With 60 years of excellence, the School of Chemical & Life Sciences (CLS) shapes industry-ready talent for food, chemical, biopharma, and healthcare sectors. At CLS, learning goes beyond classrooms, and we empower you with skills to excel and drive innovation across these dynamic fields.
CLS Overview
With 60 years of excellence, the School of Chemical & Life Sciences (CLS) shapes industry-ready talent for food, chemical, biopharma, and healthcare sectors backed by robust and updated curriculum validated by local local and international accreditations. As of 2024, 54 CLS graduates have gained admission into local medical schools, the highest number among all polytechnics.
At CLS, we are the first polytechnic to offer the Accelerated Pathway Programme with NUS and NTU for our Applied Chemistry, Biomedical Science, Chemical Engineering, Food Science and Technology, and Perfumery and Cosmetic Science diplomas. High-achieving students can jumpstart their university education by taking up to three university modules in their field of study during their three years at SP through our electives framework.
At CLS, students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences and practical lessons at cutting-edge industry leading facilities, including the SMARTLab for Applied Chemistry, the Medical Technology Suite for Biomedical Science , Future Food Lab for Food Science and Technology, SP Optometry Centre for Optometry, Energy & Chemicals Training Centre for Chemical Engineering and the Perfumery and Cosmetic Science Centre for Perfumery and Cosmetic Science.
Watch what our students, lecturers, and alumni have to say about why you should choose CLS!
At the School of Chemical & Life Sciences (CLS), you can choose from a range of full-time, part-time, and specialist diplomas where you’ll gain hands-on skills in food, chemical, biopharma, and healthcare sectors. Train in industry-standard facilities like the Energy & Chemicals Training Centre, Food Science Laboratories, and SMARTLab. Additionally, gain hands-on experience in the Singapore Polytechnic Optometry Centre, Perfumery & Cosmetics Science Centre, and Medical Technology Suite. Collaborate with industry professionals through SP Innovation Centres, working on real-world projects that equip you with the skills and credentials needed to excel in your field.
Our 3-year full-time diplomas at the School of Chemical & Life Sciences (CLS) offer practical skills and industry exposure, preparing you for a successful career in food, chemical, biopharma, and healthcare sectors. Benefit from hands-on learning, industry collaborations, and opportunities to work on real-world projects. Choose a diploma that matches your strengths and interests, equipping you with the latest skills and industry-relevant experience.
Applied chemistry uses chemistry to solve real-world problems, from creating safer materials to developing better medicines. This lab-based course, recognised by UK institutions, prepares you for R&D careers.
Biomedical Science is the study of human biology, health and diseases to improve diagnosis and treatment. This course provides a strong foundation for a career in healthcare, including pathways to becoming a doctor from polytechnic
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Chemical engineering combines physics, math, chemistry, and engineering to transform raw materials into everyday products.
The Common Science Programme provides hands-on exposure through taster modules. At the end of Year 1, students choose a specialisation in Applied Chemistry, Biomedical Science, Food Science and Technology, or Perfumery and Cosmetic Science.
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Food science and technology focus on safer, sustainable food systems and improving global food security through AI and automation. This course applies scientific principles to study food through chemistry, biology, microbiology, and engineering.
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Optometry is a vital healthcare field that diagnoses and manages eye diseases. At SP's Optometry Centre, you'll learn advanced techniques in vision correction, eye disease detection, and patient care.
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Perfumery and Cosmetic Science blend chemistry with innovation to create sustainable fragrances and skincare. This course is ideal if you're interested in formulation science and product development.
CLS offers 1 to 2.5-year part-time and specialist diplomas designed to help you upskill and deepen your knowledge, with flexible classes on campus and online. Begin your new chapter by selecting a diploma that aligns with your career goals and interests.
Choosing the polytechnic route was an uncommon decision among my peers, but enrolling in the Diploma in Biomedical Science at Singapore Polytechnic was one of the best choices I’ve made. It was more than an academic path—it was a journey of applying science to real-world challenges and contributing meaningfully to efforts that improve lives. I had the opportunity to do just that during my final-year project and internship, where I was involved in breast cancer research at the Department of Pharmacology, NUS Medicine—an experience that deepened my resolve to serve others through medicine.
The Diploma in Food Science & Technology course at SP provided me with valuable insights into different areas of food science such as research and development, as well as food safety and quality. The industry-focused curriculum curated by passionate lecturers enabled me to apply food science knowledge acquired to practical scenarios, notably in modules like ‘Food Product Development & Packaging’ and my Final Year Project. My internship also gave me new perspectives towards food manufacturing and safety protocols. Overall, my DFST journey was genuinely rewarding!
My 2019 decision to pursue biomedical science through EAE exceeded my expectations in shaping my personal and professional growth. Passionate and knowledgeable lecturers made every session engaging, fostering my love for science. Clinical attachments at NHCS left a lasting impression, further enriching my experience. Looking back, choosing the DBS course was one of the best decisions I have made. It not only developed valuable skills but provided me with a sense of purpose and direction in life.
DBS offers an engaging experiential learning process through exciting laboratory practical sessions which mirror real scientific cases. This, coupled with the enthusiastic lecturers enabled me to develop my analytical skills, while strengthening my passion in science. The enriching internship at the DSO National Laboratories enhanced my entire learning experience. The work placement has not only enabled me to apply the knowledge learnt in school, but also provided opportunities to develop additional practical work-place skills.
My three years in SP has been such a defining journey where I got to grow in an environment that supports both my learning needs and passions. The DNHW curriculum has not only equipped me with the relevant theoretical knowledge through comprehensive lectures and tutorial sessions but also practical skillsets in a variety of lab settings to be industry ready.
Singapore Polytechnic
500 Dover Rd Singapore 139651
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