Course Overview
Do you want to make a difference in the world of healthcare? The Diploma in Medical Biotechnology at Temasek Polytechnic is your gateway to a career that make significant contributions to patient care and medical science. This unique program stands as Singapore’s only diploma that equips you in biotechnology, biomedical science, and healthcare industries.
Medical biotechnology innovatively uses living cells and cell materials for research to develop more efficient ways of maintaining and improving human health. This course also combines theory with hands-on experience to equip you with the skills to become a versatile professional in clinical laboratory and cardiac diagnosis.
In Year 3, you can opt for one of the following industry- relevant Elective Clusters: Cardiology Technology, Clinical Laboratory Practice, Pharmaceuticals & Biologics Manufacturing, Translational Biological Research, and Technical Sales & Marketing. Your hands-on experience won't just be limited to the classroom; a six-month internship program, either local or overseas, will see you applying your knowledge in real-world settings, honing your skills alongside industry professionals.
As a graduate, a myriad of exciting career paths await you. Whether as a laboratory technologist, an associate clinical research coordinator, or a cardiac technologist, you'll be entering industries that value your expertise in research institutions, biotechnology companies, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, heart centres and cardiology clinics.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for consideration for admission, applicants must obtain 26 points or better for the net ELR2B2 aggregate score (i.e. English Language, 2 relevant subjects and best 2 other subjects, including CCA Bonus Points) and meet the minimum entry requirements of this course. CCA cannot be used to meet the minimum entry requirements.
English Language (EL1)*
Mathematics (E or A)
Any one of the following subjects
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Food & Nutrition / Nutrition & Food Science
- Physics
- Science (Chemistry , Biology)
- Science (Physics, Biology)
- Science (Physics, Chemistry)
* Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM)/ Unified Examination Chinese (UEC) holders must have a minimum of grade 6 for the relevant English Language subject (e.g. Bahasa Inggeris).
Note: Applicants with complete Colour Appreciation Deficiency are not eligible to apply.
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
- TPFun
This year, you will get to apply what you have learned so far, in your internship! You will have the opportunity to work in research laboratories, clinical laboratories, or other biomedical companies. There are also many further education options for you to develop more skills.
Diploma Elective Cluster Subjects
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EBI3009 | Healthcare Analytics
This subject covers the statistical techniques for biomedical data analysis and the decision-making process using machine-learning algorithms. The topics covered include techniques for data analysis and machine learning for decision-making. You will gain hands-on Python programming experience by applying the statistical techniques on biomedical datasets to facilitate effective data-driven decisions through machine learning algorithms. |
4 | ||
| EMD2005 | Patient Monitoring Technology
This subject provides an understanding of the fundamental principles and applications of the biomedical instrumentation systems commonly used in the healthcare sector. Patient monitoring tools will be used to reinforce the learning of physiological signal analysis techniques. |
4 | ||
| AMT3012 | Translational Biotechnology
This subject covers the conceptual frameworks and process flows involved in translating biological discoveries into clinical and commercial applications. It covers the principles of translational research, including the progression from basic science to bioproduct development and therapeutic innovation, on how scientific insights are applied to address real-world healthcare challenges and advance the biotechnology industry. |
1 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMT3011 | Clinical Cardiology
This subject introduces the fundamental knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology, as well as the pathophysiological changes in cardiovascular diseases. It focuses on the diagnostic tests and procedures for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases using electrocardiography and echocardiography. |
9 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMT3010 | Medical Laboratory Technology
This subject covers the practical workflow, principles, applications and quality control in the clinical laboratory. It also introduces the basic epidemiology and the detection of infectious diseases, as well as on the pathophysiological changes in diseases and processing of samples using histological and cytological techniques. |
9 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APH3023 | Pharmaceuticals & Biologics Process Technology
This subject covers the upstream and downstream processes involved in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and biologics in compliance with the current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) principles and guidelines. The subject also covers the safety practices, hazard management and current trends in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and biologics. |
9 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMT3007 | Innovations in Biotechnology
This subject covers the process flows and techniques in conducting translational biological research for discovery of biological products. It addresses planning, experimenting, troubleshooting, data analysis and reporting skills. It also provides an overview of emerging areas in medical biotechnology and sustainable cultivation technologies. |
9 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASM3001 | Marketing of Science Products and Services
The subject covers marketing concepts, code of ethics, guidelines and regulations governing the sales and sustainable marketing of products and services that can be applied in various sectors of the applied science industry such as life science, chemical, pharmaceutical, food, and pet industries. |
5 | ||
| BSE2001 | Business Development
This subject is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to identify and seize business opportunities, build and maintain strategic partnerships, and foster sustainable growth. The subject covers key aspects such as opportunity identification, relationship management, communication skills, negotiation skills, and cultural competence. Through a combination of theoretical insights and practical applications, students will learn to navigate the complexities of business development in a dynamic and globalised market. |
4 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AWB3001 | Guided Work-based Learning
This is a competency-based subject that aims to develop students’ industry-specific knowledge, skills and attitudes through a structured on-the-job training programme. Students will work with company supervisors to develop and execute a learning plan based on their job role(s), and monitor and reflect on their learning progress. Students’ acquisition of the essential knowledge and technical and generic skills will be evaluated through various assessment methods which may include competency tests, completion of relevant certification courses/training programs. |
9 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EMA3002 | Modelling & Analysis
The main objective of this subject is to provide students firm foundations of single variable calculus so that they can apply calculus to model, solve and analyse applied math problems. It aims to motivate students on the importance of calculus through a plethora of applications in engineering, physical and biological sciences, computer science, finance, economics, probability and statistics and other topics. On top of the basic concepts, techniques and applications of two branches of calculus - differentiation and integration, students will also learn to use simple software to implement numerical methods in calculus. |
4 | ||
| ESC3002 | Physical World
This subject provide students with the ability to understand and explain the inner mechanism of the physical world based on the principles of mechanics and thermodynamics. It aims to help students appreciate the beauty of physics and enable them to apply key concepts learnt to evaluate and address physics-based problems to make a positive impact on the world. By using concepts established through simplified mathematical models, reverse engineering case studies and experiential learning through hands-on demonstrations, connections between physics concepts and theoretical models are reinforced with practice. |
4 | ||
| ESE3015 | Computational Thinking for Design
This subject covers programming both in the architectural design and computing contexts targeted at novice programmers. It will introduce students to programming and design computing skills that are essential for their studies. Students will learn visual programming and python programming together with design concepts, and will apply these skills in related projects. |
4 | ||
| ECS3003 | Global Humanities: Literature, Philosophy & Ethics
This subject examines stories as a way to understand ourselves and our world. Some of these stories have endured for centuries and spread far beyond their locus of origin. They raise questions that resonate with our lives even today. This subject will equip you with critical reading, thinking, and writing skills by exploring different ways of reading and interpreting classic texts. You will learn to identify the connections between various texts and between thinkers in history – ranging from those in ancient China and Greece to those in contemporary Singapore. |
4 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AUM3001 | Equation of Life
This course aims to provide you with the general knowledge and basic training of mathematics in biology. In this course, you will go back to the early days of biological research to recognize that some great discoveries in biology were possible only through application of mathematics. Additionally, you will study a few biological phenomena that most of you are familiar with, such as Mendelian genetics, population genetics, gene mapping, bacterial mutation, and enzyme catalysis. During the online course, you will learn how to 'translate' a biological problem into 'mathematical language' called an equation. Then you solve the equation by using mathematical tools and arrive at a 'solution' which is one of the equations of life. Finally, you will apply the equation to life situation to test whether the equation has been able to unravel the mystery that you were concerned with at the beginning. |
3 | ||
| AUM3002 | Physiology
This course aims to provide an integrated understanding of how the human body works at the level of body systems, organs, cells and molecules. The content includes the concepts and skills required for understanding the common issues in health and diseases at the individual and community levels. You will gain a broad understanding of recent advances in physiology ,and will recognize the value of research at the level of the whole organism. The course will prepare you for subsequent courses and careers that require an understanding of physiology, and will develop your critical thinking and communication skills. |
3 | ||
| AUM3003 | Microbiology
This course aims to introduce the general concepts of microbiology and its impact on the environment and human health. In this course you will learn the basic cellular organisation and function of key microorganisms. Specifically you will gain an understanding of the requirements and dynamics for microbial growth, reproduction and survival, control of microorganisms in the environment or during infection, bacterial diversity, The course will help you to understand the genetic mechanisms and physiological responses that drive interactions between microorganisms and their environment. |
3 |
You will also take this set of subjects that equips you with the crucial 21st-century life skills you need to navigate the modern world as an agile, forward-thinking individual and team player.
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GTP1304 | Beyond the Classroom: Guided Learning
This subject empowers students to take charge of their personal learning in a chosen area of inquiry. Students will broaden or deepen their knowledge and skills, fostering a proactive approach to lifelong learning. Following a scaffolded process, students will design and execute a personalised learning plan that extends beyond traditional classroom walls. The journey culminates in a curated portfolio that highlights their achievements and growth. |
3 |
Life @ MEDICAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
We continue to transform how students learn by making it more practice-oriented so that they can apply their knowledge and skills innovatively in projects. With a proactive mindset, students undertake experiential learning to help hone their talents and achieve more. We get ready for tomorrow through what we are doing today!
What are the career prospects?
- What are the career prospects?
Our graduates are highly sought after by the healthcare institutions, working as Medical Laboratory Technologist works in the clinical laboratories at hospitals to support diagnostic laboratory services and clinical research. Graduates trained in cardiac diagnostics work as Cardiac Technologist at the heart clinics. Graduates can also work in biomedical science research, biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries, as research technologist, production technologists and QC executives, respectively. For graduates who are more interested in sales, they can work in any biotechnology and diagnostic company to promote biomedical/medical related products.
What will I be studying in this course?
- What will I be studying in this course?
In the first year, students would be exposed to broad-based fundamental knowledge and skills on microbiology, cell biology and biochemistry, inorganic and physical chemistry, digitalisation, laboratory and workplace safety, mathematics, statistics, nutrition and health, and sustainability.
Then after learning the basic knowledge and skills, they need to practice and apply in different context. So, in the second year, students will learn specialised knowledge and skills related to biomedical research and biotechnology. You will learn about molecular biology, bioanalytical technology, cell technology and human anatomy and physiology, synthetic and systems biology, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine that will enable you to work in biotechnology and biomedical science research and industry. Skillsets from haematology and blood banking, immunochemistry, clinical microbiology, and histopathology will enable you to work in the clinical laboratories. Students who take clinical cardiology will be equipped to work in the heart clinics or cardiology departments. Uniquely MBT at TP, you will be equipped with both biotechnology and biomedical science skillsets.
In the third year, students would have the opportunities to experience authentic learning, based on integrated teaching of real projects and intensive training of skillsets in emerging areas. They can opt from several industry relevant elective clusters, including Clinical Cardiology, Clinical Laboratory Practice, Pharmaceuticals & Biologics Manufacturing, Translational Biological Research, and Technical Sales and Marketing. The work-based learning culminates with a 20-week local or overseas internship and a 6-week major project in the last semester.
Contact
- aschotline@tp.edu.sg
- Website: https://www.tp.edu.sg/asc
-
School of Applied Science
Temasek Polytechnic
East Wing Block 1A
21 Tampines Ave 1
Singapore 529757