Course Details

Requirements
Entry Requirements
The Foundation programme gives you an opportunity to sample your future areas of study. This helps you choose which Degree programme to pursue.
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC.
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC.
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC.
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC.
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level including Mathematics, Science OR Physics OR Chemistry OR Biology and a pass in English with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects including Mathematics, Science OR Physics OR Chemistry OR Biology and a pass in English at IGCSE/O-Levels;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC including Mathematics, Science OR Physics OR Chemistry OR Biology;
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level including Mathematics with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels including Mathematics;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC including Mathematics;
- 5 Credits in at least 5 subjects at SPM level including Mathematics with a minimum of a pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History);
- 5 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 5 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels including Mathematics;
- 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC including Mathematics;
Note:
- Some Degree Programmes may require a Credit in Mathematics at SPM/IGCSE/O-Level or equivalent.
- Engineering Degree Programmes require a Credit in Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry or Technical Science at SPM/IGCSE/O-Level or equivalent.
Note: The above entry requirements may differ for specific programmes based on the latest programme standards published by Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). The qualification and entry requirements for the programmes will be determined based on the "Comparison List of Equivalency of International Qualifications with SPM (O-Levels equivalent) and STPM (A-Levels equivalent)" published by Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
- IELTS : 4.0
- TOEFL IBT : 30-31
- Pearson (PTE) : 36
- MUET : Band 3
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Students who are unable to obtain the required level of English Competency during the maximum 12 months’ period, will not be allowed to pursue their studies in the main programme and will have to return to their home country.
Students from English speaking countries and those with qualifications taught in English (IGCSE, A-Levels, IB, American High School Diploma etc) are exempted from English requirements. Applications for exemption must be accompanied by supporting documents.
Programme Outline
What We Teach
MODULES YOU STUDY
The modules studied help develop your study skills, introduce you to what you can expect on your degree and also allow you to discover what you can study depending on whether you choose a degree in Accounting, Banking, Finance, Actuarial Studies, Psychology, Business & Management, Computing & Technology, Engineering, Industrial Design, Animation and Visual Effects.
FLEXIBILITY OF CHOICE
Our 12-month Foundation Programme is designed to prepare students from SPM, IGCSE, 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 your degree of choice.
During the Foundation Programme, you are able to choose different routes depending on your area of interest. This will allow you to progress onto a specific degree programme at APU, related to this area or other relevant areas based on your foundation experience.
ENRICHING EXPERIENCES - MORE THAN JUST A FOUNDATION
The APU Foundation 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. This is achieved through 4 key areas:
- Leadership & Teamwork
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Social Skills & Responsibilities
- Practical Skills
The unique support system at APU Foundation Programme consists of helpful academic mentors who are committed in ensuring academic achievements, providing pastoral care, advising, mentoring, motivating students’ potential and performance, to ensure that they undergo a smooth transition from secondary education to tertiary learning.

Our Foundation Programme is designed to help students with SPM, IGCSE, O-Levels or similar qualifications to develop the skills and knowledge to progress into the degree of their choice.
ROUTES:
- BUSINESS, FINANCE & SOCIAL SCIENCES
- COMPUTING & TECHNOLOGY
- ENGINEERING
- ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing your study in this programme, you will be able to:
- Enter Level 1 of degree study.
- Make an informed choice about what degree you want to study.
- Demonstrate an awareness of the concepts which underpin the study of Accounting, Banking, Finance, Actuarial Studies, Business & Management, Computing & Technology, Engineering, Industrial Design, Digital Marketing, Animation and Visual Effects, Media and Communications, International Studies or Psychology.
- Communicate effectively verbally and in writing to a given audience.
- Work effectively in a team.
- Demonstrate English and other study skills appropriate to undergraduate learning.
- Apply skills in numeracy, technology and communications.
- Explain the essential elements of technology.
- Use appropriate application software and the Internet.
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ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN PATHWAY
MODULES YOU STUDY
The modules studied help develop your study skills, introduce you to what you can expect on your degree and also allow you to discover what you can study depending on whether you choose a degree in Accounting, Banking, Finance, Actuarial Studies, Psychology, Business & Management, Computing & Technology, Industrial Design, Animation and Visual Effects.
Semester 1 (12 weeks)
- English for Academic Purpose
- Communication Skills
- Personal Development & Study Methods
- Essentials of Web Applications
- Mathematics
Note: This is a common Semester 1 across all pathways
Semester 2 (12 weeks)
- Fundamentals of Drawing
- Life Drawing
- Design Studies
- Public Speaking in English
- Major Project 1
Semester 3 (12 weeks)
- Academic Research Skills
- Introduction to Digital Photography
- Major Project 2
- Co-Curricular
Choose one of the following modules:
- History of Design and Media
- Introduction to Architecture and Built Environment
Upon completion of your Foundation, you may then proceed to Level 1 of a Degree of your choice in the following pathways.
PRIMARY PATHWAYS
- Industrial Design, Visual Effects, Animation & Digital Advertising
- Architecture
ALTERNATIVE PATHWAYS
Students may alternatively choose the following:
- Computing & Technology
- Immersive Technology & Game Development
- Accounting, Finance, Banking & Actuarial Studies
- Business, Management, Hospitality & Tourism
- International Relations
- Media, Communication & Psychology
Note: Please refer to individual course brochure for Alternative Pathways details.
SPECIALISED MODULES FOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN ROUTE
Fundamentals of Drawing
This module contains a variety of practical exercises made to help understand the thought processes involved in learning how to draw. It provides opportunities to practice the traditional approaches to pencil and paper drawing. It also introduces the foundational principles of drawing that are key for any designers.
Life Drawing
You will be introduced to life drawing or figurative drawing involves drawing the human form in any of its various shapes and postures using a variety of media. The module will cover a series of techniques that will provide more confidence in drawing in various to future skill settings such as character designs for animation, concept art and/or games.
History of Design and Media
The module traces a chronology of major historical developments in visual communications, focusing on movements and trends in design and media representation, both functional and aesthetic. Students will explore ways of understanding and articulating influences, trends and fashions in the work of designers and producers of visual media.
Design Studies
Design studies address the different ways in which design has been characterized and practiced. It covers the contexts and systems on how designs operate and the responsibilities that come with the power of designing. Discover the elements and principles of design that can be applied across the art and design spectrum.
Introduction to Digital Photography
This module will introduce the world of photography through the history and the technological shift from analogue to digital cameras. It will cover practical hands-on sessions and requirements to follow a set of instructions to produce own images. Students will also explore famous photographers and their works.
Introduction to Architecture and Built Environment Module
The module introduces the philosophy and history of architecture, the elements and principles of architectural design, works by master architects, Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Artificial Intelligence (A.I) in architecture, Malaysian architectural landscape, and the path to becoming an architect. You will gain insights into the intricate relationship between architecture and society, and how evolving technology like BIM and AI impacts the potential future directions of the field.
Major Projects
This Final Project module comes in two parts across two semesters. Major Project 1 predominantly covers on research and preproduction/ preparatory work. Major Project 2 requires further research and experimentation as independent work and negotiation with assigned supervisors. A consolidated application of knowledge and skills gained from other modules and experiences is required in producing a significant body of work that translates into the Final Project.Design, Advertising, Animation & VFX Programmes
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architecture
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Industrial Design
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Visual Effects
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Animation
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Digital Advertising
Computing, Technology & Games Development Programmes
Leading from APU Foundation to your Choice of Degree Studies; please note that a Credit Pass in Mathematics at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE is required for the following programmes:
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Information System Security
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Cloud Engineering
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Internet of Things (IoT)
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Digital Transformation
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Business Information Systems
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Sustainable Computing
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science*
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics*
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Digital Forensics*
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security)*
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Software Engineering*
- Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Artificial Intelligence)*
- Bachelor in Interactive Media and Immersive Technology (Honours)**
- Bachelor in Interactive Media and Immersive Technology (Honours) with a specialism n VR/AR**
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Games Development**
*Students who choose to progress to Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Analytics, Cyber Security, Digital Forensics and Artificial Intelligence programmes will be required to undertake Foundation Pathways from the Computing & Technology route or Engineering route if the student does not have a credit in Additional Mathematics at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE or equivalent.
*Students who have completed Foundation from other routes apart from the above are required to do a Pre-Requisite module in Further Mathematics or equivalent in the first semester of the Degree Programme, provided they also still have Credit in Maths and Science or ICT subject at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE or equivalent.
**A Pass in Mathematics at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE is required for these programmes. (Strong Mathematics would be an added advantage).
Business, Management, Marketing & Digital Marketing, Media and International Relations, Psychology, Hospitality & Tourism Programmes
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in E-Business
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in Digital Leadership
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in Business Analytics
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Human Resource Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management with a specialism in Digital Marketing
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management with a specialism in Hospitality
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism with a specialism in Hospitality Innovation
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism with a specialism in Events Management
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism with a specialism in Aviation Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Media and Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations
Leading from APU Foundation to your Choice of Degree Studies; please note that a Credit Pass in Mathematics and Science OR Physics OR Chemistry OR Biology and a Pass in English at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE is required for the following programme:
Accounting, Banking, Finance and Actuarial Programmes
Leading from APU Foundation to your Choice of Degree Studies; please note that a Credit Pass in Mathematics at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE is required for the following programmes:
- Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours)
- Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Forensic Accounting
- Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Forex and Investments
- Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Accounting Technology
- Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons)
- Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons) with a specialism in Investment Analytics
- Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons) with a specialism in Financial Technology
- Bachelor of Financial Technology (Honours)
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies with a specialism in Data Analytics
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies with a specialism in Financial Technology
**Further Mathematics module is Compulsory for students who choose to progress to Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies.
Facilities at APU
The APU Centre Point & Atrium serves as a melting pot of cultures from all over the world. Here, cultural activities are organised regularly at the campus, fostering long-lasting intercultural relationships among APU students, who come from over 130 countries.
Ready, Set, Go.
Whether you are locals or traveling here, we have the options for you to pursue your dreams.
RM26,400
Non-Engineering Pathways
RM27,900
(USD6,490)
Non-Engineering Pathways
Programme code : (R3/0011/3/0089)(11/29)(A10955)

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