Arts Stream into Diploma in Science? Assessing Academic Viability through CGPA and PLO Attainment

This study examines the academic viability of Arts stream students admitted into the Diploma in Science programme at UiTM Sarawak. A total of 164 students were assessed using cumulative grade point averages (CGPA), programme learning outcome (PLO) scores, and PLO failure analysis, with comparisons made between Science and Arts stream entrants. Independent samples t-tests revealed that Science stream students achieved significantly higher CGPA and performed better in several key PLO, particularly PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, and PLO7. However, no significant differences were observed in other PLO, suggesting that Arts stream students can perform comparably in personal growth competencies. PLO failure analysis revealed that Arts stream students faced the greatest difficulties in PLO1 and PLO2, indicating substantial struggles in foundational science skills. These challenges were associated with courses such as General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Calculus, reflecting foundational knowledge in science. Despite these hurdles, Arts stream students demonstrated the ability to attain academic outcomes in line with programme requirements when given adequate support. The findings highlight the potential of widening access to science-based programmes while underscoring the need for targeted interventions, such as bridging courses and supplemental learning. Future studies should use longitudinal designs and include student-lecturer perspectives to explore non-academic factors that influence the academic success of mixed-stream students.