Creating IT and engineering specialists
IN Malaysia, the number of jobs involving Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is on the rise due to the changes brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0). This term refers to the implementation of automation and artificial intelligence in the manufacturing sector.
Understanding the needs of the STEM job market, First City University College (First City UC, formerly known as KBU International College), through the Faculty of Engineering and Computing (FEC) offers the Foundation in Engineering, Science and Technology programme (FEST).
This programme hopes to build capable graduates who can contribute their engineering or computing expertise to the various businesses in Malaysia.
FEST programme objective, structure and pathways
“Students can expect to master the basic principles of engineering, science and technology by the end of this one-year programme (three semesters).
“During classes, they will also be educated on the social and ethical implications in the field of science, engineering and technology,” explained FEST programme coordinator Asst Prof Kong Wai Mun.
Starting from the second semester, students will be given the option of choosing the Engineering or Computing pathway. Those who choose the Engineering pathway will be exposed to subjects such as Mechanics, Applied Physics and Engineering Mathematics, while the Computing pathway offers subjects such as Software Design Techniques, Systems Analysis and Design and Web Design.
At the end of the foundation programme, students who have chosen to specialise in the Engineering pathway may opt for bachelor’s degree programmes such as Electronic Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.
On the other hand, those who select the Computing pathway may choose between these bachelor’s degree programmes: Software Engineering, Computer Science (Intelligent Systems), Information Systems and Information Technology (Networking and Security).
The quality of these programmes is assured as they are validated and recognised by Teesside University, the UK.
Meet First City UC’s future engineers and IT specialists
Lim Siang Han, a third-year student in the Bachelor of Electronic Engineering with Honours programme, is a firm believer in the FEST programme as it provided him with the necessary knowledge and problemsolving skills to take on the challenging subjects in his bachelor’s degree programme.
“Instead of relying on lecturers to spoonfeed us information, why not learn to do some research first?
“That way, we can always learn even outside the classroom setting,” explained Lim, adding that he plans to apply his skills and knowledge as a certified electronic engineer upon graduation.
Student financial aid, facilities and January 2020 intake
Students seeking a successful career in engineering or computing should sign up now for the FEST programme’s January 2020 intake in order to grab the 50% incentive.
Meanwhile, students who have completed the FEST programme are encouraged to continue their studies at First City UC with 15% off their first-year tuition fees via the Alumni Incentive.
Furthermore, FEC students will enjoy links with a number of reputable industry partners. Banking on these valuable partnerships, the faculty is able to connect students with representatives of potential employers during events such as Career Day and the annual Innovation Day showcase.
To learn more about other programmes offered at the foundation, diploma, bachelor’s degree and postgraduate levels, drop by First City UC for a staff counselling session.
The campus will be open every day, including all weekends in December 2019 and January 2020 (with the exception of the Chinese New Year week).
For details, call 03-7727 3200 or visit First City UC’s website at www.firstcity.edu.my, Facebook page (@firstcityuc) or Instagram account (@firstcity.uc)