Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (N41)

In your first year, you will learn the fundamentals of mechanical engineering with a focus on materials and design skills through modules such as Thermofluids, Materials & Manufacturing Technology and Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals. Then deepen your understanding with modules such as Engineering System Design and Strength of Materials in your second year.

You will also gain insights into the latest technologies that are reshaping the industry, such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics and the Internet of Things (IOT). Apply your skills by creating innovative clean energy solutions, developing new materials and processes, as well as designing and manufacturing products ranging from consumer products to medical devices. 

In your final year, you can specialise in one of two areas:

• Automation Design Engineering
  Focused on system design and integration, this specialisation equips you with design, manufacturing, and maintenance skills for advanced manufacturing. These skills are applicable across various industries, preparing you for roles in design, assembly, production, and maintenance.
  
• Mobility Design Engineering
  Through modules in Mechanical Drive Systems, Electrical Technology Systems, and Mobility System Design & Integration, you will develop electro-mechanical mobility skills that are in high demand within the mobility technology sector.

At ME, you will always be at the forefront of the latest technologies by learning and collaborating on industry-relevant projects with our partners such as Akribis, HOPE Technik, Autodesk, Grundfos, Carrier, and SMC Corporation.

You will also work on a final-year project to design and develop a prototype with practical, real-world applications.

To complete your learning journey, choose between a six-month internship with leading organisations such as ST Engineering, Micron Technology, and TÜV SÜD PSB, or the Industry Immersion Pathway. This pathway offers the option of a one-year internship or a one-year project, giving you the chance to gain deeper insights and hands-on experience to build valuable skills and industry knowledge.

Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals 
This module introduces students to the study of external forces in two dimensions and their effect on particles and rigid bodies that are at rest and at simple linear motion. Students learn the knowledge and skills to analyze the forces acting on the bodies by drawing free-body diagrams and applying the conditions of equilibrium. This module also aims to equip students with the skills to analyze problems of rigid bodies in two dimensions linear motion. Topics include forces and resultants, moments and couples, equilibrium, plane friction, kinematics and kinetics of linear motion.

Electrical Engineering Fundamentals 
This module provides a foundation in electricity covering basic concepts of electrical circuits and the methods used to analyse them. The module emphasises the understanding of the basic electrical circuit laws (Ohm’s Law, Kirchhoff’s Voltage and Current Laws) and network theorems, and their application to electrical network analysis. Topics covered include fundamentals of electricity, network theorems, capacitance, electromagnetic induction and inductance, AC waveform and transformer fundamentals.

Engineering Mathematics 1 
This module is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills in mathematics required to solve basic engineering problems. Topics are introduced in an order that is intended to keep abreast of the application requirements in engineering modules. The emphasis in each topic is on simple applications and problem solving. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, logarithms, plane analytic geometry, matrices and complex numbers. Throughout the module, there is appropriate use of a Computer Algebra System.

Programming 
This practice-oriented module equips students with basic knowledge and skills in computer programming using a suitable high-level language. The main topics include basic computer programming concepts and fundamental programming constructs such as sequences, selection and repetition.

Career & Engineering Professional Preparation 
This module aims to give students a head-start in their professional careers as they transit into a polytechnic engineering education. The module will equip students with knowledge and skills that can help them chart, navigate and advance in their individual education and career pathways. Students will be guided in adopting a design thinking approach towards making their education and career plans. They will be exposed to career-centric self-assessment tools and online resources. As part of our efforts to help students benefit from the ubiquity of a professional online presence, students will also establish their online professional brand by showcasing their marketable knowledge, skills and competencies. 
 
To kickstart our students personal and professional development, the module will also impart various knowledge and skills, such as, cultural intelligence, financial literacy, digital literacy, industry networking and safety. The topic on safety will be taught according to the Competency Unit “Develop a Risk Management Implementation Plan” from the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) National Competency Standard. To augment this qualification, students will participate in industry engagements and service projects to glean the importance of safety in the engineering profession and societal context.

Innovation Made Possible^
This module aims to help students discover and hone their innate ability to think creatively and come up with innovations to tackle problems close to their hearts. Underpinned by the Design Thinking framework, students will be sensitised to the process of user-centric problem solving. They will be introduced to concepts such as empathy, problem-definition, ideation, prototyping and testing through a practical approach featuring engaging out-of-classroom activities, just-in-time master-classes and a hands-on, “learning by doing” delivery format. Ultimately, the module will help students recognise that innovation is attainable and fun and develop creative confidence to explore new ideas in their studies and beyond.

^Critical Core modules account for 13 credit units of the diploma curriculum. They include modules in communication, innovation and world issues, as well as an interdisciplinary project. By bringing students from diverse diplomas together, the interdisciplinary project fosters collaboration to explore and propose solutions for real-world problems. NP aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace.

Materials & Manufacturing Technology
This module introduces students to properties of common engineering materials with emphasis on mechanical testing methods, heat-treatment, international standard specifications, and selection and applications of such materials. Topics include classification of materials, mechanical testing, alloying, steels, non-ferrous alloys, plastics, ceramics and composites. For manufacturing technology, students will acquire the basic knowledge and skills of manufacturing processes, including drilling, turning, milling, grinding, non-conventional machining, welding and assembly.

Strength of Materials
This module aims to provide students with the foundational knowledge of strength of materials with emphasis on applications and problem solving. It introduces to students the methods in the calculation of stresses and strains in various structural members such as beams, columns and shafts. Taking into account the material properties, students would then be able to apply the methods to predict the response of a structure under loading. Topics include simple stresses and strains, torsion in shaft, shear force and bending moment diagrams, stresses in beams, combined stresses and experimental stress analysis.

Engineering Mathematics 2
This module is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills in mathematics required to solve basic engineering problems. Topics are introduced in an order that is intended to keep abreast of the application requirements in engineering modules. The emphasis in each topic is on simple applications and problem solving. Throughout the module, there is appropriate use of a Computer Algebra System. Topics include trigonometry, differentiation and simple integration with applications. 

Thermofluids
Students will learn the basic laws governing the behaviour of fluids under the influence of energy transfer. Topics include systems concept, temperature and pressure, fluid statics, fluid in motion, continuity equation, laminar and turbulent flows, ideal incompressible flow, Bernoulli’s equation, flow measurement and Pitot tube, external flow and application of thermofluid’s principles in simple engineering systems.

Engineering Drawing Fundamentals
This module aims to enable students to understand basic engineering drawing concepts, definitions and the purpose of conveying all the information necessary for manufacturing a product or a part. Students will also work in teams and undertake the projects/case studies underpinned by the design thinking and computer-aided design (2D skills) approach. Upon completion of the module, students will be able to apply the skills and develop confidence in tackling projects at higher levels.

Confident Communication: Find Your Voice (VOICE)^
This module is designed to empower students to become thoughtful and confident communicators, while discovering their personal voice in self-expression. It equips students with the skills to communicate with impact in a variety of settings, by tailoring their message to suit audience, purpose and context. Students will learn how to utilize storytelling structures and techniques, persuasive strategies and effective visuals to connect meaningfully with their audience. The module also features a personalized growth plan that enables students to customize their learning experience according to their individual needs and aspirations. Peer learning and coaching circles provide students the platform to practise their critical reasoning and presentation skills in a safe environment. Ultimately, the module encourages students to reflect on their communication habits and develop practical strategies to enhance their effectiveness as communicators.

Health & Wellness^
This module provides students with an opportunity to be active, keep fit and stay healthy through basic sports skill acquisition. It also aims to enhance student’s social and psychological well-being through a variety of sports electives while taking them through the process of character development, choice and decision making.

^Critical Core modules account for 13 credit units of the diploma curriculum. They include modules in communication, innovation and world issues, as well as an interdisciplinary project. By bringing students from diverse diplomas together, the interdisciplinary project fosters collaboration to explore and propose solutions for real-world problems. NP aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace.

Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies
This module builds on the foundational materials and manufacturing knowledge gained in the first year, deepening students' understanding of both advanced manufacturing technologies and material applications. The module covers key theoretical concepts and practical skills in advanced manufacturing processes, focusing on techniques prevalent in precision engineering industries and advanced materials applications. Students will gain hands-on experience in CNC machining and programming, with practical assignments and demonstrations designed to enhance their competence. In addition, the module explores the properties, characterization, and fabrication of advanced materials, providing students with the knowledge needed to apply these materials in engineering design. By integrating both advanced manufacturing technologies and materials science, the module prepares students to confidently work with cutting-edge processes and materials in their future careers.

Applied Mechanics
This is a follow-on module from Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals. It will equip students with the necessary skills to analyse problems of rigid bodies at rest and in motion. Topics include trusses, friction, work energy method, power and efficiency and impulse momentum method. This knowledge plays an important role in many diverse engineering applications in the modern world, such as the design of cars, structures, airplanes, and various types of machines. Students will be guided to solve engineering problems using these mechanics principles

Industrial Automation
This module aims to equip students with the basic knowledge of automation technologies and their applications in the manufacturing and process industries. With the rise of new digital industrial technology, known as Industry 4.0, students will also be introduced to smart sensors which have the ability to collect data that can be used for data analysis.

Major topics include electro-pneumatics technology, programmable logic control and IO-Linked technology (for smart sensors). The essential hardware components used in automated systems, such as sensors, valves and actuators will be applied to the automated systems. Widely accepted industrial control programming language ladder and inline structured text will be covered, in conjunction with the learning of programming logic controllers and computer interfaces.

Laboratory work involves hands-on circuit construction and implementation using these various technologies and techniques, which enhances students’ understanding of the practical aspects of circuit designs.

Applied Thermofluids
Thermo-fluids is a module of science and engineering encompassing 2 intersecting fields namely Thermodynamics and Fluid mechanics. In relation to mechanical engineering, Thermodynamics is the science of converting energy involving heat to mechanical work and Fluid Mechanics is the study of physical forces in a system in the presence of fluid when at rest or in motion. Heat energy had to be transported by fluid in order to undergo various thermodynamic processes and becomes mechanical work eventually. The way fluid would flow ultimately dominates the entire thermal energy conversion process.

This module extends the coverage of Thermofluids in year 1, which further the basic concepts and principles of Thermodynamics and Fluid mechanics concepts. Behaviour of fluids under different conditions like static, dynamic and under the influence of heat will be covered in further details. The most important 2nd law of Thermodynamics will be introduced. Subsequently, Basic Engineering cycles developed from the 2nd law including Steam power cycles and Gas power cycles will be discussed. Students will also be taught on the methods of Engine performance testing.

Engineering & Sustainability
This module aims to develop in our students the knowledge, skills and disposition towards sustainability by introducing them to the dominant environmental and climate change issues caused by technological developments.  Students will learn about sustainability design in the context of engineering design considerations, such as, resource efficiency, environmentally friendly materials, innovative sustainable products, lean and green operations, remanufacturing and responsible sourcing.  In collaboration with community and industry partners, Service-Learning projects provide opportunities for the students to apply and hone their Green skills while developing a deeper understanding of environmental sustainability issues and their social impacts both locally and globally. 

The module also encourages students to appreciate and explore green job opportunities in engineering.  Career and Professional Preparation 2 is incorporated to equip students with the skills necessary to seek and secure such work opportunities. They will also be equipped to communicate their personal brand more effectively.  As students sharpen their communication skills, they will also learn how to market themselves effectively.

Mechanics of Machines & Materials
This module will provide students with the experience of solving engineering problems based on the principles and theories covered in the earlier Mechanics modules. Topics include velocity and acceleration diagrams, effects of the mass of members of mechanism, friction mechanisms and the effects of friction on screw threads and belt drives, balancing of shafts and its application to gears and pulleys, and the causes and control of machinery vibration.
Engineering System Design

This module aims to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and practice of the engineering design process, the applications of engineering principles and analysis in the design, sizing and selection of components such as electric motor, coupling, gears, bearing, chain drives, and fastener. This module will also introduce the basic concept of Geometrical Dimensioning & Tolerance (GD&T) to the students. Case studies of existing machines and systems, guided tutorials, quizzes, assignments, and a practical project will be used to reinforce the theoretical aspects.

Project Management
This module provides students with an understanding of the various aspects of project management procedures. The module also equips students with various project management tools. The module is supplemented with tutorial assignments, and case studies are included to reinforce basic understanding and concepts which can be applied in practical situations.

Quality Systems & Analytics
This module prepares students to apply quality system management techniques and principles in their future workplace. Topics include Quality Systems and Audits, quality tools and techniques including the application of statistical software for process control, Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility, Hypothesis Testing, Design of Experiments, Statistical Process Control, and Mistake Proofing to optimise and improve products and processes. Process Capability Analysis, Lean Manufacturing for waste elimination and Six Sigma initiatives for defect reduction will also be discussed.

Computer-Aided Design & Analysis
This module is a practice-oriented module designed to give students an appreciation of the scope of computer graphics and hands-on practice on the applications of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) in engineering design. This module aims to help the students in the application of the drafting concepts and modeling techniques for development of product models in the design process. Students will learn the principles and capabilities of CAD through three dimensional (3D) solid modeling of engineering components and assembly. A project is used to consolidate the concepts and techniques learnt CAD module and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) module. Another project is used to consolidate the concepts and techniques learnt CAD module and ED (Engineering Design) module. Students will also use the software to do some basic stress analysis and motion simulation.

World Issues: A Singapore Perspective^
This module takes a global approach to significant current and historical events. The aim is to enhance students’ understanding of such events and issues in the context of Singapore, as well as challenge students to think critically about choices and decision-making vis-à-vis the nation state.


^Critical Core modules account for 13 credit units of the diploma curriculum. They include modules in communication, innovation and world issues, as well as an interdisciplinary project. By bringing students from diverse diplomas together, the interdisciplinary project fosters collaboration to explore and propose solutions for real-world problems. NP aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace.

Project ID: Connecting the Dots^
Project ID aims to prepare students for an increasingly globalised and interconnected world where problems are multi-faceted and require interdisciplinary research and collaboration to solve. Using a project-based learning approach, students will have the opportunity to work in a multi-disciplinary team with students from across the polytechnic to investigate and propose comprehensive recommendations for a pressing real-world problem affecting Singapore. they will be guided to step out of your disciplinary silos and effectively communicate and collaborate with peers from different backgrounds. The module seeks to develop independent learning skills and the ability to synthesise diverse strands of knowledge to solve a complex problem, while impressing on them the importance of being a responsible global citizen.

Specialisation – Automation Design Engineering

Automation System Design and Integration
This module aims to integrate the knowledge learnt in the semester and apply to a real-world automation project and understand the relevance and application of the modules learnt. Students will work in teams and undertake the project development underpinned by the design thinking Computer-Aided Design approach. On completion of the module, students will be able to apply the skills and develop confidence in tackling design projects

Design for Manufacturing & Assembly
This module covers design thinking concepts that enable our students to design and create engineering solution to real word problem. It also provides students with foundation and knowledge to understand and apply Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) mythology to enhance their engineering design. Students will also be introduced various engineering measurement tools and mythology to ascertain their design dimensional accuracy. 

This module also introduces design of Jigs and Fixtures to enable students to design guide to enable manufacturing tools to improve production of identical and interchangeable components. Students will have the opportunity to work through many real word-based case studies to better understand and apply these concepts and mythologies introduced in this module.

Smart Sensors & Actuators
This module aims to provide students with broad knowledge in the working principle and application of smart engineering sensors and actuators. It provides students with the opportunities to appreciate and gain insight into the inter-connectivity and inter-dependence of smart sensors and actuators in a digital manufacturing environment. Students will acquire design, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills through case studies and group projects.

Specialisation – Mobility Design Engineering

Mobility System Design and Integration
In this module, students will work as a team using computer aided design (CAD) software to design and integrate a concept vehicle. Students would be applying the knowledge they have learned from other modules and complete a workable 3D CAD model which includes chassis and body design, steering system design, brake system design, suspension system design, powertrain design and configuration.

Mechanical Drives System
This module aims to give an overview of the mechanical systems in a modern vehicle, such as engine, transmission, steering system, suspension system and brake system. Student will deepen their knowledge in the fundamentals, functions, operations of these systems through theoretical and hands on approach. The students can use some of the knowledge gained from this module and apply into their concept vehicle design and integration.

Electrical Technology System
This module aims to introduce powertrain and electric systems for a vehicle, including battery electric vehicle (BEV), so that it will equip the students with the knowledge and hands-on practice needed to systematically understand the both systems and the components, energy storage and conversion. The students can use some of the knowledge gained from this module and apply into their concept vehicle design and integration.

Capstone Project
This module immerses students in the entire project cycle, requiring them to leverage the knowledge and skills they have gained through course of studies to address real-world challenges in the industry. Students will work in groups on projects their performance will be evaluated through continuous assessments.

Year-Long Internship I
The Year-Long internship aims to enhance existing internships to enable a more structured applied-learning pathway co-supervised by company supervisors and polytechnic lecturers. Learning resources such as learning guides and taskbooks would be purposefully designed to scaffold students’ learning throughout the year-long internship phase. The learning guides and taskbooks would cover the essential knowledge and comprise an inventory of essential on-the-job tasks designed to cover all desired applied learning outcomes as part of the internship assessment. The contents of the learning guides and taskbooks will be jointly developed with the industry. Students would submit a final report at the end of each semester and present what they have learned. Assessment would be conducted jointly by the school and company supervisors.

Final Year Project I 
This year-long project module is designed to provide students with practical, hands-on experience while developing skills and knowledge comparable to those gained through traditional structured modules. The module focuses on a comprehensive, real-world engineering problem or innovation challenge, which students will work on from inception to completion in that semester.

Throughout the project, students will engage in research, design, analysis, prototyping, testing, and reporting, mimicking the processes found in engineering disciplines. They will be required to apply theoretical knowledge from core subjects, solve complex problems. The project will encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving, simulating industry practices and preparing students for professional engineering roles.


^Critical Core modules account for 13 credit units of the diploma curriculum. They include modules in communication, innovation and world issues, as well as an interdisciplinary project. By bringing students from diverse diplomas together, the interdisciplinary project fosters collaboration to explore and propose solutions for real-world problems. NP aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace.

6-month Internship (Local/Overseas)
The six-month internship will provide students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired in the classroom to work situations, and demonstrate problem solving, communication and interpersonal skills in a work environment. The programme enables students to hone their ability to work independently and in teams, while they take on one or more practical projects under the supervision of industry practitioners. The objective is to develop a professional approach to work based on the relevant code of practice.

Final-Year Project
In this module, students will work in teams to design and develop a product or system related to a real-world project. In the project, students learn to apply their knowledge and skills in creative problem solving, engineering and design, teamwork and project management. This module focuses on the identification of problem or need, research and design. Student are required to fabricate the prototype, assemble the parts, test and refine the prototype, and prepare the refined design and a project report. Students are also required to do a final presentation to a panel of examiners.

Year-Long Internship II
The Year-Long internship aims to enhance existing internships to enable a more structured applied-learning pathway co-supervised by company supervisors and polytechnic lecturers. Learning resources such as learning guides and taskbooks would be purposefully designed to scaffold students’ learning throughout the year-long internship phase. The learning guides and taskbooks would cover the essential knowledge and comprise an inventory of essential on-the-job tasks designed to cover all desired applied learning outcomes as part of the internship assessment. The contents of the learning guides and taskbooks will be jointly developed with the industry. Students would submit a final report at the end of each semester and present what they have learned. Assessment would be conducted jointly by the school and company supervisors. 

Final Year Project II
This year-long project module is designed to provide students with practical, hands-on experience while developing skills and knowledge comparable to those gained through traditional structured modules. The module focuses on a comprehensive, real-world engineering problem or innovation challenge, which students will work on from inception to completion in that semester.

Throughout the project, students will engage in research, design, analysis, prototyping, testing, and reporting, mimicking the processes found in engineering disciplines. They will be required to apply theoretical knowledge from core subjects, solve complex problems. The project will encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving, simulating industry practices and preparing students for professional engineering roles.