Foundation Programme (Architecture & Design Route)

MODULES YOU STUDY
 

The modules studied help develop your study skills, introduce you to what you can expect on your degree and also allow you to discover what you can study depending on whether you choose a degree in Accounting, Banking, Finance, Actuarial Studies, Psychology, Business & Management, Computing & Technology, Engineering, Industrial Design, Animation and Visual Effects.

Upon completion of your Foundation, you may then proceed to Level 1 of a Degree of your choice in the following pathways.

SPECIALISED MODULES FOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Fundamentals of Drawing

This module contains a variety of practical exercises made to help understand the thought processes involved in learning how to draw. It provides opportunities to practice the traditional approaches to pencil and paper drawing. It also introduces the foundational principles of drawing that are key for any designers.

AI for Business and Design

This module introduces students to the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business and design, highlighting how AI is transforming creativity, decision-making, and innovation across industries. Students explore AI-powered tools for content creation, design, marketing, customer engagement, and business analysis while developing practical skills in using AI responsibly. The module also encourages critical evaluation of AI-generated outputs and an understanding of the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI in professional practice.

Design Studies

Design studies address the different ways in which design has been characterized and practiced. It covers the contexts and systems on how designs operate and the responsibilities that come with the power of designing. Discover the elements and principles of design that can be applied across the art and design spectrum.

Introduction to Digital Photography

This module will introduce the world of photography through the history and the technological shift from analogue to digital cameras. It will cover practical hands-on sessions and requirements to follow a set of instructions to produce own images. Students will also explore famous photographers and their works.

Life Drawing

You will be introduced to life drawing or figurative drawing involves drawing the human form in any of its various shapes and postures using a variety of media. The module will cover a series of techniques that will provide more confidence in drawing in various to future skill settings such as character designs for animation, concept art and/or games.

Architectural Drawing and Communication

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the basic principles of architectural visual communication through freehand sketching and basic technical drawing. The course develops students' ability to communicate architectural ideas using basic graphic conventions. Students explore architectural sketching techniques and technical drawings through studio exercises and practical assignments that will strengthen both creative expression and technical understanding. The course culminates in the production of a portfolio that documents students' development and showcases their ability to communicate architectural ideas effectively through a combination of observational sketches, technical drawings, and graphic presentation.

Architectural Design Project

The aim of the module is to introduce the student to the complete architectural design process through a project-based learning approach. Students develop a design brief before generating conceptual design responses. These ideas are translated into physical architectural models that demonstrate spatial organisation, form, and scale using appropriate model-making techniques. The course concludes with a formal presentation in which students communicate their design process and final proposal through drawings, models, and oral presentation. Emphasising creativity, critical thinking, craftsmanship, and effective communication, the course provides students with a strong foundation for progression into undergraduate architectural design studios.

Major Projects

This Final Project module comes in two parts across two semesters. Major Project 1 predominantly covers on research and preproduction/ preparatory work. Major Project 2 requires further research and experimentation as independent work and negotiation with assigned supervisors. A consolidated application of knowledge and skills gained from other modules and experiences is required in producing a significant body of work that translates into the Final Project.

 

ELECTIVE MODULES

History of Design and Media

The module traces a chronology of major historical developments in visual communications, focusing on movements and trends in design and media representation, both functional and aesthetic. Students will explore ways of understanding and articulating influences, trends and fashions in the work of designers and producers of visual media.

Exploring Games & Immersive Technologies

This module introduces students to the world of video games and immersive technologies, exploring their evolution, underlying technologies and applications beyond entertainment. Students will gain an appreciation of game development, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), extended reality (XR) and other emerging interactive technologies, while examining their use not only in entertainment but also in education, healthcare, business, simulation and digital experiences. The module also provides insights into future trends shaping the interactive technology industry.

Cyberpsychology and Digital Society

This module introduces students to cyberpsychology and the role of digital technology in everyday life. Students will explore how people use and interact with digital technologies, and how these interactions influence behaviour, emotions, communication, relationships, learning, and well-being. The module introduces key issues in digital society, including responsible technology use, online safety, and digital citizenship. Through real-life examples, students will develop awareness of the psychological and social impact of technology.
 

COMMON MODULES

English for Academic Purposes

This module develops English language proficiency for academic study through reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Students learn to critically analyse academic texts, communicate ideas effectively, and use academic writing conventions, including paraphrasing, summarising, referencing, and academic integrity. The module also develops the ability to evaluate and integrate relevant evidence to construct clear, well-supported academic arguments.

Personal Development and Study Methods

This module develops personal and academic competencies to support success at university and beyond. Students enhance self-awareness, emotional intelligence, leadership, critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills while exploring personal well-being, career development, effective study strategies, and goal setting to become confident, adaptable, and lifelong learners.

Mathematics

Mathematics introduces the fundamental knowledge of mathematics and statistics. This module covers numbers, functions, equations and inequalities, indices and logarithms, probability and descriptive statistics. These concepts and techniques are essential for undergraduate study.

Public Speaking & Personal Branding

This module develops effective public speaking and personal branding skills for academic and professional contexts. Students learn to plan and deliver engaging speeches, communicate with confidence, and apply persuasive speaking techniques. The module also introduces strategies for building a positive personal brand, enabling students to present themselves professionally and communicate their strengths effectively.

Digital Communication & Collaboration

This module develops effective digital communication and collaboration skills for academic and professional contexts. Students learn to communicate clearly across digital platforms, collaborate productively in teams, and apply appropriate digital etiquette and professional practices. The module also enhances confidence in presenting ideas, sharing information, and using digital technologies to support collaborative learning and project work.

Research & Data Literacy

This module introduces fundamental research and data literacy skills for academic study. Students learn to locate, evaluate, and synthesise information from credible sources, interpret and present data, and apply basic research methods. The module also develops skills in academic integrity, ethical use of information, referencing, and effective use of digital resources for research.

Your Foundation Pathway To A Degree Of Your Choice
(Please refer to individual course brochure for details and admission requirements.)
 

Leading from APU Foundation to your Choice of Degree Studies; please note that a Credit Pass in Mathematics at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE is required for the following programmes:
 

Computing & Technology

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Information System Security
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Cloud Engineering
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Internet of Things (IoT)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Sustainable Computing
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Financial Technology (FinTech)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Business Information Systems
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Software Engineering​*
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science*
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics*
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Quantum Computing*
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Artificial Intelligence)*
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security)*
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security) with a specialism in Digital Forensics*

Accounting, Banking, Finance & Actuarial

• Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours)
• Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Forensic Accounting
• Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Forex and Investments
• Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Accounting Technology
• Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons)
• Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons) with a specialism in Investment Analytics
• Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons) with a specialism in Financial Technology
• Bachelor of Financial Technology (Honours)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies**
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies with a specialism in Data Analytics**
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies with a specialism in Financial Technology**

Architecture

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architecture

Portfolio or Interview Required  

Immersive Technology & Game Development

• Bachelor in Interactive Media and Immersive Technology (Honours)
• Bachelor in Interactive Media and Immersive Technology (Honours) with a specialism in VR/AR
• Bachelor in Game Development (Honours)

Portfolio or Interview Required  

Leading from APU Foundation to your Choice of Degree Studies; please note that a Credit Pass in Mathematics and Science OR Physics OR Chemistry OR Biology and a Pass in English at SPM / O-Level / IGCSE is required for the following programme:

Psychology

• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology with a specialism in Cyberpsychology
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology with a specialism in People and Culture
   

Leading from APU Foundation to your Choice of Degree Studies:

Business, Management, Marketing & Digital Marketing

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in E-Business
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in Digital Leadership
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in AI & Business Analytics
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with a specialism in Business Economics
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business Management with a specialism in Supply Chain Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Human Resource Management
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Human Resource Management with a specialism in People Analytics
• Bachelor in Digital Marketing (Honours)

Hospitality & Tourism

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism with a specialism in Hospitality Innovation
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism with a specialism in Events Management
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism with a specialism in Aviation Management
   

Media and International Relations

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Media and Communication Studies
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations
   

Media, Arts & Design

• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Industrial Design​
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Visual Effects
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Animation
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Digital Advertising

Portfolio Required