Fulfilling a need
ELECTRICAL and electronic technologies are present in various applications involving modern society’s daily activities so electrical and electronic engineers are in great demand across the globe and certainly in Malaysia and a wider region in Asia. Recognising this growing need, Curtin University is introducing a new Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) (Hons) (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) programme, which will initially be available only at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia), which starts this month. Students taking this four-year course at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science can specialise in either electrical power engineering or electronic and communication engineering, both highly relevant in today’s world.
In the first year, all engineering students will complete the Engineering First Year (EFY) after which they can select to major in electrical and electronic engineering with a focus on either electrical power engineering or electronic and communication engineering. In the final year, students will undertake a major research or design project. They will also need to complete at least 12 weeks of engineering work experience to graduate. High-achieving students may complete an additional Honours year.
The development of the electrical and electronic engineering major is guided by an industry advisory committee with members drawn from senior members of industry and academia. The Faculty of Engineering and Science has highly-qualified teaching staff with extensive industry experience. In addition, the faculty has relevant teaching and research laboratories. These innovated laboratories are outfitted with up-to-date equipment, materials and supplies and manned by well-trained technicians.
The student learning experience is further enriched by innovative learning spaces equipped with the latest technological advances in teaching and learning at a newly opened RM20mil Faculty of Engineering and Science building.
Meanwhile, extracurricular activities organised by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Curtin Malaysia student branch focus on the many different facets of electrical and electronic engineering field, as well as leadership, communication and management skills.
Faculty of Engineering dean and science professor Ir Lau Hieng Ho said the new major further strengthens Curtin’s engineering course offerings and is also a significant milestone for Curtin Malaysia as it is offering the major ahead of its Australian main campus to meet the immediate demands of the Malaysian market for such a course.
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering head Dr Lenin Gopal also expressed pride that the Faculty of Engineering and Science at Curtin Malaysia had been given the task of spearheading the new programme. He said it was the university’s recognition of Curtin Malaysia’s status as the leading international campus of Curtin University and its growing importance as a regional teaching hub for Curtin University. Dr Lenin also said graduates of the major will have broad career opportunities in various sectors across the world.
There are also many career opportunities within Sarawak itself. The development of the massive Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) has resulted in a significant demand for qualified electrical and electronic engineers, a promising prospect for Curtin Malaysia graduates.
For details of the programme, visit http:// courses.curtin.edu.my/courses-and-study/ undergraduate/engsci/beng/electricalelec tronic/. Curtin Malaysia’s February/March intake for undergraduate and foundation courses is in progress with classes starting on Feb 27 and March 27 respectively. Potential students can enquire at http:// www1.curtin.edu.my/future/enquiry.htm or e-mail enquiries@curtin.edu.my. For details on Curtin Malaysia, visit www.curtin.edu.my.