FOUNDATION IN ARTS

The Foundation in Arts programme provides students with a strong balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills across various disciplines in the arts. This programme is designed to prepare students for undergraduate studies in a broad range of fields.

Students will develop the ability to understand and explain essential concepts, theories, and principles in their chosen area of study. With a curriculum aligned to industry needs, this foundation in arts programme focuses on building fundamental skills and knowledge that are crucial for higher education and future career opportunities.

By enrolling in a Foundation in Arts course, students gain not only academic readiness but also the confidence and adaptability to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.

• 1-year programme that prepares students to progress into various fields such as Business, Education & Psychology
• 100% PTPTN loan & otherfinancial aidsavailable*
• Scholarships available for applicants who scored 1A* and above in SPM

Course Structure

Study Mode & Duration

• 3 Semester / 1 Year

Compulsory Common Core Modules

• Thinking skills
• Basic ICT
• English I
• English II
• Mathematics
• Co-curriculum

Compulsory Humanities Core Modules

• Writing and Research Skills
• Introduction to Sociology
• Introduction to Psychology
• Introduction to Management
• Introduction to Law
• Essentials of Economics

Compulsory Business Core Modules

• Introduction to Marketing
• Financial Accounting
• Management Accounting
• Introduction to Management
• Introduction to Law
• Essentials of Economics

Optional Modules (Choose any Two)

• Introduction to Finance
• Introduction to Psychology
• Writing and Research Skills
• Introduction to Visual Arts
• Introduction to Mass Media and Communication
• Introduction to Legal Skills

Assessment

• Coursework: 50%*
• Examination: 50%*

*Weightage for 6 subjects will differ (Thinking Skills, Introduction to Visual Arts, Co-Curriculum, Writing and Research Skills, Introduction to Sociology)

Career Prospects

A Foundation in Arts programme in Malaysia offers students the flexibility to explore multiple disciplines while building a strong academic base for higher education. As one of the most versatile foundation course in Malaysia, it provides pathways into diverse fields of study, ensuring students can align their education with their interests and career goals. Graduates from a foundation in art background can progress to areas such as:

• Education
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Media Study
• Accounting
• Business & Administration
• Entrepreneurial
• Finance
• Other related fields

Programme Learning Outcome

The Programme Learning Outcomes (PLO) of this programme is to prepare graduates who are able to:

1. Pursue further studies in fields such as Social Sciences and Business Management, making this a strong starting point for a Foundation in Arts course in Malaysia.
2. Develop practical skills for opportunities in the Information Technology industry through a flexible foundation in arts programme.
3. Gain industry insights from experts, ensuring graduates of this foundation in art pathway are prepared for higher education and future careers.
4. Explore the student journey by learning what to expect when studying a Foundation in Arts, offering a clear view of opportunities in a foundation in arts Malaysia programme.

Academic Requirements
 

To enrol in the UNITAR Foundation in Arts programme, students must meet the minimum entry requirements set by the institution. The entry pathways include:

1. Pass SPM or its equivalent, with at least five (5) credits in any subjects; OR
2. Pass UEC with a minimum of Grade B in three (3) subjects; OR
3. Pass O-Level with a minimum of Grade C in five (5) subjects; OR
4. Any other equivalent qualifications recognised by the Malaysian Government.

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university