Diploma in Information & Communications Technology with a specialism in Software Engineering

Course Overview

This APU Diploma in Information & Communication Technology with a specialism in Software Engineering is designed to provide:

• Students with skills in software systems development, with emphasis on aspects of software engineering.
• Students with the skills to prepare them for careers in the ICT environment with emphasis on solutions design, software development and technology infrastructure support.
• An appreciation of the proven principles and techniques for the development and support of software systems in commercial organisations.
• Students with critical, independent and cooperative learning skills so as to facilitate responses to continuous future changes in industry practises.

Curriculum

SEMESTER 1 

At the beginning of the program, students will cultivate a mindset that embraces creativity and problem-solving in the digital era, along with skills in navigating scholarly information and the fundamental principles governing computer design.

Modules

• Academic Research Skills
• Computer Architecture
• Digital Thinking and Innovation
• Mathematics and Statistics for Computing

SEMESTER 2 

This semester advances students to a new level in information and communication technology-related areas such as operating systems, computer programming, and databases. Students gain hands-on experience building practical applications. The mathematical foundation for computing enhances problem-solving and analytical skills.

Modules

• Operating Systems
• Database Management
• Information Systems with Cloud Concepts
• Programming with Python

SEMESTER 3 This semester offers a holistic blend of programming expertise, mathematical acumen, system analysis skills, and the art of crafting compelling user experiences. Students engage in systematic and user-friendly system development.

Modules

• Object Oriented Programming
• Algebra and Discrete Mathematics
• System Analysis & Design
• Fundamentals of UI/UX Design

SEMESTER 4 

This semester provides a comprehensive blend of web design, software engineering, entrepreneurial skills, and modern development practices. Students immerse themselves in creating dynamic and user-friendly websites, understand software engineering foundations, and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset for navigating the business landscape with creativity. Additionally, they explore streamlined approaches of DevOps and Low Code Development, gaining insights into collaborative and efficient software development practices.

Modules

• Responsive Web Design & Development
• Introduction to Software Engineering
• Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
• DevOps and Low Code Development

SEMESTER 5 

In their final semester, students acquire basic knowledge of computer networks, digital security, and forensics to deepen their understanding of computing technology and ethical responsibilities. They also design and implement algorithms and complete a Software Development Project, showcasing their integration of skills, knowledge, and understanding from the full program, including a range of AI techniques for problem-solving.

Modules

• Cyber Security & Forensics
• Introduction to AI
• Networking Technologies
• Capstone Project

SEMESTER 6 - INTERNSHIP (12 WEEKS) 

Students undertake an Internship/Industrial Training for a minimum period of 12 weeks to prepare them for a smooth transition from the classroom to the working environment.

In addition to the above, all students are required to successfully complete General Studies modules as stipulated by the Malaysian Qualification Agency, as well as fulfill credit requirements for Co-curricular activities.

Entry Requirements

SPM

• 3 Credits in at least 3 subjects at SPM level, including Mathematics, with a minimum pass in Bahasa Malaysia and Sejarah (History).
  • Candidates with only a Pass in Maths in SPM will be required to complete and pass “Mathematics and Statistics for Computing” in their Semester 1 of Diploma.

IGCSE/O-Levels

• 3 Credits (Grade C & above) in at least 3 subjects at IGCSE/O-Levels, including Mathematics.
  • Candidates with only a Pass in Maths in IGCSE/O-Level will be required to complete and pass “Mathematics and Statistics for Computing” in their Semester 1 of Diploma.

UEC

• 3 Credits (Grade B & above) in at least 3 subjects in UEC, including Mathematics.
  • Candidates with only a Pass in Maths in UEC will be required to complete and pass “Mathematics and Statistics for Computing” in their Semester 1 of Diploma.

Certificate

• Pass relevant Certificate Programme or its equivalent.
• A qualification that APU accepts as equivalent to the above.

English Requirements for International Students

• Diploma in Information and Communication Technology
  • IELTS: 4.0
  • TOEFL IBT: 30-31
  • Pearson (PTE): 36
  • MUET: Band 3

Please note:

• Students who haven't achieved the minimum requirement in English proficiency may apply for a student visa on a conditional basis.
• Students unable to reach the required English competency within 12 months will not be allowed to continue their studies.
• Exemptions from English requirements are available for students from English-speaking countries or those with qualifications taught in English, accompanied by supporting documents.

Note: Entry requirements may vary for specific programs based on the latest standards published by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

Study Abroad Pathway

Upon successful completion of this programme with CGPA of 2.5 & above and fulfilment of requirements for credit transfer, you will be eligible to progress into Level 2 of the following degree programmes offered at APU.

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

*Please take note that Bridging module(s) needed before progress into Level 2
- For the full listing of our Diploma Programmes, please refer to the Pre-University programme brochure.

APU-DMU Dual Degree Programme

Students who are under Bachelor’s Degree Programme will have the option to opt-in for the APU-DMU Dual Degree Scheme. Under this Scheme, students will receive 2 Degree Certificates & Transcripts upon graduation: 1 from Asia Pacific University (APU), Malaysia and 1 from De Montfort University (DMU), UK.

To know more about APU-DMU Dual Scheme, please click HERE.