DES is a unique programme pioneered by SP that combines engineering, management and social sciences modules. It leverages on the teaching expertise from two schools – the School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering and the School of Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering.
The course adopts the innovative CDIO[1] educational framework enhanced through the Design Thinking[2] process within a Studio Based Learning environment. To further enhance students’ experience of engineering practice, the one-semester Capstone Project is based on the industry and/or research collaborations.
Inquiry-based Contextual Learning
Working together as a team with classmates just like you – intelligent, ambitious and creative, you will share intense and stimulating inquiry-based learning experiences which promote problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and knowledge construction.
Cohort-based Collaborative Spirit
Throughout your course, you will learn in small groups to encourage collaborative experimentation and discovery. Cohort learning in groups builds teamwork and makes learning more effective through regular interactions among students, fostering a collaborative environment.
Hands-on Creativity
Getting your hands dirty and trying something new is the best way to get excited about a topic! Make learning come to life by applying that knowledge in a project. You will be engaged in hands-on project work through Engineering Design Studios and apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems.
International & Industry Experience
You will have the opportunity to go on a five-month industrial work experience in the final year under DES’s Capstone Project / Internship project program, which could take place locally or overseas. This significant problem-centred learning experience will allow you to initiate, conduct and complete an industry/research project with the potential of full-time employment upon graduation.
Co-Curricular Experience
Co-curricular activities will be part and parcel of your learning experience, where you will make lifelong connections and gain useful skills and knowledge. The activities encompass programs for writing, public speaking, machining and fabrication, as well as workshops on career, university or scholarship application skills.
Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration, Automobiles, Electrification, Health Technologies and Telephone are among the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th Century resulting in improving the lives of billions of people throughout the world. These improvements were not only due to technological advancements but also the result of applying the concepts of ENGINEERING SYSTEMS to integrate technology, people and services.
DES is a multidisciplinary diploma program designed to provide exciting opportunity to experience the interconnections of large and complex systems such as Energy, Health Care, Logistics, Manufacturing, Telecommunication, Transportation and more. The program integrates the fields of engineering, management and social sciences in the first two-years, leading to multidisciplinary options in the final year to develop System Innovators with strong analytical, problem-solving and management skills.
Learning at the intersection of theory, practice and experience, students in DES are challenged to explore the strengths and limitations of engineering and engineering systems. Students also learn to formulate and solve technological problems with an understanding of the social, ethical and environmental contexts. With opportunities for both thinking and doing, the rigor of DES program ensures that graduates are work-ready with knowledge and skills to meet the technological challenges of an evolving and exciting new world.
See also other Diploma courses offered by the School of EEE and School of MAE.
[1] www.cdio.org (Singapore Polytechnic is a member of the CDIO Consortium)
[2] Design Thinking is a process of translating observations into insights and insights into products and services that will improve lives.
