop
confidence and character needed
to pursue further education both
locally and abroad.
If you have not received an
offer for matriculation or Form
Six, consider A-Levels as an
alternative.
The March intake is currently
in progress at ATC.
03-2031 0266 (Kuala Lumpur)
or 04-229 9266 (Penang) or visit
www.atc2u.com
NTERNATIONAL Medical
University (IMU) had its
inaugural graduating class for
those in the Foundation in Science
(FiS) programme in December last
year.
The 48 graduates had
completed the first step of their
tertiary journey and were filled
with eager anticipation. Of the
cohort, 17 students obtained
distinctions, which is a CGPA of 3.7
and above.
Having gained the right
foundation for their future
studies, these students will go
on to pursue medical and health
sciences degree programmes of
their choice at the university.
The programme is taught
by experienced lecturers with
previous teaching experience
in various pre-university
programmes.
FiS is a one-year programme
conducted across three semesters.
The FiS programme is awarded by
IMU and offered at the universitys
main campus in Bukit Jalil, Kuala
Lumpur.
IMU takes pride in FiS holistic
curriculum, which aims to
develop various competencies in
students.
Felicity Ng, having secured
a place in IMUs medical
programme, says, My experience
as a FiS student has been
wonderful.
Exposure and hands-on
experience provided by the
programme has allowed me to
discover my potential and gear me
up for my degree. I have also met
incredible people in my course.
Studying in IMU was the right
choice for me.
The curriculum is tailored to
Valuable exposure and experience

IMU takes pride in FiS holistic
curriculum, which aims to develop
various competencies in students.
provide a smooth transition from

pre-university studies to tertiary
education, preparing students
for subjects such as chemistry,
biology, mathematics, English for
academic purposes, physics for
health sciences, computing studies
and cross-boundary studies.
The Foundation in Science
is benchmarked against the
standard of local foundation
programmes.
External examiners who
are experienced lecturers
in foundation programmes
also provide feedback on FiS
assessments.
Students are taught to reflect
on their learning through
reflective writing and gain

problem-solving skills in crossboundary studies.
Tan Vei Xhion, who will be
pursuing a degree in dentistry
at IMU, says, My year in FiS was
a big eye-opener for me as I was
exposed to new experiences both
academically and socially. It has
been a fun-filled year thanks to
my friends and lecturers but I have
to admit that FIS was challenging.
I am happy to have completed FiS
as I am now a step closer to my
degree.
FiS students actively participate
in clubs, societies, sports and
charity events in their course of
study. Through these activities,
they gain the opportunity to

meet friends from various degree
programmes.
The Foundation in Science has
three intakes this year January,
May and September.
About IMU
IMU is Malaysias first private
medical and health care university
with more than 22 years of
dedicated focus in health care
education.
It was the first university
inMalaysia to offer conventional
and complementary medicine
studies.
Established in 1992, the
university enjoys an international

reputation and provides a
high standard of education at
undergraduate, postgraduate
and continuing professional
development level. Its
programmes consist of both local
pathways (IMU degree), as well as
international partner pathways
(partner university degree).
IMUs learning model is
grounded in its core values, which
fosters students development
to become knowledgeable
and competent health care
professionals who are critical
thinkers, reflective and proactive.
The aim is to create health care
graduates who are committed
to lifelong learning and imbued
with a sense of good citizenship,
leadership and ethical behaviour.
In its continual quest for
academic excellence, the
universitys increased focus
on research was a natural
progression. Its key focus are on
medical and health care-related
research as well as medical
education.
IMU is an integrated medical
and health care institution that
offers education, health care and
research in partnership with some
of the worlds most respected
individuals and universities in the
field of medicine and health care.
03-2731 7272 or e-mail
start@imu.edu.my or visit
www.imu.edu.my
NGINEERING has long been thought to

be a lucrative and wide-ranging field of
study that offers diverse job prospects.
To date, the Board of Engineers Malaysia
(BEM) reports that there are 11,305
engineers and 79,767 graduate engineers in
the country.
With an array of specialisations
that include electrical and electronic,
mechanical, petroleum, chemical and civil
engineering, engineering students will be
able to select an area that speaks of their
strengths and skillsets.
Those who are considering a career in
engineering should look into obtaining
a strong base that will equip them for a
successful career. The right education from
a world-class university will serve as the
perfect launch pad for them to kick-start
their future in engineering. One such
university is Heriot-Watt University.
Founded in 1821, Heriot-Watt is a leading
British university with a long-standing
track record of excellence. This legacy
of excellence has earned the university
its 13th spot in the United Kingdom and
second in Scotland as ranked by The
Guardian University Guide 2015.
Additionally, Times Higher Education 100
under 50 last year ranked the university
52nd in the world, seventh in the UK and
first in Scotland
The university recently opened a new,
state-of-the-art campus in Putrajaya,
providing students in Malaysia and around
the region an opportunity to experience its
education excellence on Malaysian shores.
Our portfolio offers a range of
professionally relevant undergraduate
and postgraduate degree programmes
in key growth areas for Malaysia in
business, construction, actuarial science
Engineering
your career
The mixed method of teaching and assessments at HWUM equips students with invaluable hands-on
knowledge to prepare them for the professional world.
and engineering fields, including energy
and petroleum, says Prof Robert Craik,
Heriot-Watt University Malaysias (HWUM)
provost and chief executive officer.
These programmes are developed and
accredited by professionals in the industry,
ensuring that the syllabus and teaching
materials used are current and relevant to
the industrys requirements.
Heriot-Watt Universitys engineering
programmes have earned them a number of
accolades, namely being ranked top in the
UK and Scotland for civil engineering and
top in Scotland for chemical engineering by
The Guardian University Guide 2015.

Additionally, among the subjects ranked
first in Scotland by the National Student
Survey 2014 were the universitys chemical
engineering, civil engineering, electrical
engineering and mechanical engineering.
At HWUM, students have access to the
same top-notch British education. This
begins with the universitys Foundation
in Science programme. Upon successful
completion of the programme, students
will be eligible for any of the universitys
undergraduate programmes, including its
engineering programmes.
At present, HWUMs programme
offerings in engineering include mechanical
engineering, petroleum engineering,
chemical engineering and civil engineering
at the undergraduate level. Petroleum
engineering, renewable energy engineering,
COURSE FOCUS 19
mechanical engineering, civil engineering

and chemical engineering with oil and gas
technology are offered at the postgraduate
level.
A mixed method of teaching and
assessments is employed in the delivery of
programme content. This includes lectures,
tutorials, mentoring sessions, coursework,
group and individual projects as well as
laboratory work.
The mixed mode of teaching and
assessments allows students to gain a more
hands-on educational experience that will
stand them in good stead as they enter the
working world.
Furthermore, as these programmes have
been designed to meet the educational
requirements of professional bodies,
students can be assured that the education
they receive at HWUM will set them up for
a successful future in engineering.
With international campuses in
Edinburgh, Dubai and the newly launched
campus right here in Putrajaya, Heriot-Watt
also offers its students campus-transfer
opportunities, allowing them to gain an
international study experience.
n For more information, call 03-8894 3888
or e-mail hwum@hw.ac.uk or visit
www.hw.edu.my
The universitys well-equipped laboratories ensure

that students receive a wholesome education
experience.
OR students who are still trying to

figure out their academic pathway after
SPM, Infrastructure University Kuala
Lumpur (IUKL) offers foundation studies
that can grant them fast and flexible access
to a university degree programme.
IUKLs two foundation programmes,
Foundation in Science and Foundation in
Arts, are designed for flexibility to broaden
students choices of study at degree level.
With their carefully designed curriculum,
the foundation programmes will help
students decide which degree programme
to pursue later.
The Foundation in Science offers two
options engineering option for students
who wish to pursue an engineering degree
and non-engineering option for those
who aspire to be part of the health science
industry.
The basic modules of the two options
cover English, mathematics, chemistry
and physics. Students who choose the
engineering option will also take up statics,
physics and dynamics laboratory. Focus will
be given to biology and biochemistry for
those in the non-engineering option.
Individuals who choose the engineering
field will have the choice of advancing into
civil engineering, mechanical engineering,
electrical and electronics engineering
and automative engineering. The nonengineering field offers degree options
in the fields of pharmacy, food science,
biotechnology, agriculture and more.
For Foundation in Arts, two options are
also offered. The first is the architecture
Flexibility for the future
IUKLs foundation programmes offer students flexibility in choosing their degree majors.
option for individuals who aspire to be
professional architects. This option requires
students to focus on architecture-related
subjects such as AutoCAD application,
introduction to architecture, architectural
graphics and sketching.
The second art option is designed for
students who plan to become involved in
the areas of business studies, information

technology and language studies. Some
of the basic modules compulsory for
Foundation in Arts students are English,
communication, psychology and computer
applications.
Also available are business, IT,
accounting, marketing, network technology,
software engineering, advertising, English

for professional communication and
architectural studies.
IUKL scholarships are available to
students who meet the minimum
requirements.
With a minimum of five As in SPM, a
student is entitled to a 50% scholarship.
Those with eight As and above are entitled
to a full scholarship at IUKL.
STPM students only need a minimum
CGPA of 3.00 to enjoy the 50% scholarships
and 3.50 for a full scholarship.
IUKLs tuition fee waiver scheme offers
up to 60% off the semester tuition fee for
students who maintain a CGPA of 3.75 and
above. A 30% tuition fee waiver for the next
semester awaits those who score a CGPA of
3.50 to 3.749.
In addition to the foundation
studies, IUKL offers diploma and degree
programmes in engineering, quantity
surveying, IT, business administration,
accounting, communication and language
studies.
IUKLs Info Day will be held on March 7
and 8 from 10am to 4pm at its campus. The
March intake is in progress.
n For more information, call 1800 88 STUDY
(78839) or visit www.IUKL.edu.my

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THE STAR Tuesday 3 March 2015

StarSpecial COURSE FOCUS:

Learning beyond the classroom > 7

Holistic approach to learning > 17

2 COURSE FOCUS StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

Navigating the pre-U maze

Offered in both local private

by a university. With that said,

which allows students to focus

Offered by local private

StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

The wide range of pre-university programmes offered at SEGi University

4 COURSE FOCUS StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

of recycling used items, privacy

From left: Melissa

It takes a plastic water

record of human trafficking.

StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

Cultivating educational excellence

N line with its mission

Business, Hospitality and Tourism

KBU engages its students in

School of Engineering and

schools School of Design,

Besides that, the school is well

KBUs School of Engineering

About KBU International

6 COURSE FOCUS StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

ELP University is the first

Dual options for A-Levels

Students at HELP, ecstatic over their A-Level results.

and chemistry, was admitted to

universities in the United

is crucial when they face the

Heading in a new direction

StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

UT your heart and soul into what you

Embracing new experiences

Top scorer Kevin

8 COURSE FOCUS StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

students 80% are not sure

five critical skills, namely

StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

NIVERSITI Tunku Abdul

with existing commitments,

Sunway Foundation in Arts (FIA) has been such

Cambridge GCE A-Level (A-Level)

Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY)

Sunway Foundation Programme (FIA, FIST)

10 COURSE FOCUS StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

The Engineering Foundation Year programme is tailored to suit individuals.

HE University of Southampton has

Unique curriculum, excellent

The University of Southampton is a top choice for

StarSpecial, Tuesday 3 March 2015

Developing wellrounded students

NTEC Education College in Shah Alam,

they learn how to pray and read the Quran