Secure a strong foundation
ARGUABLY, the most important structure of a building is its base.
A sturdy base guarantees a safe, solid building and vice versa.
Likewise, in launching one’s career a sturdy foundation will help pave the path for success.
Heriot- Watt University Malaysia offers just that for its students.
At present, the university offers foundation programmes in Science, and Business and Design ( the latter also includes an Actuarial Science route for students who wish to pursue a career in this field).
Both these programmes have scheduled intakes in April and July, and run for three semesters.
While many universities offer similar foundation programmes, Heriot- Watt strives to offer more than just a university education.
“Interwoven into our foundation programmes’ curriculum delivery is support for our students to become confident, independent learners.
“There is a clear emphasis on delivering a distinctive UK approach to learning and teaching, and equipping students with independent learning skills, communication skills, problem- solving skills as well as critical and creative thinking.
“I would say that underpinning our approach to teaching and learning is the goal to nurture graduates with well- developed career- related skills that will maximise their employability and leadership potential so that they have a real competitive edge in their chosen fields,” says the university’s Foundation Programmes head Dr Joanne Rajadurai.
As is the common practice of the university, a mixed mode of teaching and assessments is employed.
Through group work and presentations, students will be able to develop their communication and public speaking skills.
They will also be equipped with basic research skills.
Meanwhile, a small number of students per class allows for a more personalised touch in the learning process.
This personalised attention can also be seen in the university’s mentoring system, where students will be guided and supported by a member of the teaching team throughout the course of their studies.
This allows the university to monitor their progress and address any issues that they may be facing in a timely manner.
“I am convinced that in many respects, we have the best of both worlds – our curriculum is derived from the Scottish SQA curriculum; yet, it has been appropriately contextualised and customised to enhance relevance and interest and aid transition for Malaysian students.
As a British university in Malaysia, we are in a unique position to leverage on the traditions and strengths of the British university ethos to emphasise student- centred learning with a high level of engagement and interaction.
We are also able to draw on diversity in our student population to enrich the experience of all students,” says Dr Joanne.
Established in 1821, Heriot- Watt University is one of the UK’s top institutions in fields like Business, Engineering and Industry.
The university has received accolades from various university league tables, which include being ranked 46th in the world for most international university according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2016.
The university also ranked 34th in the QS University Rankings “Top 50 under 50” 2015- 2016.
For details on the programmes and scholarships offered at Heriot- Watt University Malaysia, log on to www. hw. edu. my, call 03- 8894 3888 or e- mail hwum@ hw. ac. uk. Alternatively, visit its Putrajaya campus located in Precinct 5 during its Open Days on March 19 and 20.