Foundation in Science

  Institution: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

KPT/JPS (PA3952) 01/19

Programme overview

The Foundation in Science is a focused programme of academic subjects, study skills and English language training designed to provide you with a direct route into a professionally relevant and internationally recognised degree at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.

On achieving the required grades to complete the 2014 programme successfully, you will progress to your chosen degree in one of the following subjects in September 2015:

• BEng (Hons)/MEng Mechanical Engineering
• BEng (Hons)/MEng Chemical Engineering
• BEng (Hons)/MEng Petroleum Engineering
• BEng (Hons)/MEng Civil Engineering*
• BEng (Hons)/MEng Electrical & Electronic Engineering*
• BEng (Hons)/MEng Architectural Engineering*
• BSc (Hons) Construction Project Management
• BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
• BSc (Hons) Psychology with Management*
• BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science

*subject to MQA/MOE approvals

Programme content

The programme content is taught over three semesters (18, 14, 14 weeks) through lectures, seminars and group work. You will be supported and mentored throughout your studies to ensure a smooth academic and cultural transition to higher education, and the British university style of teaching and learning. All the subjects relate directly to the progression degrees offered with strong emphasis on English language skills appropriate to the pathway (spoken, written and academic English). You will develop an awareness of the links between the subjects and the world of work in general.

Academic English & study skills

You will develop your English communication skills and learn a range of study skills, including learning and motivation, time management, reading strategies and communication skills across three courses:

• Academic English
• Academic English for Science
• Study Skills and Transition to University Degree Study

Mathematics

You will develop your knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques and apply these to solving problems, frequently drawn from practical and relevant real-life situations. You will look at functions and their graphical representations and will develop the tools of calculus, matrix algebra, and differential equations to relate the properties of mathematical models to the physical world.

Physics

You will cover electromagnetic and sound waves, wave properties (reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction) Newton’s equations of motion, energy, states of matter (solids, liquids and gases), and the structure of the atom. You will also develop your knowledge and understanding of electrical charge and current and, potential difference, resistance, capacitance, transistors and amplifiers, electrical, gravitational, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields.

Chemistry

You will learn about atomic structure, the elements and the Periodic Table, chemical formulae and equations, and an introduction to chemical bonding, redox reactions, equilibrium processes, chemical kinetics and organic chemistry, particularly hydrocarbons.

Entry requirements

• Minimum 4 Bs and a C in SPM or O-Levels including a B in English, Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry together with plus a C in Additional Mathematics, and Physics or Chemistry or other equivalent global qualifications.
• Proof of English with a minimum IELTS score of 5.5, or equivalent.
• Conditional offers will be made to students with forecast results. Advance standing may be available for those with appropriate pre-university qualifications. Final results need to be submitted before programme commencement.

Source: Heriot-Watt University