THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017

COURSE FOCUS
PRE-UNIVERSITY

The next step

Pre-university courses are the
gateway for students into
tertiary education. Look inside
to learn more.

UNIVERSITY
2 Course Focus
The start of something new
By NISSHANTHAN DHANAPALAN
FOR many school-leavers, March
16 will mark the end of their
school-going days as they step into
the world of tertiary education.
Some school-leavers have a keen
sense of what they want to do with
their lives but there are many
others who are still figuring it out.
Hence, it is important to find a
pre-university course that would
not only help school-leavers keep
their options open but also learn
necessary skills that would be
useful when they pursue a
bachelors degree later.
With the availability of many
options, it is important for both
parents and school-leavers to
convene and identify the right
course.
For school-leavers who have
not decided on a career and
university course, finding the
right pre-university course can be
1 Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)
STPM is often associated with
very difficult examinations, a
longer time to complete and
being stuck in a school uniform.
However, the recent change
in STPM format has made it
relevant to current university
syllabus and modules.
The one-and-a-half-year
course now follows a modular
system that consists of
assessments conducted
throughout the programme in
challenging, especially if they are
considering switching between the
humanities and science streams.
As a start, school-leavers should
identify subjects that they enjoy
learning in school. Students
generally perform better when
they show a keen interest in a
subject.
Subjects that they do well in
school also indicate that they have
an aptitude for the subject and the
necessary basic skills to take them
further in both their pre-university
and undergraduate courses.
It is wise to choose a course that
offers the option to pick a broad
range of subjects in both the
humanities and sciences if the
school-leaver is still unsure of the
stream to pursue.
Moreover, both streams allow
students to become well-rounded
and the skills learnt from either
a span of three semesters.
Twenty per cent of total
assessment consists of
coursework while the
remaining 80% remains as an
examination. This allows Form
6 students to be more
independent in acquiring
knowledge and not rely on rote
learning.
Form 6 is one of the cheapest
pre-university options in the
country as students only need to
stream will be beneficial in the
field they intend to pursue.
Some pre-university courses are
catered for students pursuing their
degree in a specific country while
others are locally and
internationally recognised.
In public universities, the
government pre-university
courses offered are Asasi,
AsasiPintar and government
matriculation programme.
Some countries have a
strong reputation for specific
university courses, such as
India for medicine, the
United Kingdom for law and
Germany for engineering.
Universities in
different countries
may have different
prerequisites and
conditions for
accepting students.
pay basic school fees of RM90 if
they choose to pursue it at a
public school. Examination fees
are RM120.
Living costs are usually lower
as most students enrol in a
school that is closest to their
homes and study resources are
relatively affordable and widely
available.
STPM is recognised in all
public and most private
universities in Malaysia.
2 Foreign matriculation
Foreign matriculation courses
are pre-university courses from a
specific country or institution that
are also offered in Malaysia.
These courses are aimed at
students looking to pursue their
undergraduate studies overseas,
especially in the country where
the course is offered.
These courses are recognised
by many other universities around
the world because they are
standardised globally.
Unlike local matriculation
options, foreign matriculation
programmes allow students to be
flexible by mixing and matching
Hence, it is important to find a
pre-university course that is
preferably recognised globally
if school-leavers want a
flexible future.
It is also internationally
recognised, especially among
universities within the
Commonwealth of Nations,
the United States and the
Republic of Ireland. STPM
results are often equivalent to
results obtained in the GCSE
A-Levels.
Most schools with Form 6
education offer four subjects
within the science, business or
humanities stream.
subjects according to their
interests. However, the extent of
the flexibility depends on the
institution offering the course.
A-Levels
One of the most popular private
pre-university courses, A-Levels or
the Advanced Level course is
equivalent to the sixth form in the
UK.
It is a great stepping stone for
students looking to further their
studies in the UK, countries under
the Commonwealth and other
countries that recognise the
course.
A-Levels is known to be one of
the most flexible pre-university
programmes with more than 40
subjects to choose from. However,
subjects offered between
institutions may vary. Many
institutions in Malaysia offer the
course as science or art streams.
Students need a minimum of
five credits in Sijil Pelajaran
Malaysia (SPM), including English,
to qualify for the programme.
Those who have completed their
GCE (General Certificate of
Education) O-Levels may also
apply.
Divided into Advanced
Subsidiary Level and A2 Level,
the assessment for A-Levels is
based fully on written
examinations.
There is a separate endorsement
for practical skills. Cambridge
International Examinations
and Edexcel International
Examinations are renowned
examination boards that offer
IGCSE (International General
Certificate of Secondary
Education), GCE O-Level, AS-Level
and A-Levels qualifications.
The cost of an A-Levels
programme ranges between
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
Students who would like to
take elective subjects will have
to seek private tutors.
STPM registration is open.
For more information or to
register, visit www.mpm.edu.my.
Ideal for students who:
l Enjoy conducting
experiments and projects
l Are open to studying both
locally and internationally
l Can handle in-depth
learning
RM15,000 and RM45,000,
depending on the institution
offering the course.
The programme takes about
15 to 24 months to complete,
depending on the intake.
The intakes are in January, March
and July.
Ideal for students who:
l Are independent
l Have good financial resources
or are recipients of scholarships
l Are looking to study abroad
AUSMAT/SACE
Australia is known as a
premier education destination
in the region. Naturally, the
Australian Matriculation
(AUSMAT) and the South
Australian Certificate of Education
(SACE, formerly known as South
Australian Matriculation or SAM)
are popular pre-university courses
in Malaysia.
These courses are known for
their short duration as you can
complete the entire course within
a year with only five subjects,
leading you to a variety of
university courses. Students can
opt to extend their course
duration if necessary.
Individuals need a minimum
of five credits in SPM, including
English, to qualify for either
programme.
SACEs assessment consists of
70% coursework and 30%
examinations. On the other hand,
AUSMAT is equally assessed
between coursework and
examinations.
Both courses have continuous
assessment throughout the year in
the forms of assignments, essays,
laboratory reports, speaking tests,
quizzes and projects.
> TURN TO PAGE 4
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
THE HELP Universitys foundation
programmes are internationally
recognised as an entry
qualification to prestigious
universities in Australia, the
United Kingdom, the
United States, New Zealand and
Russia.
The success of the foundation
programmes is evident through
the many world-class graduates
who have gained access into
internationally renowned
universities.
Among the outstanding
graduates is Low Pei Zhen, a
HELP Foundation in Arts student
who secured 11 high distinctions
and two distinctions and was
awarded the University of
Queensland International
Economics Scholarship to pursue
her Bachelor of Economics at
University of Queensland,
Australia.
HELP Universitys foundation is
a well-structured programme that
allowed me to enhance my
research and analytical skills.
The programme promotes
academic excellence and
involvement in extracurricular
activities. I became an all-rounder,
says Low.
Another former student, Rachel
Lai Suet Leng, says that she is
grateful to HELP for structuring the
foundation programme to focus
on intelligence quotient as well as
the development of emotional
intelligence.
Lai completed her Master of
Philosophy at University of
Cambridge, the UK, and is
completing her PhD at Cambridge
on a full scholarship.
At the HELP Matriculation
Centre (HMC), education is a
continuous quest for
understanding and meaning. We
Forging ahead
aim to nurture healthy, whole,
curious individuals who can learn
all that they need to know in any
new context, says Dhanesh
Balakrishnan, dean of the Faculty
of University Foundation Studies,
HELP University.
At HMC, we are concerned
with the growth of students
intellectual, emotional, social,
physical, artistic, creative and
spiritual potential. We actively
engage students in the teaching/
learning process and encourage
personal and collective
discernment and responsibility.
One key component of the
foundation programmes is a
leadership camp, which aims to
motivate students to believe in
themselves, acquire valuable soft
skills and cultivate versatility in
facing challenges.
Hence, the Centre for Personal
Development and Leadership was
established to enable students to
hone their leadership skills and
recognise their self-worth.
HMC organises many events
during which students can practise
their leadership skills and
teamwork. Some signature events
that the centre organises are:
l Cosplay, Comics, Anime and
Games Exhibition (C2AGE)
C2AGE is an event that caters to
pop culture enthusiasts. The
purpose of the event is to educate
the general public, especially
youth, about cosplay, comics and
anime.
This event is currently ranked as
one of the top anime, cosplay and
games events in Malaysia with a
current following of 12,000 fans.
HMC students are involved in
the most basic elements of event
management and receive hands-on
experience on how to manage
events effectively.
l AniHELP (Animals and
HELP) AniHELP aims to educate
the public on the prevention of
HELP Universitys
Faculty of
University
Foundation
Studies dean
Dhanesh
Balakrishnan
(fourth from left)
with international
cosplay and
anime celebrities
at the launch of
C2AGE.
cruelty to animals and inculcate a
culture of compassion.
The event is supported by Miss
Malaysia World 2010 and AniHELP
ambassador Thanuja Ananthan as
well as SPCA Selangors patron Tan
Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The event hosts a number of
activities, including an animal
adoption drive, animal fashion
show and talks on animal welfare.
l HMC Rush HMC Rush is an
event modelled on the popular
television game show The Amazing
Race.
Participants of HMC Rush are
required to work in teams, collect
clues along the way, and engage in
a battle of wits. The event has
been held in various locations,
both locally and overseas.
l School Magazine Workshop
HMC held its 8th School Magazine
Workshop recently at its campus,
with more than 200 students from
Course Focus 3
20 schools in the Klang Valley
participating.
According to HMCs deputy head
of department Dr Chandra
Nanthakumar, the idea of the
School Magazine Workshop is to
encourage students to think, write
and develop their writing skills and
talent.
Dr Chandra says that the
workshop was initiated in 2009 to
provide budding journalists and
media enthusiasts with a platform
to hone their journalistic skills,
thus nurturing a generation of
writers and thinkers.
l Study tours As part of the
holistic approach, HMC students
are given the opportunity to
broaden their horizons by
organising study tours to different
locations around the world.
The study tours serve as an
avenue for HMC students to
enrich their learning experience
by connecting them with different
people from different cultures.
Thus far, HMC students have
travelled to South Korea and
Japan.
The HELP Foundation in Arts
and Foundation in Science
programmes are available at
the HELP University campus
in Damansara Heights,
Kuala Lumpur.
Foundation in Arts is also
available at HELP Universitys
new campus in Subang 2.
The next intake for the
foundation programmes is
in April. Students who register
for the April 2017 intake will
receive a 30% bursary.
n For more information, call the
Customer Marketing Department
at 03-2716 2000.
4 Course Focus
Finding the right programmes
> FROM PAGE 2
Depending on the institutions
offering the course, AUSMAT
and SACE courses can cost
between RM25,000 and RM35,000.
The intakes for these courses
are in January, March, July
and September, based on the
individual institution.
Both courses are recognised
within the Australian Qualifications
Framework and allow students to
enrol in top universities in New
Zealand, the UK, the US and Asia.
Ideal for students who:
l Are independent
l Enjoy a balance of
examinations and assignments
l Can multitask and manage
time effectively
l Are looking to study locally or
overseas
CIMP/CPU
The Canadian International
Matriculation Programme (CIMP)
and Canadian Pre-University (CPU)
programme are both unique
compared to many pre-university
courses in Malaysia.
For one, they do not have a
governing body other than the
respective universities offering the
courses. These courses follow the
Ontario High School curriculum.
CIMP and CPU are student-
centric courses that offer a wide
range of subject options based on
the interests of students.
Students with a minimum of five
credits in SPM, including English,
science and mathematics, can
enrol in either programme.
Students who have completed their
Unified Examination Certificate
(UEC) are also eligible to apply.
The two-semester courses
take approximately one year to
complete. Assessments are made
up of 70% tests, quizzes, projects
and attendance and 30%
examinations.
Students are required to
complete six Grade 12 subjects,
10 hours of community service and
pass the Ontario Secondary School
Literacy Test.
CIMP and CPU cost between
RM13,000 and RM35,000 for the
entire course. Some science
subjects will cost higher. Intakes
for these courses are in January,
May and July.
Some science subjects will cost
higher. Intakes for these courses
are in January, May and July.
Ideal for students who:
l Are independent
l Are community driven
l Enjoy solving problems
and challenges
l Have great English
communication skills
l Want to study abroad
International
Baccalaureate (IB)
A more comprehensive and
rigorous pre-university university
programme, the International
Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
(IBDP) is governed by the
International Baccalaureate
foundation in Geneva, Switzerland,
and administered by the
International Baccalaureate
Curriculum and Assessment Centre
in Cardiff, Wales.
Few institutions offer IBDP
because they have to be officially
approved and authorised by the
IB organisation to offer the
programme and present
candidates for examination. IBDP
is offered in both private and some
public institutions.
In private institutions, students
require an above-average result to
enrol in IBDP.
In public institutions, students
need to score straight A+ to qualify
for the programme. They would
also be required to take an
entrance examination prior to
enrolling.
For the IBDP examination,
students are required to choose six
courses from the
At ATC, special introductory lessons are held to build students'
confidence.
Committed to law
FOUNDED in 1987, ATC (Advance
Tertiary College) has helped fulfil
the dreams of many to receive
credible legal qualification by
providing the prestigious 3+0
LLB (Bachelor of Laws),
University of London
programme.
Standing proudly on the
tradition of exclusively
imparting legal knowledge,
ATC has consistently strived to
maintain its students high
standard of academic
achievements.
Majority of ATC students
embark on this journey
determined to serve the
legal profession.
For others, it is to progress in
their existing careers while some
do so out of pure interest in law
and desire to serve society at
large.
The LLB programme at ATC is
uniquely structured to provide
full- and part-time classes,
facilitating the various
aspirations and needs of
its students.
ATC appreciates that it can
be rather daunting to orientate
oneself to the distinctive features
and skills needed to study law.
Hence, informative
introductory lessons are
provided at the early stage of
the course to help build the
confidence of its students.
The study of LLB particularly
demands its students to develop
a critical appreciation of the
English law tradition and, at the
same time, hone their ability to
think and write analytically and
argumentatively.
Through ATCs lectures,
students are provided with a
thorough understanding of
the various dynamic areas of
English law while its tutorials
are focused on equipping
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
six subject groups, which are
studies in language and literature,
language acquisition, individuals
and societies, sciences,
mathematics, and the arts.
Students need to take five
subjects from the first five groups
and choose an art subject from
the sixth group or a second
subject from the first five groups.
This two-year programme
consists of examination and
coursework done in the
classroom.
The cost of this programme
is between RM90,000 and
RM150,000.
An IB diploma is recognised
across 140 countries. The intake
for IBDP is usually in August.
Ideal for students who:
l Are academically motivated,
especially in mathematics,
science, history and languages
l Are open-minded, critical
and creative thinkers
l Are hardworking and
reflective
students with the correct
examination answering
techniques.
As an Affiliate Centre of the
University of London, ATC
benefits from the visiting
lectures provided occasionally
by the university itself.
Students at ATC also benefit
from the comprehensive sets of
law reports, updated textbooks
and related materials made
available in its library the Tun
Abdul Hamid Law Resource
Centre.
A computer laboratory with
Internet connection is also made
available with the aim of
encouraging undergraduates to
improve their online research
skills.
Throughout the year, student
activities such as mooting
competitions, Law Careers Fair,
Sports Day and Students Night
are held to make the LLB
journey a memorable and
valuable one for students.
ATC will soon celebrate its 30
years of excellence and has a
proud record of being the
nations only private law school
that has produced 16 first-class
graduates for the University of
Londons International
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Programme.
Determined to constantly
improve itself and continue the
tradition of producing world-
class graduates, ATC is further
developing its LLB course by
offering interesting modules
such as the Civil and Criminal
Procedure and International
Protection of Human Rights for
the academic year of 2016/17.
n For more information on the
LLB programme, call the toll-free
line at 1800 889 292 or e-mail
enquiries@atc2u.com.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017 Course Focus 5

Route to a promising degree

THE UNITAR International doctorate qualifications under centres in Alor Setar, Johor Baru,
University Foundation School
is a great platform for students
At UNITAR, a UNITARs Asia Graduate School of
Business and Graduate School of
Kota Bharu, Kota Kinabalu,
Kuching and Penang.
who want to embark on their platform is provided Education. Apply now for a spot in the April

for you to discover

higher education journey intake. Registration is open from
towards their bachelors degree.
Nurturing employable March 20 to April 9.
At UNITAR, a platform is
provided for you to discover your potential and graduates n For more information, call
your potential and ensure you
develop the strong academic
ensure you develop UNITAR embeds the underlying
UNITARs consultants at
03-7627 7200 or e-mail
foundation needed to progress to a strong academic principle of human governance enquiries@unitar.my or apply
any degree programme at
UNITAR. foundation needed across all its programmes as
graduates are made aware of what
online at www.unitar.my.

The Foundation School admits

qualified secondary school
to progress to any it means to be human, how this
affects behaviours and decision
graduates into a preparatory degree programme at making in the context of the
academic programme, which has
been designed specifically to UNITAR. traditional governance framework
of todays workplace.
support its students towards UNITAR believes this to be vital
making the best academic and in providing continuous personal
career choices. and professional development to
Upon completion of the UNITAR Foundation School its students once they graduate.
one-year foundation, students offers the following foundation So, these principles are instilled
may progress to a wide programmes: in all students from the foundation
range of recognised degree l Foundation in Commerce level.
programmes at UNITAR that is l Foundation in Information
known for producing
employable graduates
Technology
l Foundation in Management Innovative teaching and
who are ready for the real learning approach
world. The pre-university or foundation
UNITARs exciting foundation programme only takes one year. You will experience quality
programme is embedded with After that, students progress to a teaching and learning through
industry touch-points such as three-year bachelors programme UNIEC, UNITARs 21st century
thinking skills, mind mapping, at UNITAR. This means that they teaching and learning management
and communication and get to graduate with a degree system, which combines online
presentation skills by Tony within a period of just four years. learning with face-to-face in-class
Buzan that are required for the UNITAR offers a wide range of interactions with its dedicated
21st century workplace. degree programmes from its four teaching staff.
The cornerstone of all faculties the Faculty of Business Through UNITARs UNIEC tablet,
UNITARs academic programmes Technology & Accounting, Faculty students have instant online access
is UNIEC (UNITAR Education of Culinary & Tourism, Faculty of to facilitate learning anytime and
Core), which is the proprietary Education & Humanities and anywhere.
and internally developed teaching Faculty of Architecture & Design. Besides the main campus in
and learning management UNITAR also offers a continuous Kelana Jaya, UNITAR programmes
system. pathway towards masters and are available through its regional UNITAR students discover their potential at the UNITAR Foundation School.

ONE YEAR TO SET

THE REST OF YOUR LIFE
Foundation courses at Swinburne arm SPM/UEC
school leavers with the skills to succeed and are oered
at Swinburnes Sarawak campus in business, design,
engineering/science and IT/multimedia. Best of all,
they enable direct entry to a host of degrees that can
be completed at Swinburne in Malaysia or in Australia.

So start the year that will change the rest of your life.

Get your application in today!

APPLY . ACCEPT . START
27 March Foundation

swinburne.edu.my

( +60 82 415353 @ study@swinburne.edu.my

Education
Higher
Times

DULN004(Q) KP(JPS)5195/IPTS/1144
Swinburne is ranked among the top 100
universities in the world under the age of 50.
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Jalan Simpang Tiga, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia 05 June 2004 Co. No. 497194-M
6 Course Focus
The fastest and smartest way
BRICKFIELDS Asia College (BAC) is
an award-winning institution that
has established itself as the fastest
and smartest way to more than 200
pre-university and UK degree
programmes.
Students can choose
programmes with 3+0, 2+1 or 1+2
options from 25 universities in the
UK in areas such as law,
accounting, business economics
and marketing.
In todays changing job market,
employers are looking for a
versatile and multi-skilled
workforce. Therefore, students
seek interdisciplinary courses,
double majors and double degrees
as opposed to traditional degrees.
BAC is revolutionising education
by offering multiple options in
education as well as an emphasis
on real-life relevance to increase
the marketability of graduates.
As being adaptable equals wider
career prospects, the combination
of versatility and multiple skill sets
offered at BAC ensures that graduates
will remain relevant.
At the pre-university level, BAC
offers Cambridge A-Levels, the worlds
most recognised pre-university
programme.
BAC provides a wide range of
subjects in the arts and sciences while
BAC's education
consultant
addressing
a student's
queries at a
recent education
fair.
offering students the option
of choosing either the
express route (11 months) or
the standard route (18
months).
BACs A-Levels students
have received the Top in the
World Outstanding
Cambridge Learner Awards
for law and business studies
in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.
BAC also offers the
Foundation in Arts
programme that focuses on
interdisciplinary studies.
The programme provides
an alternative route that
forms the base to any
education or career and has
been designed to provide a
learning experience strongly
focused on the development
of academic skills.
At the bachelors degree
level, students can choose
from different areas and
various options of study such
as 3+0 or 2+1, depending on
the educational experience
they are looking for as well
as their financial
considerations.
Within each field, degrees
with various combinations
are available, such as
business with marketing
management, marketing
communications with
advertising, and public
relations and marketing.
Students interested in
pursuing business can
choose from a wide array of
degrees via the UK Transfer
Degree Programme
(Business) with a choice of
more than 10 prestigious UK
partner universities. The
business degrees can be
completed either locally or
abroad.
BAC also offers a fast-track
route to professional
accounting and finance
degrees.
BACs links with leading
professional bodies,
including the Association
of Chartered Certified
Accountants (ACCA) and
Chartered Institute of
Management Accountants
(CIMA), ensure that
students receive a number
of exemptions from
professional examinations
upon graduation.
In addition, BAC offers
the widest range of law
programmes in Malaysia,
including pre-university,
degree, postgraduate and
professional courses.
The LLB (Hons) is
recognised for progression
to the Certificate in Legal
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
In todays
changing job
market, employers
are looking for a
versatile and multi-
skilled workforce.
Practice (CLP) and the Bar
Professional Training Course.
Students can choose to
complete their degree locally
via the University of London
International Programmes
(the only external law degree
recognised by the Legal
Profession Qualifying Board)
or abroad via the UK Transfer
Degree Programme (Law).
Awarded with the 2015
BrandLaureate Presidential
Award for Best Brand in
Education Law, BAC has an
excellent and proven track
record in pre-university,
undergraduate and postgraduate
studies.
Over the past five years alone,
BAC has produced more than
1,000 world and national top
students, book prize winners,
first-class and second-class
(upper) graduates.
With 133 first-class law
graduates over the past five
years (34 first-class law
graduates in the May 2016
examination alone), consecutive
recipients of 11 Tun Hamid
Omar Foundation Awards for
Best Overall CLP Student in
Malaysia, 60 out of 78 CLP Book
Prize winners and 60 out of
80 CLP second-class uppers
(since 2005), BACs exceptional
track record demonstrates the
colleges commitment to provide
an exceptional educational
experience.
The Career Centre @ BAC
assists students in obtaining a
range of career-related skills,
which helps them get the right
start to their careers.
Activities include career talks,
career advice, resume writing
seminars, interview skills
workshops, internships and
placements.
One of the activities unique
to BAC is the Career Centres
meet-and-greet sessions with
partners and associates from
legal firms, which expose
students to the reality of
practising law in the corporate
and legal arenas.
Home to more than 20 clubs
and societies, BAC fosters
student interaction and
exchange. Through these,
students can explore a variety of
interest areas as well as develop
valuable collaborative
leadership and communication
skills.
Students can participate in
more than 300 annual events,
including conferences, gala
nights, movie days, workshops,
freshers night, fundraising
events and guest lectures.
The BAC Education Fund
grants financial and merit
scholarships of up to
RM10mil to assist deserving
students in achieving their
dreams. Intakes are in progress.
n For more information,
call 03-2274 4165 or visit
www.bac.edu.my.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
THE Swinburne University of
Technology Sarawak Campus
(Swinburne Sarawak) gives
students a quick pathway and
seamless experience from
foundation to degree programmes.
It is the only international branch
campus of the Melbourne-based
university.
For the last 17 years, Swinburne
Sarawak has produced employable
graduates from our schools of
business, engineering, computing,
science and design through our
focus on high-quality Australian
education and commitment to
industry-engaged learning.
Our highly qualified and
experienced academic staff from
all over the world bring with them
a wealth of industry knowledge
and expertise for the benefit of our
students from more than 60
countries, says Swinburne
Sarawak deputy vice-chancellor
and chief executive officer Prof
Janet Gregory.
Ninety-three per cent of our
students who start the foundation
programme continue into our
degree programmes. This is
testament to the quality of our
programmes, says Swinburne
Sarawak marketing and
communications director Jagdish
Singh.
Its a seamless experience, not
only from the foundation to the
degree level but between
campuses. You can complete your
foundation in Sarawak and, for
most programmes, begin the first
year of your degree in the
Melbourne campus. You may also
do a 1+3, 2+2 or 2+1 for many of
our programmes. It's very flexible.
For students who are already set
on what they want to do, it is a
simple matter of starting their
foundation for the degree
Industry-engaged learning
programme of their choice. As for
those who are still undecided,
Swinburne Sarawak provides
career guidance testing and
counselling on campus.
Students can spend about 30
minutes taking the test. We have a
career counsellor to take them
through the process. Weve always
practised keeping the student at
the centre of whatever advice we
give, so we make sure it is
consultative and meets the
students requirements, explains
Jagdish.
Foundation programmes at
Undecided
students can
sit for a career
guidance
test and seek
counselling,
says Jagdish
Singh.
Course Focus 7
Swinburne Sarawak can be
completed in nine to 12 months
and are competitively priced with
scholarships and bursaries
covering up to 80% of course fees
available for students. The
university also assists students
with applications for PTPTN
student loans and provides advice
about funding options.
We also provide a pick-up
service for students who fly to
Malaysia. We will greet them at the
airport, bring them to campus and
get them settled in, says Prof
Gregory.
The diverse student population
at Swinburne Sarawak, with more
than 4,000 students from 60
countries, provides a great
opportunity for local students to
engage and interact with those
from other countries and learn
about their culture.
Swinburne Sarawak
is located 10 minutes drive from
Kuching International Airport
and 15 minutes away from
the city centre, with top- Prof Gregory says that the university's academic staff are from different
notch amenities within countries and have a wealth of experience.
walking distance.
Students can choose unlikely to disappoint. It is a safe studying and living here.
on- or off-campus city with a comparatively low cost By Sharon Ling
accommodations and of living and there are large,
have access to a wide modern malls near the campus The university is accepting
selection of food from, with gyms, cinemas and more. applications for its foundation
the cafeteria and two Theres a wide range of sports programmes. Classes will
cafs on campus that and entertainment options for start on March 27.
are halal. everyone. Students may watch our
Jagdish says, latest An Experience of a n For more information on
Kuching is a fantastic Lifetime at Swinburne Sarawak Swinburne Sarawak, visit
place for students. video and our Swinburne Story www.swinburne.edu.my, call
Whatever lifestyle you may alumni videos on our YouTube 082-415 353 or e-mail
be used to, Kuching is channel to learn more about study@swinburne.edu.my.
8 Course Focus
Globally recognised
foundation programmes
IT is time to take the next step and
experience life as a university
student. SEGi University & Colleges
(SEGi) wants to bring out the very
best in you by ensuring that you
receive the best education possible.
SEGi strongly believes that a
good foundation programme will
ensure a smooth transition for
school-leavers to progress to their
undergraduate programmes.
SEGi fully understands the
importance of choosing the right
foundation programme that suits
your future career goals. For this
reason, it offers a wide range of
globally recognised foundation
programmes that leads to more
than 130 pathways of
undergraduate programmes.
Upon completion of the
programme, students will gain
acceptance to many top-ranking
universities around the world such
as University of Greenwich,
University of Keele, University of
London, York St John University,
University of St Mark & St John,
Cardiff University, Abertay
University and University of
Sunderland in the United Kingdom.
Other universities include the
University of Southern Queensland
in Australia, Auckland University of
Technology in New Zealand and
Shanghai University of Traditional
Chinese Medicine in China, among
others.
Students may also choose to
further their undergraduate
studies at SEGi University in more
than 200 quality programmes such
as accounting and business,
computing and IT, medicine,
optometry, pharmacy, dentistry,
biomedical science, creative arts
and design, engineering, hospitality
and tourism, early childhood care
and education, English and public
relations, communication studies,
psychology and law.
The foundation programmes
offered in SEGi are well structured
and meet the demands of top
universities around the world. The
range of programmes offered
includes Foundation in Arts,
Foundation in Science, Foundation
in Commerce and Foundation in
Information Technology.
SEGis foundation programmes
are designed to be a one-year
programme that consists of three
semesters. Throughout these
semesters, students are assessed
through their coursework and
final examination to ensure the
academic rigour of the
programme is enhanced through
constant and constructive
feedback.
Only available in SEGi
College Sarawak, the A-Levels
programme is a qualification
from Edexcel UK. It is one of the
most widely recognised pre-
university qualifications in the
world as it is accepted as proof of
superior academic ability to gain
entrance into world-class
universities globally.
SEGis comprehensive
foundation programmes will
groom students to be well-
rounded and independent
individuals.
SEGi also practises a mentee
approach where experienced
lecturers give students guidance
in focus study groups as well as
help them prepare for their
examinations, ensuring a high
student success rate with a 95%
passing rate.
SEGi believes everyone should
be given the opportunity to
pursue higher education,
regardless of their gender or
financial background. Thus, it
gladly offers scholarships and
financial assistance to deserving
students.
For 40 years, SEGi has assisted
many students in fulfilling their
dreams through SEGis most
sought-after scholarship.
Through the High Achievers
Scholarship (HAS), students may
obtain up to a 100% tuition fee
waiver.
They can apply for this
scholarship using their SPM/UEC
(Unified Examination Certificate)
forecast results.
In conjunction with SEGis 40th
anniversary this year, the varsity
will be offering unlimited seats
for enrolment throughout the
year. Terms and conditions
SEGis High Achievers Scholarship is highly sought-after by
school-leavers as recipients of the scholarship stand a chance to
attain 50% to 75% rebate on tuition fees or even a full scholarship.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
apply. PTPTN loans are also
available.
With its concern shown for
community needs, SEGi was
named the first Malaysian
university that earned five stars
for prioritising societys needs in
Malaysia in the 2016 QS Stars
result.
SEGi is recognised as an
award-winning university in
Malaysia and has acquired
numerous awards such as the
Bronze trophy in the Education
& Learning category at the Putra
Brand Awards 2016.
It was also awarded the Gold
trophy at The Readers Digest
Trusted Brand Award 2015 in
the Private Universities/Colleges
category and was voted among
the top five for GTI Malaysias
Courses Now Students Choice
Awards.
SEGi also won six stars
(Excellent) at the Malaysian
Quality Evaluation System for
Private Colleges (MyQuest)
2014/2015 while SEGi University
received Tier 5: Excellent in
Setara13.
Recently, in the QS
(Quacquarelli Symonds) Stars
results, SEGi University was
awarded five stars in the
categories of teaching, facilities,
social responsibility and
inclusiveness and achieved a
QS 3 Stars overall.
SEGi University & Colleges
was also awarded Bronze for the
Most Creative Corporate
Institution Video.
n For more information, call
SEGi University
(03-6145 1777/1800 887 344),
SEGi College Subang Jaya
(03-8600 1888/1800 888 622),
SEGi College Kuala Lumpur
(03-2070 2078/1800 888 028),
SEGi College Penang
(04-2633 888) or SEGi College
Sarawak (082-252 566),
e-mail askme@segi.edu.my
or visit www.segi.edu.my.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
Pursuing
nursing
THE International Medical College
(IMC), a private college with a
long-standing reputation in
providing nursing education, will
once again be on the road to bring
information closer to interested
students who are keen to pursue a
career in nursing.
Prospective students can find out
more on the full sponsorships that
are offered to students pursuing the
three-year Diploma in Nursing
programme during the Open Days.
The sponsorships will be
awarded to students who meet the
criteria during the selection process.
The criteria for selection of
candidates for the sponsorships are
based on academic merit, financial
need and socio-economic
background as well as excellence in
extracurricular activities.
These sponsorships are funded
by Pantai Hospitals, Gleneagles
Hospitals and other reputable
private hospitals in Malaysia.
Upon graduation and registration
with the Malaysian Nursing Board,
recipients of these sponsorships will
be employed at one of the hospitals
determined by their sponsors.
Interview Days begin
(From left) Thin Shiang Yu, Lim Xin Ying and Lai Yin Zhen were awarded scholarships for excellence in their studies.
Financial boost for studies
SIX International Medical University
(IMU) Foundation in Science (FiS)
students received a financial boost
when they were awarded the
universitys scholarship for their
undergraduate studies.
The scholarships, in the form of
full or partial tuition fee waivers,
are for students who demonstrate
excellence in academia,
participation in extracurricular
activities and leadership qualities.
Lim Xin Ying, who received a full
scholarship to pursue the Bachelor
of Science (Hons) Chinese Medicine,
was thrilled to receive the news.
This was a relief to Lims family as
that would allow the family to have
more financial flexibility.
Thin Shiang Yu (fondly known as
Eric) was homeschooled throughout
his secondary school education and
obtained a full scholarship to
pursue the Bachelor of Science
(Hons) Psychology.
Thin credits his achievement to
subjects such as English for
Academic Purposes and Cross
concurrently in
various venues in
peninsular Malaysia,
Sabah and Sarawak.
Students have the opportunity to
attend sessions starting March 17 in
Johor (Muar or Batu Pahat), Penang,
Malacca or Seremban.
Interested parties may also drop
by for the sessions in Sarikei, Sibu
or Kuching in Sarawak or Kota
Kinabalu in Sabah.
In addition to these locations,
students can also drop by the
campus in Subang Jaya and
Malacca during the Open Days
on March 18 and 25 to obtain
first-hand information on the
college and learn about the
colleges high-quality academic
programmes.
During these days, you can
learn more about life at IMC and
seek advice and information on a
variety of issues such as applying to
the college, financing (fees
and financial assistance) and
accommodation.
IMC is owned by IMU Health
Sdn Bhd, which also owns
International Medical University
(IMU), Malaysias first and most
Boundary Studies that developed
his communication skills in the last
year.
Cross Boundary Studies involves
the project planning and
implementation of a social service
project. Thin says that this has
enabled him to interact with various
parties, not just peers and lecturers.
Besides that, as he was
homeschooled througout his teens,
he became an independent learner,
which was an important skill in
pursuing tertiary education.
As for Lai Yin Zhen, he managed
to secure a partial scholarship to
pursue the Bachelor of Science
(Hons) Psychology.
Being a rather quiet student,
receiving the scholarship was
unexpected for Lai.
When asked how his family felt
about him receiving the scholarship,
he says that his parents are proud of
him.
Running a business of their own,
this news would mean more
flexibility in cash flow for the
Course Focus 9
Sponsorship recipients are selected
based on their academic merit and
socio-economic background.
established private medical and
healthcare university with more
than 24 years of dedicated focus in
healthcare education.
IMU Health Sdn Bhd is one of the
key subsidiaries of IHH Healthcare
Bhd, one of the largest listed private
healthcare providers in
the world based on market
capitalisation.
Apply during the Open Days or go
online. Students will be required to
bring along the original and
photocopies of their academic
certificates and MyKad for the
application. On-the-spot interviews
will be conducted for those who
apply during the Open Days.
n For more information, visit
www.imc.edu.my, e-mail
enquiry@imc.edu.my or call
03-8024 0757/06-233 1589.
business, having the assurance that
Lais education is partially taken
care of via the scholarship.
The IMU FiS aims to prepare
students academically and
holistically for their undergraduate
studies in IMU.
With that aim in mind, the
teaching methodology and
assessment methods employed in
FiS are aligned with the
methodologies used in the
undergraduate programmes.
Students benefit from this as it
gives them early exposure and a
head start in the undergraduate
learning environment.
The IMU FiS has three intakes a
year April, July and September.
These dates will enable a smooth
transition into the preferred degree
courses that students are interested
in upon successful completion of
their FiS programme.
n For more information, call
03-2731 7272, e-mail start@imu.edu.
my or visit www.imu.edu.my
10 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017

Starting on the right foot

MAKING the right education choice after
secondary school is a tough one for all
students.
Not only must they be certain about their
area of interest but pick an institution that
will be able to provide them with a holistic
experience and adequate knowledge before
setting off to build their careers.
International recognition, dedicated
academics and superior facilities are often
among the top criteria for quality education
and The University of Nottingham Malaysia
Campus (UNMC) has been a popular choice
among school-leavers to fulfil these needs
and more.
As the first British university to set up a
branch campus outside of the United
Kingdom and in Malaysia, students of UNMC
are assured of world-class education
and an exciting campus lifestyle away from
the city centre.
When my friends and I researched
universities after our SPM examinations, we
learnt that the university is high in world
rankings and that the academics here are
good, says Teoh Sing Fei who is currently in
UNMCs Foundation in Arts and Education.
UNMC also has many of the courses and
subjects that I am interested in. When we
talk about art subjects in many universities,
it involves business modules such as
accounting or finance.
At UNMC, it includes English writing and
foundations in politics, philosophy and social
science these are the subjects I love.
For Foundation in Business and
Management student Jahnani Sivakumar,
the available facilities were among her
priorities in persuing a quality education.
When I was researching universities,
I was impressed by the well-organised
system at UNMC. Good facilities help you
do your work and find the required
information conveniently.
Not having these facilities would not
make for an environment conducive to
education or study, says Jahnani.
Teoh and Jahnani agree that it has
been a joy to study at the university.
This is because of the current and
industry-relevant syllabus provided at
UNMC, competitive nature of the
classroom and high standards expected
of students.
Speaking of how the universitys
education has groomed him to become a
more well-rounded individual, Teoh, who
intends to pursue a degree in politics,
history and international relations, says, I
could not speak as confidently as I do now
before joining UNMC and I could not write
a proper essay in English.
Now, I enjoy mixing with people and
debating on current topics in English as
well as find it satisfying when I am able to
elaborate on my personal research
findings in examinations and achieve
higher marks.
On the other hand, Jahnani, who intends
to study finance, accounting and
management for her degree, says,
Coming from the science stream
with zero knowledge or experience in
business, I have learnt a lot. It is not
necessary to have a business background
to do well.
You will get used to the system
eventually. Achieving good grades is all
about your mindset, she adds.
Taking full advantage of the
universitys studying experience, both
Teoh and Jahnani are involved in several
out-of-class activities that continue to hone
their soft skills for the modern workplace.
Teoh is part of UNMCs Ignite, an
online student newsletter that
International
recognition, dedicated
academics and superior
facilities are often
among the top criteria
for quality education
and The University of
Nottingham Malaysia
Campus (UNMC) has
been a popular choice
among school-leavers
to fulfil these needs and
more.
covers news of university events and
highlights opinion pieces.
Jahnani is involved with the student
community forum that gathers feedback
and input from students regarding
campus facilities and modules that
need improvement. She then has
meetings with faculty and university
staff to work on identifying and rectifying
these issues.
UNMC offers Foundation in Arts and
Education, Foundation in Business and
Management, Foundation in Engineering
and Foundation in Science programmes.
Visit The University of Nottingham
Malaysia Campus Open Day on March 11
from 9.30am to 4.30pm.
n For more information, visit
www.nottingham.edu.my.

The University of Nottingham Malaysia

Campus is one of the few universities that
offer foundation courses that deviate from
the norm such as English writing, politics
and philosophy.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
AS one of the leading providers of
the Cambridge General Certificate
of Education A-Levels programme
in Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman
University College (TAR UC) has
educated many outstanding high
achievers in A-Levels since the
university college offered the
programme in 1987 via its Centre
for Pre-University Studies (CPUS).
Many of the students have
gained admission to renowned
universities such as Massachusetts
Institute of Technology, University
of Oxford, University of Cambridge,
University of Manchester, The
University of Nottingham, Imperial
College London, Australian
National University (ANU),
National University of Singapore,
University of Hong Kong and
Tsinghua University.
Two A-Levels top scorers from
TAR UC share their experience
studying A-Levels at TAR UC.
They are ANU graduate Phung
Cheng Shyong and Yew Kuok Fung,
an undergraduate student at
Nanyang Technological University
(NTU).
Both achieved exceptional
results in their A-Levels (science)
Phung scored 5A*s, which earned
him a MyBrainSc Scholarship to
study biochemistry, while Yew
scored 4A*s and emerged as an
Asean scholar to study mechanical
engineering.
They studied A-Levels at TAR UC
Kuala Lumpur Main Campus
before embarking on their studies
at prestigious universities
overseas.
Instead of just remembering
theories or facts, I prefer to learn
how a theory works. This takes
time. The lecturers in TAR UCs
A-Levels programme are very
friendly and patient, says Phung.
I still remember the time when
a lecturer stayed back for three
hours just to explain the lecture
contents to me again, he adds.
Yew has also benefited from the
learning experience that TAR UC
provides.
In retrospect, I see that my time
at TAR UC was a pivotal point in
my life where I learnt to be
humble, caring and selfless, says
Yew.
The environment and the
people taught me to exchange my
knowledge with others and help
those in need. I believe such an
environment is great for people
who are just out of secondary
school as it lays a good foundation
in their career and life.
When asked about his
experience studying at NTU, Yew
says, It has been nothing short of
amazing. Ever since I came to
Singapore, the city has offered me
so many valuable experiences such
Yew is thankful to TAR UC for preparing him well for undergraduate
studies at Nanyang Technological University.
Course Focus 11
Path to greater heights
students with excellent A-Levels
In short, results for admission to Tsinghua
University.
studying in Scholarships are available for
a renowned
qualified TAR UC students to
pursue their tertiary education at
university overseas Tsinghua University.
TAR UC already has one student
has opened my eyes from its A-Levels programme
to the world and
reading mechanical engineering at
Tsinghua University under the
I owe this to TAR scholarship.
Explore programmes offered by
UC for providing TAR UC at its Open Day from
March 13 to April 2 from 9am to
me with a good 5pm at the Kuala Lumpur Main
foundation through Campus and branch campuses in
Penang, Perak, Johor, Pahang and
A-Levels. Sabah or visit TAR UCs booth at all
major education fairs.
Phung is thankful for his ANU experience, saying that he learnt to speak out. Attractive scholarships are
Phung Cheng Shyong available for qualified students on
UC for providing me with a good Memorandum of Understanding the basis of academic merit.
foundation through A-Levels, says between TAR UC and Tsinghua
as working with people from Phung. University, China, has enabled TAR n For more information,
different countries and The recent signing of a UC to annually recommend 20 visit www.tarc.edu.my.
backgrounds on projects,
going overseas for an
exchange programme for one
semester and exposure to
many career opportunities.
I strongly encourage
juniors in TAR UC to work for
the results they desire and
apply to world renowned
universities, he adds.
The experience is
invaluable and, in the course
of three or four years of
university life, you will
definitely expand your
horizon and hopefully become
more competitive and
stronger as a person.
I am grateful that
TAR UCs A-Levels has paved
the way for me to obtain this
opportunity to pursue my
studies here.
As for Phung, his experience
studying at the ANU has been
eye-opening. He says,
I admire how the people at
ANU always voice out their
thoughts and opinions. One
important lesson I have learnt
is that if you speak out, you
have 50% chance to get what
you want. If you do not speak
out, you get nothing.
I also like how people here
interact with one another.
They always greet people they
meet, even the ones they do
not know.
In short, studying in a
renowned university overseas
has opened my eyes to the
world and I owe this to TAR
12 Course Focus
EVER dreamt of designing a
skyscraper, running a multi-billion
ringgit company, medically aiding
people in need or engineering the
fastest car in the world?
The initial step to achieving
those aspirations is choosing an
appropriate programme to give
you a head start on your
educational journey.
A foundation programme is the
perfect fit as it prepares you well to
explore the depth of tertiary
education.
The foundation studies at
Infrastructure University Kuala
Lumpur (IUKL) provide students
the fastest access to their desired
degree programme after SPM or
O-Level, all in just one year.
IUKL, which is staffed with
passionate lecturers and equipped
with up-to-date facilities, offers two
foundation programmes
Foundation in Science and
Foundation in Arts.
Unlike some foundation
programmes that are highly
specialised in a field, thus
narrowing down students choices
of future degree programmes to
pursue, IUKL foundation studies
are designed to keep the options
open.
This is important as many SPM
and O-Level graduates are better
able to decide their major after
their foundation year.
Let science blow your mind
There is so much to discover in
science as it is part of many fields.
If you opt for the Foundation in
Science at IUKL, you can choose
between the engineering option
and non-engineering option.
With an emphasis on physics
and mathematics, the engineering
option equips students who
Reach for the stars
IUKLs foundation programmes allow school-leavers to kick-start their
educational journey towards achieving their career aspirations.
aspire to dive into the world
of engineering be it civil
engineering, mechanical
engineering, electronics and
electrical engineering or
automotive technology with
solid knowledge to excel in an
engineering degree programme.
The non-engineering option
focuses on chemistry and biology,
preparing students for a bachelors
degree in pharmacy, health
science, food science,
biotechnology or agriculture.
A window to the world
Foundation in Arts students
acquire knowledge and skills
needed to embark on various
degree programmes in the fields
of architecture, communication,
information technology (IT),
education, language studies,
business and accounting.
Similar to its Foundation in
Science, IUKLs Foundation in Arts
provides students with two
options.
The architecture option is perfect
for those who are enthusiastic
about architectural design and
wish to pursue a career in that
pathway.
Elective subjects such as
Introduction to Architecture and
Architectural Graphics, Painting
and Sketching and application of
AutoCAD are the focus.
Students undergoing the
business, IT and language studies
option develop critical thinking
and language skills.
This option exposes students to
the fundamental knowledge
required in a business/
communication/IT degree
programme as well as soft skills
that could boost their presentation
ability and confidence.
Making the right choice
To determine if a foundation
programme is right for you, there
are two important factors to
consider.
The first is the duration of study.
Foundation studies could provide
you with the fastest access to a
degree programme of your choice.
You need only one year to
complete your foundation
programme before enrolling in a
bachelors degree.
This makes
it suitable for individuals who
want to complete their tertiary
education fast.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 7 MARCH 2017
The initial
step to achieving
those aspirations
is choosing an
appropriate
programme to give
you a head start on
your educational
journey.
The second factor is your
interest. If you cannot firmly
decide on your study of interest
after SPM or O-Level, it is advisable
that you first pursue a foundation
programme that could provide you
with more study options at the
bachelors degree level.
However, if you have already
identified your area of interest,
you can consider a diploma
programme instead.
You can book a free counselling
session with IUKL to help you
decide the best option of study
for you.
Alternatively, you are invited to
attend IUKLs Info Day on March 11
and 12 from 10am to 4pm. On-the-
spot registration will entitle you to
a RM1,000 tuition fee rebate.
n For more information, call
1800 88 STUDY (78839) or visit
www.iukl.edu.my.