Common Design Programme (T71)
Course Overview
Designers are natural explorers—drawn to new ideas, diverse cultures, and creative possibilities. The Common Design Programme (CDP) offers you a focused introduction to design, grounding you in essential skills while giving you time to explore your interests before selecting one of five diploma specialisations.
You will begin your journey with the semester-long Design Foundation, where you will build core mindsets, methods, and tools across creative disciplines. This shared foundation helps you grow both breadth and depth in your creative abilities, while equipping you with the confidence to navigate diverse design fields.
As a CDP student, you will also experience a dedicated Diploma Exposure Programme curated exclusively for your cohort. You will attend hands-on workshops, hear from seniors, and visit companies to gain an insider’s view into different design disciplines. Through these experiences, you will discover your strengths and interests, with support from Education and Career Guidance (ECG) to help you make an informed choice. At the end of your first semester, you will progress into one of five diploma pathways
- [T59] Diploma in Communication Design
- [T23] Diploma in Digital Film & Television
- [T20] Diploma in Fashion Management & Design
- [T22] Diploma in Interior Architecture & Design
- [T35] Diploma in Product Experience & Design
Through this journey of discovery, you will gain clarity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of the many ways design shapes the world around us.
NURTURE CREATIVE CONFIDENCE
The design-focused programme will provide strong foundational knowledge and skills across various disciplines, paving the way for you to excel in the project-based and collaborative nature of design.
EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY
Through diploma exposure talks and hands-on workshops, discover your strengths and interests before you decide which pathway to pursue.
ADAPTIVE AND CHANGE-READY
The broad interdisciplinary exposure and awareness will prepare you for a dynamic future that is seeing a growing adoption of design in non-design sectors.
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
1-7
Mathematics (E or A)
1-7
Any one of the subject in the 2nd group of relevant subjects for ELR2B2-D Aggregate Type
- Art
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Computing / Computer Studies
- Creative 3D Animation
- Design & Technology
- Design Studies
- Food & Nutrition/ Nutrition & Food Science
- Electronics / Fundamentals of Electronics
- Higher Art
- Media Studies (English)
- Media Studies (Chinese)
- Physics
- Science (Chemistry, Biology)
- Science (Physics, Biology)
- Science (Physics, Chemistry)
1-6
2026 Planned Intake
75
Net ELR2B2 aggregate range (2026 JAE)
6 - 15
• Singapore-Cambridge GCE O Level applicants with good grades in the relevant subjects at their Singapore-Cambridge A Level may be granted subject exemption on a subject by subject basis.
• Applicants who are in the Singapore Integrated Programme are considered for admissions based on their Year 4 school results, pegged closely to the course entry requirements for Singapore-Cambridge GCE O Level qualification.
Note:
The first year in T71 (Common Design Programme) is common to all students and they will opt for and be streamed to one of the following diplomas at the end of Semester 1.1. Students must ensure that they satisfy the requirements as stated in the footnotes under the respective courses.
1) Applicants with mild or severe colour vision deficiency may have difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations. Interested applicants with mild or severe colour vision deficiency are highly encouraged to contact Temasek Polytechnic for more information.
2) Applicants with uncontrolled epilepsy or profound hearing loss may have difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations. Interested applicants with these conditions are highly encouraged to contact Temasek Polytechnic for more information.
3) Applicants with severe visual impairment may have difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations. Interested applicants with severe visual impairment are highly encouraged to contact Temasek Polytechnic for more information.
4) Applicants with physical impairment or are physically dependent on mobility equipment may have difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations. Applicants with impaired or limited motor functions may be assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine their suitability for the course. Interested applicants with physical impairment are highly encouraged to contact Temasek Polytechnic for more information.
Early Admissions Exercise (EAE)
Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE)
Joint Polytechnic Admissions Exercise (JPAE)
Direct Admissions Exercise (DAE)
- Year 1
- TPFun
You will take this set of subjects that builds your foundation skills, strengthens your craft, and encourages you to experiment and discover with confidence.
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DCF1051 | Ideas & Concepts
This subject introduces foundational approaches to inquiry, observation, ideation, and critical thinking within a design context. Real-world issues are uncovered through fieldwork and informal interviews, enabling the discovery of human needs and the framing of designable challenges. Creative thinking is approached as an iterative process, with ideas refined through feedback and experimentation. The design process is emphasised as a means of navigating ambiguity, extracting meaning from complexity, and translating insights into clear visual concepts and proposals. |
2 | ||
| DCF1052 | Narratives in Design
This subject introduces storytelling as a strategic tool within design practice. It covers key narrative principles and structures to visualise and communicate ideas. The emphasis is on applying narrative techniques to enhance meaning, clarity, memorability and emotional engagement in design outcomes. Foundational storytelling skills that support concept development and strengthen the overall creative process are also addressed. |
2 | ||
| DCF1053 | Aesthetic & Design Sensibility
The subject introduces the visual language of design, emphasising both its aesthetic and communicative functions. It covers the elements of visual art and the principles of design to build on the understanding of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) forms. It will involve foundational skills in material manipulation and form-making to support creative expression |
4 | ||
| DCF1054 | Design Software Essentials
This subject covers essential, industry-standard design software widely used across creative disciplines. It will introduce foundational digital skills and fluency in applying software tools to industry-relevant workflows, building competence for further design practice and applied projects. |
2 | ||
| DCF1055 | Foundation Studio
This subject develops fundamental discipline-specific skills within the design process and introduces contextual studies as a framework for integrating historical, cultural and social considerations into contemporary design practice. It examines how contextual factors inform design thinking and creative decision-making. |
6 |
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.
Note: Students in the Common Design Programme will take selected TPFun subjects during the programme, and complete the remaining subjects after streaming into their respective diploma courses. For details on the Student Internship Programme, please refer to the respective diploma course pages.
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GTP1103 | Effective Personal Leadership
This subject examines self-management and self-leadership through an exploration of values and beliefs, necessary for adapting to the world of work. It covers topics such as self-management and awareness, values and ethics, interpersonal communication, teamwork, resilience and emotional intelligence for enhancing leadership capabilities. These can significantly influence careers, relationships, and overall well-being. This subject is a reflective exploration of ‘leadership from within’ to have a greater awareness for the development of attributes required in an effective values-centred leader for oneself and for others. |
3 | ||
| 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. |
3 | ||
| GTP1303 | Current Issues & Critical Thinking
This subject provides a comprehensive introduction to critical thinking by engaging students with current local and global issues. Students will learn to analyse diverse perspectives and uncover underlying assumptions in opinions, evaluate the credibility and bias of information sources, and construct well-reasoned, evidence-based arguments using established critical-thinking frameworks. They will also assess the societal, ethical, and personal implications of contemporary problems, and develop the ability to communicate their conclusions clearly and persuasively, employing appropriate digital tools to support their ideas. |
4 | ||
| 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. |
2 | ||
| LSW1002 | Sports & Wellness
This subject reinforces the fundamental knowledge learnt on health, fitness, exercise and sports. Hands-on time will be allocated for a greater variety of fitness exercises and sports skills in a recreational 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. |
2 | ||
| 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. |
3 | ||
| 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. |
3 | ||
| 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. |
| 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 |
Graduation Requirements
All students who enrol through this common programme will graduate with the same diploma as those who had joined a particular diploma right from the start. They will be subject to the graduation requirements of the respective diplomas into which they have been streamed.
Please refer to the respective diploma websites for more information:
Contact
- deshotline@tp.edu.sg
- Website: https://www.tp.edu.sg/des
-
School of Design
Temasek Polytechnic
Central Block 28-28A
21 Tampines Ave 1
Singapore 529757
