Diploma in Biological Sciences (R16)

What You Will Learn

Renamed from Diploma in Biotechnology

Explore the vibrant world of life sciences with our Diploma in Biological Sciences (DBIOS)! This diploma programme is designed to prepare students for a variety of exciting career opportunities in a wide selection of disciplines, from biotechnology to agritech and food science.

Starting with foundational subjects like molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, anatomy and physiology, students gain both a deep theoretical understanding and practical skills right from the beginning.

In this course, students will master industry-relevant techniques in applied microbiology, fermentation processes, and cell culture. Upon the second year, DBIOS students can also tailor their education pathways by choosing a Major that aligns with their career aspirations. The two Majors offered will be:

  • Biotechnology: This Major is designed to prepare students for careers in a multidisciplinary environment that utilises molecular and cell sciences, recombinant DNA technologies and bioprocesses. Students will explore the production and application of biological compounds in disease diagnostics and treatment.

  • Food and Agricultural Science: This Major equips students with a comprehensive understanding of a wide range of skills including food and nutritional sciences, sustainable crop cultivation, agrifood production, food quality assurance and product development. This Major prepares students for the fast-evolving agrifood and food manufacturing sectors, providing them with the knowledge needed to succeed in these dynamic fields.

Students can choose up to four elective modules to expand or diversify their skills and gain interdisciplinary knowledge along with industry-recognised certifications in food safety, enhancing their flexibility and readiness for various job roles.

Upon completion of the Diploma in Biological Sciences, graduates may pursue a career in various sectors, ranging from biotechnology, agrifood to food manufacturing. Additionally, some students may choose to further their education with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or a related field for more advanced career opportunities.

"This Diploma is a testament to the transformative power of education and a catalyst for growth by providing a nurturing environment with the tools and encouragement to hone various technical skills in the STEM field, and essential soft skills to cultivate a mindset of excellence. Overall, the skillsets acquired in RP prepared me for my current job role and has also empowered me to excel and grow professionally."

Julia graduated from RP in 2019, with a Diploma with Merit as well as a Diploma Plus in International Business. Julia's exposure to diverse challenges, problem-solving projects and mentorship from the academic staff & industry professionals during her time at RP enabled her to pursue her passion for Biological Sciences at Nanyang Technological University. She was awarded the Singapore Industry Scholarship by Alcon Singapore Manufacturing.

Julia See
Diploma in Biotechnology, 2019 Graduate. Currently working as a Quality Control Executive (Microbiology) at Alcon Singapore Manufacturing

General Modules

Discipline Modules

Major Modules

Elective Modules

For this diploma programme, students will select 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 basket of modules listed 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 basket of modules listed 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 basket of modules listed below (only for eligible students)

List of Electives for Major in Biotechnology:

List of Electives for Major in Food and Agricultural Science:

Learn how you can customise your learning pathways here

Industry Orientation Programme Modules

Option 1: One-Semester Industry Immersion Programme

Select one module from the list below:

Option 2: Two-Semester Industry Immersion Programme

* Some module codes and synopses are pending confirmation and may be subject to change.

GCE O-level

Aggregate Type Range of Net ELR2B2 for 2024 JAE Minimum Entry Requirements/Grade
ELR2B2-C 11 to 19
  • 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

Minimum net GPA Relevant Qualifications
Nitec ≥ 3.5
  • NT15 Urban Greenery & Landscape
  • NT39 Chemical Process Technology/ Chemical Process Technology (Biologics)/ Chemical Process Technology (Petrochemicals)/ Chemical Process Technology (Pharmaceuticals)/ Chemical Process Technology (Process Instrumentation)
  • NT45 Nursing
  • NT58 Applied Food Science
  • NT64 Medical Manufacturing Technology
  • NT91 Pastry & Baking
Higher Nitec ≥ 2.0
  • IT58 Biotechnology/Biochemical Technology
  • IT59 Chemical Technology
  • IT62 Paramedics & Emergency Care
  • IT68 Facility Systems Design
  • IT72 Process Plant Design
  • IT94 Integrated Mechanical & Electrical Design

GCE A-Level

Minimum Entry Requirements

Note:

For more details on admission using Singapore Cambridge GCE A-levels qualifications, please refer to our webpage at www.rp.edu.sg.

Note:

  • Admission to RP is based on academic merit and subjected to available vacancies of 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.

Career Opportunities

You can pursue careers in a diverse range of industries related to life sciences such as biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals, medical research, agrifood, and food product development & manufacturing. Look forward to career opportunities in roles such as:

  • 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
  • Agriculturist

Further Studies

RP graduates are well-placed to embark on meaningful careers, immediately after graduation. They could even improve their employability by taking part-time courses or SkillsFuture Work-Study Programmes (WSPs).

What’s more, every RP diploma is recognised and has a pathway leading to a relevant degree with top local and overseas universities. RP graduates may complete their degrees in just over two or three years in a four-year programme.

Skills Deepening

Upon graduation, DBIOS students can choose to deepen their skills and knowledge in a chosen field before embarking on their career. They could either sign up for part-time courses (e.g Specialist Diplomas) or pursue WSPs. Please visit our lifelong learning page to find out more.

Undergraduate Studies

As a DBIOS graduate, you 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. Every year, a significant percentage of our graduates have been accepted into the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Management University, and Singapore Institute of Technology. Top universities overseas also welcome our graduates with advanced standing of up to two years. Some of these universities are:

  • Australian National University (Australia)

  • Monash University (Australia)

  • Newcastle University (UK)

  • Queensland University of Technology (Australia)

  • RMIT University (Australia)

  • The University of Melbourne (Australia)

  • The University of Queensland (Australia)

  • University of Dundee (UK) 

  • University of Western Australia (Australia)

Last updated on 22 Jul 2024