Why PCD?
- A unique diploma that combines Psychology, Community Development and Social Sustainability
- Acquire the skills to be a social connector who brings businesses, communities and the public sector together
- Gain hands-on experience in co-creating sustainable solutions with corporates and communities to maximise the social impact of business decisions
- Choice of 3 specialisation tracks to expand your knowledge in these key social sectors: Youth, Seniors and Disabilities
About PCD
Curious about psychology and human behaviour? Passionate about building an inclusive and sustainable society? If you are keen to use your understanding of human behaviour to shape society and create real impact for communities, our Diploma in Psychology & Community Development (PCD) will give you a head start!
Become a New-Gen Social Connector
Corporates around the world are making a positive impact on society and PCD prepares you to be the new-gen social connector with the skills to develop sustainable solutions that add value to both businesses and communities.
Through PCD, you will gain insights into the motivations, attitudes and social dynamics that influence human interactions. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of principles that guide businesses to make socially sustainable decisions. Your grasp of business needs and community issues will enable you to mobilise diverse stakeholders from the corporate and community sectors to create solutions that have long-term impact. With growing opportunities in the care economy, you can also play key roles in fostering community partnerships and enhancing human services.
Shaping Communities
In your first year, embark on the Community Kickstarter Programme, during which you will interact with different communities to understand their behavioural profile, as well as identify social and environmental factors that influence their behaviour and choices.
With a Behavioural Insights Bootcamp as the highlight of your second-year curriculum, you will hone the skills to draw from psychological and social science concepts to design effective programmes and policies. Under the mentorship of your lecturers and guidance from industry practitioners, you will learn how to apply your knowledge to meet real-world scenarios.
Choice of 3 Specialisations
In your second year, depending on your area of interest, you can deepen your understanding in one of the three key sectors of the growing care economy:
- Youth: Acquire the skills to address the needs of youth-at-risk and the general youth population.
- Seniors: Understand the challenges faced by our seniors to develop programmes that facilitate active ageing.
- Disabilities: Gain perspectives on the world of persons with disabilities to co-create innovative solutions and raise awareness on inclusivity.
Customise Your Learning
In your final year, choose to go on a one-year internship or a six-month internship coupled with a Final-Year Project or elective modules. Our leading partners offering enriching internship opportunities include public sector agencies, private corporations, and social and community organisations such as Deloitte, Fei Yue Community Services, Metropolitan YMCA, Ministry of Family and Social Development, National Youth Council and Sodexo.
Growing a Changemaker Community
Imran Mean believes in making a difference in the community around him. This big-hearted youth founded a 380-strong volunteer group, known as the IM Volunteers Network, which focuses on welfare events such as meal distribution, fundraising and other social initiatives. The group has supported 200 events to date and now has a Malaysia branch that supports volunteering efforts across the Causeway!
Further Studies
Graduates may pursue further studies at both local and overseas universities. As PCD is a broad-based diploma, graduates have a wide array of choices, including programmes in fields such as psychology, the social sciences, humanities and business.
The following universities grant advanced standing to PCD graduates:
Singapore
- Nanyang Technological University
- National University of Singapore
Australia
- Griffith University
- Bachelor of Human Services
- Bachelor of Child, Youth and Family Practices
- Bachelor of Human Services
- Edith Cowan University
- Bachelor of Counselling
- Bachelor of Youth Work
- Bachelor of Social Science
- Griffith University
- Bachelor of Human Services
- Bachelor of Child, Youth and Family Practices
- Bachelor of Human Services
- University of Queensland
- Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
- University of Western Australia
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Commerce
Tan Yan Zi
Psychology Studies* graduate, Class of 2022
Yan Zi is pursuing a Bachelor of Politics, Law and Economics at SMU.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Toh Pei Ling
Business & Social Enterprise* graduate, Class of 2022
Pei Ling is pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work at SUSS.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Careers
The community development and social services sectors are expanding, while the ESG sector, focused on sustainability and ethical business practices, is also gaining attention. With PCD, you can pursue careers in roles such as:
- Community Care Associate/Assistant
- Community Development Executive
- Community Partnership Executive
- Programme Coordinator/Executive
- Publicity & Outreach Executive
- Social Sustainability Executive
- Social Work Associate/Assistant
With further education in psychology, social work and counselling, you can also look forward to practise as a:
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Research Officer
- Counsellor
Adalene Chua
Business & Social Enterprise* graduate, Class of 2018
Adalene is a Community Engagement and Sustainability Education senior executive at FairPrice Group.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Jasmine Leong
Business & Social Enterprise* graduate, Class of 2016
Jasmine graduated from NUS with a degree in social work. A social worker at South Central Community Family Services Centre, Jasmine works with families and individuals on asset building and poverty transformation.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Sandy Ang
Psychology Studies* graduate, Class of 2011
Sandy is an educational psychologist at the Society for the Physically Disabled.
*Renamed the Diploma in Psychology & Community Development
Entry Requirements
AGGREGATE TYPE ELR2B2-A
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must have the following GCE ‘O’ Level examination (or equivalent) results.
| Subject | 'O' Level Grade |
|---|---|
| English Language | 1-6 |
| Additional Mathematics/Mathematics | 1-7 |
| Any one of the 1st group of Relevant Subjects for the ELR2B2-A Aggregate Type | 1-6 |
Applicants must also fulfil the aggregate computation requirements for the ELR2B2-A Aggregate Type ( English Language, 2 relevant subjects and 2 other best subjects) listed at www.np.edu.sg/docs/ELR2B2.pdf.
For students with other qualifications, please refer to the NP website for the entry requirements and admissions exercise period.
What You Will Learn
Academic Communication & Thinking (4 Credit Units)
This module aims to develop students' critical thinking, writing and presentation skills in various academic and professional contexts. Students will also learn how to conduct basic research and accurately cite sources in this module.
Essential Skills for the Digital Age (4 Credit Units)
This introductory module is designed to help students build critical digital skills needed to succeed in the 21st century. The module covers a range of topics for both the digital workplace and citizenship, including digital communication and collaboration, data investigation and analysis, productivity tools, social media, cybersecurity, responsible use of technology, as well as a roundup of the latest technology trends and future of technology.
Community Development & Human Services (4 Credit Units)
In this module, students are introduced to an exploration of the dynamic interaction between community development principles and human services in the local context, with a focus on the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach. The module delves into various resources tailored to address specific needs within different community demographics such as children, youth, the elderly, families, and individuals with disabilities and special needs. Emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and sustainability, the module provides an overview of relevant social legislation and policies influencing community and societal settings.
Principles of PsychologyNEW (3 Credit Units)
This module introduces psychology as a science of behaviour and mental processes. Students are given a broad overview of the different fields in psychology and will learn to actively apply psychological insights and concepts through fieldwork and projects.
Innovation Made Possible (3 Credit Units)
Underpinned by the Design Thinking framework, Innovation Made Possible aims to build creative confidence in you. The module will sensitize you to the process of user-centric problem solving and allow you to discover and hone your innate ability to think creatively, come up with innovations to tackle problems and explore new ideas for your studies and beyond.
Career & Professional Preparation 1 (1 Credit Unit)
This module gives students a foundational introduction to their three-year diploma course curriculum and how it prepares them for industry. It will help them to embark on their course with the end in mind, through guided reflection of their personal characteristics and producing an overall game plan for their future education and career goals. The module aims to deepen students’ commitment to the sector that the course prepares them for.
Workplace Communication Skills (4 Credit Units)
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of effective communication practices in the workplace. Students will develop the necessary skills to communicate effectively with stakeholders, colleagues, and clients in various communication contexts.
Social Psychology (4 Credit Units)
This module explores the nature and causes of behaviour of individuals in relation to other people. The aim is to provide an understanding of the mechanisms and processes by which social behaviours are shaped by various social, cognitive, environmental, cultural and biological factors. Above all, this module emphasizes the applicability of social psychology principles in everyday life.
Working with Families (4 Credit Units)
The course provides an in-depth exploration of the theories, principles, and skills necessary for effective family practice. The course covers a wide range of topics, including the history of family practice, the family life cycle, diversity in family structures, communication and conflict resolution, parenting, child development, and family violence. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively with families in a variety of settings. They will understand how to develop a collaborative and strengths-based approach to family practice, promoting the well-being of children, parents, and the family as a whole.
Partnership Engagement & Volunteer Development (4 Credit Units)
This module provides students with an overview of the fundamentals of stakeholder partnerships, sponsorship and a Volunteer Management Framework in the context of the community sector. Students will gain an understanding of issues related to engaging stakeholders, fund-raising and sponsorship development and the role of volunteer management framework in managing issues such as volunteers' recruitment, job-match, motivation and recognition.
Foundations of Corporate Social Sustainability (4 Credit Units)
Corporate social sustainability (CSS) is the concept that corporations have obligations to create social value for stakeholders beyond economic value for shareholders. This module will explore CSS and ESG principles and provide an overview of tools that businesses use to identify and manage their environmental, social and governance related opportunities and risks. With a specific focus on the social aspect, which covers all the ways businesses impact employees, customers and the communities in which they operate, the module explores key issues such as diversity, equity, inclusion, labor practices, community engagement, and provides an appreciation of the social considerations that drive sustainable business practices. Upon completing the module, students will understand why considering these social factors is crucial for businesses aiming to make a positive difference and thrive in the long run.
Health & Wellness^ (1 Credit Unit)
This is a Level 1 Core module for all Year 1 students. The module will introduce students to the importance of maintaining both physical and mental health through the knowledge and monitoring of health indicators, and application through appropriate exercises. The aim of the module is to empower students with basic knowledge and skills to be independent and responsible in maintaining overall personal health.
^ Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) modules account for 10 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. IS aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace.
Career Kickstart (2 Credit Units)
This module is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to successfully navigate the transition from education to the workplace. Topics covered in this module will include job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, interview skills, professional networking and personal branding.
Programme Development & Evaluation (4 Credit Units)
This module introduces students to programme development concepts and tools. Concepts covered include project/programme design and planning, time and cost management, risk assessment, scheduling, progress management, as well as social impact measurement. Students will learn to apply these tools in a service-learning project to meet a real need identified by a community partner. Through structured reflections and facilitation, this module endeavours to enable students to connect their service experiences to their learning of project management programme development concepts for a broader appreciation of the module, and to cultivate in them a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.
Lifespan Psychology (4 Credit Units)
This module studies the physical, cognitive, emotional and social aspects of human development from infancy through childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age. The aim is to provide students with knowledge of progressive psychological changes that occur in human beings as they age and the multidisciplinary approaches in the assessment and intervention for disabilities which can occur in the human lifespan. The module encourages students to embrace differences, diversity and inclusivity through deconstructing their notion of disability.
Introduction to Research Methods (4 Credit Units)
This module introduces students to basic research methods in both quantitative and qualitative research. For quantitative research, students will be introduced to quantitative research methodologies, sampling, data collection methods, measurement scales in surveys, designing of questionnaires, data preparation and presentation. For qualitative research, students will learn qualitative research methodologies, thematic analysis, qualitative data visualization, narrative inquiry, and data collection methods such as in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and participant observations.
Psychology in Group Dynamics & Facilitation (4 Credit Units)
This module equips students with knowledge in psychological theories on group behaviour and facilitation skills aimed at managing group dynamics. Through field-based projects, students will be able to apply knowledge and skills in managing group sessions and facilitating conversations on addressing community challenges.
Specialisations
Youths & Society (Youth Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
This module explores the dynamic relationship between young people and society, focusing on the various factors that shape youth experiences, attitudes, and behaviors. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will examine the social, cultural, economic, and political dimensions that influence the lives of young individuals.
Perspectives on Ageing (Seniors Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
This module delves into the multidimensional nature of ageing, exploring diverse perspectives on the aging process and its implications for individuals and society. Drawing from various disciplines, students will gain insights into the social, psychological, biological, and cultural dimensions of ageing, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with an aging population.
Introduction to Disabilities (Disabilities Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
This module introduces students to concepts about differences, diversity and inclusion through deconstructing their notion of disability, and learning about conditions such as physical, sensory (hearing and visual impairment), and intellectual disabilities.
This module introduces community analysis to identify problems and challenges and promotes individual and community wellbeing and inclusivity through prevention and intervention efforts. Students will, through a service-learning project, develop content and tools of communication for outreach, educational and advocacy purposes, including the design and delivery of public education campaigns and promotional communication to inform, educate and persuade audiences in community settings.
Social Innovation & Sustainable Business Practices (4 Credit Units)
This module introduces the social and environmental issues faced by the local community, and examines the different community needs. Through the use of sustainable business models theory and social innovation concepts, students learn about the role of social innovation and how businesses can play a part in actively transforming their operations towards sustainability.
World Issues: Singapore's Perspective (2 Credit Units)
This module will expose you to a wide range of global issues discussed in the context of Singapore as a nation state. You will be guided to critically examine current affairs from various perspectives and develop an appreciation of the dynamism behind current world problems and consider possible solutions. The intent of this module is to develop thinking students with well-considered perspectives who are able to articulate reasonable opinions, make thoughtful decisions and informed choices as active citizens in society. You will also be exposed to a multidisciplinary approach in the mitigation of global challenges and thus be adequately prepared to handle Year 3 IS interdisciplinary Project ID.
Specialisations – Students must take the modules under the previous semester’s chosen specialisation (Youth, Seniors, Disabilities)
Wellness for Youths (Youth Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
This module is designed to explore the holistic concept of wellness as it pertains to the youth population. It encompasses physical, mental, emotional, social, and environmental dimensions of well-being. Students will gain insights into the factors that contribute to youth wellness, develop practical skills for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and explore strategies for promoting positive well-being among young individuals.
Empowerment and Wellness for Seniors (Seniors Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
This module aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of empowerment and wellness for seniors, addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by older adults. Students will examine strategies for promoting physical, mental, and social well-being among seniors, while emphasizing the importance of empowering them to lead fulfilling and independent lives.
Working with Persons with Disabilities (Disabilities Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
The module aims to provide an overview of the best practices for engaging youth in outreach and community service programs to give youths an outward focus on others. The module looks at topics such as youths’ strengths and capabilities, and how youths could be youth ambassadors and peer mentors. It also touches on developing youth-centered coaching and opportunities for youth voice to be included.
Youth Engagement & Outreach (Youth Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
The module aims to provide an overview of the best practices for engaging youth in outreach and community service programs to give youths an outward focus on others. The module looks at topics such as youths’ strengths and capabilities, and how youths could be youth ambassadors and peer mentors. It also touches on developing youth-centered coaching and opportunities for youth voice to be included.
Inclusive Ageing & Society (Seniors Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
The module aims to promote inclusivity of senior workers in the workplace and society. It emphasizes the importance of creating a living and work environment that is accommodating and supportive of the elderly. The module covers topics such as the benefits of having elderly workers in the workforce, the challenges they face, and strategies for designing an inclusive living and work environment. It also provides tips for employers on how to create opportunities for elderly workers and how to adjust job roles and processes to better suit their strengths. The module stresses the importance of leadership in creating an inclusive environment and provides guidance on how to cultivate a conducive environment that promotes active ageing in society.
Advancing Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (Disabilities Specialisation) (4 Credit Units)
This module examines inclusive practices, trends and innovation in the local context with a focus on designing for accessibility for education or work. The module helps students to better understand the barriers faced by persons with disabilities, corrects common misperceptions, and provides suggestions on how to better interact with persons with disabilities. The module also emphasizes the importance of effective communication in a disability-inclusive workplace, such as ensuring the use of appropriate terminology and behaviour amongst colleagues.
6-Month Internship (20 Credit Units)
This module provides the opportunity for students to be assigned to industry attachments at reputable organisations. The attachment, which will be for the entire internship semester, will match students’ abilities and interests to relevant organisations.
Project ID aims to prepare you for an increasingly globalized and interconnected world where problems are multi-faceted and require interdisciplinary research and collaboration to solve. Using a project-based learning approach, you 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. You 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 synthesize diverse strands of knowledge to solve a complex problem, while impressing on you the importance of being a responsible global citizen.
Elective 1:
Extended Internship (16 Credit Units)
The extended internship allows the student to extend their internship and undergo additional sector relevant on-the-job training in a real-life working environment. In the process, the student will experience working as part of a team and may be exposed to more varied aspects of their chosen area of interest in the sector.
Elective 2
Industry-based Project (16 Credit Units)
For the industry-based project module, students are required to complete a substantial project that is the culmination of their education in the School of Humanities & Interdisciplinary Studies. Students may have the opportunity to work in cross-disciplinary teams to address a real-world problem proposed by a client or proposed by a student in subjects approved by the School.
Elective 3
Social Sustainability (4 Credit Units)
This module introduces students to the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of sustainable development. Students will explore the concepts of sustainability and social responsibility in the context of global and local challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change and the environment. They will learn about the different models of community development, stakeholder engagement, and participatory decision-making that promote social sustainability. The course would also examine the role of businesses and organizations in promoting social sustainability through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and sustainable business practices. Through case studies, group projects, and interactive discussions, students would develop a critical understanding of social sustainability issues and learn practical skills to address them in their personal and professional lives.
Frameworks for Solutioning (4 Credit Units)
This module will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the social impact landscape and equip them with practical tools to design and implement effective solutions. The course would introduce students to different frameworks for social impact and to apply these frameworks to social and environmental problems to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of diverse stakeholders. The course would cover topics such as problem definition, research methods, ideation, prototyping, testing, and scaling. Students would also learn about the importance of social impact measurement and evaluation, and how to use data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of their solutions. Through case studies, group projects, and real-world examples, students would develop a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities of social impact work and acquire the skills and mindset necessary to make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.
Understanding Social Challenges (Elective) (4 Credit Units)
This module provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding social challenges, such as poverty, inequality and discrimination. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and case studies, students will explore the complex and interrelated causes and consequences of these challenges, as well as potential solutions and interventions.
Understanding Place-Based Challenges (Elective) (4 Credit Units)
This module provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the challenges faced by communities in specific places, such as housing, transportation, safety and land use. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and case studies, students will explore the complex and interrelated causes and consequences of these challenges, as well as potential solutions and interventions.
Communicating to Create Social Change (Elective) (4 Credit Units)
This module provides an introduction to the art of storytelling and its potential for creating social change. Students will learn how to craft compelling narratives that communicate complex social issues and inspire action. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will explore various forms of storytelling, including visual, written, and oral. The course will also cover topics such as audience analysis, message framing, and impact evaluation.
Digital Strategies for Social Change (Elective) (4 Credit Units)
This module explores the ways in which technology can be used to advocate for social change. Through readings, lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will learn how to use digital tools and platforms to raise awareness, mobilize support, and influence public policy. The course will cover topics such as social media for outreach, gamification for promoting causes and digital storytelling.