School of Applied Science
Diploma in Biological Sciences (R16)
Interest Area
Applied Science
PFP Cluster
Sciences
Explore the fascinating world of life sciences.
What you will learn
This diploma programme unlocks exciting career paths for you in biotechnology, agritech and food science. Start with foundational subjects like molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, and anatomy, and build a strong theoretical foundation and practical skills from day one.
Customise your learning with up to four electives, exploring science, business, digital skills, or entrepreneurship to shape your unique career pathway
Develop innovative solutions through our Research Apprenticeship Programme – tackle real-world challenges in biotech or food innovation and create impact before you graduate
Build in-demand skills and earn industry-recognised certificates – gain research experience and prepare for diverse careers in biotech, agrifood, or food manufacturing
Curriculum Structure
General Modules
Discipline Modules
Major Modules
Choose one of the Majors below:
Major in Biotechnology
Major in Food & Agricultural Science
Elective Modules
Customise your learning pathways by selecting ONE of the following options:
Option A: Select Elective modules totalling 16 Modular Credits (MCs) from the list of modules in the Minor programmes that are applicable to the Diploma and/or from the List of Electives below
Option B: Select a Minor Programme and an elective module of 4 MCs from the list of modules in the Minor programmes that are applicable to the Diploma or from the List of Electives below
Option C: Select a CET-based Certificate programme and/or Elective module(s) from the list of modules in the Minor programmes that are applicable to the Diploma or from the List of Electives below (only for eligible students)
List of Electives for Major in Biotechnology:
List of Electives for Major in Food & Agricultural Science:
Learn how you can customise your learning pathways.
Industry Orientation Programme Modules
Option 1: One-Semester Industry Immersion Programme
And select one module from the list below:
Option 2: Two-Semester Industry Immersion Programme
Entry Requirements
GCE O-Levels
Aggregate Type: ELR2B2-C
View aggregate computation [PDF, 240 KB]
Range of Net ELR2B2 for 2026 JAE: 11 to 17
Minimum Entry Requirements/Grade:
English Language: D7
Mathematics (Elementary/Additional): C6
Any one of the following subjects: C6
Biology
Biotechnology
Chemistry
Food & Nutrition / Nutrition & Food Science
Physics
Science (Chemistry, Biology)
Science (Physics, Biology)
Science (Physics, Chemistry)
Nitec/Higher Nitec
GCE A-Levels
Minimum Entry Requirements:
Obtain an A-S grade for General Paper (English Medium) or Knowledge & Inquiry, AND
Obtain an A-E grade for H2 Mathematics, AND
Obtain an A-E grade for H2 Chemistry, AND
Obtain an A-E grade for H2 Biology
View the full list of module exemptions for RP courses.
If you do not meet the GCE A-Level Minimum Entry Requirements, you may apply for admission using your GCE O-Level results.
Note:
Admission to RP is based on academic merit and subject to available vacancies in our diploma programmes. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee that applicants will be offered a placement in the diploma programme. These requirements are set in place to ensure fairness to all applicants.
Applicants with visual impairment may encounter difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations. Applicants with visual impairment who are interested to apply may be assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine their suitability for the programme.
Further studies
Upon completing your studies at RP, you will be prepared to embark on meaningful careers immediately after graduation. Enhance your employability by taking part-time courses or SkillsFuture Work-Study Programmes.
Moreover, every RP diploma is recognised and has a pathway leading to a relevant degree at top local and overseas universities. You may complete your degrees in just over two or three years in a four-year programme.
Skills Deepening
After graduating from RP, you can choose to deepen your skills and knowledge in a chosen field before embarking on your career. You could either sign up for part-time courses or pursue work-study programmes. Visit our Lifelong Learning page to find out more.
Undergraduate Studies
Graduates of DBIOS can pursue degree programmes in a wide range of subjects such as biotechnology, biological sciences, life sciences, agricultural sciences, food science and technology, nutrition, chemistry, medical sciences, pharmaceutical engineering, and business in top universities such as (not limited to):
You may also be eligible for exemptions and advanced standing of up to two years at top overseas universities. Some of these universities include:
Australia
United Kingdom
Career Opportunities
You can explore careers in various life sciences industries, including biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals, medical research, agrifood, food product development & manufacturing. Consider opportunities in roles such as:
Agriculturist
Assistant Agricultural Scientist
Assistant Biotechnologist
Assistant Food Technologist
Biopharmaceutical Production Technician/Senior Technician
Food and Microbiology Specialist
Health Education Officer
Laboratory Assistant/Technologist
Market Development Executive
Quality Control Assistant
Laboratory Analyst
Quality Assurance Assistant
Research Assistant/Technologist
Hear from our student
“In this course, my favourite module is the Food Innovation and Sustainability module (renamed as Research Apprenticeship Programme in Sustainable Food Innovation). Collaborating with industry to develop sustainable food solutions allowed me to apply my food processing knowledge and lab skills in a meaningful way. The Problem-based Learning approach simplified complex concepts while lab workshops and field trips enriched my journey towards making a #GreaterImpact.”— Chua Rui-En, 2023 Graduate
RP Course Guide
Get all the course info you need! The RP Course Guide is your complete resource for programme details, entry requirements, student life insights and more.