Diploma in Engineering Science (N93)

During the first two years, you will be equipped with a strong foundation in engineering and related domains such as mathematics, physics, computing and applied science. 

In your third year, you can choose between two exciting specialisations - AI for Autonomous Systems or Data Analytics & Security – to deepen your knowledge in emerging technologies.

Choose the AI for Autonomous Systems specialisation if you are passionate about the field of artificial intelligence. This option will equip you with the skills to develop autonomous system solutions for the transportation sector. You will get the opportunity to learn AV technology and work on smart urban mobility projects. Or, make the Data Analytics & Security specialisation your choice if you prefer to work on big data. Here, you will be equipped with in-demand skill sets in data analytics and data security management for cloud platforms. 

One of the key highlights of ES is the opportunity to gain early exposure to and immersion in a university environment. As early as the first semester in Year 3, you will be attached for half a day per week at local universities working on applied projects (industrial/R&D) under the mentorship of university faculties.

Thereafter, these applied projects can be extended to final-year projects, where you can further work on impactful applied projects and be exposed to the latest developments in research and technology innovation in a university settings to boost your portfolio. You will get to choose from a wide variety of topics ranging from artificial intelligence, automotive vehicles, Internet of Things, robotics, green energy, to material science!

Applied Mathematics 1 (4 credit units)
This module aims to provide students with the fundamental skills in applying mathematics to solve engineering problems. The emphasis of the teaching and learning is on applications and problem solving.  Topics include analytic geometry, exponential & logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, complex numbers & applications, differentiation & applications, basic integration & applications. Materials on MOOC platforms could be adapted in module delivery.

Electrical Engineering Fundamentals (3 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.

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 a suitable high-level language. The main topics include basic computer programming concepts and fundamental programming constructs such as sequences, selection, and repetition.

Engineering & Society (4 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. 

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.

 

Applied Mathematics 2A (4 credit units)
This module aims to provide students with the fundamental skills in applying mathematics to solve engineering problems. The emphasis is on applications and problem solving. Topics include further techniques of differentiation and integration and their applications, ordinary differential equations, Laplace transform and applications, vectors and linear equations, matrices and applications. Materials on MOOC platform could be adapted in the module delivery.

AC Circuits (3 credit units)
This module provides students with basic knowledge of the fundamental principles in electric circuit analysis. The module extends DC network theorems 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.

Digital Fundamentals (3 credit units)
This module introduces the basic concepts of digital systems. It covers the basics of combinational and sequential logic circuits. Flip-flops and their application in counters and registers will also be discussed. This basic knowledge is essential for students to be able to understand, analyse, and design basic digital circuit system.

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 specialized modules.

Fundamental Electronic and 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.

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.

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. 

 

Materials & Manufacturing Technology (3 credit units)

This module introduces students to the fundamental of engineering materials and manufacturing process. Materials lab practice including tensile test, hardness test, and machining technology including turning, milling, laser cut, 3D printing, sheet metal, assembly will be conducted during lesson hour. Students will be learning most of the content in the laboratory or workshop. Individual student will have to work on a designed workpiece in each workshop and get familiarized with all manufacturing technology. In the lab practice lesson, individual student will have to do reflection and data analyze and practice on various kinds of materials testing and fabrication method. Safety and positive work attitudes are inculcated in the student during training sessions.

Thermofluids (3 credit units)
Thermofluids will provide students with a fundamental understanding of the 2 broad studies of fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. Students will learn the basic laws governing the behaviour of fluids under the influence of various 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, the first law of thermodynamics, properties of perfect gas and non-flow process with perfect gas. Students will also go through a simple case study of turbomachinery: pumps. By applying the thermofluid concepts, solve, understand and perform basic sizing for pumps.

Object Oriented Programming (4 credit units)
This module introduces object-oriented programming to students who already have a foundation in procedural programming. It covers the fundamental concepts of object-oriented programming with introduction to basic web and database applications.

Physics 1 (4 credit units)
This module is an online course and it aims at introducing foundational areas of physics.  To be specific, main topics covered in this module are: Kinematics, Newton’s Laws of Motion, Conservation of Energy, and Momentum. These topics are considered to be fundamental to the study of many other topics of physics. Basic physics concepts in these topics are introduced.  Classical physics laws are discussed based on the introduced concepts.  Furthermore, mathematical models are established to characterize introduced concepts, laws as well as typical physics phenomena. Moreover, talks with respect to related mathematics knowledge (mainly referring to Calculus and Linear Algebra) will be built into this module to help students to gain a relatively deep understanding of related content.

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. 

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.

^ Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) 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. IS aims to develop students to be agile and self-directed learners, ready for the future workplace.

Applied Mathematics 3 (3 credit units)
This module aims to cover mathematical techniques for the applied fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics/science. Topics include multi-variable functions and gradient vectors, elementary set theory, proposition logics, probability distributions, conditional probability and Bayes’ law, linear spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, matrix diagonalization, dimensional reduction and principal component analysis. Examples in the relevant fields will be used to illustrate the applications of these mathematical skills.

System Modelling & Control (4 credit units)
The module focuses on modelling the dynamics and servo systems, analysis of system responses and shaping the dynamic response through closed-loop control. Students will learn the principles of systems modelling, simulation, analysis and control, and the application of these principles in systems analysis and synthesis. Major topics include modelling single discipline and mixed systems, Laplace transform, s-plane, standard forms, time-domain specifications, effects of control actions on system performance, and frequency response analysis.

Microcontroller & Interfacing (4 credit units)
This module aims to equip students with a basic foundation in microcontroller and Embedded System. Students will acquire the necessary skills and knowledge through meaningful practical exercises and other module activities. The knowledge and skills that the students acquire in this module will enable them to implement a microcontroller-based system.

Data Structure & Algorithms (4 credit units)
This module introduces data structures and algorithms to students who already have knowledge of object-oriented programming.

Physics 2 (4 credit units)
This module aims at introducing some of the core areas of physics. The main topics covered in this module are: Universal Gravitational, Oscillations, Electricity and Magnetism. These topics are considered to be fundamental since they are basis of many other important disciplines to be covered in Level 3. Basic physics concepts of these topics are introduced. Classic physics laws are discussed based on the introduced concepts. Furthermore, mathematical models are established to characterize the introduced concepts, laws as well as typical physics phenomena. Moreover, talks with respect to related mathematic knowledge (mainly Calculus and Linear Algebra) will be built in to this module to help students to gain a relatively deep understanding of related content.

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.

AI & Machine Learning (4 credit units)
This module aims to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) with a strong focus on machine learning (ML). Students will learn about the various libraries used in Python for machine learning, as well as the fundamental principles of some common machine learning algorithms.  It is integrated with industrial curriculum such as the Amazon Web Services (AWS).  On completion of the module, students will be able to apply the skills and develop confidence in tackling projects at the higher levels.

AI for Autonomous Specialisation

Computer Vision & Deep Learning (4 credit units)
This module is aimed to equip students the knowledge and skills in computer vision for object detection and tracking, using the methods from image processing, feature extraction to the modern deep learning models. We will learn the fundamental of machine learning and deep learning, especially in the design of neural networks. Students will understand the workflow of deep learning from data preparation, model training to performance evaluation. The framework software for machine learning and deep learning will be introduced.

Autonomous Systems & IoT (4 credit units)
This module will introduce students to the skills and components required to build and operate an autonomous robot, which is capable of navigating its environment safely and efficiently. Students will acquire hands-on experience and knowledge on the mechanical build, electrical circuitry, and software programming required for the development of the autonomous robot. Students will also have the opportunity to use the autonomous robot platform to develop internet of things (IoT) solutions.

Design Project in AI  (4 credit units)
This module provides students an opportunity to work on university-linked industrial projects in AI with thematic sectors (e.g. sustainability, urban solutions, healthcare). Students will get to scaffold their learning and apply their knowledge and skills learnt from their specialisation into this module. Students learn to perform literature review, testing of hypothesis, designing of proposal and finalizing their architecture concepts in this design project. Through this module, students will have an opportunity to experience real-world AI challenges and how AI can assist in or enhance solutioning for specific thematic sectors. In addition, the project will be co-supervised by university faculty members.

Data Analytics & Security Specialisation

Data Analytics & Cloud Fundamentals (4 credit units)
This module introduces cloud computing concepts, providing an overview of core cloud services, security, architecture, pricing, and support. It also covers gathering, cleaning, and manipulating data to build data analysis solutions. Students will acquire knowledge and skills with AWS services that are critical for conducting analysis of big data problems by using statistical tools and visualization technologies.

Data Security & Blockchain (4 credit units)
This module covers management and administration of Information Security. Concepts include security threats, security incidents, risk assessment and mitigation, information security policy, procedures, guidelines and standards, security engineering, physical security and configurations and administrations of current OS systems.  The module also provides an overview of blockchain technology, and its transformative impact and use cases.

Design Project in Data Analytics (4 credit units)
This module provides students an opportunity to work on university-linked industrial projects in Data Analytics with thematic sectors (e.g. digital economy, manufacturing, connectivity). Students will get to scaffold their learning and apply their knowledge and skills learnt from their specialisation into this module. Students learn to perform literature review, testing of hypothesis, designing of proposal and finalizing their architecture concepts in this design project. Through this module, students will have an opportunity to experience handling large data, identify trends and working on algorithms to assist in or enhance solutioning for specific thematic sectors in real-world scenarios. In addition, the project will be co-supervised by university faculty members.

Final Year Project (20 credit units)
Students will have the opportunity to participate in projects at local universities, co-supervised by industry / university faculty mentors. They will work on project titles ranging from system design and integration, research and development, computer applications, and others. Students will also be given training in relevant technologies and skills at the beginning of the programme to build their knowledge. They learn and apply project management to enable them to complete their projects in time. They work closely with their supervisors on research, design, implementation, problem solving, testing, and analysis of results, and modify the prototype to meet design requirements. They develop a good standard of technical skills in construction of systems or circuit boards and operating measuring instruments, equipment and tools. Project work cultivates a sense of positive work attitude, team spirit and co-operation among the students. They will also write the project reports, prepare for project presentations and project inspections. 

OR

6-month Internship (Local/Overseas) (20 credit units)
6-month Internship is a module whereby students will be attached to sponsoring companies for a period of approximately 22 weeks. During their internships, they will undertake projects assigned by the companies or be involved in operations work, research and development or startups. Student internships may be undertaken locally or overseas.