Why BME?
- The first and only poly diploma that bridges engineering with life sciences that trains clinical engineering professionals
- Acquire the skills to design, develop and test medical devices and competencies in MedTech engineering & cybersecurity to seize opportunities in the fast-growing MedTech sector
- Go on curated internships and work on industry projects with leading MedTech companies and healthcare institutions such as ZOLL Medical and SingHealth
- Get a head start in gaining a prestigious degree with the NP-SUTD Pathway Programme!
About BME
Fascinated by how engineering and biology can benefit society? Or are you interested in helping medical professionals do their work better? If you’re passionate about the medical technology (MedTech) field, then the Diploma in Biomedical Engineering (BME) is perfect for you. This fast-growing field is responsible for the design of sophisticated medical devices and healthcare equipment such as personal health trackers – which range from wearable glucose meters to electrocardiography (ECG) monitors - and lifesaving devices including the pacemaker and dialysis machine.
The first diploma of its kind in Singapore, BME is jointly developed by Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Engineering and industry partners. Besides learning the testing and manufacturing processes of medical devices and healthcare equipment, BME
also gives you a firm grounding in research that could lead to the discovery and development of faster and more accurate tools for medical treatment.
BME will provide you with a solid grounding in both engineering and the life sciences. You will acquire a strong foundation in areas such as programming, electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering, cell and molecular biology, as well as human physiology.
You will also learn about MedTech engineering, and be equipped with knowledge of relevant quality assurance standards and industry best practices. Our partnerships with industry will ensure that you stay on top of industry developments and the latest strategies, such as Lean Six Sigma, to improve efficiency.
As medical devices become more connected, there is an increased need to ensure these devices are safe from cyber threats. BME will equip you with the skills to embed cybersecurity requirements in the development of MedTech solutions.
You will also be exposed to emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), which are increasingly adopted for clinical applications.
Apply your skills and knowledge to solve real-world problems! Work on a MedTech project, where you’ll get to design and build a wearable medical device. To help you deepen your skills and gain industry experience, embark on an internship or final-year project sponsored by multinational companies, leading MedTech organisations, innovative local start-ups, and established healthcare institutions such as Karl Storz, Medtronic, National University Hospital and Tan Tock Seng Hospital.
Overview of Your BME Journey
Highlights
Fast track to a degree via NP-SUTD Pathway
Mozzie Traps Made Smarter
Further Studies
As a BME graduate, you can pursue degree programmes offered by Nanyang Technological University, National University of Singapore, Singapore University of Technology and Design, as well as Singapore Institute of Technology. You can also gain credit exemptions from overseas universities, including the following:
Australia
- University of New South Wales
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Master of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering)
- Queensland University of Technology
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Medical)
- University of Queensland
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical and Biomedical Engineering)
- University of Sydney
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Biomedical)
United Kingdom
- University of Sheffield
- Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering)
- Cardiff University
- Bachelor of Engineering / Master of Engineering (Medical Engineering)
- Bachelor of Engineering / Master of Engineering (Medical Engineering)
Wong Zheng Hui
Biomedical Engineering graduate, Class of 2022
A recipient of the SUTD Undergraduate Merit Scholarship, Zheng Hui is pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering at SUTD.
Tey Ming Chuan
Biomedical Engineering graduate, Class of 2018
After completing his degree in Biomedical Engineering under NUS’ Engineering Scholars Programme, Ming Chuan is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics at NUS.
Careers
Singapore is fast becoming a global hub for biomedical research and the healthcare industry, and is home to a growing number of multinational MedTech companies and innovative MedTech start-ups. With bright job prospects in this field, you can look forward to pursuing careers in these job roles:
- Assistant Biomedical Engineer
- Assistant Equipment Engineer
- Assistant Product Engineer
- Assistant Process Engineer
- Field Service Engineer
- Quality Assurance Specialist
- Quality Control Laboratory Analyst
- Research Associate
- Sales Engineer
As part of the SkillsFuture initiative, you can enrol in various skills-deepening programmes or apply for the SkillsFuture Work-Study Post-Diploma Programme, upon graduation. You may also apply for Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) courses, such as the Specialist Diploma in Workplace Safety & Health.
Peggy Yeo
Biomedical Engineering graduate, Class of 2016
Peggy graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) from NUS and is a clinical application and regulatory specialist at Healthstats International Pte Ltd.
Kenneth Teo
Biomedical Engineering graduate, Class of 2010
Kenneth is a development manager at ObvioHealth, a virtual research organisation that focuses on health innovation.
Entry Requirements
AGGREGATE TYPE ELR2B2-C
To be eligible for consideration, candidates must have the following GCE ‘O’ Level examination (or equivalent) results.
| Subject | 'O' Level Grade |
|---|---|
| English Language | 1-7 |
| Additional Mathematics/Mathematics | 1-6 |
| Any one of the following subjects: Biology Biotechnology Chemistry Computing/Computer Studies Design & Technology Electronics/Fundamentals of Electronics Physics Science (Chemistry , Biology) Science (Physics, Biology) Science (Physics, Chemistry) | 1-6 |
Applicants must also fulfil the aggregate computation requirements for the ELR2B2-C 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.
Candidates with colour vision deficiency, severe vision deficiency, profound hearing deficiency, uncontrolled epilepsy and/or severe physical impairments may encounter difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations.
What You Will Learn
Electrical Engineering Fundamentals (4 credit units)
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.
Engineering & Society (3 credit units)
This module prepares to develop in our students fundamental concepts and considerations pertaining to key attributes of an engineering professional by relating to them the significance of engineering to society through the conduct of hands-on project work. Underpinned by Service-Learning pedagogy, in this module students are involved with community projects focused on delivering engineering solutions. These projects also give students opportunities to develop cultural intelligence while working with different community stakeholders, develop the ability to view socio-technological issues from multiple perspectives, and reflect on the societal impacts of engineering through the course of their project work.
Career & Professional Preparation 1 is incorporated into the module to help students onboard their engineering studies with the aim of preparing them for future engineering careers. Students will plan their professional development and map their education and career goals towards the workforce they intend to join.
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.
English Language Express^
English Language Express aims to give you a better grounding in the English Language and to strengthen the written and oral communications skills that you will need in your academic and professional careers. You will be engaged in writing, reading, listening and speaking activities that will develop your ability to speak and write grammatically, coherently and clearly. You will also hone your reading and listening comprehension skills.
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 sensitise 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.
Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals (3 credit units)
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. Students learn the skills to analyse the forces acting on the bodies by drawing free-body diagrams and applying the conditions of equilibrium. Topics include forces and resultants, moments and couples, equilibrium and the concepts of plane friction. This module also aims to equip students with the skills to analyse problems of rigid bodies in motion. Only linear motion in two dimensions will be covered. Topics include kinematics and kinetics of linear motion.
Programming (3 credit units)
This practice-oriented module equips students with basic knowledge and skills in computer programming using C language. The main topics include basic computer programming concepts, fundamentals of C programming including branching, loops, and functions.
The aim of the module is to provide first year students with a basic knowledge of the fundamental principles in electric circuit analysis. The module first explores DC network theorems such as Kirchhoff’s Laws, Thevenin’s Theorem and Principle of Superposition. Application of the theorems are then extended to AC circuits which involve impedances such as capacitance and inductance. The module also includes analysis of simple AC series, parallel and series-parallel combination circuits, concept of AC power and understanding of power factor and its effect on electrical energy usage.
Analogue Electronics (3 credit units)
The aim of this module is to lay the foundations in analogue electronics. At the end of this module, students will acquire content knowledge and understanding on the basic concepts of analogue electronics and some applications. Key topics covered in this module include operating characteristics, working principles and applications of discrete electronic devices such as various types of diodes, MOSFETs and BJTs. Practical circuits will be used to enhance and strengthen the learners’ knowledge so that they will acquire the relevant competencies to move on to more specialised modules.
Confident Communication: Find Your Voice (VOICE) ^ (3 Credit Units)
The VOICE module aims to empower students to become thoughtful and confident communicators able to tailor a message to suit audience, purpose and context. Students will learn how to use storytelling structures and techniques, persuasive strategies and effective visuals to connect meaningfully with their audience. Through a personalised growth plan, the module encourages students to reflect, set goals and take ownership of their growth and development as communicators. The module employs engaging teaching strategies such as games, thinking routines, masterclasses and workshops, and a celebratory showcase festival at the end to make learning fun and exciting.
Digital Fundamentals (3 credit units)
This module introduces the basic principles of digital systems. It covers combinational and sequential logics circuits, multiplexers/demultiplexers and decoders. Flip-flops and their application in counters and registers will also be discussed. This basic knowledge is essential for students to be able to analyse, troubleshoot and design basic digital circuit system.
Engineering Mathematics 2 (4 credit units)
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.
Fundamental Electronic & Electrical Skills (4 credit units)
This module aims to integrate the knowledge learnt in the semester and understand the relevance and application of the modules learnt. Students will work in teams and undertake the projects/case studies underpinned by the design thinking and electronics prototyping using a microcontroller. On completion of the module, students will be able to apply the skills and develop confidence in tackling projects at the higher levels.
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.
Cell and Molecular Biology (4 credit units)
Clinical Engineering (4 credit units)
This module introduces the roles and functions of a biomedical engineering department in a healthcare establishment. It covers the regulatory and safety aspects of a hospital or clinical environment. Students will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to perform electrical safety testing, preventive maintenance and calibration on medical equipment.
Cybersecurity Essentials (4 credit units)
Software plays an increasingly important role in medical devices as a myriad of these devices rely on software for safe and effective function, as well as for interoperability with other devices. This module introduces the common cybersecurity threats and risks, terminologies, and cybersecurity domains in different technologies such as server and cloud.
Engineering & Sustainability (4 credit units)
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 home 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 incorporate 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.
Fundamentals of Medical Technology (4 credit units)
This module intends to present an understanding of electronic component and circuitry used in equipment and instrumentation used in the medical technology and healthcare industry. Troubleshooting, testing and construction of circuits will be part of student’s key learning in this module.
The aim of this module is to introduce students the prototyping techniques on assembly and practical skills in an electronic system. Students will learn the process for planning, construction and testing of a product development. The module provides hands-on practice for breadboarding, circuit assembly, test & measurement, fault finding, and computer aided design (CAD) software.
Human Physiology (4 credit units)
This module provides the fundamental understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the human body, which is an essential foundation to bridge science and engineering. The cardiovascular, neurological and respiratory systems are emphasised in this module while other systems in the human physiology are covered briefly.
Medical Technology Instrumentation (4 credit units)
This module introduces students to a curated range of medical technology instrumentation and/or equipment. It prepares students to understand and work on them which are used in the industry that can include those in the related manufacturing process. Students will be taught the principles, functions and features of these instrumentations.
Network & Informatics (4 credit units)
This module introduces the fundamental principles and concepts that make up the building blocks of health informatics. Students will acquire knowledge on the essential concepts in hospital network infrastructure, health information data standards and analysis of medical data for diagnostic purposes. Students will learn to configure, examine and troubleshoot network systems. Students are also introduced to the concepts of artificial intelligence in the medical technology industry. They will learn to extract and analyse medical data, build and evaluate predictive models through machine learning algorithms to improve healthcare outcomes.
World Issues: A Singapore Perspective^ (2 credit units)
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.
Biomechanics & Biomaterials (4 credit units)
This module equips students to apply mechanical engineering principles to perform simple force analysis of the musculoskeletal system. It also provides an appreciation of the kinematics and kinetics of human motion. Rehabilitation engineering, including causation, orthopaedic and prosthetic interventions will be discussed. Students will also be introduced to the concepts of biological materials, biomaterials, implants and tissue engineering. This module complements the students’ training in electronics and electrical engineering.
Internet of Medical Things (5 credit units)
This module aims to equip students with a basic fundamental in an embedded Internet of Things (IoT) system. Students will learn the system architecture of a typical embedded IoT system with a good understanding of functionalities of its building blocks through practical exercises and its application in the medical/healthcare industry. Students are expected to implement a simple embedded IoT system prototype with off-the-shelf equipment, platforms or services.
Manufacturing Process & Optimisation (4 credit units)
This module introduces the general medical technology manufacturing process, the related quality systems and performance indicators. Students will also learn techniques and/or tools for process improvement by identifying and removing the causes of defects/faults and minimising the variability in manufacturing and business processes.
Medical Technology Project (4 credit units)
This module inculcates in students the importance of project design from theory into practice. Students will apply the appropriate approach in the development, construction and testing of a prescribed project. The project involves structured learning and hands-on practical which includes hardware design technique, use of relevant computer aided design (CAD) software, troubleshooting and enhancement.
Project ID: Connecting the Dots^ (4 credit units)
This module aims to prepare students 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, students will have the opportunity to work in a multi-disciplinary team to investigate and propose comprehensive recommendations for a pressing real-world problem affecting Singapore. They will be guided to step out of their disciplinary silos and effectively communicate and collaborate with peers from different backgrounds. Ultimately, 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 students the importance of being a responsible global citizen.
In this module, students will work in teams to design and develop a product or system related to a real-world project. Students are expected 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. Students will fabricate a prototype, assemble the parts, test and refine the prototype, software development, documentation and prepare a project report and/or presentation.
OR
Six-month Internship (Local/Overseas) (20 credit units)
In this module, students will be attached to sponsoring companies or institutions for a period of approximately six months. During their internships, students will undertake activities assigned by the company or institution that may be related to operations, project, maintenance, research, etc.