Foundation in Arts: A Guide for Malaysian Students

What To Study

2023-08-21 | 5 MINS READ

What is Foundation in Arts?


Foundation in Arts is a Pre-University (Pre-U) programme focusing on subjects in the fields of Arts and Humanities. As a Pre-U programme, it is meant to be taken after completing your SPM / O-Levels and before entering a Degree programme.

The goal of Foundation in Arts is to prepare you for smooth entry into non-science Degree programmes, including:

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Arts and Design
  • Business
  • Computing and IT
  • Education and Languages
  • Hospitality and Culinary Arts
  • Law
  • Mass Communication
  • Psychology


Structure and Assessment of Foundation in Arts


Foundation in Arts is 12 months long and comprises three semesters of academic studies. While the course syllabus may vary between universities, it usually consists of core and elective subjects.

Core subjects are compulsory and designed to equip you with the necessary skills to succeed in your Degree programme such as languages, critical thinking and public speaking skills. On the other hand, you get to choose your elective subjects ranging from topics like Business, Tourism, Mass Communication, Law, and Programming, allowing you to explore your interest before moving on to your Degree.

Unlike A-Levels which is purely exam-based, Foundation in Arts features a mixture of continuous assessments (50%) and final exams (50%). You can expect a variety of tasks for the continuous assessment component including projects, assignments, lab work, quizzes and presentations. Final exams are conducted at the end of each semester.


Advantages of Foundation in Arts


  1. Short Pathway to Degree
    2. As in the case of Foundation programmes, you only need to spend one year studying Foundation in Arts before moving on to your Degree programme. This is definitely a quicker pathway compared to other Pre-U programmes like A-Levels and International Baccalaureate, both of which can take up to two years to complete.

  2. Mixed Assessment Mode
    3. As mentioned in the above section of this article, Foundation in Arts combines exams and various activities to evaluate your academic performance. You should really consider this option if you dislike sitting for exams.

  3. More Financial Perks
    4. Did you know that universities tend to offer more financial aid to foundation students? I don’t just mean the merit scholarships. Some universities offer discounts to students who pursue both Foundation and Degree programmes at the same institution.
But with so many universities out there, it can be a hassle to search for discounts and perks. One easy way is to drop us a message and leave the process to us; we’ll be ready with your customised a list of recommendations in no time!

Disadvantages of Foundation in Arts


  1. Difficulty in Switching to Other Fields
    2. Foundation in Arts is suitable if you are sure you want to pursue your Degree in non-science fields. Because of that, you cannot take it for science-related pathways. If you prefer to have the flexibility in choosing between science and arts Degree, you could opt for a Foundation in Science instead.

  2. Difficulty in Transferring to Other Universities
    3. Foundation programmes are administered by the universities themselves, resulting in varying course syllabi and subject offerings. So, there’s a risk your Foundation may not be recognised by other universities. If you want to transfer to a different university for your Degree studies, know that it’s entirely up to the university to decide whether to approve your admission. To play it safe, you should choose to do both Foundation and Degree programmes at the same university.

  3. Fewer Employment Opportunities
    4. If you want to enter the workforce quickly without pursuing a Degree, a Diploma programme is a better choice than a Foundation programme. A qualification in Foundation alone is not enough to kickstart your career.


Your Pathway to Foundation in Arts


If you want to pursue a Foundation in Arts, take note of the following general entry requirements:
  • SPM / O-Levels: Min. 5 credits (SPM holders must have a pass in Bahasa Melayu and Sejarah)
  • UEC: 3Bs


Should You Choose Foundation in Arts?


So, should you go for a Foundation in Arts, or something else? The answer—it depends.

There are many types of Pre-U programmes out there that are equally good, but it all boils down to your own needs and circumstances. Foundation in Arts may suit you if:

  • You are sure you want to pursue a non-science Degree
  • You want a more general course to explore your interest before deciding on a major
  • You prefer having a mixture of assessment methods as part of your course
  • You already have a specific university in mind to pursue your Pre-U and Degree
  • You want a faster track to your Degree
  • You want a Pre-U course that is generally more affordable


So, What’s Next?


If you are still unsure of whether you should study Foundation, feel free to reach out to our friendly education counsellors. We can provide you with professional guidance and help you every step of the way.
#Foundation #Pre-University
Other articles you might be interested in
Where To Study

IMU National STEM Innovation Competition 2024: Empowering Young Innovators

2024-10-23 | 5 MINS READ

IMU's National STEM Innovation Competition 2024 fosters young innovators to tackle real-world challenges through STEM projects.
What To Study

Foundation: A Guide for Malaysian Students

2023-08-23 | 8 MINS READ

Read this to learn more about Foundation Programmes.

Enquire Now

We will get in touch with you.