WOU presented a preview of its newly-introduced Bachelor of Technology (Hons) in Mechatronics (BTME) programme to about 45 diploma students of the Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC). The PSDC is WOU’s new Learning Centre in Penang.
The 90-minute preview, held at the PSDC premises in Bayan Baru today, was conducted by Dr Teoh Ping Chow, Senior Lecturer at the School of Science & Technology, and Teh Kim Kow, Head of the Penang Regional Centre. The students were briefed on the BTME programme which will be offered via open distance learning (ODL) in Penang, commencing with the July intake.
DR TEOH ELABORATES ON THE STUDY PROGRESSION
Dr Teoh highlighted the benefits, particularly the block credit transfer granted to the Diploma in Mechatronics Engineering students from PSDC who enrol for BTME at WOU. He informed them that they will receive a 37-credit hour course exemption that would allow them to complete the 124-credit hour programme within three years.
During a Q&A session, the students raised a few concerns, namely whether the programme is recognised internationally, the total tuition fees, and if it could be done in full-time mode of study to fast-track their studies.
THE PSDC STUDENTS LISTEN ATTENTIVELY
Dr Teoh advised students who opt to take up the programme on a full-time mode to acquire some practical work experience, even if just on a voluntary basis. The students were assured of the affordable cost of doing the BTME programme at WOU, with the fees further reduced in view of the course exemptions offered.
The students are expected to undergo industrial training from September to November once they complete their diploma studies at PSDC, and should graduate by year end. Many of them have expressed interest in taking up the BTME programme at WOU.
