THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017

COURSE FOCUS
ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE

Crossing platforms
Engineering and architecture are constantly evolving with the
hybridisation and convergence of complementary fields of study. Turn
the pages to kick-start your unique engineering career.
2 Course Focus
Automating the future
By NISSHANTHAN DHANAPALAN
AS the world continues to get
smaller with technology, the
distinction between and within
industries continues to diminish.
We now see that there is a need for
cross-field experts and this has
given rise to the development of
new fields that are a combination
of multiple conventional fields of
study that cater to a niche market.
The field of mechatronics is
one of the many growing cross-
platform fields in the engineering
industry. Although this field of
study has recently been getting
some headway, the term was
coined in 1960 to describe the
blend of mechanical and electronic
engineering. Separately, these
fields exist on their own merit but
the age of automation has caused
both fields to come together.
Mechatronics was initially used
to describe the computer control
of electric motors in mechanical
Experience in school level robotic classes and competitions can hone interest
in mechatronics engineering.
structures by experts at Yaskawa
Electric Co in Japan. Mechatronics
has deep roots in robotics as
during the 1970s, mechatronics
focused on servo technology or
technology that could react
through negative-feedback sensors,
used in various applications such
as autofocus cameras, vending
machines and electronic gates.
The integration of IT into servo
technology began as engineers
embedded microprocessors in
mechanical systems, improving
the performance of automated
devices. The age of mechatronics
truly dawned in the 1990s as the
use of computer intelligence
increased in mechatronic products
and systems.
The field of mechatronics
consists of certified engineers,
technicians who are diploma
holders and academicians who
have furthered their studies and
attained their PhD.
There are many public and
private institutions that offer a
diploma or degree in mechatronics
engineering. However, students
can still opt for either a mechanical
or electrical and electronical
engineering degree if they want to
pursue a career in mechatronics as
they can specialise in mechatronics
with a postgraduate course.
Students with an aptitude for
physics, chemistry, mathematics,
and additional mathematics in
school would set the foundation
to excel in university-level
chemistry, physics, calculus as
well as computer science and
programming.
Other than academics, the
interest in mechatronics also
begins at a practical level. Students
who take part in physics projects
and robotics competitions will find
that mechatronic courses also
cover similar but advanced aspects
of this subject. Students who are
naturally investigative, creative,
meticulous and persistent will
find this field interesting and
challenging.
Mechatronic engineers must not
be afraid to make mistakes as they
will reap valuable lessons from
them. They must also be equipped
with problem-solving skills as
the industry requires them to find
solutions effectively and
cost-efficiently with minimum
room for errors.
Fresh mechatronics graduates
can be employed in many
technical-based industries (see
table on page 4). In Malaysia, there
is a need for at least 200,000
engineers by 2020 and, as of now,
only 70,000 engineers are
registered under the Board of
Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
There are also many
opportunities for engineers to gain
employment overseas. Malaysia is
a member of The Washington
Accord an international
accreditation agreement for
professional engineering academic
degrees that recognises
experienced professional engineers
signed under BEM.
Graduates who are registered
under the BEM can seek
employment in destinations such
as Germany, the United Kingdom,
the United States, Australia,
Ireland, Japan, Hong Kong,
South Korea, New Zealand and
other countries that are signatories
under The Washington Accord.
Having said that, it is important
to search for a course provider
that is accredited by BEM and
international accreditation and
recognition bodies.
Some mechatronic engineers
progress via academics while
others through sheer work
experience. Internship
opportunities before and during
courses will give students an
in-depth insight into the field and
THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017
the industries that depend on it.
Mechatronic graduates can
register as professional engineers
with BEM or corporate members
under The Institution of Engineers,
Malaysia. They would require at
least seven years of working
experience after graduation and
must be responsible for a
significant project for two years
within the seven-year period.
Most importantly, they must
maintain their professional
development and continue to show
their passion in the field of
mechatronics.
A career in mechatronics is a
promising one and there is hope
for more job opportunities as more
higher learning institutions
produce highly trained engineers
and professionals.
A career in mechatronic
engineering is multidimensional.
These engineers are innovators at
the forefront of development in
technology and automation. To
succeed, graduates must continue
to drive their aspirations to not
only make an impact in the field,
but to also contribute to global
technological advancement.
> TURN TO PAGE 4
THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017
LEARN, work and play at the
Faculty of Architecture & Design
(FAD) at UNITAR International
University (UNITAR) via the UNIEC
(UNITAR Education Core).
UNIEC is a tool that employs the
21st century teaching and learning
methodology, aspiring to be at the
forefront of training and education
in the field of built environment
and design while emphasising
excellence, innovation and
entrepreneurship within both
areas of studies.
The FAD is committed to the
development of a new breed
of professionals who are
technologically equipped, industry
driven and able to contribute
positively to the sector.
These graduates are prepared to
face the challenging requirements
of the built environment and
creative sectors, propelling the
related industries to greater
heights.
The range of exposure and
experience will enable FAD
students to be well-trained
professionals and independent
thinkers who are well prepared,
flexible and competent to embrace
the demand of the future.
UNITARs FAD offers the
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Interior
Architecture, Bachelor in Science
(Hons) in Architecture, Diploma in
Architectural Technology, Diploma
in Interior Architecture, Diploma
in Product Design, Foundation in
Built Environment and Foundation
in Design.
Through the various
programmes that are related to
architecture and interior
architecture, graduating students
will be able to explore potential
careers as architects, architectural
technologists, interior and spatial
designers, building surveyors,
Making an impact
UNITAR students working on a building plan simulation at UNIECs immerse room, one of UNITARs renowned hi-tech,
21st century teaching and learning facilities at the main campus in Kelana Jaya.
commercial/residential surveyors
and landscape architects, among
others.
Besides architecture and interior
design, FAD also offers study
options for other pathways in
design industries with its
programmes. This includes the
Diploma in Product Design and
Bachelor in Digital Graphic Design,
which are developed specially to
meet the demands of the industry.
FAD is currently collaborating
with the Jikei Gakuen COM Group
of Japan, offering a unique
educational plan through its design
programmes.
The collaboration allows FADs
diploma graduates to continue
their studies in the Land of The
Rising Sun with leading Japanese
technical education providers
in various areas of design
specialisations such as multimedia
technology.
Nurturing employable
graduates
UNITAR embeds the underlying
principle of human governance
across its programmes as graduates
are made aware of what it means
to be human, and how this affects
behaviours and decision-making in
a workplace.
UNITAR believes providing
continuous personal and
professional development to its
students is vital. That is the reason
UNITAR starts instilling this
principle in all its students from
the foundation level.
Innovative teaching and
learning approach
Students will experience quality
teaching and learning through
UNIEC, the 21st century teaching
and learning management system,
which combines online learning
with face-to-face classroom
interactions with the dedicated
teaching staff.
Course Focus 3
The range of
exposure and
experience will
enable FAD students
to be well-trained
professionals
and independent
thinkers who are well
prepared, flexible
and competent to
embrace the demand
of the future.
Through the UNIEC tablet,
UNITARs students have instant
online access to facilitate learning
anytime and anywhere. Besides the
main campus in Kelana Jaya,
UNITAR programmes are available
through its regional centres in Alor
Setar, Johor Baru, Kota Baru, Kota
Kinabalu, Kuching and Penang.
The variation of programmes
depends on the regional centres.
To experience this yourself,
apply now for a spot in the April
intake, which is open till April 9.
n For more information, call
03-7627 7200, e-mail
enquiries@unitar.my or visit
www.unitar.my.
4 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017

For your future career

SEGI believes in moulding talented
and aspiring individuals into
successful engineers. SEGi
University & Colleges offers a
variety of engineering programmes
that are sought after by aspiring
engineering professionals who are
looking for a bright future in
todays ever-growing job market.
SEGis Faculty of Engineering &
The Built Environment focuses on
delivering the best engineering
education to its students, using
applied methodologies and
state-of-the-art engineering
facilities.
SEGis appointed Industrial
Advisory panel members include
reputable organisations such as
AECOM, Daikin Malaysia, Norman
Disney & Young and Bina Puri.
Students pursuing SEGis
engineering programmes will
experience student-teacher
interaction with lecturers from its with the University of Sunderland.
partner universities.
SEGi campuses are well
equipped with advanced
laboratories and workshops,
allowing students to perform their
best on their coursework projects.
Students with the SPM (Sijil
Pelajaran Malaysia) qualification
or equivalent may choose to kick-
start their engineering careers by
applying for SEGis Foundation in
Science or opt to enrol in SEGis
diploma programmes.
Among the engineering diploma
programmes offered at SEGi
University are Diploma in
Electronic and Electrical
Engineering and Diploma in
Mechanical Engineering.
Students who have graduated
from the foundation programmes
or possess a diploma may enrol in
SEGis bachelors degree
SEGi offers a range of engineering studies from the foundation and diploma
to the PhD level in disciplines including civil, chemical, electronic and electrical,
automotive and mechanical engineering.
programmes. Diploma holders
may gain direct entry into Year 2
of the degree programme.
However, students who wish to
pursue a degree awarded by a premier
university in the United Kingdom may
pursue a collaborative degree (3+0)
Among the programmes offered
under this collaboration are BEng
(Hons) Electronic & Electrical
Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering
(Hons) Mechanical Engineering
and BEng (Hons) Automotive
Engineering.
SEGi also offers the dual-award
degree programme where students
obtain two degrees one from SEGi
University and the other from either
the University of Sunderland or
University of Greenwich.
Under the dual-award degree
programme with the University of
Greenwich, students may pursue the
Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Civil
Engineering programme.
Graduates who want to pursue their
education further or to the highest
level may enrol in SEGis masters and
PhD programmes.
Among the engineering postgraduate www.segi.edu.my.
programmes offered are MSc
in Engineering by Research,
MSc Engineering Management,
MSc Telecommunication
Engineering and PhD (Engineering)
by Research.
SEGi University & Colleges strives
to produce engineers who are
competent and ready to face the
challenges of the engineering
industry.
Most of its students undergo
industrial training programmes at
multinational organisations such as
MMC-Gamuda, Sunway
Construction Group, WCT
Construction and Petronas.
More than 96% of SEGis
engineering graduates are
successfully employed within six
months upon graduation and have
gone on to write many success
stories worldwide.
n For more information, call
SEGi University (03-6145 1777/
1800 887 344), SEGi College Subang
Jaya (03-8600 1888/1800 888 622) or
SEGi College Penang (04-2633 888),
e-mail askme@segi.edu.my or visit

Spoilt for choice

> FROM PAGE 2

MANY public, private and foreign branch campuses offer mechatronic engineering undergraduate courses. Here are
the institutions that offer mechatronic courses in Malaysia.

Public higher learning institutions Private higher learning institutions

Institution
International Islamic
University Malaysia (IIUM)
Universiti Malaysia
Pahang (UMP)
Course Institution Course
Bachelor of Engineering AIMST University Diploma in Mechatronics
(Mechatronics) (Hons) Engineering
Asia Pacific University of B.Eng (Hons) in Mechatronic
B.Eng (Hons) Mechatronics Technology & Innovation Engineering
Engineering (APU)

B.Eng (Hons) Mechatronics First City University Diploma in Mechatronics

Universiti Malaysia
Perlis (UniMAP)
Universiti Sains
Malaysia (USM)
Universiti Teknikal
Malaysia Melaka (UTeM)
Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia (UTM)
Engineering - (dual degree
programme with Karlsruhe
University of Applied
Sciences, HsKA Germany)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Hons) (Mechatronic
Engineering)
Bachelor of Mechatronic
Engineering (Hons)
Bachelor of Mechatronics
Engineering (Hons)
Diploma of Electrical
Engineering (Mechatronics)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Electrical-Mechatronics)
(SKEM)
College
KDU University College
(PG) Sdn Bhd
MAHSA University
Monash University
Malaysia
Nilai University
Quest International
University Perak (QIUP)
Diploma in Electrical and
Electronic Engineering
(Mechatronics)
Bachelor of Engineering
(Hons) in Mechatronics
Engineering
Bachelor of Mechatronics
Engineering (Hons)
Diploma in Mechatronic
Engineering
Diploma in Mechatronics
Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering
(Hons) in Mechatronics

Universiti Tun Hussein Bachelor of Electronic Swinburne University of Bachelor of Engineering

Onn Malaysia (UTHM) Engineering (Hons) (BEJ) Technology (Sarawak (Robotics and Mechatronics)
(mechatronic discipline) Campus) (Hons)

> SEE NEXT PAGE

THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017
THE Petronas Twin Towers and KL
Tower have been icons of Kuala
Lumpurs city skyline for the last
two decades. Besides being highly
featured on postcards and
souvenirs, these landmarks are the
pinnacle of Malaysias architectural
and engineering prowess.
These modern structures are,
however, only a glimpse of
humankinds capabilities in
creating breathtaking buildings
that are creative yet functional,
featuring ideas that are
environmentally conscious,
maximise space, and reduce
material and building costs.
Here is a list of the most
innovative international buildings
of the last decade.
l Al Bahr Towers,
United Arab Emirates
The two 29-storey towers
are home to an
investment
arm of the
Abu Dhabi
government
and an
Islamic
bank. The
main
Growing niche
> FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
Private higher learning institutions
Institution
TATI University College
The University of
Nottingham Malaysia
Campus (UNMC)
Tunku Abdul Rahman
University College
(TAR UC)
UCSI University
Universiti Kuala Lumpur
(UniKL)
Universiti Selangor (UNISEL)
University of Southampton
Malaysia Campus (USMC)
Career options with a
mechatronics degree
(entry-level; as your experience
grows, your options will
increase):
l Electrical engineer
l Mechatronics engineer
l Mechanical engineer
l Software and
mechatronics engineer
l Junior mechatronics
engineer
l Systems engineer
l Product design engineer
l Robotics engineer
Industries within the
mechatronic sphere:
l Automotive manufacturers
l Medical equipment
manufacturers
Course Focus 5
Striking skyscrapers
feature of the towers is the worlds carry a 225kW wind turbine that the few twisting towers that have and has won multiple
largest computerised dynamic measures 29m in diameter. The made it from paper to reality as sustainability awards.
faade. turbines generate 1.1GWh to it incorporates a myriad of The many features include
The building is covered by 1.3GWh of electricity innovative designs that enables it high ceilings, a specially designed
movable panels than can change in a year. to achieve high seismic capacity south-facing atrium that provides
incidence angles to shade the Though creating only about 11% such as a strong inner truss tube and preconditions the buildings
interior from direct sunlight. to 15% of the towers total power and various vibration damping constant fresh-air supply, several
Each triangular panel is coated consumption, the energy created is systems. 24m high waterfalls to humidify
in fibreglass and programmed to equivalent to providing lighting for The building also features a and dehumidify the fresh air
respond to the movement of the about 300 homes for an entire double-glassed air flow window intake, a one-metre-wide double
sun. year. system to reduce heat loads exterior wall with
With 50 floors within each tower, created by the sun and a natural computer-controlled
l Bahrain World the structure is also the second- air ventilation system. The motorised vents that
Trade Center The tallest building in Bahrain. tower is the pride of Nagoya, adjust the buildings
240m twin tower representing sound structural exterior skin, green
complex is located in l Mode Gakuen integrity and aesthetic designs. roofs at the base
Manama, Bahrain, Spiral Tower, Japan of the building
and is the first At first glance, the l Manitoba Hydro Place, to reduce
skyscraper to instal spiral tower may Canada What does it take to be stormwater
wind turbines as look like an recognised as one of the worlds runoff and
part of its main architects creative most energy-efficient buildings? sensors on
structure. spin to designing a The headquarters of electric high-
The three striking power and natural gas utility output
skybridges that skyscraper. company Manitoba Hydro lighting
connect the two However, in Canada is a 21-storey office fixtures.
towers each the building tower that works in harmony
is among with the natural environment
Course
Diploma in Industrial
Automation Engineering
(Mechatronic)
Bachelor of Engineering
Technology (Hons)
Mechatronic
BEng/MEng (Hons)
Mechatronic Engineering
Diploma in Technology
(Mechatronics)
Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)
Mechatronics
Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in
Mechatronic Engineering
Diploma of Engineering Technology
in Mechatronics (UniKL MFI)
Bachelor of Engineering
Technology (Hons) in
Mechatronics (UniKL MFI)
Bachelor of Engineering Technology
(Hons) in Mechatronics
(Automotive) (UniKL MSI)
Diploma in Mechatronics Engineering
MEng Mechanical Engineering/
Mechatronics
l Electronic equipment
manufacturers
l Oil and gas producers,
service and solution providers
l Transportation and logistics
l Defence and military
l Aerospace and aviation
Skills and knowledge
required:
l A general interest for
mechanics and electronics
l An imaginative and
creative mind
l Problem-solving skills
l Teamwork and leadership
skills
l Eagerness to learn
practical and technical skills
l Organised working
methods
6 Course Focus
THE affordability of air travel has
led to significant growth in the air
carrier industry, creating a huge
demand for aircraft maintenance
staff.
Qualified aircraft maintenance
personnel, especially those who
certify aircraft worthiness,
command high salaries and are in
constant demand in the industry.
Upon completion of the SPM
examinations, students can enrol
in the Diploma in Aircraft
Maintenance Engineering
programme at Nilai University.
The duration of this programme
is 2.5 years, including six months
of industrial attachment with one
of Nilai Universitys industry
partners.
It currently has 20 industrial
partners, including AirAsia X,
AirAsia, Sepang Aircraft
Engineering Sdn Bhd and
Executive Jets Asia.
After completing the diploma
programme, students can either
gain employment or enrol in the
one-year Advanced Diploma in
Aircraft Engineering Technology
programme and be awarded the
BSc (Hons) Aircraft Engineering
Study aircraft maintenance
Nilai University has a purpose-built hangar housing two aircrafts, allowing aircraft engineering students to gain hands-on experience.
from Kingston University, United
Kingdom.
Nilai Universitys Advanced
Diploma in Aircraft Engineering
Technology is a highly sought-after
course as it incorporates the
European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) syllabus that prepares students
for the EASA licence examination.
The EASA is a part of the European
Unions strategy for aviation safety,
promoting the highest common
standards of safety and
environmental protection in
civil aviation.
Nilai University prides
itself in offering students a
wholesome environment to
motivate them to achieve
their true potential.
The university campus has
dedicated teaching facilities as
well as on-campus living
facilities to support students
in their pursuit of excellence.
n For more information,
call 06-850 2308 or visit
www.nilai.edu.my.
Advancement
through research
Participants and speakers at the UTAR Intervarsity Science Symposium
(UISS) 2016.
THE UTAR Intervarsity Science
Symposium (UISS) 2016
concluded at Universiti Tunku
Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Kampar
Campus and saw the active
participation of postgraduate
students from UTAR and other
public and private universities
in Malaysia.
Jointly organised by UTARs
Centre for Biodiversity
Research (CBR) and Faculty
of Science, the seminar saw
more than 20 postgraduate
researchers assembling to
present their research and
development (R&D) findings as
well as research experiences in
various fields, including
chemistry, biological sciences,
agriculture, food science and
health sciences.
The enriching presentations
were supplemented with talks
by nine distinguished speakers.
With the theme Embark
on Science for Future
THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017
Nilai University
prides itself in
offering students
a wholesome
environment to
motivate them to
achieve their true
potential.
Advancement, the symposium
provided an opportunity for
postgraduate students to
promote their research to the
public via poster and oral
presentations as well as create a
platform for interaction with
experts from the industrial and
academic sectors.
CBR chairperson Dr Wong
Wey Lim said, Advancements in
science and technology are the
key drivers in improving living
standards and economic
development.
It is important for
researchers, industrial
representatives and stakeholders
to come together in sharing
up-to-date knowledge to
accelerate the creation of novel
innovations in science.
Stimulating events such as this
are a regular fixture for UTARs
postgraduate students.
> SEE NEXT PAGE
THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017
Versatility creates employability
THE mechatronics engineering
course at Monash University
Malaysia trains students to be
versatile and industry relevant
to give them an edge in the job
market.
Assoc Prof Dr Edwin Tan Chee
Pin, head of the mechatronics
engineering discipline at the
School of Engineering, says that
in the course, students are trained
to design engineering systems that
function automatically and
intelligently, which requires strong
knowledge from various
engineering disciplines.
Students learn how to
combine knowledge from different
fields of engineering to produce a
mechatronics system, which is
controlled by automation to help
people work more efficiently and
increase the quality of life.
Mechatronics systems are
perfect for handling 3D (dirty,
dull, dangerous) jobs.
They help a company improve
productivity, reduce risk to
humans and ultimately enhance
profits, he says.
The versatility of mechatronics
graduates has made them highly
employable, especially by big
multinational corporations.
The School of Engineering
actively carries out projects
initiated by the industry. These
Honing potential
> FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
The university insists on
providing consistent exposure to
cutting-edge research to
continually broaden students
minds without neglecting cross-
disciplinary instruction and
hands-on practical training.
These efforts, along with all of
UTARs postgraduate
programmes and R&D activities,
are coordinated by the Institute
of Postgraduate Studies and
Research (IPSR).
According to IPSR director
Prof Dr Faidz Abd Rahman,
The institute functions as a
central body ensuring that the
programmes and R&D projects
are well administered and
monitored to provide the best
possible R&D experience.
In line with our motto
Intellectual Pursuits through
Sustainable Research, the
postgraduate programmes
offered are designed to
encompass a large share of
R&D activities to provide
students with the most
up-to-date technical knowledge
and skills.
Embarking on a postgraduate
programme will help students
get more out of their careers as
it broadens and enhances
knowledge and thinking skills,
thus giving them an edge over
their contemporaries.
IPSR has endeavoured to
cultivate innovative research,
which can be seen from the
number of grants received by
UTAR researchers from local
and international organisations.
UTARs postgraduate studies
may be completed by
coursework or research or a
combination of both. This
ensures flexibility to suit diverse
individual needs and learning
styles.
UTAR was awarded Tier 5:
Course Focus 7
projects often involve students
working not only with their
peers and academic supervisor Monash
but also with an industry Malaysias
representative. mechatronics
In todays fast-changing
engineering
world, it is important to remain
course teaches
relevant to the needs of the
industry, says Assoc Prof Tan. students
At the School of to combine
Engineering, strong efforts are knowledge
made by the academic staff to from various
engage with industries so that engineering
students are given the fields to produce
opportunity to work on mechatronics
projects by various companies, systems.
which involve real-world
problems.
We meet regularly with Engineerings academic staff being engineering graduates. With the wide range of subjects
industry representatives actively involved in research, Assoc Graduates who specialise in taught within the degree, graduates
to update them about the Prof Tan says students from the automation are mostly employed are equipped with the necessary
progress of these projects. school also get to gain research in the manufacturing sector skills to fit into the many fields of
Subsequently, they provide experience by working closely with while others have gone into engineering.
input, ensuring that we are on their lecturers. specific electrical and mechanical
the right track. As for career options, there are engineering fields as well as n For more information, visit
Such interactions allow numerous available to mechatronics information technology. www.eng.monash.edu.my.
students to form relationships
with the industry early on,
which provides them with a
head start in their career even
before they graduate.
There are instances where
students who performed well
during these projects get
offered a job before they
graduate, he adds.
With most of the School of
Embarking on
a postgraduate
programme will help
students get more
out of their careers
as it broadens and
enhances knowledge
and thinking skills,
thus giving them an
extra edge over their
contemporaries.
Prof Dr Faidz Abd Rahman
Excellent status in the 2011 and
2013 Rating for Higher
Education Institutions in
Malaysia (Setara11 and
Setara13), Tier 5: Excellent in
Discipline-Based Rating System
(D-Setara) for engineering as
well as Tier 4: Very Good in
D-Setara for health sciences.
The university offers more
than 110 academic programmes
at the foundation, bachelors,
masters and PhD levels.
The Open Day will be held on
April 8 and 9 as well as May 6
and 7 from 9am to 5pm at UTAR
Kampar Campus in Perak and
UTAR Sungai Long Campus in
Bandar Sungai Long, Selangor.
UTAR provides extended
counselling hours at both
campuses daily (except for
public holidays) from 9am to
5pm.
n For more information, call
05-468 8888 (Kampar Campus)
or 03-9086 0288 (Sungai Long
Campus) or visit
www.utar.edu.my.
8 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017

ARCHITECTURE is the mastery of designing

buildings or physical structures from the
most fundamental phase of project
conceptualisation to seeing these
designs come to life through construction.
It is the knowledge and skills that
combine art (design) and science
(construction).
Tunku Abdul Rahman University College
(TAR UC) is one of the few institutions in the
country that offers architecture programmes
via its Faculty of Engineering and Built
Environment (FEBE).
Students who undergo this programme
can be employed as assistant architects for
design activities and as executive and/or
managerial level personnel in architectural
practices.
Poh Su Ann, who graduated last year with
the Bachelor of Science in Architecture
(Hons) at TAR UC, is now working as an
assistant architect in a private firm in
Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
As a student, she participated in three
competitions, including the Bamiyan
Cultural Centre Design Competition by
Unesco and Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia
(PAM) Annual Architecture Student Works
Exhibition 2014, where her team was
champion for the Best Booth Design and
Display.
The third is the Klang Valley Mass Rapid
Builders of the nation
Transit (KVMRT) Bench Design Competition
2015 by MMC Gamuda, where her team and
other TAR UC teams won six consolation
prizes out of 21 prizes.
As an aspiring architect, Poh says,
The faculty gives the students a lot of
flexibility to explore their designs, using
various kinds of equipment such as the
laser cutter and 3D printers as well as
workshops, which are available in TAR UC.
On the activities conducted by FEBE for
architecture students, Poh explains, It is the
norm that in every design studio subject,
which is a core subject, we do mini projects,
building and urban designs. Students also go
on field trips to carry out site analysis and
studies on local grounds as well as overseas.
I had the opportunity to visit Seoul, South
Korea, during the final semester of my
bachelors degree programme. It was an
invaluable experience and great exposure.
One of the perks of being an architecture
student is that you own your own studio. We
spent most of the time in the studio having
lectures and working on our assignments
and models, says Poh.
Poh has advice for those who wish to
embark on the architecture programme at
TAR UC.
The knowledge and coverage of
architectural studies is wide. There are
different skill sets and styles involved in
good architecture, she says.
If you are interested in construction
details or landscaping, be the best at it.
Be focused on what you want to achieve,
dont compromise and always seek a
mentors advice and go for it.
To find out more on the architecture or
other programmes offered by FEBE, visit
TAR UC Kuala Lumpur Main Campus or
any of its branch campuses in Penang,
Perak, Johor, Pahang and Sabah during its
ongoing Open Days from 9am to 5pm till
April 2.
Scholarships are also available at TAR
UC for qualified
students based
on academic
merit.
n For more
information, visit
www.tarc.edu.my.

Poh Su Ann is an
assistant architect
who graduated
with the Bachelor
of Science in
Architecture (Hons)
at TAR UC.

Outside the box

ENGINEERING brings into my mind
pictures of massive structures, intricately
assembled contraptions or complex
artificial intelligence.
Other than the fame and economic
benefits that make up the picture of
engineering education at the University of
Sheffield, there is crucial aspect that
influences its students, one that has piqued
my interest in the pursuit of engineering.
I recall the vivid memory of a lecture
that took place barely a month into my
studies. The lecture was held early in the
morning at the universitys Diamond
building and was conducted by chartered
engineer and university teacher, Paul
Hulbert, to an audience of more than 100
budding engineers.
A special message was delivered, in
contrast to his usual lectures that centred
on the theoretical aspects of design.
He presented a case study involving the
construction of a skate park in a
neighbourhood in Sheffield.
He told the story of young teenagers
banding together to approach local
authorities for the long-needed
infrastructure, of how the entire
neighbourhood rallied around the
teenagers in raising funds for the costly
project, and how Hulbert and his team
managed every stakeholder affected by
the project.
The punchline was delivered: engineers,
practise our craft not so we can admire
physical products but because the fruits of
our labour can shape the lives of people in
significant ways.
This encapsulates the focus of the
engineering education at the University of
Sheffield, which is to train budding
engineers to tackle critical global issues.
Inspiration was half the package but
opportunities beyond the auditorium to
explore our passion in engineering made my
educational experience at Sheffield truly
special.
A memorable event was the Global
Engineering Challenge where I collaborated
with students from a plethora of engineering
disciplines in organising plans to combat
housing difficulties in Bambui, Cameroon.
Discussing extracurricular activities
among my group of friends revealed some
priceless moments in our lives as some
flaunted their newly constructed UAVs
(unmanned aerial vehicles), discussed new
locomotive designs for the Railway Challenge
or boasted about their human-powered
aircraft that almost took flight.
The requirements of a good engineering
education go far beyond gaining technical
knowledge.
Engineering at the University of Sheffield
is committed to moulding engineers of
the future through the incubation of
aspirations, passions and minds, producing
a community of intelligentsia ready to tackle
the issues that await us in this challenging
world.
Hence, with great confidence, Im proud to
say that Im a Sheffielder. By Lucas Lau
Wai Keat, engineering student at The
University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield has an office
in Kuala Lumpur and can be reached at
seao@sheffield.ac.uk.
n For more information, contact AUG
Student Services at 03-5634 3767 or e-mail
ukeducation@augstudy.com.

(Second from
right) Lau is
a MEng Civil
& Structural
Engineering
student and the
International
Engineering
Ambassador from
The University of
Sheffield.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017
IN todays innovative and
technology advanced world, it is
important for an educational
institution to build a strong
foundation and nurture competent
graduates who can apply their
knowledge and use their skills for
the advantage of the industry.
First City University College
(First City UC) is fulfilling that
role by offering the Foundation in
Engineering, Science & Technology
programme.
This one-year foundation
programme consists of three
pathways as students will have
the choice to pursue their
undergraduate degree in
engineering, computing or
science at First City UC.
Students will be required to
complete elective modules that
are prerequisites of each degree
course in Semester 2 and 3 of
their foundation.
Students who wish to pursue
the foundation programme can
take advantage of the all-in-one
package offer. If they register for
any foundation programme at
First City UC and commit to study
their bachelors degree at the
institution, they will be able to start
their foundation classes without
paying tuition fees for the first
semester.
On top of that, First City UC
will give a 30% discount for the
first semester when students
continue their degree programmes
after completing the foundation
course. Terms and conditions
apply.
First City UCs Faculty of
Engineering and Computing offers
four homegrown programmes
the Bachelor of Electronic
Engineering with Honours,
Bachelor of Software Engineering
(Hons), Bachelor of Computer
Foundation for the future
Final-year students showcase their best engineering and computing projects during the annual Innovation Day. Prizes
are awarded for the best projects to motivate students.
Science (Intelligent Systems) (Hons)
and Bachelor of Information
Systems (Hons) in Business
Management.
The curriculum for the electronic
engineering degree programme is
approved by the Board of
Engineers Malaysia (BEM),
providing students with a pathway
to achieve their professional
engineer status.
With the use of advanced
software tools and commercial
products in its state-of-the-art
engineering and computing
laboratories such as Mainframe
Computing Technology and Mentor
Graphics, students can experiment
and develop their practical skills
while being guided by lecturers
and tutors.
First City UC works closely
with key players in the IT and
electronics industry. One example
is the Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) signed with
IBM Malaysia last year to renew
its academic collaboration to
embed IBM technologies into
First City UCs ICT (Information
and Communications Technology)
curriculum and equip its
undergraduates with cognitive
computing skills.
Since the establishment of the
MoU in 2008, First City UC has
produced high-calibre graduates
who are equipped with
professional IBM certification.
Under this collaboration,
First City UC provides teaching
resources and facilities, while IBM
provides leading software,
courseware, training and testing
necessary to gain certification.
First City UC has adopted the
IBM curriculum in their software
engineering and computer science
(intelligent systems) degree
programmes, where students
have the opportunity to work on
Large-Scale Computing, Cloud
Computing and Mobile Platform
Programming and apply the
techniques they learnt to develop a
broad range of software relevant to
the ICT industry.
To enrich students learning
experience and prepare them for
the workforce, the
Course Focus 9
The Foundation
in Engineering,
Science & Technology
programme consists
of three pathways as
students will have
the choice to pursue
their undergraduate
degree in engineering,
computing or
science at First City
UC.
faculty organises the annual
Innovation Day as a platform
to showcase final-year students
projects and portfolios, which
is regularly attended by key
industry players and prospective
employers.
For details on the scholarships
and incentives offered at First City
UC, visit its Open Day this March.
Its counsellors are available to
attend to enquiries every day,
including weekends until
March 31. Registration is open for
the foundation and diploma
programmes for the April intake.
n For more information, e-mail
enquiry@firstcity.edu.my or visit
www.firstcity.edu.my.
10 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017

THE University of Southampton

Malaysia Campus celebrated its
first graduates reunion with the
Class of 2012 joining faculty and
senior management staff to
reconnect and network. The event
was held at the Sheraton Imperial
Kuala Lumpur.
Guests were welcomed by the
University of Southampton
Malaysia Campus chief executive
officer Prof John McBride.
We are very proud of the
success you have achieved in your
respective fields and we thank you
for carrying on the legacy of
excellence and setting a fine
example for current Southampton
students, he said.
Linde Malaysias former
managing director Wong Siew Yap
and guest keynote speaker at the
graduates reunion praised the
graduates for their hard work and
confidence and remarked the
successful growth of the
programme.
Wong said, Theres always a
deep sense of camaraderie when a
class gets together. Its wonderful
to connect with young
professionals and inspire them.
During the reunion, guests
enjoyed reminiscing about the
experience they had together at the
Malaysia and the United Kingdom
campus.
One thing I learnt from
university is the importance of
communication. In my company,
I get to work with people from
various disciplines
manufacturing, designing and
project management. Every day is
different so I always get to learn
new things, which is really great,
says Jeremy Fong.
Fong currently works with the
Fuel Spray Nozzle team (Research
and Technology) at Rolls-Royce,
Celebrating the
first graduating cohort
According to High Fliers Research 2016, the University of Southampton is among the top 20 UK universities that is
targeted by the top 100 graduate recruiters.
doing structural analysis,
investigation and design work.
To study in a reputable
institution while being able to
experience different cultures and
visit new exciting destinations
were the prime reasons for my
decision to seek a UK degree. The
University of Southampton, being
one of the top institutions for
mechanical engineering, was a
good coincidence, reflected
Jeffrey Teo, mechanical engineer at
Surbana Jurong in Singapore.
He currently manages projects
and designs the mechanical and
electrical systems for various
developments, including
residential and commercial
buildings.
For me, being a female engineer
is not difficult at all, shared
Stephanie Teow.
Teow works with CCW
Associates, a consultancy firm in
Singapore specialising in acoustics,
noise and vibration control.
What I have done at university
is exactly what I am doing right
now endless calculations,
simulations and predictions while
working with many people. I think
the only stark difference between
university and work is that I no
longer focus on marks, Im now
concerned with how my decisions
affect lives, she said.
During university, I used my
time wisely to develop myself.
Whenever possible, I got myself
out there and exposed myself to
new experiences as these enable
learning, reflected Lee Ewe Jin.
During his second year in the
Malaysia Campus, he worked as an
intern at Spirit AeroSystems
Malaysia. He was under the stress
department where they used
computer-aided software to
calculate different parts of an
aircraft to ensure that it is within
its acceptable limit.
Currently, Lee is a field service
engineer at General Electric (GE),
a Fortune 500 company that is a
leading commercial aircraft and
engine lessor and lender in the
world.
Graduates of the University of
Southampton Malaysia Campus
are highly sought after by leading
employers.
According to the latest job
survey on the employment status
of the Malaysia Campus first
cohort of graduates, about 60% of
fresh graduates secure a job within
three months of leaving
Southampton, and the majority of
them are satisfied with their
position.
It also revealed that fresh
graduates earn as much as
RM8,000 in their first job. Among
the top employers of Southampton
graduates are Rolls-Royce, Ricardo,
Dyson, Maybank, Panasonic and
GE.
n For more information, visit
www.southampton.ac.uk.

Oiling the gears

Engineering degree programmes require students who are prepared to take both academic and
practical challenges.

ENGINEERING is one of the top degree
courses in Malaysia and is nothing short of
challenging for the competitive type.
Engineering students invest long hours
and much effort in college. Although
pursuing an engineering course is often
likened to being in a pressure cooker, many
engineering students regard their
undergraduate experience as one of the most
rewarding times of their lives.
There are certain requirements
individuals have to meet to enrol in a
programme. The following minimum
requirements generally apply to public
universities in Malaysia.
Firstly, potential students must not be
colour blind or physically disabled as there
are certain experiments and practical work
that may not be suitable for them.
However, you can check with higher
institutions to find out if they have special
facilities and considerations for students who
are colour blind and with physical
disabilities.
As a professional occupation, the field of
engineering requires engineers to be fluent
and eloquent in English in academic and
practical settings. There are three options
with which potential students can validate
their English language competency.
The Test of English as a Foreign Language
(TOEFL) and the British Councils
International English Language Testing
System (IELTS) are two private English tests
potential students can take.
They would need a TOEFL score of not
less than 550 points or overall band score of
6.0 in IELTS to enrol in any engineering
programme.
Candidates who take the Malaysian
University English Test (MUET) need to
score a minimum of Band 4.
Be sure to check the individual English
language competency level and test
requirements of different institutions when
considering the right programme as they
may vary.
Students who want to enrol in a
foundation or diploma programme require
passes in Bahasa Malaysia and English
language as well as distinctions in physics,
mathematics and additional mathematics.
> SEE NEXT PAGE
THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017 Course Focus 11

Best foot forward

> FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
Students intending to pursue an
engineering programme at a public
university need to do well in either a
matriculation, Asasi (foundation)
programme or the Sijil Tinggi
Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)
examination.
To progress to a bachelors degree
programme, matriculation and
foundation in science, students need
A quality tertiary education whether it be in engineering or architecture to have a minimum CGPA of 2.70 and
at IUKL is essential as the programmes nurture passion and enable pass all major subjects, with a
students to choose from a broad spectrum of career options.
Education Ministry and approved
by the universitys senate.
Aspiring engineers who are
looking to pursue their studies
at a private institution or branch
campus, transfer overseas or even
enrol in a public university can
pursue A-Levels or International
Baccalaureate (IB).
A-Levels is widely recognised
by many institutions that offer
engineering courses. Students
need to score a minimum of AAB
or AAA in the essential subjects,
mechatronics or engineering
technology majors).
Good grades in further
mathematics, design technology
or geography subjects are also
useful in meeting enrolment
requirements.
As for students pursuing an IB
Diploma, a minimum of 36 points
with five in mathematics and
physics at the higher level is
required for enrolment in an
engineering course.

Pathway
minimum grade B- in mathematics, which are mathematics,
chemistry and physics. chemistry
For students who choose the Form (for chemical,
6 pathway, they must pass their petroleum,
STPM with at least a grade E in nanotechnology
general knowledge studies and B- or biomedical

to success
NO matter the field of work
one chooses, success will only
prevail if there is ambition and
passion for that career path.
Engineering
At IUKL, its Faculty of
Engineering and Technology
Infrastructure offers
programmes that are recognised
by the Board of Engineers
Malaysia (BEM) and The
Washington Accord.
Students can choose between
two categories engineering
and technology. Under
engineering, students can opt
for programmes in civil,
mechanical or electrical and
electronic engineering.
As for its technology
programmes, students can
choose automotive engineering,
construction management or
water and wastewater.
Civil engineering This field
is a rewarding and challenging
one, with the aim to build and
maintain the physical
infrastructure of our society for
the benefit of humanity.
Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineers are
essential in the automotive,
aerospace, biotechnology,
electronics and manufacturing
industries.
Electrical and electronics
engineering Electrical
engineers are responsible for the
invention of green electricity,
electric vehicles of the future
and smartphones that charge
wirelessly.
They are also involved in the
advances of medical technology,
e-commerce, the Internet and the
efficiency and safety of
transportation systems.
Automotive engineering
Automotive engineers may
specialise in two areas the
manufacturing of vehicles and
its components as well as the
motor trade, which includes
retail, distribution and
aftermarket services.
Construction management
This programme offered by
IUKL covers the science and art
of procuring and directing
human and physical resources
for the success of a construction
project, ensuring that the
enterprise meets client and
budget requirements as well as
the quality of the specification.
Water and wastewater This
is a unique programme that is
only offered at IUKL and was
designed in response to a local
in mathematics or advanced majors) and
mathematics, chemistry and physics. physics
Typically, diploma students who (for civil,
want to pursue a bachelors degree mechanical,
need to graduate with a minimum aeronautical,
CGPA of 2.70 in addition to two years automotive,
of experience in a related field from electrical,
an institution accredited by the industrial,
Under
engineering,
students can opt
for programmes
in civil, mechanical
or electrical
and electronic
engineering.
need for qualified degree holders
in this field. This programme
aims to meet the growing
demands of the water treatment
sector.
Architecture
IUKL architecture graduates
are equipped with qualifications
that are recognised by the
Board of Architects Malaysia
(LAM), a legal professional body
that grants recognition to
architectural programmes and
registers professional architects.
The undergraduate
architecture programmes will
enable students to proceed to
their bachelors degree. The
Foundation in Arts will take one
year to complete while the
Diploma in Architecture requires
two and a half years.
Students will then be able to
continue to the Bachelor of
Science (Architectural Studies).
Students will be provided
relevant key skills and
architectural knowledge to meet
the requirements of LAM Part 1
qualification.
Landscape architecture This
programme provides an
elementary education in
planning, designing, managing
and executing aspects of
landscape in the manmade and
natural outdoor environments.
Landscape architecture has
an increasingly important
role today as it is frequently
practised by many design
professionals and technical
experts.
Drop by and meet IUKLs
experienced counsellors who
are available on Monday to
Friday from 8.30am to 6.30pm
and Saturday and Sunday from
10am to 4pm.
n For more information, call
1800 88 STUDY (78839) or visit
www.IUKL.edu.my.
12 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 28 MARCH 2017

SUBJECTS taught at The University

of Nottingham are among the best
in the world, according to a new
league table.
This years QS World University
Rankings by Subject features
Nottingham as an elite institution
in 37 of the 46 subjects surveyed.
The rankings also feature 21
Nottingham subjects in the global
top 100 and seven in the top 50.
The university was placed
particularly highly in pharmacy
and pharmacology (6th), education
(22nd), anatomy and physiology
(36th), veterinary science (29th),
nursing (42nd), geography (46th),
and English language and
literature (49th).
Nottinghams registrar Dr Paul The University of Nottingham
Greatrix says, Were very proud of Malaysia Campus offers identical
the breadth of subjects we offer at programmes to those offered at the
Nottingham. To be ranked so UK campus.
highly across this range is

Among the best in the world

testament to our exceptional
teaching standards and the level of
quality we demand from both
students and staff.
Pharmacy and pharmacology
has yet again been placed in the
top 10, which we are especially
proud to see.

These rankings show

A total of 4,438 universities were
evaluated as part of the survey,
with 1,117 institutions making the
rankings.
The QS World University
Rankings by Subject series is based
on academic reputation, employer
reputation and research impact. It
allows prospective students to
compare universities in their area
of interest.
The QS World University 2016
Rankings also placed The
University of Nottingham 75th in
the world and in the top 1% of
universities internationally.
This follows the university being
named the best in the United
Kingdom for graduate
employment, according to the 2017
The Times and The Sunday Times
Good University Guide.
Dr Greatrix adds, It is very
pleasing to see that our
investments in teaching and
careers have been recognised.
These rankings show
Nottingham offering not just an
outstanding academic experience
in a research-rich environment but
also making the world beyond
graduation an accessible one.
The University of Nottingham is
described by The Times Good
University Guide 2015 as the
nearest Britain has to a truly global
university, with campuses in China
and Malaysia modelled on a
headquarters that is among the
most attractive in Britain.
With the inception of The
University of Nottingham Malaysia
Campus (UNMC) in September
2000, Nottingham became the first
British university to set up a
campus outside of the UK and in
Malaysia and China, earning The
University of Nottingham the
Queens Award for Industry
(International Trade) 2006.
In 2015, UNMC was awarded a
five-star rating for the quality of its
research and innovation, making it
the highest rated international
university in Malaysia in the
Malaysia Research Assessment
(MyRA).
UNMC offers the best of UK Nottingham offering
education in an Asian setting.
Its programmes are identical to
not just an outstanding
those offered at The University academic experience
of Nottingham in the UK and
follow the same quality in a research-rich
assurance processes.
Students are awarded The
environment but also
University of Nottingham degree making the world
certificates when they complete
their course. beyond graduation an
n For more information, call
accessible one.
03-8924 8686 or visit Dr Paul Greatrix
www.nottingham.edu.my.