Top 10 Private Universities to Study Foundation in Computing & Information Technology (IT)
- List of 10 top private universities offering the Foundation in Computing & Information Technology (IT)
- The Foundation in Computing and IT is 1 year in duration and recognised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)
- The Foundation is designed by the university to specifically prepare you to handle their own computing degree programmes
The Foundation in Information Technology (IT) or Computer Studies is the first step for students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels to pursue a computing degree programme at private universities. The Foundation in Computing & Technology is a preparatory programme that will prepare you for the undergraduate programme and transition you into university life.
The Foundation in IT is a 1 year Pre-University programme that is developed internally by the private universities following the guidelines from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). The MQA will accredit the courses and will receive recognition for transfer to other universities. The subjects for the Foundation in IT will be tailored towards preparing students for their undergraduate computing studies. It will prepare you better than a general STPM, AUSMAT, MUFY, or A-Levels. There are differences in the subjects from university to university so students will need to research and compare which one would suit you.
A top private university for computing programmes will enhance your career opportunities as they will provide you with networking and internships at reputable computing companies. Their years of experience will be invaluable in equipping you with sound academic knowledge and skills in the dynamic and fast evolving world of IT. Furthermore, the university environment will be one of top students who are likeminded and focused on succeeding in the computing field. Therefore, it is important to choose a top private university for your computing Pre-University studies to ensure you get the best preparation possible to succeed.
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List of the Best Foundation in Information Technology (IT) or Foundation in Computer Studies Courses in Malaysia
Teoh, Computer Science graduate from Asia Pacific University (APU)
With the increased demand for trained professionals in information technology (IT) and the many universities for students to choose from, it is important for the student to be able to choose a university that will build a solid foundation to be successful in this challenging but rewarding career.
Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels interested in a career in information technology (IT), software engineering, or computer science can go for the 1-year Foundation in Information Technology programmes at top private universities in Malaysia.
The subjects for the Foundation in Computing and IT would more specific to the computing field and therefore related to your interest as well as prepare you better for your undergraduate studies. Some universities may not title the Foundation as Foundation in Computing and IT but put it under Foundation in Arts or Foundation in Business.
You need to look at the subjects in the Foundation to see if they contain the necessary computing subjects which would help you to prepare for your computing degree studies. The Foundation are designed by the university to prepare you specifically for their own degree programmes.
Additionally, the Foundation in Information Technology (IT) programmes are cheaper and generally easier than the external Pre-University programmes.
Which are the Top Private Universities Offering Foundation in Information Technology (IT) or Computer Studies?
Learn how to become a computer science professional in Malaysia by talking to knowledgeable & experienced counselors and then choosing the best private university for your degree studies. Research the education and career requirements, training and certification information and experience needed to be successful in your future career in information technology or computer science in Malaysia.
- University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM)
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
- Taylor’s College
- UOW Malaysia
- UOWM KDU Penang
- Multimedia University (MMU)
- HELP University
- UCSI University
- First City University College
What is the Education Pathway?
Yue Sheng, Foundation in Information Technology (IT) at Multimedia University (MMU)
Students after SPM or IGCCSE/O-Levels interested in a career in Computing & Technology can go for the 1-year Foundation programmes at top private universities in Malaysia instead of an external Pre-University Course like SAM, AUSMAT or A-Levels.
The Foundation in Information Technology (IT) programmes are cheaper than the external Pre-University programmes and generally easier. If you do not plan on going overseas for your degree programme, then it is better to go for the Foundation programme at a top private university in Malaysia.
Foundation in Information Technology or Foundation in Computer Studies courses are intensive, focused one-year courses which prepare students for your computing degree studies in Malaysia and guarantee entry to the university of interest upon successful completion.
The Foundation in Information Technology or Foundation in Computer Studies courses provide a solid foundation for students to adapt to university education more confidently, both in terms of level and style of education of the particular university.
Study Foundation in Information Technology (IT) or Foundation in Computer Studies Course at Top Universities in Malaysia
Bryan Yap, Foundation in Business at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
Many top private universities in Malaysia, have developed their own internal university foundation programmes. The Foundation in Information Technology (IT) and Foundation in Computing & Technology courses are accredited by the Malaysia Qualification Agency (MQA) and recognised by the respective foreign partner universities. The Foundation in Information Technology (IT) subjects are geared more specifically to Information Technology courses unlike the external qualifications which focus on more general Science and Art-based subjects.
You will get the chance to study a variety of subject areas related to computer studies in the Foundation in Information Technology (IT) or Foundation in Computing & Technology Programme. This will not only give you an idea of what subject you may like to progress on to, but also to develop the valuable learning skills necessary for pursue a degree. A Foundation Programme in Malaysia can be 2 semesters with 6 months each semester or 3 semesters with 4 months each semester.
Assessment for Foundation in Information Technology (IT) or Foundation in Computing & Technology programmes in Malaysia will vary from university to university. It will contain a mix of coursework, assignments, quizzes and exams. The coursework could cover different assessment tasks such as projects, assignments, laboratory work, presentations, tests, and others as assigned throughout each semester. The final examination is conducted at the end of each semester. The assessments are subject to quality assurance procedures to maintain high standards and ensuring fair assessment.
To enter into the Foundation in Computing & Technology students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels would generally need at least 5 credits in the relevant subjects.
If you are sure that you want to study Information Technology (IT) for your degree studies then this Foundation Programme is your best choice.
- Duration: 1 year
- Entry Requirements: Min. 5 credits, inclusive of Maths (Some universities may have higher entry rquirements)
- Recognition: Mostly in Malaysia and some overseas. As long as the Foundation course is accredited by MQA, it will be accepted by another private university for entry into the relevant degree programme.
- Cost: It will range from RM6500 to RM30,000. Generally cheaper than overseas Pre-University courses and A-Levels
1. University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM)
UoSM Computer Science Foundation Year is designed to enhance your comprehension of the mathematical concepts that underlie computer science, as well as to cultivate your problem-solving skills in engineering and computer science.
- Progress to Southampton Malaysia’s computer science degree upon successful completion of this Foundation Year.
- University of Southampton’s Computer Science degree is highly ranked in the UK.
This one-year full-time course is integrated with a further three-year BSc degree, and will build your understanding of the computer science disciplines. Students may transfer to the UK campus for the final part of their degree with a 20% bursary off the UK fees.
Successful completion of this Foundation Year guarantees progression to our computer science degree at the University of Southampton Malaysia.
2. Asia Pacific University (APU)
Asia Pacific University Foundation (Pre-University) programme is designed to help those with SPM, O Levels or similar qualifications to develop the skills and knowledge to progress into the first year of degree of choice. Throughout the programme, our academic staff will advise you on the options available at each stage of your university degree study.
Asia Pacific University (APU) Foundation in Computing & Technology Programme lays the pathway towards professional tertiary education. It is a vital transformation point for students; soft skills, general knowledge and preparatory subject fundamentals acquired at the Foundation lead to excellence in a student’s education performance, as well as career-readiness as they move on as global professionals eventually. APU’s 12-month Foundation Programme is designed to prepare those with SPM, ‘O’ Levels or similar qualifications with the knowledge and skills to progress into the first year of a degree of their choice. On completion of the Foundation Programme, you will be able to make an informed decision about your interest and pursue theIGCSE/ right computing & technology degree as APU offers more than 20 specialisations to choose from..
As a testimony of that Asia Pacific University (APU) is the best university for computing, computer science and ICT in Malaysia, they have won more than 400 awards at local, regional and international level. These awards serve as acknowledgements of the achievement of APU and their students, reaffirming their standing as being among the leading private university in Malaysia for Information Technology (IT) courses.
Upon completion of the Foundation in Computing & Technology at Asia Pacific University, you can continue on to any of the top award-winning computing programmes.
- BSc (Hons) in Information Technology
- BSc (Hons) in Information Technology with specialism in:
- BSc (Hons) in Software Engineering
- BSc (Hons) in Computer Science
- BSc (Hons) in Computer Science with Specialism in:
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Cyber Security)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Intelligent Systems)
- BSc (Hons) in Multimedia Technology
- Bsc (Hons) In Multimedia Technology with a specialism in VR/AR
- BSc (Hons) in Computer Games Development
3. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
The Foundation in Business 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.
The tailored Foundation programme of courses is a direct pathway to your choice of a range of professionally relevant degrees. The focused academic content is taught in a way that introduces you to independent learning. Your development is monitored through regular assessments and feedback. Students intending to pursue the Computing degree programme will take computing subjects in the Foundation that will prepare them for their undergraduate studies
The popular Foundation in Business at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia will lead you to some of UK’s top ranked degree programmes. Students can use their forecast results to apply for the intakes as well as scholarships. In addition, students will get a 20% bursary should they pursue their degree studies at the UK campus in Edinburgh, Scotland. Students can choose to study all or part of the degree studies in the UK. This amounts to vast cost savings for you to obtain a top ranked UK degree.
Upon completion of the Foundation, students will enter the degree programme:
4. Taylors College
Taylor’s College Foundation in Computing programme is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a future in various computing related degrees programmes. Emphasising on ‘learning by doing’, students are regularly required to work on actual projects that instil core competencies and knowledge in the field of computing and information technology.
As part of their studies, Taylor’s students will be exposed to a dynamic learning environment that extends beyond the classroom, where students are trained to apply theory into practice, thus developing the ability to demonstrate discipline-specific knowledge, cognitive capabilities and soft skills.
Upon completion, students at Taylor’s University will develop core competencies in the field of computer science and information technology, grooming them for further studies or careers in the ICT industry, or to be the next technopreneurs of Malaysia’s bustling start-up scene.
Upon completion of the top rated Foundation in Computing programme, students at Taylor’s University can continue on to any of the UK dual-award degree programmes below:
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Artificial Intelligence)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Cyber Security)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Data Science)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Mobile Computing)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons) (Internet Technologies)
- Bachelor in Software Engineering (Hons)
5. UOW Malaysia
Foundation Studies, at UOWM Malaysia is designed to prepare students for university-level education. By taking on courses that interest you, you’ll have the opportunity to develop and practise academic writing, independent study, and research skills, as well as time management skills that will be essential for your future success in your chosen bachelor’s degree program.
You will be able to choose a stream that you are passionate about. UOWM Foundation Studies program in Glenmarie, Selangor campus covers several fields. This allows students to get started on subject areas that interest them and decide whether or not they later want to pursue tertiary education in that field.
By completing a foundation program at UOW Malaysia, students are better prepared for the rigours of university-level education and can make a smooth transition into their chosen degree program below:
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)
- Bachelor of Game Development (Hons)
- Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons)
6. UOWM KDU Penang
The Foundation program in UOW Malaysia KDU Penang, George Town campus equips students with the necessary fundamental knowledge to pursue their university studies. This flexible program ensures students are grounded with a strong grasp of core subjects, as well as a variety of other subjects to give them a broad-based educational platform. It also helps them to explore new methods and ideas, as well as skills and concepts, to encourage independent and critical thinking.
The Foundation in Science is a one-year program that provides students with 2 elective areas:
- Pure Science
- Engineering or IT or Computer Science
This is a pre-university program that focuses on science related subjects such as chemistry, biology and physics as well as mathematics and information technology. It aims to provide pre-university students a smooth transition from secondary school/high 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. Upon completion of the Foundation at UOWM KDU Penang, you may continue on to the computing degree programmes below:
- Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)
- Bachelor of Information Systems (Hons)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) in Computer and Network Technology
7. Multimedia University (MMU)
Both Multimedia University’s Faculty of Computing & Informatics and Faculty of Information Science & Technology incorporate industry-led curriculum so you will gain not only technical knowledge and skills, but also relevant soft and management skills. Many of the lecturers are professionals and specialists in their fields who will be able to impart real-life experience and solutions to your learning.
Multimedia University (MMU) also has strong collaborations with global industry leaders who are ready to share their knowledge of cutting-edge innovative technologies to keep you up-to-the-minute with current and future industry needs. MMU was the first private university approved by the Malaysian government.
Multimedia University’s collaboration partners include multinational corporations such as Microsoft, IBM, Dell-EMC, Cisco, Oracle, Intel, Cloudera, Nokia, EC Council, Google, Sun, Novell, Shell, BT, Celcom, CA, and Motorola. Through such partnerships, our staff and students are able to leverage on the latest technologies driving the Malaysian and global ICT scenes.
Upon completing the 1-year Foundation in Information Technology at MMU Melaka or MMU Cyberjaya, students may choose to enter into any of the Computer Science or Information Technology programmes below:
Multimedia University (MMU) Faculty of Computing & Informatics (Cyberjaya)
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons.) with specialisation in:
- i. Information Systems
- ii. Software Engineering
- iii. Game Development
- iv. Data Science
Multimedia University (MMU) Faculty of Information Science and Technology (Melaka)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) (Data Communications and Networking)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) (Information Technology Management)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) (Artificial Intelligence)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) (Security Technology)
- Bachelor of Science (Hons.) (Bioinformatics)
8. HELP University
At HELP Matriculation Centre, they believe not only in preparing their students to become employable graduates, but also principled graduates who will be conscientious and respectful to the environment that we live in. Students who withstand the test of time and win in the digital-driven world will have one thing in common: a strong cutting-edge foundation for the future. Students intending to pursue computing degree studies will choose the computing subject electives in their Foundation in Arts course at HELP University.
- To provide good quality Pre-University education that prepares the students to meet the demands of undergraduate study
- To incorporate a certain degree of flexibility where students can make their choice of selecting a discipline at a later stage rather than at the beginning of the course
- Subjects such as Study Skills and Critical Thinking Skills are added to give the students an edge over others
- Extra-curricular activities and a supportive environment of care are emphasised to ensure that students obtain a holistic education
- To provide a conducive environment for study as well as to equip them with excellent facilities
Why study Foundation in Arts at HELP?
- Recognition by universities in Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, United States of America and other countries
- A flexible programme which offers a broad-based education providing exposure to a variety of disciplines, thus allowing students to make an informed choice when deciding on a future career
- Experienced and committed teaching faculty with proven track records
Cultural exchange and networking opportunities from a healthy mix of international and local students - Value-added subjects such as Critical Thinking Skills, Study Skills, Personal Development & Leadership and Culture, Arts and Politics to inculcate broader appeal and thinking
- Leadership training specially designed by experienced psychologists and trained facilitators
Upon completion of the Foundation in Arts at HELP University, you may continue on to the computing degree programmes below:
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons) Data Analytics
- Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons) Mobile Computing
9. UCSI University
At UCSI’s Institute of Computer Science and Digital Innovation, they believe in preparing for the here and now, and for the future. The Institute caters for those who wish to advance in the field of Computer Science and Information Technology and take their learning to the next level.
Emerging IR 4.0 technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud Computing, Machine Learning, and Data Analytics are changing how industries operate. Therefore, the demand for graduates in Computer Science and Information Technology is increasing. Their knowledge and specialisation are invaluable and will shape the very way in which we view the world.
UCSI’s faculty members are experts in their respective fields and have vast and varied experiences to share with students. Furthermore, the Foundation with Computer Science and Information Technology pathways equip students with skills such as analytical thinking, critical thinking and problem solving as well as computing knowledge, and practical skills needed to thrive in IR 4.0.
Upon completion of the Foundation in Arts (Information Technology) at UCSI University, you may continue on to the degree programmes below:
- Bachelor of Computer Science in Data Science with Honours
- BSc (Hons) Computing
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Mobile Computing and Networking
- Bachelor of Computer Science in Cyber Security with Honours
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)
- Bachelor of Computer Science in Artificial Intelligence with Honours
10. First City University College
This affordable Foundation in Engineering, Science & Technology Programme in Malaysia at First City University College prepares students for two major pathways of Degree programmes offered by the Faculty of Engineering and Computing, which are Engineering and Computing. Students will be equipped with elementary to intermediate level of knowledge on the respective pathway after the completion of this foundation programme.
In Semester 1, students will explore their first programming language of which they will analyse, design and develop an IT solution for a business case. At the same time, students will build a solid background on Mathematics for their chosen pathway in Semester 2.
In Semester 2, students will explore more into their chosen pathway. For students who choose the Computing pathway, they will learn various programming languages, such as structured C++ programming in Semester 2 and Object-Oriented Java programming in Semester 3. Students will learn to create simple and yet functional programs from these languages. Furthermore, students from all pathways will also benefit from applying the MATLAB software in their mathematics modules.
To conclude, this foundation programme provides students a strong solid background on the respective pathway to degree programmes of study.
Upon completion of the Foundation in Engineering, Science & Technology at First City University College you can continue on to the following degree programmes at First City:
Top Private Universities & Colleges in Malaysia 