What is Foundation in Science? This is a pre-university foundation program that focuses on science related courses such as chemistry, biology and physics as well as mathematics and information technology. It aims to provide pre-university students in Malaysia a smooth transition from secondary school to a university degree. The program will give students a strong foundation as well as the basic skills needed for a science-related degree. Why Pursue a Foundation in Science at UOW Malaysia? The Foundation in Science program at UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College, Batu Kawan, provides a strong academic starting point for students planning to pursue a science-related degree. Designed as a one-year pre-university program, it offers a fast, direct, and cost-effective pathway into a wide range of science and technology disciplines. This one-year program focuses on building fundamental knowledge in core science subjects while also exposing students to a broader academic context. Its flexible curriculum allows students to select from two elective tracks based on their interests and future study plans: Engineering / IT / Computer Science Pure Science Beyond subject knowledge, the Foundation in Science courses emphasises the development of essential academic skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning. Students are encouraged to explore new concepts, methods and ideas, helping them grow intellectually and adapt to the rigors of university-level education. Compared to other pre-university options like A Levels or STPM, this program is shorter in duration (typically one year) and more focused on preparing students specifically for science-based degrees. It’s also often more affordable, making it an accessible choice for many students. If you’re confident about pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or computing, this program offers a head start. It provides both the academic foundation and the confidence to transition smoothly into undergraduate studies and sets you up for long-term academic and professional success. The Foundation in Science is a one-year program that provides students with 2 elective areas: Pure Science Engineering or IT or Computer Science Can You Switch to a Non-science Degree After Taking Foundation in Science? While students with a science background are usually able to switch to non-science degrees such as business or mass communications, changing streams is up to the institution’s assessment. You may need to make up by taking additional subjects or credit hours. University Award: Program information Highlights Program structure Study route Fee & intakes Entry requirements Engineering may not be the easiest areas of study, but it is the subject areas that continue to be in demand, and the graduates are also more likely to find employment quickly and work their way up the career ladder with an engineering degree under their belt. As Malaysia strives towards a developed nation status, engineers have a key-role to play in enhancing the quality of life through the advancement of science and technology. With such a pivotal role to play, qualified and skilled engineers are in escalating demand and will remain to be throughout the world. Studying engineering also brings prestige, wide variety of career progression opportunities, having the chance to improve the world, worldwide travel and employment opportunities, as well as career satisfaction. More importantly, it sets one up for professional success. Engineers can be Entrepreneurs; we call them “Technopreneur”. EXPERT EDUCATORS With more than 30% academicians with PhD and industry specialists from leading global corporations, we provide access to real-world technology innovations and industry insights. INDUSTRY-CERTIFIED GRADUATES UOW Malaysia delivers industry-certified graduates with professional certifications (e.g. MyTRIZ, Labview, SolidWorks, Mentor Graphics), experienced in handling and solving industrial related problems. This ensures a seamless transition to employment upon graduation. WORLD CLASS PARTNER We partner with a leading UK university to give you access to a world class education in Malaysia. Northumbria University is top ten in the UK for the number of graduates entering professional employment. Duration 1 year Program Location UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College, Batu Kawan Core Semester 1 English Grammar and Usage Study Skills Critical Thinking Creative Studies Mathematics 1 Biology 1 Semester 2 Advanced English Course Computer Application Chemistry 1 Physics 1 Mathematics 2 Semester 3 Electives (2 subjects) Introduction to Programming Critical Writing and Research Skills Statistics Electives Pure Sciences Biology 2 Chemistry 2 Physical Sciences Mathematics 3 Physics 2 Intake dates 2025 3 February 14 April 9 June 15 September 27 October Estimated fees Local students RM19,950 International students RM26,850 Notes: International students’ fees are not inclusive of EMGS and Performance Assurance Fee Terms and Conditions Apply Academic Qualification SPM / GCE O Levels : 5 Credits UEC : 3 Credits English Requirement Local Student : Pass (English at SPM level or equivalent) International Student : Band 4.0 in IELTS; or a min score of 30 (IBT) or 5 (Essentials-Online) in TOEFL; or Cambridge English (140); or PTE Academic (36); or UOW Malaysia English Entrance Test (60) Notes If English language requirements are not fulfilled, additional English module(s) may be taken at UOW Malaysia. 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