Shaping the future of healthcare

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 3, 2026

Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia has launched a Foundation in Science programme to prepare students for healthcare careers by combining core scientific knowledge with key professional skills like communication and critical thinking. Designed to support entry into their MBBS and Biomedical Sciences degrees, the programme includes hands-on lab work and interactive teaching methods to enhance practical skills and ensure a smooth transition to degree studies.

Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) has introduced a Foundation in Science programme aimed at preparing students for careers in healthcare by combining foundational scientific knowledge with essential professional skills. The programme, designed to support entry into NUMed’s Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and Bachelor of Science (Honours) Biomedical Sciences degrees, also embeds communication, critical thinking, and study techniques into its curriculum.

According to Ainul Farhana Abdul Razak, a lecturer for the foundation programme, the course goes beyond traditional science education by incorporating varied teaching methodologies such as project-based learning, flipped classrooms, and community outreach. These approaches are intended to enhance students’ practical skills and adaptability, which are crucial for success in modern medical fields.

A key component of the programme is hands-on laboratory experience, where students learn to conduct experiments safely and develop quantitative data analysis competence, both vital in clinical practice and medical research. Sessions are carefully coordinated to align with the learning outcomes of subsequent degree programmes, ensuring a smooth academic transition.

In addition to laboratory work, the foundation course emphasizes academic writing and communication, equipping students with the ability to articulate scientific ideas clearly through essays, reports, and case studies. This focus is intended to strengthen critical thinking and effective communication, which are indispensable skills for future healthcare professionals.

NUMed also encourages students to engage in extracurricular activities such as healthcare seminars, volunteer projects, and various clubs and societies. These opportunities provide a platform for students to cultivate teamwork, leadership, empathy, and resilience while broadening their professional networks and community engagement.

The Foundation in Science programme is open for its September intake, offering a comprehensive starting point for individuals aiming to pursue health sciences education. Interested applicants can obtain more information through NUMed’s official website, email, telephone, or WhatsApp contact channels.

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