FAQ
What do I learn in Material Science and Engineering?
As the name suggests, Materials Science and Engineering is a dynamic, interdisciplinary study that combines the fundamental sciences; chemistry, physics and life sciences; with the applied engineering; electronic, mechanical, chemical and bioengineering.
First year and second year: fundamentals on the properties of materials i.e. physical and chemical
Third year and fourth year: Applications, materials characterization techniques.
In addition to the MSE core modules, you will also learn soft skills in i.e. Design Projects, project management and etc, which will help you for your future careers.
What are the areas of specialization?
There are currently two areas of specialisation in Materials Science & Engineering:
Polymeric and Biomedical Materials
Nanostructured Materials & Nanotechnology
The course curriculum is designed to be flexible in terms of specialisation so that it can be adapted to the future needs of Singapore’s industries. In addition, the syllabus is structured taking into account the 3 main core platforms of the department, which is biomedical technology, infocom technology and sustainable energy technology.
What is the entry requirement for the major programme?
Currently, the entry requirements to study Materials Science and Engineering are similar to the ones required by NUS. It includes a minimum of two passes at H2 level, one of which must be in Physics or Chemistry and the other in Mathematics.
Bridging courses are available in both physics and chemistry and can be counted towards the total number of Units require for graduation under either the University Level Requirements or as an Unrestricted Elective Courses.
Alternatively, some of the accredited polytechnic diplomas holders can gain direct admission into year 2 of the B. Eng (MSE) programme. For other polytechnic diploma holders in a relevant subject with good overall performance may also be admitted to the Department of Materials Science and Engineering on a case-by-case basis.
For more information on admission to MSE, please refer to the NUS Office of Admissions website at:
My Physics is not good. Will it affect my study in MSE?
MSE requires a combined knowledge in physics, chemistry and biology i.e. in electronic, polymeric, biomedical materials, respectively. Physics is very important in some courses, but there are still other courses requires more chemistry and/or biology. Therefore, it could hardly say that students good in Physics will have significant advantage in MSE. If you do not have H@ physics you will be able to take bridging courses to fill any gaps in your knowledge. Also, it is always nice to have a chance to re-learn Physics again in the university from application aspects.
Where do MSE graduates find employment?
Materials scientists and engineers are very flexible in career choices due to their interdisciplinary background making employment opportunities very good.
Career placement of our graduates
- Semiconductor/microfabrication industries: i.e. Micron, AMD, Global Foundaries
- Aerospace: i.e. Rolls Royce, ST Aerospace, SIA Engineering
- Technology & Engineering: i.e. Bosch, General Electric, HP
- Consumer care: i.e. 3M, P&G
- Chemical: i.e BASF, HEXACHEM
- Oil & gas: i.e. Exxonmobil, Shell
- IT company: i.e. Facebook
- Bank: i.e. Standard Chartered, OCBC, Citibank
- Public Health: i.e. Alexandra Hospital
- Government Agencies: i.e. Singapore Customs, IRAS, SPRING
Research institutions: i.e. A*star
What is the future demand for MSE graduates in Singapore?
The future jobs market in Singapore is rather unpredictable. However, MSE training provides you the flexibilities to fit wide range of job opportunities. This is because materials enable the development of different technologies. For example, a sensor requires a sensing material; aerospace industry requires special metals. Also, the training of materials characterization techniques provides us the knowledge and capabilities i.e. to study and understand the failure of a device etc. Therefore, it is likely to find job opportunities in different fields, although the jobs market in Singapore could be rather vibrant and unpredictable.
Is NUS MSE very "theoretical"?
NUS MSE gives the impression that we are more theoretical because our curriculum focuses on strong fundamental training. With a good foundation, you are able to ramp up in new fields fast. This will help you especially in your future careers as the projects that required different competencies may come and go very fast in your future workplace.
How can I minor in Data Engineering as an MSE student?
With the new emphasis on digitalisation and jobs of the future, will NUS Engineering dilute its education in technical skills, leaving graduates unprepared for the jobs of today, particularly in fields such as civil engineering?
Digitalisation encompasses much more than data and software – it calls for a different mindset towards traditional engineering practice by using data and connected systems to enhance the problem-solving skills we nurture in our students. While this might appear to reduce the time spent teaching technical subjects, the reality is that our students acquire the same discipline knowledge from a holistic systems approach. In the process, our students would be better-able to apply these skills in broader contexts and new situations, which would make them more well-rounded professionals, who can thrive in an uncertain future.
When to declare a minor? Can I apply any minors or only specific minors?
Usually students declare their minor at the end of their first or second semesters.
There are two classes of minors:
- Open’ Minor – students can declare their intention to do an open minor via the Academic Plan Declaration without any prior approval from the Host Faculty/Department.
- ‘Restricted’ Minor – students are required to apply to the Host Faculty/Department and obtain approval to read a restricted minor.
For more details see: https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduate-students/special-programmes/minor-programmes