CHEMICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES - Singapore Polytechnic

SCHOOL OF Chemical and life sciences 

SCHOOL OF 

CHEMICAL 

AND LIFE 

SCIENCES 

Chemical and life sciences industries make up one of 

the largest industry in the manufacturing sector of the 

Singapore economy. With the current pace of growth in 

this sector, it is expected that there will be a significant 

demand for trained and skilled workers in the various areas 

of research, academia and industry. 

The School of Chemical and Life Sciences is committed to 

the training of competent and skilled graduates for this 

sector which encompasses the chemical process industries 

including the polymer, food, chemical, petrochemicals, 

pharmaceutical and the process industries; and the 

medical and biomedical industries which cover the 

biotechnology, agrotechnology, biomedical, optometry 

and healthcare sectors. 

Our courses prepare our graduates for a wide range 

of career options and educational possibilities through 

rigorous up-to-date curricula, and teaching methods which 

inculcate independent and analytical thinking, and a strong 

commitment to human values. 

Singapore Polytechnic Prospectus 2008/2009 107


The School offers six Diploma courses, 

three Advanced Diploma and five Specialist 

Diploma courses. The complete list of 

courses with options is as follows: 

Diploma Courses 

• Diploma in Biomedical Science 

(Cardiac Technology) 

• Diploma in Biomedical Science 

(Medical Technology) 

• Diploma in Biotechnology 

• Diploma in Chemical Engineering 

• Diploma in Chemical Process Technology 

(Industrial Chemistry) 

• Diploma in Chemical Process Technology 

(Polymer Technology) 

• Diploma in Food Science & Technology 

• Diploma in Optometry 

Advanced Diploma Courses 

• Advanced Diploma in Food Technology 

• Advanced Diploma in Polymer Technology 

• Advanced Diploma in Optometry 

Specialist Diploma Courses 

• Specialist Diploma in Biotechnology 

• Specialist Diploma in Cervical Cytology 

• Specialist Diploma in Cosmetic Science 

• Specialist Diploma in Haematology and 

Blood Banking 

• Specialist Diploma in Microbiology 

Details on entry requirements of all courses 

are found in the Admissions chapter of 

this prospectus. 

Practical Training 

The School has excellent laboratory 

facilities equipped with the latest 

equipment and experimental set-ups to 

provide students with valuable handson 

experience. This is supplemented by 

industrial training, internship programmes 

or clinical attachment of various periods for 

different diplomas. Our students can also 

gain international exposure through the 

Overseas Industrial Training Programme. 

Diploma in Biomedical Science 

Singapore’s goal to become Asia’s premier 

healthcare hub and the significant growth 

of the biomedical sciences industry make 

the Diploma in Biomedical Science a 

much sought after qualification and the 

obvious choice. 

Biomedical Science is a broad collection 

of scientific disciplines focused on testing, 

diagnosis, management and prevention 

of diseases. 

At Singapore Polytechnic, the three-year 

full-time Diploma in Biomedical Science 

offers two areas of specialisation: Medical 

Technology and Cardiac Technology. 

The Medical Technology option aims 

to train skilled technologists in clinical 

laboratory testing as well as biomedical 

research. The Medical Technology 

curriculum builds on a basic foundation 

in the biological sciences towards indepth 

theoretical and hands-on practical 

training in all aspects of medical laboratory 

science including medical microbiology, 

immunology, haematology, transfusion 

science, clinical chemistry, clinical molecular 

diagnostics and genetics. Research skills 

necessary for work in research and 

development are also emphasised via 

project work. 

The Cardiac Technology option is designed 

to train professionally competent cardiac 

technologists to work in a specialised 

niche in the healthcare industry. Cardiac 

technologists provide technical services 

in the investigation, diagnosis and 

management of heart diseases. With 

the National Heart Centre as our partner 

in training, our students will receive a 

comprehensive foundation in medical 

laboratory and life sciences as well as 

excellent hands-on training in a real-life 

clinical environment. 

Career Prospects 

The biomedical sciences feature 

prominently on the government’s agenda. 

Employment opportunities are excellent 

as the volume of clinical diagnostic tests 

continues to increase with both population 

growth and the development of new types 

of tests and treatment protocols. 

For graduates in the Medical Technology 

option, a challenging career awaits them 

in medical laboratories where they carry 

out scientific tests that aid in disease 

diagnosis and often assist in saving lives. 

Graduates of the Cardiac Technology 

option are well suited for employment in 

the cardiology department of hospitals 

108 Singapore Polytechnic Prospectus 2008/2009


and in private practices where they carry 

out tests for diagnosis and management of 

heart diseases. Employment opportunities 

for our biomedical science graduates can 

also be found in institutions conducting 

disease surveillance, forensics and 

regulatory testing, and pharmaceutical 

research and production. Graduates can 

work as technical specialists or in sales 

and marketing for the medical diagnostics, 

pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. 

Industrial Training / 

Clinical Attachment 

Under the industrial training programme, 

Medical Technology option students will be 

posted to medical laboratories in hospitals 

and related healthcare establishments 

for their clinical rotation and Cardiac 

Technology option students will be posted 

to the National Heart Centre for their 

clinical attachment. 

Course Modules 

Full-Time First Year 

Hours 

Stage 1A 

CP2036 Biosystems & Biomolecules 60 

CP2038 Anatomy & Physiology I 45 

CP2049 Biophysics 45 

CP4001 Analytical & Physical Chemistry 60 

LC0218 Critical Reasoning Skills 30 

MS2101 Mathematics A 60 

SP0201 Character Development 30 

General Elective Module 1 

(Semester 2) 30 

Stage 1B 

CP2007 Basic Microbiology 75 

CP2037 Cell Biology 75 

CP4006 Inorganic & Organic Chemistry 75 

LC0203 Report Writing & Presentation 30 

MS2103 Mathematics B 60 

SP0202 Innovation, Design & 

Enterprise in Action 30 



MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY OPTION 

Full-Time Second Year 

Stage 2A 

CP2013 Biochemical Techniques 75 

CP2041 Clinical Chemistry 1 60 

CP2042 Basic Immunology 45 

CP2046 Medical Microbiology A 75 

CP2070 Cinical Instrumentation & 

Automation 60 

MS2230 Biostatistics 60 

General Elective Module 2 30 

Stage 2B 

CP2008 Metabolic Biochemistry 75 

CP2029 Basic Pathology 60 

CP2043 Haematology 1 60 

CP2044 Anatomy & Physiology 2 45 

CP2063 Genetics & Molecular Biology 75 

CP2069 Environmental Science 60 


IS1006 Industrial Training Programme 

Full-Time Third Year 

Stage 3A 

CP202Z Project* 60 

CP2034 Blood Banking 60 

CP2035 Histological Techniques 60 

CP2045 Haematology 2 75 

CP2067 Pathobiology of Human Diseases 45 

LC0209 Communication Skills for 

Health Professionals 30 


Stage 3B 


CP2033 Applied Immunology 75 


CP2048 Medical Microbiology B 75 

CP2053 Techniques in Clinical 

Molecular Diagnostics 45 

CP2060 Laboratory Management & 

Biosafety 45 

Elective Modules 

CP2040 Good Laboratory & 

Manufacturing Practice 45 

CP2052 Introductory Pharmacology 30 

CARDIAC TECHNOLOGY OPTION 


Stage 2A 


CP2046 Medical Microbiology A 75 


Biosafety 45 

CP2063 Genetics & Molecular Biology 75 




Stage 2B 

CT001Z Clinical Attachment 

CP2052 Introductory Pharmacology 30 

CP2062 Pharmacology Mathematics 30 

CT0012 Applied Cardiac Anatomy & 

Physiology 60 

CT0013 General Cardiology & Cardiac 

Disorders 1 60 

CT0014 ECG, Stress Tests & Rhythm 

Disorders 90 


Health Professionals 30 



A close look at medical imaging. 

Stage 3A 

CT001Z Clinical Attachment 

CT0015 Diagnostic & Interventional 

Cardiac Catheterisation 90 

CT0016 General Cardiology & Cardiac 

Disorders 2 60 

CT0017 Echocardiography 90 

CT0018 Electrophysiology & Pacemakers 90 

CT0019 Cardiac Pharmacology, 

Nuclear Cardiology & Others 60 

Stage 3B 



CP2042 Basic Immunology 45 


CP2058 Immunohaematology 75 

* Modules covered in two semesters 




Diploma in Biotechnology 

The Diploma in Biotechnology course 

focuses on many areas of growth in the 

life sciences. The Biotechnology curriculum 

provides a strong foundation in cell biology, 

microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry 

and mathematics. In addition, students 

are expected to cover modules such as 

biophysics, plant sciences, molecular 

biology, microbial genetics, animal and 

plant tissue culture, plant biotechnology, 

agrotechnology, applied microbiology, 

hybridoma technology, immunology, 

genomic techniques, biostatistics and 

bioinformatics databases and tools. 

Students will learn how to manipulate 

nucleic acids, conduct genome analysis and 

produce enzymes, monoclonal antibodies, 

antibiotics and other organic molecules. 

Biosafety aspects of clinical, research 

laboratories and hospitals are also covered 

to create a culture of safety for all students. 

Communication skills and report writing 

modules prepare students for work and/or 

university education. 

At Singapore Polytechnic there is a 

strong emphasis on practical hands-on 

training in well-equipped laboratories. 

Facilities include specialist suites for 

microbiology, hybridoma, animal cell 

culture, biochemistry, plant tissue culture, 

fermentation and bioprocess studies, 

molecular biology and genomic techniques. 

These facilities house sophisticated 

instrumentation and equipment such as 

DNA sequencer, polymerase chain reaction 

thermal cyclers, real-time PCR machines, 

electro-cell fusion apparatus, biosafety 

cabinets, electrophoresis units, electron 

transmission, fluorescent and scanning 

electron microscopes, ultracentrifuge, tissue 

processors and a variety of fermenters 

and bioreactors. Facilities in the Solarium 

provide training in hydroponics and 

aeroponics while training in selective 

breeding of ornamental fish is undertaken 

in the Aquaculture Unit. 


With the increasing emphasis on Life 

Sciences in Singapore, graduates of 

the Diploma in Biotechnology are well 

placed for employment in the biomedical 

sciences sector and related areas of 

research and development. They will be 

able to achieve a level of satisfaction in 

niche areas of cutting-edge research; 

especially in new start-up companies 

involved in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, 

agricultural and healthcare products and 

services. Other career opportunities are 

also available in the public sectors in the 

National Environment Agency, Ministry of 

Education, National Parks Board and Agri- 

Food & Veterinary Authority, etc. 

Industrial Training 

Under the industrial training programme, 

biotechnology students can look forward to 

the opportunity of attachments at selected 

hospitals, biomedical science laboratories, 

research laboratories and biotechnology 

related establishments. Overseas 

attachments are also available. This will 

inculcate a global mindset in our students. 


Hours 

Stage 1A 

CP2036 Biosystems & Biomolecules 60 


CP2049 Biophysics 45 



MS2101 Mathematics A 60 




Stage 1B 

CP2007 Basic Microbiology 75 

CP2037 Cell Biology 75 



MS2103 Mathematics B 60 






Stage 2A 

CP2003 Plant Sciences 45 

CP2009 Molecular Genetics 60 

CP2011 Applied Microbiology 60 

CP2013 Biochemical Techniques 75 

CP4062 Organic Synthesis & 

Reaction Mechanisms 60 




Stage 2B 


CP2016 Molecular Biology 75 

CP2044 Anatomy & Physiology 2 45 


Biosafety 45 

CP2069 Environmental Science 60 

CP4009 Basic Instrumental Analysis 60 




Stage 3A 


CP2022 Animal Cell Culture 60 

CP2023 Bioprocess Engineering 60 

CP2055 Genomic Techniques 75 

CP2056 Plant Biotechnology 60 

CP2068 WWW Bioinformatics 30 

LC0206 Oral Communication 30 


Stage 3B 


CP2024 Hybridoma Technology 75 

CP2025 Immunology 75 

CP2040 Good Laboratory & 

Manufacturing Practice 45 

CP2051 Molecular Modelling 30 

CP2054 Agrotechnology 60 

LC0214 Communication Skills for Work 30 




development, design and control, project 

management, environmental and energy 

management, research and development, 

marketing and technical sales, etc. 

Internship Programme 

Diploma in Chemical Engineering 

Chemical Engineering is an important 

discipline in the management of the 

Chemical Process industry. The Chemical 

Process industry covers a wide range of 

manufacturing industries, with products 

as diverse as petrochemicals, specialty 

chemicals, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors 

as well as food and healthcare products. 

Critical operational issues include process 

optimisation, environmental management, 

energy conservation and workplace safety. 

Running these industries efficiently and 

safely in a cost effective way demands 

exceptional talent and skills. 

Chemical Engineering technologists need 

to be good communicators who are quick 

learners and self-motivated individuals who 

work well in teams and able to work under 

pressure. These attributes are developed 

throughout the course to enable graduates 

to rise easily into positions of responsibility. 

Students will undergo extensive practical 

work in operating sophisticated pilot plants 

and computer systems, augmented by 

an industrial internship to prepare for a 

challenging career. 

The teaching staff comprises of highly 

qualified and experienced engineers who 

have jointly established a strong network 

with industry as well as universities and 

research institutes. 

The School has chemical engineering 

laboratories equipped with wellinstrumented 

pilot plants and stateof-the-art 

computer control systems. 

Students will benefit from hands-on 

experience in operating a whole range 

of process equipment, supplemented by 

multimedia-based process training and 

dynamic simulation. 

A Diploma and More 

Designed for students who wish to embark 

on a career in the chemical industry, 

the SP Diploma in Chemical Engineering 

offers a rigorous curriculum that balances 

theory with realistic hands-on practice. 

Students who intend to pursue a university 

degree course may also opt to study for 

a Certificate in Engineering Mathematics 

together with their diploma. This certificate 

course will provide a strong mathematics 

foundation for students intending to study 

for engineering or technological degrees 

at universities. 

Furthermore, the SP Diploma in Chemical 

Engineering is accredited by the Institution 

of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), U.K. 

since 1996, and our graduates are granted 

direct entry into the 2nd or 3rd year of 

many university degree programmes locally 

and abroad. 


Graduates may find employment in the 

chemical, petroleum, petrochemical, 

pharmaceutical, bioprocess, plastics, or 

food industry in addition to building careers 

in wafer fabrication plants, water treatment 

and waste disposal companies, energy 

management and process consulting firms, 

process training institutes, and various 

government offices. 

Chemical Engineering graduates are highly 

sought after for they are suitable for 

numerous fields such as production, process 

This 6-week internship programme is a 

customised Industrial Training Programme 

specially designed for Chemical Engineering 

students. The programme is organised in 

conjunction with the Chemical Process 

Technology Centre (CPTC) on Jurong 

Island. Second year students are required 

to undergo a structured programme during 

the semester vacation. The primary focus 

is to provide practice-oriented training 

on a live industry-scale chemical plant. 

Many important operational aspects are 

covered, including design and operation 

of distillation columns, heat exchangers, 

pipelines and storage vessels, pumps and 

compressors, the furnace and the flare, 

process instruments and DCS control, 

utility systems and effluent handling, 

as well as hands-on exposure to field 

communications, equipment maintenance 

and process safety management. Students 

will also get the opportunity to work on 

rotating shifts for 1.5 weeks to experience 

the life of a process technologist. 



Hours 

Stage 1A 


CP4008 Applied Electricity & Electronics 60 

CP4088 Materials in Practice 60 

CP5046 Chemical Engineering 

Principles A 45 

CP5045 Introduction to Chemical 

Engineering (Semester 1) 45 


MS2125 Basic Mathematics (Semester 1) 60 




Stage 1B 


CP4089 Introduction to Microbiology 60 

CP5047 Chemical Engineering 

Principles B 60 

CP5045 Introduction to Chemical 

Engineering (Semester 1) 45 

CP5048 Introduction to Plant Design 

and Simulation 30 


MS2126 Engineering Mathematics I 75 








Stage 2A 

CP4011 Process Instrumentation 60 

CP5007 Fluid Mechanics A 60 

CP5008 Heat Transfer & Equipment 75 

CP5050 Plant Design & Simulation A 30 

CP511Z Product Design & 

Development 60 

MS2223 Engineering Mathematics IIA 75 


IS1005 Internship Programme (Semester 2) 

Stage 2B 

CP5006 Environmental Engineering 60 

CP5009 Chemical Reaction Engineering 60 

CP5010 Fluid Mechanics B 60 

CP5033 Plant Safety & Loss Prevention 45 

CP5042 Bioanalytics 60 

CP5051 Plant Design & Simulation B 30 

CP511Z Product Design & 

Development 60 

MS2224 Engineering Mathematics IIB 75 


IS1005 Internship Programme (Semester 2) 


Stage 3A 


CP4041 Process Control 60 

CP5015 Mass Transfer in 

Unit Operations A 60 

CP5052 Plant Design, Economics and 

Management A 30 

CP5049 Quality Management & Statistics 75 

LC0202 Effective Interpersonal 

Communication 30 


Stage 3B 


CP5017 Mass Transfer in 

Unit Operations B 60 

CP5023 Thermodynamics 45 

CP5041 Bioprocess Engineering 

Principles 60 

CP5053 Plant Design, Economics and 

Management B 30 



(To select a total of two modules in Year 3) 


CP4099 Display Technology 

& Nanoscience 60 

CP4105 Specialty Chemicals 

& Biodevices 60 

CP5018 Corrosion & Materials Selection 45 

CP5031 Membrane Science 

& Technology 60 

CP5037 Pharmaceutical Manufacturing 45 

CP5038 Industrial Waste Management 45 

CP5039 Petroleum Refining Technology 45 

CP5040 Chemical Plant Layout 

Modelling 45 

CP5044 current Good Manufacturing 

Practice (cGMP) 45 


Diploma in Chemical Process Technology 

The chemical industry in Singapore is a 

high-growth industry with an output 

projected to increase tremendously over the 

next few years. This will position Singapore 

as a centre for the development of the 

chemical industry in the region. The future 

prospect for technologists in the industry is 

therefore very bright. 

Over the years, the Diploma in Chemical 

Process Technology course offered at the 

Singapore Polytechnic has established a 

strong reputation for academic excellence 

and industrial relevance. It has gained wide 

recognition both locally and overseas and 

follows a modular structure. The First Year 

of the course is common to all students, 

regardless of their later specialisation, and 

aims to give students a strong foundation 

in the basic sciences and technologies like 

chemistry, mathematics, computing and 

chemical process principles. This grounding 

adequately prepares students to pursue 

further technology options in the later 

stages of the course. 

The two options offered from the Second 

Year onwards are: Polymer Technology; and 

Industrial Chemistry. In addition, students 

who take these options may also choose 

a concentration of modules that focus on 

creativity, innovation and enterprise (CIE). 


As Singapore’s chemical industries continue 

in its growth phase, there will be ample 

employment opportunities for graduates in 

Diploma in Chemical Process Technology. 

Enterprising graduates have ventured on to 

setting up their own proprietary companies. 

Graduates specialising in polymer 

technology can find employment as 

development technologists, production and 

quality control supervisors or engineering 

assistants in plastics and polymer-related 

industries in the biomedical and electronics 

sectors. Specialising in industrial chemistry 

provides our graduates with a wide scope 

of career choices as perfumery assistants, 

QC/QA analysts, fragrance evaluators, 

technical services support executives, 

product specialists, chemists, production 

engineers etc. 

Membership Exemption 

Graduates of the Polymer Technology 

Option who have the relevant work 

experience are eligible for election to the 

Licentiateship of the Plastics and Rubber 

Institute of Singapore. 

Graduates of the Industrial Chemistry 

Option who have relevant work experience 

are eligible for election to membership 

of the Singapore National Institute of 

Chemistry and the Society of Cosmetic 

Scientists (Singapore). 



Hours 

Stage 1A 


CP4008 Applied Electricity & Electronics 60 


CP5034 Chemical Process Principles A 60 


MS2125 Basic Mathematics 60 




Stage 1B 



CP5035 Chemical Process Principles B 60 



MS2524 Application Software – 

Spreadsheet 30 





POLYMER TECHNOLOGY OPTION 


Stage 2A 


CP4010 Environmental Studies A 60 


CP4014 Polymer Science 60 

CP4027 Materials Science 60 

CP4069 Plastics Materials and Additives I 60 



(Semester 2) 

Stage 2B 

CP4036 Quality Assurance & Statistics 60 

CP4071 Polymer Processing I 60 



CP4079 Strength and Properties of 

Materials 60 

CP4094 The Art & Science of Colours 30 

CP4100 Nanomaterials 30 

CP4101 Graphics & Mould Design 75 

MS2227 Engineering Mathematics II 45 





Stage 3A 


CP4070 Plastic Materials and Additives II 60 

CP4073 Materials Characterisation and 

Failure Analysis 60 

CP4074 Product Design 60 

CP4076 Composites Technology 60 

CP9010 Productivity & 

Quality Management 30 




Stage 3B 


CP4072 Polymer Processing II 60 

CP4078 Coatings and 

Adhesive Technology 60 

CP4106 Biomaterials 60 

ET0166 Microdevices & Materials 60 



CP4087 Water-Soluble Polymers 30 

CP4107 Elastomers 30 

CP4108 Basic Mould Design 30 

CP4111 Basic Nanotechnology 30 

INDUSTRIAL CHEMISTRY OPTION 


Stage 2A 





CP4030 Corrosion Science 60 





Stage 2B 

CP4016 Chemical Engineering Principles 60 

CP4028 Environmental Studies B 60 


CP4053 Trace & Transition Elements & 

Complexes 60 

CP4098 Forensic Chemistry 60 





Stage 3A 


CP4048 Advanced Instrumental & 

Laboratory Techniques 60 

CP4055 Pharmaceuticals & 

Pharmaceutical Chemistry 60 

CP4057 Fragrance Chemistry 45 

CP9010 Productivity & 






CP4099 Display Technology & 

Nanoscience 60 

CP4102 Advanced Physical Chemistry 60 

Stage 3B 


CP4050 Industrial Chemicals & Processes 60 

CP4086 Laboratory Management 60 

CP4095 Personal Care and 

Cosmetics Chemistry 60 

CP9013 current Good Manufacturing 

Practice (cGMP) 30 



CP4103 Advanced Organic Chemistry 60 

CP4105 Specialty Chemicals and 

Biodevices 60 


DIPLOMA IN CHEMICAL PROCESS 

TECHNOLOGY WITH CREATIVITY, 

INNOVATION AND ENTERPRISE (CIE) 

POLYMER TECHNOLOGY WITH CIE 


Stage 2A 

LC0220 Writing Skills for 

Technological Entrepreneurs 30 

MM2702 Design Techniques and Skills 60 

MM2700 Product Design and 

Development I 60 


CP4014 Polymer Science 60 


CP4069 Plastics Materials and Additives I 60 


Stage 2B 

BA0232 Business Planning for 

New Ventures 45 

CP4101 Graphics & Mould Design 75 

CP4036 Quality Assurance and Statistics 60 

CP4071 Polymer Processing I 60 

CP4079 Strength and Properties of 

Materials 60 


Development II 60 




Stage 3A 

CP4070 Plastics Materials and 

Additives II 60 

CP4072 Polymer Processing II 60 

CP4073 Materials Characterisation and 

Failure Analysis 60 

CP4076 Composites Technology 60 

CP4078 Coatings and Adhesives 

Technology 60 

CP4106 Biomaterials 60 


Entrepreneurs 30 


Stage 3B 

SP9051 Project 570 

INDUSTRIAL CHEMISTRY WITH CIE 


Stage 2A 





LC0220 Writing Skills for 

Technological Entrepreneurs 30 


Development I 60 

MM2702 Design Techniques and Skills 60 


Stage 2B 

BA0232 Business Planning for 

New Ventures 45 

CP4028 Environmental Studies B 60 

CP4036 Quality Assurance and Statistics 60 



CP4098 Forensic Chemistry 60 


Development II 60 




Stage 3A 

CP4048 Advanced Instrumental & 

Lab Techniques 60 

CP4055 Pharmaceuticals & 

Pharmaceutical Chemistry 60 

CP4057 Fragrance Chemistry 45 

CP4065 Personal Care & 

Cosmetics Chemistry 60 

CP4086 Laboratory Management 60 

CP4099 Display Technology & 

Nanoscience 60 


Entrepreneurs 30 


Stage 3B 

SP9051 Project 570 



Food and food flavourings industries 

employ technologists in product 

formulation, product development, 

quality assurance, processing, marketing 

and food services. 

The chemical and pharmaceutical industry 

employs our graduates in various areas such 

as laboratory work, health food production, 

technical services in food processing and 

testing equipment. 

Furthermore, with the launch of the FIRC 

and the increasing trend of globalisation, 

research and development activities are 

expected to grow in the food industry 

sector, there will always be ample 

opportunities for food graduates in 

this area. 



Hours 

Diploma in Food Science and Technology 

Since the inception of the food technology 

programme in 1972, Singapore Polytechnic 

(SP) has been providing quality training to 

meet the manpower needs of the food 

industry. The course has a well-established 

curriculum, which emphasises both theory 

as well as hands-on training through 

practicals, assignments, project work and 

industrial attachment. Our students also 

gain international exposure through the 

Overseas Industrial Training programme. 

There are well-equipped food laboratories 

and workshops to support the hands-on 

training of the curriculum. There is also 

a teaching factory, the Asian Noodle 

Technology Development Centre which 

supports training for the full-time students, 

regional training courses as well as 

research and development in wheat-based 

noodle products. 

Under SPRING Singapore’s Technology 

Innovation Programme (TIP), the Food 

Innovation & Resource Centre (FIRC) was 

set up in Singapore Polytechnic. It serves 

as a one-stop centre to provide integrated 

consultancy, advisory and training sessions 

for food enterprises. 

These facilities are well integrated to 

support not only the course curriculum 

but also a wide spectrum of consultancy, 

applied research and development 

projects. The majority of these R & D 

projects is carried out in close collaboration 

with the industry, providing students 

with opportunities to acquire hands-on 

experience in real life working situations. 

Product innovation has always been a top 

priority at SP. The challenge of change 

has driven the staff and students of the 

food science & technology programme to 

commercialise a portfolio of food products, 

e.g. Lemonsi Delight beverage, Two- 

Ply Noodles, Inulin-Infused Chocolates, 

XO Kaya, Yamie Rice, Low-Fat Chinese 

Sausages, the Singapore Salad Sauce, and 

Rainbow Rice. 


Major employers will be in the food, 

chemical and pharmaceutical industry 

sectors. Our graduates are employed in 

the areas of laboratory work, health food 

production and technical support in the 

chemical and pharmaceutical industry. 

Stage 1A 



CP6001 Introductory Food Science 60 

CP5034 Chemical Process Principles A 60 


MS2125 Basic Mathematics 60 




Stage 1B 



CP5035 Chemical Process Principles B 60 



MS2524 Application Software – 

Spreadsheet 30 






Stage 2A 


CP6003 Introduction to Biochemistry 60 


CP6004 Food Chemistry 60 

CP6005 Food Preservation 60 

CP6006 Food Microbiology 60 



(Semester 2) 



Stage 2B 

CP4016 Chemical Engineering Principles 60 

CP6007 Nutrition 60 

CP6008 Food Materials & Processes 60 


CP6009 Introduction to Food Product 

Design and Development 75 




(Semester 2) 


Stage 3A 


CP6010 Food Engineering Operations 60 

CP6011 Food Biotechnology 60 

CP6012 Food Flavours 60 

CP6013 Food Packaging & Design 60 

CP6014 Industrial and Environment 

Management 30 




Stage 3B 


CP6015 Applied Nutrition 60 

CP6016 Food Process Engineering 60 

CP6017 Food Analysis & Legislation 60 

CP6018 Food Safety & 


CP6019 Food Operations Management 45 


*Modules covered in two semesters 

Inulin-infused chocolates one of many 

innovations from the School. 

Diploma in Optometry 

Optometry is the study of visual defects and 

functional disorders of the eye. The scope 

of Optometry includes the detection of 

common eye diseases, the management of 

binocular vision problems such as squints 

and lazy eyes and the prescription of 

spectacles and contact lenses. 

The Diploma in Optometry is a three-year 

full-time course which aims to produce 

professionally competent optometrists 

serving as primary eye care health 

practitioners in our community. 

The Singapore Polytechnic is the only 

tertiary institution in Singapore that offers a 

Diploma in Optometry. Graduates are able 

to register as qualified optometrists with 

the Optometrists and Opticians Board upon 

completion of the course. The Ministry of 

Health has projected good demand for 

graduate optometrists in the coming years. 

The School has excellent clinical and 

laboratory facilities that provide students 

with hands-on experience on the latest 

equipment and machines. There are 

currently two Optometry Centres to 

support the diploma course. Students 

will also be sent to selected hospitals and 

eye-care related companies for industrial 

attachment to widen their scope of 

experience in Optometry. 


There is currently a shortage of graduate 

optometrists in Singapore and there will be 

a healthy demand for these optometrists 

in the coming years. Graduates are well 

suited for employment as optometrists in 

private practices or as salaried employees 

of eye-care related companies. Government 

hospitals and some statutory bodies also 

routinely employ optometrists. Alternatively, 

graduates may pursue research careers 

at institutions such as the Singapore Eye 

Research Institute (SERI) and the Defence 

Science Organisation (DSO). 


Practical training will be conducted at the 

Singapore Polytechnic’s two Optometry 

Centres. The School has excellent clinical 

and laboratory facilities that provide 

students with hands-on experience on the 

latest equipment and precision instruments. 

Students will also be sent to selected 

hospitals, contact lens and ophthalmic 

lens companies for attachment during 

the vacation in order to widen their 

scope of experience in Optometry. 

Opportunities also exist for students to 

undertake overseas community projects 

and attachments to the various Schools of 

Optometry and research institutions abroad. 




Hours 

Stage 1A 


CP3008 Human Biochemistry 60 

CP3034 General Optics 90 



MS2104 Mathematics 45 



Stage 1B 

CP3029 Introductory Ocular 

Microbiology 60 

CP3031 Ocular Anatomy 60 

CP3032 Ocular Physiology 60 

CP3035 Physiological & Visual Optics 90 

CP3043 Introductory Pathology 30 




Advanced Diploma In Food Technology 

Singapore Polytechnic is the only tertiary 

institution in Singapore that offers 

education and training in food technology 

at Advanced Diploma level. The main 

objective of the two year part time 

Advanced Diploma course is to upgrade 

the technical knowledge and skills of food 

technologists, with emphasis on food safety 

and food product innovation. The course 

upgrades the skills of technologists and 

managers in the areas of management, 

marketing communication and problemsolving 

in order to enhance their job 

performance for a global knowledge-based 

economy. 


Evenings-Only 

Theme: Food Safety 

Hours 

Stage A 

CP0516 Applied Food Chemistry 45 

CP0517 Food Processing 45 

CP0518 Applied Food Microbiology 45 

Stage B 

CP0519 Food Analysis 45 

CP0520 Food Quality Management 45 

CP0521 Food Bioengineering 45 

Evenings-Only 

Theme: Food Product Innovation 


Stage 2A 

CP3004 Ophthalmic Optics 60 

CP3010 Clinical Optometry 1 120 

CP3013 Ocular Pharmacology 45 

CP3038 Introduction to Contact Lens 75 

CP3041 Ocular Pathology 1 45 


Stage 2B 

CP3015 Clinical Optometry 2 45 

CP3017 Binocular Vision 75 

CP3039 Contact Lens Fitting 90 

CP3040 Contact Lens Complications 45 

CP3042 Ocular Pathology 2 45 





Stage 3A 


CP3022 Clinical Practice I 90 

CP3023 Contact Lens Clinical Practice 1 90 

BA9014 Business Management for 

Optometry Practice 75 




Stage 3B 


CP3012 Ophthalmic Dispensing 60 

CP3024 Clinical Practice 2 90 

CP3025 Contact Lens Clinical Practice 2 90 

CP3026 Environmental & 

Community Health Optometry 45 

*Modules covered in two semesters 

Graduates of the Advanced Diploma in 

Food Technology, who have the relevant 

work experience, are eligible for election 

to the professional membership of the 

Singapore Institute of Food Science & 

Technology upon application to the 

Institute. They may be accorded advanced 

standing for direct admission to the 

final year of the B.Sc. or M.Sc. degree 

programmes of several overseas universities. 



Food Technology find employment as 

food technologists and managers in the 

food manufacturing and service industries, 

primarily in processing, product and 

process development, quality management, 

marketing and technical support. 

Assessment 

Assessment of the course modules is 

by written examinations and in-course 

assessment, which includes practical work 

assessment. A satisfactory performance 

is required for both the course work 

and examinations. 

Entry Requirements 

Please refer to the Admissions chapter of 

this prospectus for details. 

Stage A 

CP0506 Food Product Development 45 

CP0514 Food Ingredients 45 

CP0524 Food Marketing & Project 

Management 45 

Stage B 

CP0522 Nutrition & Metabolism 45 

CP0523 Food Packaging Technology 45 

BA5204 Supply Chain Management 45 

CP002Z Project (Module covered in 

two semesters of Year 2) 60 

Professional development for 

those in the food industry. 



Advanced Diploma In Optometry 

Singapore Polytechnic is the only tertiary 

institution in Singapore that offers courses 

in Optometry at both Diploma and 

Advanced Diploma levels. The Advanced 

course was first launched in July 2004. 

The aim of the two year part time course 

is to upgrade the level of technical skills 

and knowledge of qualified optometrists 

to meet the challenges within the everchanging 

optical and eye care industries. 

Key features of the course include the 

teaching of advanced techniques with 

diagnostic agents by eye specialists from 

Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) to 

detect and diagnose eye diseases, teaching 

of clinical techniques to refract and manage 

children, fitting specialised contact lenses, 

and to prescribe low vision aids to those 

with visual disability. 


Employment opportunities for graduates 

with the Advanced Diploma in Optometry 

qualifications in Singapore are projected to 

be very bright due to the more advanced 

clinical skills of these optometrists. 

Graduates are well suited for employment 

as optometrists in private practices of 

other optometrists and eye specialists. 

Government hospitals and statutory bodies 

will also employ these optometrists in their 

organisations. Alternatively, graduates 

may pursue research careers at various 

R&D institutions. 


Practical training will be conducted at the 

Singapore Polytechnic’s two Optometry 

Centres and at SNEC. The Optometry 

Centres have a range of state-of-the-art 

clinical and laboratory facilities that provide 

students with enhanced learning experience 

on the latest equipment and precision 

instruments, while SNEC is recognised 

as the premier eye specialist centre in 

Singapore that provides excellent clinical 

training facility. 





Part-Time First Year 

Hours 

Stage 1A 

CP3201 Advanced Diagnostic 

Techniques 120 

CP3202 Pharmacology of the Eye 60 

Stage 1B 

CP3203 Advanced Clinical Optometry 1 75 

CP3204 Paediatric Optometry 75 

Part-Time Second Year 

Stage 2A 


CP3205 Advanced Clinical Optometry 2 90 

CP3206 Contact Lens Study 1 30 

Stage 2B 


CP3208 Contact Lens Study 2 30 

CP3209 Low Vision 30 

CP3210 Clinical Managemen 

Techniques 60 


Advanced Diploma In Polymer Technology 

The Singapore Polytechnic is the only 

tertiary institution in Singapore that 

offers courses in polymer technology at 

both Diploma and Advanced Diploma 

levels. The main objective of the two year 

part time Advanced Diploma in Polymer 

Technology course is to upgrade the level of 

technical knowledge and skills of polymer 

technologists to meet the requirements 

of the local polymer industry, which is 

fast moving towards higher value added 

product manufacturing. 

In this regard, the course emphasis is 

on industrial applications, like materials 

characterisation, moulding, product design 

and equipment control. Graduates of the 

Advanced Diploma in Polymer Technology 

are eligible for election to Membership 

of the Plastics and Rubber Institute 

of Singapore. 



Polymer Technology find employment 

as senior technologists in the plastics 

and electronics industries, primarily in 

production, research and development, 

quality assurance, design and technical sales. 

Assessment 

Assessment of the course modules is 

by written examinations and in-course 

assessment, which includes practical work 

assessment. A satisfactory performance 

is required for both the course work 

and examinations. 





Evenings-Only First Year 

Hours 

Stage 1A 

CP0001 Chain & Step Growth 

Polymerisation 45 

CP0002 Properties of Polymer Molecules 45 

CP0003 Thermoplastics & Additives 45 

Stage 1B 

CP0004 Major Thermosets & 

Polymer Reactions 45 

CP0005 Polymer Physics 45 

CP0006 Polymer Characterisation 45 

Evening-Only Second Year 

Stage 2A 


CP0014 Plastics Processing Technology 45 

CP0015 Project & Financial Management 45 

MS2301 Engineering Mathematics 45 

Stage 2B 


CP0016 Product & 

Mould Design Technology 45 

CP0017 Advanced Materials Technology 45 

CP0018 Communication Skills & 

Marketing 45 




Specialist Diploma In Biotechnology 


The Specialist Diploma in Biotechnology 

will equip technologists in genetics, the cell 

cycle, antioxidants and anti-aging science, 

environmental biotechnology, proteome 

analysis, human molecular genetics and 

genome bioinformatics. 

The technologists in clinical, diagnostic, 

pharmaceutical, microbiological, biomedical 

and life science research laboratories 

in various research institutes, industrial 

parks and universities, public and private 

laboratories and schools who may have 

the relevant diploma and/or degree 

qualifications obtained in the past five 

years, would benefit from this course which 

focuses on new concepts in molecular 

analysis and bench skills in biotechnologyrelated 

modules. 


Graduates of the Specialist Diploma in 

Biotechnology could find employment 

as technologists in biomedical science 

laboratories in the biomedical science 

and life science sectors or in sales and 

marketing support. 

Assessment 

Assessment is fully in-course which includes 

practical tests, data sheets, case studies, 

short written tests and oral presentations. 


Please refer to the admissions chapter of 


Evenings-Only 

Hours 

Stage A 

CP0201 Cell Division and Apoptosis 30 

CP0202 Human Molecular Genetics 45 

CP0203 Antioxidants and Free Radicals 30 

CP0204 Environmental Biotechnology 30 

Stage B 

CP0205 Genetics 60 

CP0206 Molecular Techniques 30 

CP0207 Proteome Analysis 30 

Specialist Diploma In Cervical Cytology 


Contemporary cytotechnologists have 

been called upon for an increasing variety 

of laboratory responsibilities. However the 

current level of education and development 

of cytotechnologists have not matched 

the pace of progression of the field and 

there is a critical need to bridge the 

gap. The Specialist Diploma in Cervical 

Cytology course will enable candidates 

to acquire theoretical knowledge and 

application skills relevant to cytology. With 

its emphasis on hands-on practical training 

using new and emerging technologies, 

it is also designed as a knowledgecum-skills 

upgrading course for current 

and intending cytotechnologists and 

laboratory technologists. 

The course is a one-year part-time evenings 

only programme conducted over two 

semesters. The programme consists of 270 

instructional hours spread over six modules. 

Assessment 

Assessment is fully in-course, which 

includes both written and practical tests, 

oral presentations and case studies. 




Evenings-Only 

Hours 

Stage A 

CT1004 Cervical Cytology A 60 


CP0304 Laboratory Management and 

Biosafety 30 

Stage B 

CT1005 Cervical Cytology B 60 





Specialist Diploma In Cosmetic Science 


The local cosmetic industry is fast changing 

from being a sole importer and retailer 

of cosmetics to being a manufacturer. 

This growth phase is a result of having an 

established client base. However, technical 

support for this industry is weak. Presently, 

there is no formal training programme 

in the region and those who need to 

upgrade must attend courses/programmes 

in Europe or USA. The Specialist Diploma 

is to help in the development of the 

local cosmetic industry in Singapore. 

The luxury retail market which includes 

fragrances and cosmetics is set to grow at 

a compound annual growth rate of 12% 

from the current market value of US$70 

billion to US$100 billion in 2008. Also, the 

Agreement on the ASEAN Harmonised 

Cosmetic Regulatory Scheme for Cosmetic 

products, when fully implemented in 

January 2008 will require training of 

professionals in the industry. 

This course is a one-year part-time 

evenings-only programme. The curriculum 

consists of 6 modules, with 3 modules 

conducted in each semester. Each module 

is of 45-hour duration. Graduates from the 

programme will be equipped with current 

concepts pertaining to the chemistry of 

hair-care, skincare and perfumery and an in 

depth knowledge on dermal pharmacology 

and cosmetic regulations. The laboratory 

sessions will provide hands-on experience in 

formulating hair and skincare products and 

practical skills on microbiological testing of 

cosmetic products. 

Assessment 

The assessment is fully in-course and 

students will be assessed on a continual 

basis throughout the course. Generally, 

the assessment methods include written 

tests, practical tests, oral presentations and 

written reports. 




Evenings-Only 

Hours 

Stage A 

CP0401 Hair-care Raw Materials and 

Formulations 45 

CP0403 Dermal Pharmacology & 

Cosmetic Regulations 45 

CP0402 Perfumery 45 

Stage B 

CP0405 Colloid & Polymer Science 45 

CP0404 Skincare Raw Materials & 

Formulations 45 

CP0406 Cosmetic Science Laboratory 45 

Specialist Diploma In Haematology and Blood Banking 

Currently, there are technologists and 

scientists working in clinical diagnostic, 

biomedical and life science research 

laboratories in hospitals, industrial parks, 

universities, private laboratories and schools 

who may have gained a relevant diploma 

and/or degree qualification several years 

ago and are now eager to upgrade their 

credentials or simply keep abreast and learn 

new concepts in the rapidly advancing fields 

of haematology and blood banking. 

The course will provide an avenue for 

individuals with relevant qualifications and 

experience to update knowledge and hone 

their laboratory skills while also introducing 

more specialised subjects to those qualified 

in related areas but required to bridge 

into haematology in the course of their 

work / research. 





Assessment 








Evenings-Only 

Hours 

Stage A 

CP0701 Haematology 90 

CP0702 Clinical Flow Cytometry 30 

Stage B 

CP0703 Blood Banking 60 


Biosafety 30 





Specialist Diploma In Microbiology 


The pool of technicians working in the 

medical diagnostic laboratories, food 

testing laboratories and pharmaceutical 

establishments are mainly Diploma holders 

who would benefit from a rigorous training 

programme in new laboratory techniques 

which require a good understanding of 

molecular biology. 

The Specialist Diploma in Microbiology 

course will enable students to acquire 

knowledge in both medical and food 

microbiology domains, with emphasis on 

hands-on practical training using new and 

emerging technologies. 





Assessment 







Evenings-Only 

Hours 

Stage A 

CP0801 Host-microorganism interactions 

and immunology of infections 30 

CP0802 Foodborne diseases and 

bacterial infectious diseases 45 

CP0803 Practical microbiology and 

virology 60 

Stage B 

CP0804 Viral, fungal and 

parasitic infections 45 

CP0304 Laboratory management and 

biosafety 30 

CP0806 Molecular methods in 

medical and food microbiology 60 

Continuing Education 

From time to time, the School also conducts 

short courses, both in-house and at the 

Polytechnic, for personnel from industry in 

disciplines related to the School’s expertise. 

Available courses include topics on 

optometry, basic process operations, food 

hygiene, Hazard Analysis & Critical Control 

Point (HACCP), plastics materials and 

processes, injection moulding, mould setup, 

polymer analysis, atomic and molecular 

spectroscopy, process automation, 

electroplating, fragrance creation, cGMP, 

GDP, health & safety, PCB manufacture, 

clinical chemistry, medical microbiology, 

histology, phlebotomy and haematology, 

plant tissue culture techniques and animal 

cell culture. Details of such courses are 

published in the Handbook of Continuing 

Education from the Department of 

Industry Services. 

Sophisticated equipment for training. 



Laboratories and Centres 

The Aquaculture Unit is equipped 

for studying genetics and nutritional 

requirements of ornamental and food fish. 

The Applied Electricity and 

Electronics Laboratory maintains a 

complete range of equipment required in 

illustrating the basic techniques involved in 

electronic circuit design and measurement. 

Students will have hands-on experience in 

working with DC power supplies, function 

generators, and a comprehensive range of 

active and passive analogue components 

(resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes 

and transistors). The laboratory boasts 

of multiple sets of measuring equipment 

such as multimeters and oscilloscopes that 

cater to the mass teaching requirements of 

the school. 

The Asian Noodle Technology 

Development Centre is a collaborative 

centre jointly set up by Singapore 

Polytechnic and the US Wheat Associates. 

It provides training and conducts research 

and development in wheat-based noodle 

products. The Centre houses batch and 

continuous noodle processing machinery. 

The Composites Laboratory provides 

facilities for hand lay-up techniques, resin 

injection moulding filament winding and 

non-destructive testing of composites. 

The Cosmetics and Fragrance Centre 

provides facilities for the development and 

application of fragrances and personal 

care products in the chemical, cosmetics 

and toiletries industries. It is equipped 

with rheometers, Brookfield viscometers, 

UV-visible spectrophotometer, infra red 

spectrophotometer, skin and sun protection 

diagnostic meter, Karl Fischer titrator, and 

a GC-MS. 

The Display Technology Centre 

provides complete facilities for the 

manufacture of liquid crystal display. 

It is equipped with state-of the-art 

testing instruments and computer 

simulation software. 

The Electroplating Laboratory houses 

facilities for various plating applications, 

including plating on metals and plastics. 

The Engineering Applications 

Laboratory houses a wide range of pilot 

plants to demonstrate the basic chemical 

engineering principles. These pilot plants 

include plate and frame filter unit, pump 

circuit unit, pressure relief valve operation 

unit, blender pilot unit, level control 

unit, physical-chemical treatment plant 

and a active pharmaceutical ingredient 

manufacturing pilot plant. A real working 

environment is created for students to apply 

theories learnt. 

The Environmental Technology 

Laboratory has a range of facilities to 

measure levels of pollutants in air and 

water. It houses a full-range of equipment 

for the testing and characterisation 

of petroleum products e.g. gas 

chromatograph, viscometers, aniline 

point apparatus, etc. An AC-impedance 

potentiostat for measuring the rate of 

corrosion and an air sampler for gases 

are available. 

The Fermentation Laboratory 

provides facilities for various aspects of 

fermentation studies. Equipment available 



includes FPLC, electrophoresis sets, 

microfuge, ultracentrifuge, freeze dryer and 

various fermenters. 

The Food Analysis Laboratory 

provides facilities for students to gain 

experience in the fundamentals of food 

chemistry and analysis. The laboratory is 

equipped with Kjeldahl, microwave furnace, 

dietary fibre and fat analysers and water 

activity meter. 

The Food Flavours Laboratory has 

facilities for development, evaluation and 

application of food ingredients and flavours 

in beverage, bakery, confectionery, culinary 

and dairy products. 

The Food Processing Laboratory 

houses a wide range of food processing 

equipment: line exhauster and seaming 

machines, spray dryers, ultra-filtration units, 

falling film evaporator, homogeniser, freeze 

dryer, pasteuriser, steriliser, fluidised-bed 

dryer, drum dryer and autoclave. 

The Food Quality and Sensory 

Evaluation Laboratory provides 

facilities for food product development and 

evaluation, using the experimental kitchen 

and sensory evaluation booths. Equipment 

available include high performance liquid 

chromatograph, flame atomic absorption, 

spectrophotometers, texture analyser, 

viscometers, bomb calorimeter, fatty acid 

analyser, ELISA and spectrophotometers. 

The General Chemistry Laboratory 

services the practicals carried out by firstyear 

students. This laboratory is equipped 

with fume hoods, basic instruments 

and equipment suitable for teaching the 

basic principles of Chemistry. The basic 

instruments and equipment are weighing 

balances, ovens, furnaces, aspirators and 

melting point tester. Quantitative and 

qualitative chemical analysis, titrations and 

functional group determinations are carried 

out in this laboratory. 

The Hybridoma Technology, 

Molecular Biology and 

Biochemistry Laboratories are 

equipped with a range of facilities 

for laboratory work in hybridoma 

technology, molecular biology, genetics 

and bioprocessing. Equipment available 

include CO2 incubators, low temperature 

freezer, fermenters for animal cell culture, 

DNA sequencer and thermal cyclers, 

peptide synthesizer, electrophoresis sets, 

ultracentrifuge, cryogenic vessels and 

biosafety cabinets. 

The Industrial Unit Operations 

Laboratory houses a wide range of 

well-instrumented pilot plants to provide 

the hands-on experience on equipment 

start-up, shutdown, and operations of 

separation and transfer processes. These 

pilot plants include the bubble-cap 

continuous distillation units, packed column 

absorption units with different packing 

materials, climbing film evaporator, shelland-tube 

and double-pipe heat exchangers, 

crystalliser, drying unit, pulse column 

liquid-liquid extraction unit, fluid flow 

through fittings unit and centrifugal pump 

operation unit. A real life pilot operation 

environment is created with the life-size 

multistage distillation pilot plant, equipped 

with Distributed Control System in the 

control room. 

The Instrumental Analysis 

Laboratories, provide students 

with practical experience in several 

instrumental techniques, e.g. UV-visible 

and atomic absorption spectrophotometry, 

fluorimetry, potentiometry, liquid and 

gas chromatography, luminescence, 

FTIR spectroscopy, GC-MS and 

capillary electrophoresis. 

The Medical Technology Suite 

shares purpose-built common facilities for 

practical and research work in the areas of 

clinical chemistry, haematology, histology, 

medical microbiology, immunology and 

molecular diagnostics. Equipment available 

include tissue processors, microtomes, 

spectrophotometers, autoanalysers, 

microplate readers, brightfield (single 

and multi-headed) and fluorescence 

microscopes, conventional and realtime 

thermal cyclers, pulsed field gel 

electrophoresis system, DNA sequencing 

system and flow cytometer. 

The Microbiology Laboratory, 

incorporating the Culture Collection 

Centre, provides facilities to support the 

curriculum on microbiology: total bacterial 

count, smear preparation and staining, 

sanitation testing and sterility studies. 

Available equipment include autoclaves, 

stomachers, blenders/homogenisers, 

laminar flow cabinets, low temperature 

incubators, shaker incubators, colony 

counters, water activity meter, ultra-violet 

steriliser, stereozoom microscopes and a 

cold room. 

The Microelectronics Chemistry 

Laboratory with a Class 1000 Clean 

Room Facility, has a full range of highly 

sophisticated equipment in the key 

areas of think film deposition, ultra-pure 

reagents analysis and certification, microcontamination 

and surface corrosion 

control. There is also a high vacuum DC/RF 

magnetron sputtering system for fabrication 

works. Other facilities include an ion 

chromatograph for anionic determination 

in water and other reagents, an ultrapure 

water delivery system for generating 

electronic-grade water used in the 

fabrication of semiconductor devices and 

solid-state sensors, a four-point probe for 

the measurement of electrical conductivity 

of epi-layers on silicon substrates and an 

optima video contact angle to measure the 

wetting properties of liquid. 

Singapore Polytechnic has two 

Optometry Centres which serve 

as clinical training facilities for finalyear 

Optometry students. There are 32 

fully equipped consulting and special 

examination rooms. The facilities have 

colour vision tests, stereoscopic tests, 

tonometers, retinoscopes, direct and 

indirect ophthalmoscopes. Different types 

of contact lens trial sets and solutions are 

available for student use in clinical work. 

The Centres are open to the public for 

vision assessments and eye examinations. 

The Ocular Anatomy & Physiology 

Laboratory along with the Visual 

Science & Optics Laboratory and 

Project Laboratories provide multiple 

facilities to carry out experiments such as 

optics and physiological optics. Ten sets of 

light microscopes with one attached to a 

TV monitor enable more effective teaching 

in modules such as Ocular Anatomy and 

Ocular Physiology. 

The Packaging Laboratory houses a 

wide range of sophisticated testing and 

analysis equipment for paper, paperboard, 

plastic film, metallised film and metal cans. 

Equipment includes an Oxygen Permeation 



State-of-the-art facilities complement qualified and experienced staff. 

Detector, Water Vapour Transmission 

Rate Detector, Corrugated Crush Tester, 

Headspace Analyser, Video Can Seam 

Monitor System and Tabletting Press & 

Blister Packaging Machine. Students’ 

innovative prototypes of food packaging 

design are also displayed in the laboratory. 

The Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory 

has facilities for plant tissue culture 

work, with protoplast fusion equipment, 

an inverted microscope with a video 

attachment, laminar flow cabinets, 

controlled growth chambers and a clean 

room. Plant grow-out and plant nursery 

facilities are also available. 

The Polymer Characterisation 

Centre has a wide range of equipment 

for testing and characterisation of 

polymers, e.g. tensile testing, abrasion 

testing, melt flow index, impact strength 

testing, differential scanning calorimeter, 

thermogravimetric and thermomechanical 

analysers, dynamic mechanical analyser, 

torque rheometer, rheoscope and 

micro-FTIR. 

The Polymer Chemistry Laboratory 

provides facilities to carry out the various 

polymerisation reactions. Equipment 

available includes Gel Permeation 

Chromatograph, High Performance Liquid 

Chromatograph, Osmometer, High Speed 

Stirrer and Viscometers. 

The Polymer Processing Laboratory 

and Injection Moulding Centre 

house a wide range of equipment for 

the processing of plastics and rubber, 

e.g. integrated injection moulding, blow 

moulding, blown film extrusion, twin screw 

compounding, vacuum forming, multi-layer 

extrusion and material formulation. 

The Process Automation and 

Control Laboratory houses a full range 

of instrumentation. The laboratory provides 

hands-on experience on standard Process 

Instrumentation and Control Systems, 

e.g. sensors, transmitters and transducers; 

control of flow, level, pressure and 

temperature; PID controllers and control 

valves. Students are exposed to control 

strategies for pilot plant operations, e.g. 

process dynamic studies; feedback control; 

ratio control; cascade control; split range 

control; controller tuning. The laboratory 

also houses various pump circuits and a 

mixing pilot plant. Students get to study 

the operating characteristics and power 

requirement for the different pumps, and 

the effect of different impeller designs on 

mixing efficiency. 

The Reaction & Environmental 

Engineering Laboratory hosts 

the Reaction Engineering practicals with 

various chemical reactor pilot plants such 

as the jacketed chemical reactor featuring 

PC-based control system, continuous 

stirred tank reactor (CSTR), a plug flow 

tubular reactor (PFTR) and a pharmaceutical 

reaction unit with associated ultra-pure 

water production system. The laboratory 

is also home to several membrane-based 

pilot plants including a reverse osmosis unit, 

electrodialysis unit, and a cross-flow flux 

characterisation unit. The laboratory also 

houses final year student projects including 

a solid-liquid pharmaceutical crystal 

separator, a crystallisation unit and a duplex 

filtration system with clean-in-place facility. 

The Solarium has facilities for studying 

plant cultivation by solution culture, e.g. 

hydroponics and aeroponics, for both 

tropical and temperate plants. 

The Trace Analysis Laboratory 

provides facilities for trace analysis of 

ultra-pure reagents and gases. Instruments 

available include the ICP-MS, a GC-MS 

equipped with a headspace accessory, 

FTIR, and a Total Organic Carbon Analyser 

for the determination of both organic and 

inorganic carbon in water. 

The Vision Science Centre was 

completed in 2007 to incorporate the stateof-the-art 

training facilities for the Diploma 

in Optometry course, and to introduce a 

fresh approach to clinical teaching. The 

list of extensive facilities includes Clinical 

Optometry Learning Centre, Ophthalmic 

Dispensing Learning Centre and Vision 

Science Laboratories.

CHEMICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES - Singapore Polytechnic

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