The Foundation in Computing (ODL) is designed for students who want to begin their computing education while studying from their home country or any location worldwide. It provides a flexible pathway into undergraduate computing and technology degrees.

Key Benefits

• 100% online learning with flexible study schedules.
• Learn from anywhere without relocating to Malaysia.
• Live online lectures combined with self-paced digital learning materials.
• Strong academic preparation for undergraduate computing programmes.
• Interactive learning through Microsoft Teams and Moodle.
• Internationally recognized APU Foundation qualification.
• Develops academic, communication and computing skills required for degree studies.
• Opportunity to progress into a wide range of APU bachelor's programmes, including the APU–De Montfort University (DMU) Dual Degree Scheme (where applicable).

Programme Structure

The programme provides a strong foundation in computing, mathematics and communication.

Semester 1

• English for Academic Purposes
• Communication Skills
• Fundamentals of Computing
• Mathematics
• Introduction to Business
• Introduction to Programming

Semester 2

• Computer Architecture and Networking
• Visual and Interactive Programming
• Essentials of Web Applications
• Database Fundamentals
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Public Speaking in English
• Project-based Learning

Disciplines / Progression Pathways

Upon successful completion, students can progress to a wide range of APU undergraduate programmes, including:

• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Information Technology
• Information Technology with specialisms in:
  • Cloud Engineering
  • Internet of Things (IoT)
  • Financial Technology (FinTech)
  • Sustainable Computing
  • Business Information Systems
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Software Engineering
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Science (Cyber Security)
• Computer Science with Data Analytics
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) (Artificial Intelligence)
• Interactive Media and Immersive Technology programmes

Programme Highlights

• 100% Online Open & Distance Learning.
• Flexible study from anywhere in the world.
• Live classes and self-paced digital learning.
• Strong pathway into APU computing degrees.
• Internationally recognized Foundation qualification.
• Industry-relevant curriculum.
• Modern digital learning platforms.
• Multicultural online learning community.
• Opportunity to continue into APU's technology and computing bachelor's programmes.

Career Outcomes

As a Foundation programme, it is not intended for direct employment. Instead, it prepares students for undergraduate studies leading to careers such as:

• Software Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Cloud Engineer
• Artificial Intelligence Engineer
• Network Engineer
• Systems Analyst
• IT Consultant
• Web Developer
• Digital Technology Professional

Latest Updates (2026)

• Programme delivered 100% online through ODL.
• Current intake available on 24 September 2026.
• Delivery includes Microsoft Teams for live sessions and Moodle for learning resources.
• APU now reports more than 90,000 graduates and alumni and continues to strengthen its global reputation through international recognition and industry partnerships.

Visa Requirements

International students studying this programme entirely online from their home country generally do not require a Malaysian Student Pass or visa, as there is no need to reside in Malaysia during the course.

However:

• Students who later progress to an on-campus bachelor's degree at APU will need to obtain a Malaysian Student Pass through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) before commencing their on-campus studies.
• Visa requirements will depend on the mode of study and country of residence at the time of enrolment.