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Course Overview

Discover the power of medicines in enhancing our lives, from relieving minor ailments to the treatment of chronic medical conditions. With Singapore emerging as a global manufacturing hub for pharmaceutical giants, exciting career opportunities await you in the healthcare industry.
 

Master the complexity of medicines, its effects in the body, its interactions and be an expert in patient counselling to unlock exciting career paths as a pharmacy technician in pharmacies. Hone your skills in pharmaceutical manufacturing, analysis and current good manufacturing practices and explore career opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry.
 

In Year 3, choose one specialization from Pharmacy Practice, Pharmaceuticals & Biologics Manufacturing, or Technical Sales & Marketing. Engage in hands-on training tailored to your specialization and apply what you have learnt in a six-month internship programme.
 

Gear up to meet the Ministry of Health (MOH) Pharmacy Technician Entry-to-Practice competency standards through our curriculum. Our strong network of industry connections offers you the opportunity to embark on real world learning experience through local and overseas internship. Our comprehensive training ensures you gain sought-after, transferable skills for careers in various allied health professions, extending beyond the pharmaceutical science industry.

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.

Subject
Grade

English Language (EL1)*

1-7

Mathematics (E or A)

1-6

Any one of the following subjects

  • Biology
  • Biotechnology
  • Chemistry
  • Food & Nutrition / Nutrition & Food Science
  • Physics
  • Science (Chemistry , Biology)
  • Science (Physics, Biology)
  • Science (Physics, Chemistry)
1-6
2025 Planned Intake
70
Net ELR2B2 aggregate range (2025 JAE)
4 - 10

* 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).

Admissions Exercises

Coursework

What You'll Learn

You will begin your journey by building a strong broad-based foundation through core subjects ranging from microbiology, cell biology, mathematics to conservation, nutrition and workplace safety.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange AMB1005 Basic Microbiology

This subject investigates the important fundamentals of microbiology and its relevance to the food, biomedical and biotechnology industries. It covers the types of microorganisms, their cultivation and growth as well as their control.

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icon-arrow-orange AMT1004 Cell Biology & Biochemistry

This subject introduces the biology of cells and the structure-function relationship of cells, cellular membranes and organelles. It covers basic concepts of organic chemistry and the structure-property relationship of essential biomolecules. Basic laboratory skills involving the study of cell structures with the use of cell staining and microscopy techniques, as well as basic biochemical analysis will also be introduced.

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icon-arrow-orange AMA1009 Digitalisation in Applied Science

This subject covers the basic concept of data analytics as well as the processes of data cleaning, processing and visualisation of data in the contexts of applied science. Basic coding and fundamental computational thinking constructs such as variables, data type and logic will also be addressed.

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icon-arrow-orange APH1004 Laboratory & Workplace Safety

This subject covers an introduction to Good Laboratory Practice, and the identification and classification of biological, chemical, physical and ergonomic hazards at the workplace and laboratories. It also involves the conduct of risk assessment, risk controls and monitoring as well as communication of these risks to all persons involved in compliance with the Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations.

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icon-arrow-orange AMA1003 Mathematics for Applied Science

This subject covers algebra, differentiation, integration and their applications in applied science contexts.

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icon-arrow-orange ACH1012 Principles of Inorganic & Physical Chemistry 1

This subject covers the basic theory and practical knowledge of inorganic and physical chemistry. Topics include fundamentals of chemistry, atomic structure and chemical bonding, stoichiometry and equilibria concepts of a chemical reaction.

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icon-arrow-orange AMA1004 Statistics for Applied Science

This subject provides you with the basic statistical techniques that are essential for your course of study. Topics covered include basic probability and distributions, basic statistics, sampling distribution, hypothesis testing, analysis of variance and chi-square testing.

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icon-arrow-orange APS1001 Applied Project Skills

This subject covers the basics required in embarking on an applied science project, through the exposure to experiential and interdisciplinary learning as well as project management essentials. Students will develop critical thinking and communication skills and engage in team building and/or networking as they apply their learning in contextualised activities.

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icon-arrow-orange APS2014 Fundamentals of Pharmacy Practice & Pharmacology
This subject introduces the role of pharmacy technicians and the services provided by them at hospital and community pharmacies. The subject also covers the key principles and concepts of pharmacology. Topics include drug information resources, good dispensing practice, overview of drug discovery and development, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and toxicology.
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Get to understand how the human body works and how diseases occur. With your chemistry foundation, learn the essentials in drug development and analysis, and principles of drug action. Learn about Current Good Manufacturing Practice & Process Improvement, an essential skill set for the pharmaceutical industry.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange APH2014 Fundamentals of Pharmacy Practice & Pharmacology

This subject introduces the role of pharmacy technicians and the services provided by them at hospital and community pharmacies. The subject also covers the key principles and concepts of pharmacology. Topics include drug information resources, good dispensing practice, overview of drug discovery and development, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and toxicology.

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icon-arrow-orange APH2017 Human Systems & Pharmacotherapy 1

This subject integrates the knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology with pharmacotherapy. Students will apply the knowledge learnt and good pharmacy practice in order to handle clinical enquiries, make appropriate clinical recommendations, process prescriptions and perform patient counselling in therapeutic areas such as dermatology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, reproductive and respiratory.

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icon-arrow-orange APH2016 Human Systems & Pharmacotherapy 2

This subject integrates knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and patholophysiology with pharmacotherapy. Students will apply the knowledge learnt and good pharmacy practice to handle clinical enquiries, make appropriate clinical recommendations, process prescriptions and perform patient counselling in the therapeutic areas such as cardiovascular, endocrinology, musculoskeletal and infectious diseases.

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icon-arrow-orange APH2018 Pharmaceutical Analysis 1

This subject equips students with the knowledge on the basic principles and applications of analytical instruments and techniques used in pharmaceutical industries as well as cell culture and biological assays for quality testing of pharmaceutical products. Basic concepts of laboratory quality management system will also be covered. 

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icon-arrow-orange APH3025 Pharmaceutical Analysis 2

This subject covers the knowledge and applications of pharmacopeia test methods to evaluate the quality of active drug substances and finished pharmaceutical products. It also provides further knowledge of chromatography with emphasis on high performance liquid chromatography including method development and optimization for various applications such as stability testing of pharmaceuticals. A topic on biological assays to measure quantity and quality of biological products will also be included.

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icon-arrow-orange APH3021 Pharmaceutics & Compounding

This subject covers the fundamental knowledge of pharmaceutical downstream manufacturing processes. The topics include industrial aspects of drug production, various manufacturing techniques such as granulation, compression, coating, encapsulation and packaging technologies. This subject also covers formulation design and extemporaneous compounding of various dosage forms as well as concepts and applications of aseptic dispensing. 

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icon-arrow-orange APH2020 Pharmaceutical Innovations and Digital Health
This subject covers the evolving landscape of pharmaceutical innovations and digital health, and its impact in transforming drug development, patient care, and healthcare delivery. Topics include emerging technology in pharmaceutical science, digital health solutions, healthcare technology, data analytics in healthcare and innovation and entrepreneurship.
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icon-arrow-orange APH2029 Current Good Manufacturing Practice Principles and Applications

This subject covers the fundamental principles and applications of Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) within the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries. Topics include core pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, critical role of quality systems, equipment qualification, stability study, analytical and cleaning validation. This subject also covers the applications of risk-based approaches like Quality by Design (QbD) which are essential in ensuring product quality.

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Your learning journey will progress through on-the-job training where you get to apply your skill sets in a professional environment and learn from industry practitioners. You will deepen your knowledge and skills in pharmacy practice or pharmaceutical and biologics manufacturing. There is also opportunity for you to learn about technical sales and marketing in the applied science industries.

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange AMP3021 Major Project

This subject provides a framework for you to solve practical problems, conduct research work and/ or develop studies, through a self-managed project. The scope of the subject includes project proposal, investigative studies, analysis, interpretation of results, written report, and presentation.

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Diploma Elective Cluster Subjects

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange APH3024 Pharmacotherapy and Advanced Pharmacy Practice

This subject integrates the knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology with pharmacotherapy and good pharmacy practice in the therapeutics areas for neurology and psychiatry. It also covers legislations, guidelines and codes of conduct affecting the pharmaceutical industries and healthcare services. It also focuses on the business aspects of the operations of hospital and retail pharmacies such as the procurement, inventory control and distribution of pharmaceutical products. The topics on point-of-care testings, lifestyle modifications for health and disease management will also be covered in this subject.

9 icon-arrow-orange

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange 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 icon-arrow-orange

Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange 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.

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icon-arrow-orange 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.

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Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange 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.

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Subject Code Subject Credit Units
icon-arrow-orange 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.

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icon-arrow-orange 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.

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icon-arrow-orange 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.

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icon-arrow-orange 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. 

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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
icon-arrow-orange ASI3029 Student Internship Programme

This structured programme is designed to link your learning with the real work environment. You will be placed in organisation(s) with opportunities to apply the concepts and skills acquired in the course of your study. Besides reinforcing technical concepts and mastering of skills in areas that you have been trained, the practical training will enable you to build important skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and to cultivate good attitude and a strong work ethic.

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icon-arrow-orange GTP1303 Current Issues & Critical Thinking

This subject examines contemporary local and global issues that could shape lives and significantly impact Singapore’s future. Through reflective, interactive and experiential learning, students will develop essential skills in critical thinking, problemsolving, and the objective analysis of complex, multifaceted issues. By engaging in collaborative work, active discussions, and thoughtful communication, they will strengthen their ability to apply digital information literacy and critical thinking across diverse contexts.

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icon-arrow-orange TGS1002 Global Studies

This subject provides essential skills and knowledge to prepare students for an overseas experience. They will examine the elements of culture and learn the key principles of cross-cultural communication. In addition, they will gain an appreciation and awareness of the political, economic, technological and social landscape to function effectively in a global environment. The subject prepares students to be responsible global citizens and leaders who can contribute to the global community through effective communication and collaboration.

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icon-arrow-orange INV1001 Innovation & Entrepreneurship

The subject is designed for learners from all disciplines to embrace innovation in either their specialised field or beyond.  Learners will be taught to apply the Design Thinking framework to develop problem statements, ideate and identify feasible solutions. Learners will be exposed to several tools for prototyping. In addition, commercial awareness will be imbued in learners through various innovation and entrepreneurship concepts or tools. This subject also prepares students to be self-directed lifelong learners who are digital and information literate. It nurtures communicative and collaborative citizens who can use objective analysis in problem-solving.

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icon-arrow-orange LSW1002 Sports & Wellness

This subject reinforces the fundamental knowledge learnt on health, fitness, exercise and sports. Hands-in time will be allocated for a greater variety of fitness exercises and sports skills in a recreation setting. In addition, theoretical knowledge such as sports safety and risk management when participating in physical activities will be introduced. Guidance will be provided for improvement of physical fitness, acquiring of sports skills and relating theoretical knowledge to the physical activities.

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icon-arrow-orange TGS1003 Sustainability & Climate Action

This subject prepares students to be responsible global citizens and future leaders who can contribute to the global community.  It introduces the topics of sustainability and explores how human societies can act to build a sustainable future. This subject focuses on the impact of climate change, potential solutions to climate change, and the future of the green economy from global and local perspectives.

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icon-arrow-orange GTP1103 Effective Personal Leadership

This subject focuses on the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary to maximise one’s potential in life and the evolving landscape of work. Self-management, self-awareness, values & ethics, interpersonal communication, teamwork, resilience and emotional intelligence constitute an important part of personal leadership and can significantly influence careers, relationships, and overall wellness. A reflective and experiential exploration of ‘leadership from within’ provides opportunities for greater awareness of the attributes required to be an effective values-centred leader for self and others.

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icon-arrow-orange GTP1203 Career Readiness & Communication

This subject equips students with career preparation skills through better understanding of their career interests, values, skills and aspirations. Topics covered include personal branding, job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, and interview techniques. In addition, students will gain awareness of workplace communication to succeed in their careers and achieve professional goals.

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icon-arrow-orange 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.

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* Students can opt to take Beyond the Classroom: Guided Learning as a Special Elective


Graduation Requirements
Cumulative Grade Point Average
min 1.0
TP Fundamental Subjects
40 credit units
Diploma Subjects - Core Subjects
71 credit units min
Diploma Subjects - Elective Subjects
9 credit units
Total Credit Units Completed
min 120 credit units

Career Prospects

Life @ PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE

Enrich your student life in TP by participating in CCAs, competitions and team bonding activities! Participate in community and service-learning projects where you apply your pharmacy practice knowledge to educate the public on topics such as the safe use of medications, disease management and antibiotic resistance.

Course Review

Course Fees

PET Course Fee

Main

The table below shows the total subsidised fees (inclusive of GST) payable. 

ADMITTED INSINGAPOREANS
(Aged below 40 in the year 2024) 
SINGAPORE PERMANENT RESIDENTSINTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
2025S$3,179.65S$6,509.65S$12,570.15
2024S$3,068.75S$6,298.75S$12,159.25

 

WHEN DO I PAY?

There are 2 semesters in each Academic YEAR (AY). The billing periods for AY 2024/2025 are:
Semester 1:  21 April 2025 -19 October 2025
Semester 2:  21 October 2025 -19 April 2026

Fees are billed and payable by semester. They are usually payable in June for Semester 1 and December for Semester 2.

MORE DETAILS ON FEES AND FINANCE

View course fees for other intakes, subsidies, grants, bursary and awards at the Fees & Financial matters section. 

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FAQs

Where do students do their internships?

Where do students do their internships?

Students’ internship placements are based on their elective clusters. Students in the pharmacy practice elective cluster will do their internship in hospital and retail pharmacies. Students in the pharmaceuticals and biologics elective cluster will do their internship in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies, as well as testing and research laboratories.

Can I join the course if I do not have background in biology?

Can I join the course if I do not have background in biology?

Yes. However, the first year may be more challenging, and you may need to work harder as you are new to biology. Many students without biology background have done well in the course. Bridging courses are also provided to help students cope with the biology subjects.

What degree programmes can I pursue after this diploma?

What degree programmes can I pursue after this diploma?

Relevant degree programmes include Pharmacy (NUS), Pharmaceutical Science (NUS), Pharmaceutical Engineering (SIT). PHS graduates have also been enrolled into Physiotherapy (SIT), Diagnostic Radiography (SIT), Life Science (NUS) and Chemistry and Biological Chemistry (NTU).

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