The transition from secondary school to university can be challenging for many students. Recognising this, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia's Foundation programmes focus on providing the proper pastoral care that will help its students to thrive in their chosen academic pathway.
"At Heriot-Watt, students will benefit from strong academic and personalised student support provided by experienced lecturers. In accommodating students from diverse learning backgrounds, we provide a range of support and learning resources.
"At the beginning of class, we will administer a pre-diagnostic test to determine their current level. Subsequently, for the first few weeks, our lecturers will look out for students in need of extra assistance to help them catch up," explained Assoc Prof Jasmine Low, the university's Head of Malaysia Foundation Programme. "We guide the students during this time, outlining the level of expectation required of them."
Additionally, peer tutoring support is provided for students after the first semester, whereby those who are progressing well are assigned to help their classmates who need it. Those who are concerned about their progress are also able to approach lecturers individually and be given one-on-one consultation.
The Foundation programme courses have been designed to prepare students with the necessary knowledge and skills required to enable them to excel in the undergraduate programmes. Students may choose from two specially tailored programmes: Foundation in Science and Foundation in Business, both of which provide a direct pathway to a multitude of undergraduate courses available at Heriot-Watt University.
Aspiring engineer Muhammad Akid Luqman Mohd Sidek is a former Foundation in Science student who is currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the university. He is confident that the Foundation in Science programme has prepared him well. "My Foundation programme had been very helpful in preparing me with the core basics that I know will contribute to the realisation of my career. The systematic and organised syllabus made learning easier and helped me gain confidence in what I'm studying," he said.
The Foundation in Science will hone students' knowledge in areas that include mathematics for science, physics, chemistry and mechanics in addition to academic skills and English proficiency.
Oscar Tan Kah Jie took the Foundation in Business (Actuarial Science route) before continuing with his BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science studies. "What I've enjoyed most from studying here are the invaluable learning experiences and the many and varied friends I've made along the way! Also, it gives me opportunities to learn alongside people from various backgrounds," he shared.
"In the Foundation in Business programme, students will develop their management, economics and accounting & finance literacy, while students wishing to join the Actuarial Science degree through the Foundation in Business programme are required to take Mathematics as an option," elaborated Low.
A mixed mode of teaching and assessments is employed, allowing students to enhance their academic knowledge as well as their soft skills. Besides that, the modules are supported by a team of experienced and qualified lecturers specialising in pre-university education.
Committed to delivering excellent, industry-relevant education, the university works closely with industry professionals to develop and accredit its curricula, ensuring that students will be well equipped to face the challenges of the ever-changing world and, ultimately, achieve their ambitions.
Furthermore, enrolling in a Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Foundation programme will enable students to experience a UK-benchmarked curriculum and UK style of learning and teaching from the start of their studies. In addition to being exposed to independent learning, collaboration and problem-solving skills, students will learn how to use English for academic writing, conduct professional presentations and communicate confidently.
According to Low, "By placing emphasis on the development of skills such as English literacy and critical thinking, we hope to provide a good start in the overall development of the students toward becoming successful and employable graduates in the future."
Heriot-Watt University was established in 1821 as the world's first mechanics institute and is the eighth oldest higher education institution in the UK. In addition to its Foundation in Science and Foundation in Business programmes, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia also offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with business, finance, built environment and engineering specialisms, among others.
Through the years, the university has gained a solid reputation as a leader in world-class teaching and in pioneering practical, leading-edge research. Among other achievements, Heriot-Watt is ranked 35th in the UK in The Complete University Guide 2019 and placed in the top 10 in the UK for subjects such as Building and Town & Country Planning, Economics and Mechanical Engineering according to the Guardian University Guide 2019.
The closing date for registration for the April intake of the university's Foundation programmes is 26th April 2019. To register for or find out more about the Foundation programmes, as well as the other academic programmes or scholarships on offer, visit its campus in Putrajaya during consultation hours, which are held from 9am to 5pm on Mondays to Fridays, and 10am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Alternatively, log on to www.hw.edu.my or call +603 8894 3888/e-mail [email protected].