Diploma in Social Sciences in Gerontology (T53)
Course Overview
In this rapidly changing world, one thing is certain. The world is ageing and at great speed. By 2050, one in two people will be above 65 years old in Singapore. The complex needs of the aged population are, and will continue, to create many career opportunities, especially in the community care and social service sectors.
The Diploma in Social Sciences in Gerontology (GEM) will equip you with holistic skills in areas such as:
- health promotion
- programme planning
- case management
- non-profit leadership
that will set you on a path of a rewarding career as Community Care Executive, Social Work Assistant, Assistant Care Coordinator and many more!
Our electives also provide you the chance to deepen your skills in allied health support e.g., assistance in social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing, offering flexibility to venture into different types of health and social sciences-related work and undergraduate programs.
Join us today to uplift the lives of older adults and the community!
UNIQUE DIPLOMA
The only diploma in Singapore that specialises in holistic management of ageing, covering everything from planning programmes for healthy ageing to coordinating resources to support older individuals with complex needs.
IN-DEMAND CURRICULUM
You will gain skills in gerontology, psychology, allied health and social work that will prime you for vital job roles in the rapidly expanding community care and social services sectors.
INDUSTRY-ENDORSED
The diploma is endorsed by key industry leaders who will provide work-based learning opportunities to level up your competitive edge. Look forward to becoming next-generation leaders in the sector.
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)*
1-6
Mathematics (E or A)
1-7
Any one of the subject in the 1st group of relevant subjects for ELR2B2-A Aggregate Type
- Art
- Business Studies
- Combined Humanities
- Economics
- Geography
- Higher Art
- Higher Music
- History
- Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in English)
- Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in Chinese)
- Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in Malay)
- Humanities (Social Studies, Literature in Tamil)
- Humanities (Social Studies, History)
- Humanities (Social Studies, Geography)
- Intro to Enterprise Development
- Literature in English
- Literature in Chinese
- Literature in Malay
- Literature in Tamil
- Media Studies (English)
- Media Studies (Chinese)
- Music
1-6
2026 Planned Intake
45
Net ELR2B2 aggregate range (2026 JAE)
3 - 14
* 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).
Early Admissions Exercise (EAE)
Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE)
Joint Polytechnic Admissions Exercise (JPAE)
Direct Admissions Exercise (DAE)
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
- TPFUN
You will start by building your foundational knowledge in Gerontology, Psychology and Sociology. You will then go on to pick up useful skills in Communication, Applied Social Research and Geragogy. You also begin to build a profile of an Older Adult.
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEM1008 | Introduction to Gerontology
This subject introduces students to the theoretical perspectives and approaches to the study of ageing from various disciplines. It will examine the causes and consequences of ageing at the micro (individual) and macro (population) levels. This involves investigating the social, physical and mental changes humans undergo as they age, as well as the impact of the elderly population on social, economic and political institutions. |
4 | ||
| GEM1009 | Introduction to Sociology
The subject introduces students to the key theoretical perspectives in Sociology. Through these theories, students will examine current and emerging social phenomena. From the systematic study of different social structure e.g. family, work, social control, gender and ethnicity, students will be able to apply sociological concepts to help them explain social life in societies. |
4 | ||
| GEM1011 | Applied Social Research
This subject provides a general understanding of the theory and practice of social science research and presents science as a powerful method of human thinking. The focus is to provide students with the necessary information to understand the importance of research in the field of social science and its applications to various settings. Students will learn a systematic way of thinking and knowledge discovery known as scientific inquiry. |
4 | ||
| GEM1192 | Managing Adult Life Transitions
This subject covers issues relating to major life transitions that typically occur during mid to later adult life, such as changes to employment and health status. Transition psychology and related theories are examined to recognise how and why individuals respond to such changes. Social constructs, individual choice, ‘preparedness’ and motivation are considered in view of managing anticipated and unanticipated life events. |
3 | ||
| GEM1196 | Introduction to Health and Social Services
This subject provides an overview of the ecosystem and trends in the healthcare and social service sectors in Singapore, and national policies and programmes that target the health and well-being of seniors living in the community. It incorporates the service-learning approach where students will be equipped with necessary skills through specialised volunteer training to contribute to the well-being of older adults in the community. |
3 | ||
| GEM1195 | Programme Planning for Health Promotion
This subject provides students with a foundation in programme conceptualisation, organisation, execution and management. Transcending the various principles of project, event and activity development and management, students will examine current and emerging practices. This will include the examination of selected institutions e.g. nursing homes, community centres, tourism agencies, and existing programmes as case studies. Students will plan the design, budgeting, management strategies and evaluation of a programme. |
4 | ||
| GEM2013 | Psychology of Ageing
This subject provides insights into geropsychological concepts and theories relating to the adult's adaption to the third and fourth age. Issues relating to the ageing population, improved longevity, and the changing psychological needs and capabilities of older people are examined. |
4 | ||
| GEM2199 | Anatomy & Physiology of Ageing
This subject focuses on the biopsychological aspects of ageing and illness. Content will also include selected theoretical perspectives on health, illness and ageing, some of the main disorders and related treatment modalities. Optimal ageing as a concept and emerging technologies for longevity will also be addressed. Related ethical issues will be discussed. |
4 |
This is a year of exciting practicums and maybe even an overseas trip! You will level up with subjects like Silver Leisure and Lifestyle, Public Health and Programme Planning. Also, enjoy meaningful activities with the GEM Student Interest Group.
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEM2019 | Physical Activities and Wellness for Older Adults
The subject will examine the structural, physiological, psychological, and functional changes occurring during adulthood and the implications of these for the planning and implementation and evaluation of exercise programmes for older adults. |
4 | ||
| GEM2191 | Coaching and Case Management
This subject introduces the principles of coaching and case management to assess needs and evaluate options, services and programmes required to meet individual specific needs. Multidisciplinary approaches are introduced and the subject examines social, cultural and psychological perspectives and appropriate strategies to achieve goals and empower the older adult. |
4 | ||
| GEM2193 | Gerontechnology and Behaviour Design
This subject provides students with a deeper appreciation of gerontechnology and how it can be harnessed to improve quality of ageing. Students will learn behaviour design principles that can be used to customize programmes and services to nudge health-promoting behaviours. |
3 | ||
| GEM2194 | Mental Health and Dementia Management
This subject examines the aetiology of common mental health disorders in older adults and management approaches. Special attention will be paid to dementia, its impact on the individual, families and society, and techniques to manage associated challenging behaviours. |
4 | ||
| GEM1198 | Silver Leisure and Lifestyle
This subject examines the varying lifestyles of and leisure activities undertaken by the silver population. It focuses on how their evolving profile, characteristics and demographic interacts with current and emerging trends and drives demand for various leisure activities and impacts on supporting industries. Content also includes associations between participation patterns in leisure activities, key types of activities undertaken, social relationships, psychological wellbeing and activities that best contribute to the determinants of active ageing. |
3 | ||
| GEM2200 | Social Policy in Ageing
This subject provides a sociological perspective on the process and experience of human ageing in modern society, while adopting a context-based approach that employs case studies. Topics include the demographic and political impact of ageing societies, historical and cultural perspectives on ageing, and the major theoretical approaches to the study of ageing. Various social policies and institutions that affect ageing will also be examined. These include social policies on health care, housing, retirement, death, living environments and social support for the aged. |
4 | ||
| GEM2201 | Population Health and Ageing
The subject will introduce the key areas of study under public health, with a focus on current and emerging global health challenges impacting older populations across developed and developing countries. Topics will examine patterns, causes and effects of health and diseases in older populations, analyse the efficiency of healthcare services and delivery, and understand the interconnectedness of health of the developed and developing world. |
4 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEM2195 | Community Based Nursing Support
This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It provides knowledge and skills required to assess older adults’ health status and assist with nursing and care interventions. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt and undergo competency-based assessments. Topics include medication administration, assistance with activities of daily living and measurement of vital signs. |
6 | ||
| GEM2197 | Basic Gerontological Counselling
This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It covers key counselling skills, approaches and interventions commonly used in working with older adults. Students will be equipped with tools to assess, intervene, and provide psychological support to older adults. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt and undergo competency-based assessments. |
6 |
You will hone your culminated knowledge and skills in a Research Project and develop professional skills during your Student Internship. These experiences will prepare you to take on many exciting education and career opportunities upon graduation!
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEM2018 | Community Development with Older Adults
The subject will provide an understanding of the principles and approaches to community development and how these can be applied to work with older adults to address some of their major challenges. Students will be introduced to the methodologies of community development that will enable them to design intervention programs that also harnesses the potential of older adults. |
4 | ||
| GEM3193 | Leadership Development in Non-Profit Organisations
This subject looks into the skills, roles and responsibilities of an effective team leader in the non-profit sector. Students will be exposed to practical and contextualized learning through job shadowing with relevant organisations. |
3 | ||
| GEM3194 | Advance Care Planning and End of Life Issues
This subject will examine psychosocial, legal, ethical and spiritual issues that may arise in the process of dying, and the role that care professionals play in supporting the dying and their families. The subject will also examine the various models of end-of-life care adopted in different countries, with emphasis on person-centred care. |
3 | ||
| GEM3195 | Administration for Non-Profit Organisations
This subject teaches the fundamental skills required in junior executive roles in purpose driven entities, especially those in the ageing sector. This also involves examining demonstrated strategies to achieve sustainability in various organisational types such as non-profits, social enterprises and profit-with-a-purpose companies. Topics cover volunteer management and retention, cross sector collaboration, measuring social impact, client-centric values, fundraising, resource mobilisation, risk management, and social innovation. |
4 | ||
| GEM1197 | Intergenerational Service-Learning
This subject provides the opportunity to engage in service-learning and apply a variety of skills learnt in other subjects such as rapport-building, needs assessment and case management to engage and support older adults living in the community. It aims to promote integration of classroom knowledge with real world experiences and facilitate the development of cultural competence and empathy. |
2 |
| Subject Code | Subject | Credit Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEM2196 | Community Based Therapy Support
This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It provides knowledge and skills required to assist with therapeutic exercises and mobility training. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt and undergo competency-based assessments. Topics include ambulation and transfers, falls prevention and groupwork facilitation. |
6 | ||
| GEM2198 | Working with Older Adults and Their Families
This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It examines the role of the family in the older person’s experience of ageing and approaches to collaborate with the family unit to co-create solutions. Changing norms and values that influence interactional dynamics within the family system will also be explored. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt and undergo competency-based assessments. |
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.
| 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 | ||
| GTP1301 | 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. |
3 | ||
| 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 | ||
| GIP3008 | 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. |
16 |
| 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
TP Fundamentals subjects
min 36 credit units
Diploma Subjects - Core Subjects
72 credit units
Diploma Subjects – Diploma Electives
12 credit units
Total Credit Units Completed
min 120 credit units
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"Throughout my 3 years of study in this course, GEM has clearly proven to be a multidisciplinary diploma. The ageing phenomenon has an impact on almost all if not, most, of the industries today. I was exposed to so many relevant subjects like Business, Marketing, Ageing & Illness, Sales & Account Management, Event Management and of course Social Sciences like Psychology, Sociology & Gerontology itself.
On top of the knowledge gained from the modules, I also enjoyed interacting with older adults and planning activities for them during practicums. This has led me to develop my interpersonal and organisational skills. These are skills that are not just relevant for future employees in the ageing sector but other fields as well!
I am very confident that GEM has provided a strong foundation in my understanding of older adults which would position me well for my upcoming journey as a NUS Nursing Undergraduate in 2020.
So, if you are compassionate and love engaging with older adults - I must say, despite all the challenges - this Diploma will be a very fulfilling and meaningful one for you!"
Nur Haziqah Mohamed Noor
Class of 2020
"Choosing your polytechnic and course can be a daunting task, as it involves your future prospects. I am grateful to have selected GEM as my course, as it not only offers me a specialisation in the ageing market, but it also covers a wide range of industries - from business modules to social science modules such as sociology and psychology. Throughout the multidisciplinary course, I was better able to understand my own strengths and weaknesses which enabled me to plan my career path effectively.
As a GEM student, I was lucky to be given a chance to participate in an overseas internship experience at Vivo Bene Village, a long-stay care resort in Chiang Mai. I was able to pick up many important life skills by stepping out of my comfort zone and it was certainly worth it. It has taught me to be independent, open-minded and working in a multi-cultural global environment is certainly an enriching experience.
After graduation, there are multiple career and educational prospects for us as we study a wide range of modules. I am currently working at Ageing Asia, the first social enterprise ageing market consultancy firm that focuses on the business of ageing. In addition, I have also been awarded a scholarship and will be commencing my business studies at the Singapore University of Social Sciences. As much as the choice, of course, is important, having a supportive environment is paramount to one's studies as well. With a bunch of close friends and lecturers that are friendly and always ready to help, I have truly enjoyed my time. Thank you, GEM!"
Keith Zheng
Class of 2019
"Hello! I am currently studying at the National University of Singapore and majoring in Social Work. After graduating from Temasek Polytechnic in 2019, I entered university life rather confidently as I was blessed with the skills and knowledge needed in the course.
GEM has provided me ample practice in terms of writing. Even though it is not a course-specific skill, it provided me the foundation on good report writing. Additionally, since I am pursuing Social Work, the GEM modules offered me a concrete background of knowledge for what I was studying. Unlike some of my peers, I already understood terms such as “poverty cycle” and theories such as “Erikson’s psychosocial theory.” Definitely gave me an edge over other students!
GEM also taught me a lot about the Silver Generation which is one of the critical areas in Social Work. All in all, GEM provided me with various soft and hard skills that I could apply in my University life. Thank you, GEM! Once a GEM, always a GEM. "
Tiffany Toh
Class of 2019
"Hi there! I graduated from GEM in 2019 and am currently serving my National Service. GEM has broadened my world view of the ageing phenomenon in various areas, e.g. health, tourism, finances, etc. Besides learning relevant theories and concepts, we also interacted with older adults on multiple occasions through practicums – each interaction giving me more insight to their ageing process. Project work, especially Major Project, allowed me to develop critical thinking skills and explore creative ideas to solve problems faced by the ageing population by trying to understand and fulfil their needs. Another key value which I have learnt was empathy for older adults, rather than sympathy, as the former requires us to place ourselves in their shoes. This enabled us to develop effective solutions to resolve issues faced by them. Lastly, through interactions during practicums like Community Development with Older Adults, I gained much knowledge merely by listening to their life stories. Older adults truly possess a wealth of knowledge and experience and we can learn a lot from them as we journey through life together as equals. "
Kouthaman Siraj Pillay
Class of 2019
Graduates who do well in this diploma will stand a higher chance to pursue university degrees in related disciplines such as the Arts, Social Sciences, Education, Economics, etc. Temasek Polytechnic continues to explore and obtain advanced standing arrangements with various local and overseas universities.
Singapore
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
Australia
- Flinders University
Finland
- Turku University of Applied Sciences
Bachelor in Social Services
Contact
- hsshotline@tp.edu.sg
- Website: https://www.tp.edu.sg/hss
-
School of Humanities & Social Sciences
Temasek Polytechnic
East Wing Block 1A
21 Tampines Ave 1
Singapore 529757
