Diploma in Materials Science (R17)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Materials Science?

Materials Science is the study of the relationship between the structures and properties of materials. The structure of materials is studied at various levels, from the smallest atoms and molecules, to the big crystals and polymers. With the knowledge of the properties of these structures, you can then manipulate the materials to suit the usage you want.

What has Materials Science got to do with me?

Take a look at these:

• Silicon chip in your handphone, laptop and other electronic gadgets
• High speed train (e.g. shinkansen in Japan) and the superconductors
• Colourful contact lenses
• Pacemaker in a patient’s heart
• Artificial hip transplants
• Dental filling in your tooth cavity
• Microfiltration membrane in NEWater production

All these inventions are the result of materials science advancements! Various industry clusters in Singapore and worldwide are constantly looking for innovation to stay ahead of the technology race. So the study of Materials Science will help you be part of this race.

What will I learn from this Diploma of Materials Science (DMTS) programme?

In DMTS, you will learn to manipulate the structures and properties of materials at the atomic or molecular, crystalline, microscopic and macroscopic levels using advanced characterisation equipment and processing techniques. You will also have an opportunity to make new materials for new areas of industrial as well as domestic applications.

What career does it prepare me for?

DMTS graduates are prepared to join the workforce as laboratory or junior technologist in the chemical, electronics, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and medical technology industries. Graduates will be able to find employment as quality control personnel or in support of materials development programmes.

There are numerous opportunities for further studies as the programme is designed with a strong science core that lays the foundation for the DMTS graduate to develop professionally in materials science, biology, chemistry and the biomedical sciences.

What university degree programmes will I qualify for after getting the diploma?

Locally, both National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) offer undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in Materials Science and Engineering. You may pursue further education in these local universities after getting the diploma if you meet the entry criteria for university admission. Moreover, students, who complete their diploma programme with good GPAs, can gain admission into Nanyang Technological University’s Bachelor of Engineering (Materials Science and Engineering) programme with up to two years’ exemption.

There are also many overseas universities that offer degree programmes in Materials Science and Materials Science and Engineering.

How does the course at RP compare to those found in other polytechnics?

RP is the first polytechnic in Singapore that offers a diploma programme in Materials Science. In 2010, Singapore Polytechnic will also launch a diploma programme in Materials Science. The course structure of our programme is very similar. The main difference is that our programme will be delivered using the Problem-based Learning (PBL) approach and has been developed since 2005. Our PBL approach enhances our students’ communication and problem-solving skills, preparing them for modern work environments and lifelong learning. The diploma programme benchmarks itself with NUS’s first- and second-year degree programmes offered, which are established degree programmes. This also enables graduates who meet the GPA criteria to apply for Nanyang Technological University’s Bachelor of Engineering (Materials Science and Engineering) programme with up to two years’ exemption.

Who is teaching the course?

Our staff have material science and engineering related experience in both academic research and industry. Many of them also possess postgraduate qualifications in this field and excel in areas such as biomaterials, electronic materials, adhesive materials and synthetic chemistry.

Do I qualify for the diploma?

Please click here for the admission requirements.

How many places are being offered in AY2010?

We will offer approximately 150 places for the AY 2010 intake.

What are the Cut-Off Points for this course?

The Cut-Off Points depend largely on the merits of students who apply for the course.

I am interested in DMTS, but I am quite weak in my Sciences. Is it advisable for me to enrol in this course?

It is advantageous, but not a requirement, to have a strong science background in order to enrol in DMTS. The core basic sciences concepts will be revisited in the first year of the programme. If you have a strong interest in this course, coupled with a good learning attitude, we are confident you will excel!