Diploma in Materials Science
Module Descriptions
This section gives you an overview of what each module will
cover. Most modules carry a modular weight of 4 Modular Credits (4 MC). Others,
such as the Design Project, may be worth 8 Modular Credits (8 MC). The modular
credit assigned to any one module reflects the amount of work required for
its completion.
1. Core-General
Select 8 from 8 module units
| G101 Cognitive
Processes and Problem Solving I |
4 MC
|
| In an ever-changing and unpredictable
world, knowledge is constantly evolving. In order to equip you with the
skills and mindset to respond to these changes, this module will help you to
develop a range of strategies to adapt to change. You will learn to be
more aware of how to apply appropriate problem-solving approaches in
different contexts, and in the process, strengthen your ability to 'think
about thinking'. The module will cover skills such as:
- Managing in the
PBL environment
Thinking critically and scientifically
Understanding arguments
You will learn to apply cognitive skills within the problem-solving
framework. These skills will allow you to be more successful in your other
modules. |
| G102 Cognitive
Processes and Problem Solving II |
4 MC
|
| This module builds upon your ability to
appreciate knowledge as dynamic. It focuses on honing your ability to
think and behave like a professional through applying problem-solving
skills within specific contexts. You will revisit some of the skills
introduced in G101, such as hypothesis-testing, critical problem-solving and
sound argumentation. In addition, you will be introduced to various
industry-based situations and environments in order to practise these
skills. The module will equip you with the necessary mindset, methodologies
and skills that make you an effective learner in your other modules.
The problems in this module are designed to allow you the space to
critique knowledge as we know it, and offer alternative ways of
perceiving, understanding and organising it. You will learn what it takes to
confront real world issues and misconceptions. |
| G103
Introduction to Communication Practice |
4 MC
|
| Communication is
a fact of everyday life, whether one is speaking to a friend or an audience
of a hundred; or writing a letter to one or an article that will be read by
many. This module aims to help you understand and apply the theories and
principles of communication to ensure that the message you want to convey is
communicated effectively and responsibly. In order to achieve the objective
of this module, topics that will be covered include Fundamental
Communication Skills, e.g. effective listening and oral presentation;
Theories and Principles of Communication; Responsible Communication, e.g.
Censorship and Codes of professional practice and Issues in Communication,
e.g. Privacy, Advertising and Objectionable Material. |
| G104
Contemporary Issues in Culture and Aesthetics |
4 MC
|
|
From appreciating food and
the fine arts of a different culture, to understanding how the latest
fashion on Orchard Road came about, contemporary issues in culture and
aesthetics continue to intrigue and engage us today as global citizens
in a modern society. This module aims to help you understand what
culture and aesthetics are about, and how they impact your life. You
will also have many opportunities to put into practice communication
skills acquired in G103.
Topics covered include globalisation,
cultural awareness and appreciation, youth, gender and design culture,
appreciation for the different expressions of culture through art as
well as the performing arts, as well as legal issues in culture.
|
| G105 Enterprise
Skills I |
4 MC
|
|
People form the central resource in any enterprise. The
survival of an enterprise depends on the extent to which people's skills and
abilities are effectively matched and used.
This module provides you with an understanding of the
individual, interpersonal and organizational behaviors in an enterprise
setting. It seeks to develop you into prudent individuals who can contribute
meaningfully to any organisation that you work in, prosper in an economic
sense and in managing your personal finances. |
| G106 Enterprise
Skills II |
4 MC
|
|
This module explores the appropriate legal entity for setting up the
proposed business and highlights the relevant legal statutes and regulations
in the running of the business. It provides an overview of the different
functions in an enterprise and allows students to appreciate the working
mechanics and the interdependency of these functional areas in corporate
decision-making. Students will examine different business models and
how to manage the business effectively and efficiently.
|
Industry Orientation Programme (IOP)
| G901 Creative
Engagement |
4 MC
|
|
Creative Engagement is a component of the Industry
Orientation Programme, which is compulsory for all Republic Polytechnic
students. Through their participation in Creative Engagement activities,
students will be able to develop their initiative, their innovative spirit
and creative potential. This will enable them to acquire social and work
life competencies which will equip them well for life’s challenges, given
the many uncertainties of the new global economy.
Generally, Creative Engagement activities include
competitions at campus and national levels, talks on diploma and non-diploma
related areas, community service programmes, workshops related to skills
development. Students should participate in diverse and multi-disciplinary
activities in diploma related or non-diploma related domains as they work
towards the set target of 40 Creative Engagement points which are required
for a pass in this module. |
| G902 Professional Profiling |
4 MC
|
| Professional Profiling is a component of
the Industrial Orientation Programme and a compulsory module where students
will profile a subject. The programme aims to develop students’ personal
development skills, career enrichment skills and discernment skills.
Through Professional Profiling, students become more resourceful as they
become aware of the key attributes for lasting personal and professional
relationships and learn to use their personal strengths fully. The subject
can either be an individual (a professional or an entrepreneur), a
profession, an industry cluster, a company or a particular department. For
this module, students have to give a presentation which should be a critical
account of the contributing factors to the success of the subject selected. |
2.
Core-Discipline Modules
Select 14 from 14 module units
Basic Sciences cover the key principles of Science which
form the foundation for an understanding of the world in which biological systems
function. The following areas are covered:
A101 Basic Sciences
I
A102 Basic Sciences II |
4 MC
4 MC
|
These two modules provide an understanding of general
principles applicable to materials, systems and happenings, inclusive of
living organisms. Specific issues addressed are as follows: Electric
voltage and current; fluid mechanics; dynamics; heat; thermodynamics;
dissipation; diffusion; cyclic processes; reflection; refraction;
diffraction; relativity; electromagnetic quanta; properties of water
molecule; hydrocarbons; stereo chemistry; structure and function of
cells; tissues and organ systems; DNA structure; transcription and
translation; gene regulation and expression; molecular basis of disease;
genetic engineering in medicine; and biotechnology.
|
|
A111 Computing and Mathematical Methods
I
A112 Computing and Mathematical Methods
II
|
|
|
These modules provide a strong grounding in computer
literacy. Basic computing skills and an understanding of the concepts
behind it will be developed. The number system; data types; operators;
functions; set theory and logic; matrices and eigenvectors; permutations
and combinations; probability and probability distributions; sampling;
population parameters; significance testing; system of linear equations;
power series; differential equations; numerical integration; complex
numbers; program control structures (Visual Basic), sorting, searching,
recursion, and object-oriented programming. |
| A201 Applied Chemistry
I |
4MC
|
| Applied Chemistry covers foundational
topics that are important for understanding chemical principles and
techniques applied in the chemical industry, biotechnology, pharmaceutical
industry and material sciences. The scope of the module includes principles
of organic chemistry where structure function relationships will be
emphasized; electrochemistry; and physical chemistry including an
introduction to thermochemistry and chemical equilibrium. Basic laboratory
procedures will be introduced. |
| A202 Applied Chemistry
II |
4 MC
|
| This module explores chemical concepts to
allow a better appreciation of materials and their interactions. Phase
diagrams; chemical and electrochemical equilibrium; standard states;
activities; properties of solutions and surfaces; structure of metals and
ceramics, basic crystallography, polymer structures; oxidation and corrosion
of metals will be covered. |
| A203 Applied Physics |
4 MC
|
| Applied Physics builds
up an understanding of physical phenomena to set
the foundation for the integration of knowledge to better appreciate the
behaviour of materials. This includes an introduction to electrical
properties, magnetic properties of materials;
mechanical behaviour of solids; deformation, strains and stresses; alastic
and viscoelastic properties; mechanical failures and their prevention. An
overview of material failure mechanisms is also covered. |
| A222 Molecular and
Cell Biology |
4 MC
|
| You will complete this course with an
appreciation of how a cell functions and an understanding of the processes
that have to take place at the molecular level. Topics covered include the
ultra structure of cells, DNA replication, the regulation of transcription,
protein synthesis, cellular transport mechanisms and cell death. This course
will pull together an understanding of molecular events to provide a
platform for the appreciation of the cell as a fundamental unit of life. |
| A291 Materials Science |
4 MC
|
| Introduction to the types and applications
of materials (metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, biomaterials, composites),
synthesis and processing of materials with emphasis to the relation between
microstructure and the performance of metals, concrete, polymers, and ceramics.
Appreciate the economic, environmental and social issues in materials science
and engineering to understand that materials are enabling and integral
to the design and fabrication of engineering systems that serve society. |
| A301 Laboratory
Management |
4 MC
|
| This module covers aspects of basic
management, quality control, total quality management, laboratory
performance parameters and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs). Emphasis will
be placed on the various areas of effective laboratory operations, including
pre-analytical aspects (pre-analytical variables, laboratory forms and
reports, planning and instituting new tests), analytical aspects (method/kit
evaluation, laboratory instruments evaluation, maintenance of laboratory
equipment) and post-analytical aspects (quantities and units, decision
levels, critical values, reference values). The fundamentals of laboratory
information systems, costing, finance and budgeting, laboratory safety and
reference laboratory services will also be taught. |
| G302 Design Project |
8 MC
|
| For this module, you will work in groups
of up to 5 persons, under the supervision of academic staff, to carry out
a project of relevance to the diploma programmes followed by the various
members of your group. The project involves defining objectives, developing
an action plan, executing the plan to a reasonable degree, evaluating the
outcomes, taking corrective action where applicable, and preparing a technical
report. We encourage you to make this project a multidisciplinary one.
This project may also involve an industrial attachment. |
| A364 Analytical Instrumentation |
4 MC
|
| The aim of this module is to equip you with
a strong background in analytical instrumentation. In addition to electron
microscopy, UV spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, gas liquid chromatography,
high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, instrumentation
involved in QC/QA procedures, including environmental tests and the testing
of water for injections and clean stream, will be covered. |
| A391 Materials Processing |
4 MC
|
| The basis of the structure-property correlations
of materials will be explored in this module. The relationship between
the structure of a material, its properties and performance capabilities
on how it is processed will be illustrated by specific examples that include
vacuum technology; physical and chemical vapor deposition methods; thin
film technology. Microstructure and characterization techniques will be
introduced. The idea of designing or engineering the structure of a material
to produce a predetermined set of properties will be established. |
3.
Core-Specialization
Option I Biomaterial
Sciences
Select 3 from 3 module units
| A341 Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering |
4 MC
|
| This module looks into developing fields of
stem cell therapy and tissue engineering. The topics that will be introduced
include the properties and sources of stem cells, the structure and function
of the extra cellular matrix, nanotechnologies in biological systems, as
well as the impact of tissue engineering of the skin, cartilage, bone and
blood vessels. |
| A342 Biosensor Technology and Biomedical
Devices |
4 MC
|
| This module introduces the concepts
associated with the biomedical application of electronic devices and
biochemical sensors. You will develop an understanding of the application of
biosensors and biomedical devices, as well as of the role of biomaterials.
Current and future applications will be explored. |
| A345 Biomaterials |
4 MC
|
| This module examines the different classes
of biomaterials and their applications. Structure-property relationships of
biomedical materials and their interaction with biological systems will be
addressed. Blood-materials compatibility, biomimetic materials, hard and
soft tissue-materials interactions, drug delivery, performance of polymers
in biological environments. The challenges and trends in biomaterials R&D as
well as the biotechnology of biomaterials would be discussed. |
Option
II Electronic Materials
Select 3 from the following 3 module units
| E341 Electronic & Semiconductor
Materials |
4 MC
|
| Materials classification: conductors,
semiconductors and insulators. Electrical conductivity of metals.
Semiconductors: electrons and holes, intrinsic and extrinsic behaviors,
transport properties, electrical conductivity and Hall effect. Effects and
technology of doping in semiconductor. Semiconductor devices: the p-n
junction, solar cells, the junction transistors, light-emitting diodes and
lasers. Optical properties: continuum, atomistic and quantum theories,
measurement of optical properties. |
| E342 PCB Fabrication
and Assembly |
4 MC
|
| Provides an understanding of the latest
substrates, resins and materials that are being used to fabricate rigid,
flexible and hybrid PCBs. The technologies and equipment involved in these
fabrication will be addressed as well. In the area of PCB assembly, different
techniques such as soldering, oven reflow, SMT, BGA, Flip Chip will be
discussed as well |
| E343 Wafer
Fabrication and Packaging |
4 MC
|
| Addresses the principles of the various
wafer processing techniques such as chemical vapor deposition, sputtering
deposition, ion implantation, photolithography, etching, coating and polishing.
Advanced deep submicron materials such as low K dielectrics and copper
interconnect materials will be introduced. Materials and the basic techniques,
including both insertion and surface mount types, for IC packaging and
assembly will be covered. |
4.
Electives
Select 3 from the following 7 module units
| A103 Anatomy
and Physiology |
4MC
|
| This module is an introduction to the basic
concepts of anatomy and physiology and the architecture of the human body,
with a focus on cardiovascular, respiratory, gastro-intestinal, sensory, and
endocrine systems. |
| A221 Microbiology |
4 MC
|
| This course provides you with a basic
understanding of micro-organisms. Topics include prokaryote cell structure
and function, classification, viruses and fungi, growth and regulation,
environmental factors affecting growth, microbial genetics and microbial
evolution. Basic techniques in microbiology, including microscopy, staining,
size measurement, cell enumeration, media preparation, the isolation and
cultivation of pure cultures, and aseptic technique will also be covered.
The industrial application of microbes will be explored. |
| A223 Biochemistry |
4 MC
|
| This module focuses on the principles of
biochemistry and introduces the structure, function and chemical properties
of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. The metabolism of glucose, the citric
acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and enzyme systems are covered. This
course builds a foundation for understanding how living organisms harness
chemical reactions intracellularly for metabolic needs. |
| A231 Immunology |
4 MC
|
| This module covers the components and
functions of the Immune System. Topics include immunity, immune response,
complement, immunological techniques and vaccination. Clinical applications
and immunological diseases are also discussed. |
| A232 Genetics |
4 MC
|
| This module focuses on the concept of genes
as the unit of heredity and DNA as the genetic material. Topics covered
include the organization of genetic material in organisms, eukaryotic
chromosomes, Mendelian inheritance, cell division, phenotypic variations
caused by various forms of gene interactions |
| A333 Nanotechnology |
4 MC
|
| Nano-scale phenomena and the related chemical,
physical and transport properties. Size effect and quantum mechanics. Nano-scale
materials & devices, “materials by design” and their potential
will be explored. |
| A392 Advanced Materials |
4 MC
|
| Materials used in high technology applications
and their “special” properties and underlying structure will
be explored; for example materials used for lasers, microelectronics, data
storage, optical industry, liquid crystal displays, thermal protection,
organic light emitting diodes and composite materials. Materials of the
future including “smart” materials that respond to their environment
will be introduced. |
5.
Freely Chosen Modules
Select any 2 module units
You can use your allowance of free elective modules to widen
your Biomedical understanding or to equip yourself with skill sets that prepare
you for the work place and society at large. Thus, to fulfil the requirements
of this portion of the programme, you may choose to do any two module units
from the range offered by the SAS, or those offered by any of the other Schools
and Centres. The following are some freely chosen modules offered by the various
Centres:
Modules by the Centre for Culture
and Communication
|
G201 Theatre Appreciation
|
|
|
The aim of this module is to create an interest in and an appreciation
of the exciting world of theatre, theatre history, playwrights, as well
as provide an overview of the origins and development of theatre, from
the Greeks to Shakespeare. The technical and backstage aspects of theatre
will be explored, with the module culminating in a performance by students.
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G202 Film Appreciation
|
|
|
This module studies the major artistic components of film and how these
components are used to convey ideas and meanings. You will develop an
understanding and appreciation of the various artistic components of
film (such as the camera, lighting, sound, composition, and editing),
and of how these components can be used in artistic communication. You
will learn to read a film and understand it as an important form of
art.
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G203 Art Appreciation
|
|
|
This module provides an introduction to the world of art and art history.
It will give you the opportunity to learn more about looking at, talking
about and perhaps even collecting art. From helping you determine what
makes something a work of art and understanding the materials used to
create it, to pronouncing the names of artists and the commodification
of art, this module will help you feel confident about your knowledge
of painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking.
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G204 The World Today: Exploring Contemporary
Issues
|
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This module explores contemporary political, social and economic issues,
such as terrorism, the environment, science and technology. Within these
areas, topics such as issues regarding alienation, dehumanization, health
and disease, scientific breakthroughs and ethics will be covered.
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G205 Public Relations for Technologists
|
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This module is concerned with topics such as creative marketing and
marketing communications, as well as with the production of various types
of publications and how to get publicity. It also covers aspects of writing
(including scriptwriting for multimedia presentations), media interviews,
community relations, personal grooming and business etiquette (including
fine dining).
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G206 Essentials of Events Management
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This module aims to introduce you to the world of events management – from
the planning of and canvassing an event, to its logistic, leadership,
and management.
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Modules by the Centre for Innovation and Enterprise
|
G251* Planning Your Personal Finances and
Investments
|
|
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This elective helps you to recognise the importance of planning your
finances and the advantage of starting early, understand the meaning
of financial security versus job security, and consider your financial
goals. It will also help you to match these goals against your needs,
risk profile, and investment horizon, as well as appreciate the various
investment instruments and draw up an action plan to achieve these goals.
* Please note that this module will only be available
from AY05/06 onwards.
Pre-requisite: successful completion of the modules G105 Enterprise
Skills I and G106 Enterprise Skills II.
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G252 Developing Enterprise
|
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|
This elective aims to help students gain an understanding of the essential
principles of creating, planning and starting a business. Through a hands-on,
integrative, holistic and systematic approach, students will evaluate
and apply the appropriate industry analysis, risk assessment techniques,
competitive analysis and market analysis in preparing a business plan.
Students will learn to apply elements of marketing mix in relation to
product innovation, pricing, promotional and distribution strategies.
They will also familiarise themselves with key issues like hiring considerations
and financial management pertinent to new business setups. The elective
will take students through the enterprise creation process and culminate
in the student's participation in a Business Plan Competition.
Pre-requisite: successful completion of the modules G105 Enterprise
Skills I and G106 Enterprise Skills II.
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