DIPLOMA IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING (S53, DCPE)
WHAT YOU'LL STUDY
For AY2024/2025
Exisitng students can contact DCPE course chair for the course structure.
In DCPE, two equally exciting paths for you to choose…
DCPE students make a choice between “Computer Engineering & Software” (CES) or “Computer Networking & Security” (CNS) path in year-2 of the Course. These two equally exciting paths have been designed to suit the interest,
strength and career aspiration the students.
Computer Engineering & Software (CES) Path
The CES Path has been tailor-made for those who aspire to design, implement and manage digital solutions. Equipped with knowledge and skills in 5G Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and Cloud Computing, you are empowered
to shape the digital world with your innovative, creative and intelligent solutions. With your unique strength in integrating software and hardware for optimised solutions, you will be the breed of Computer Engineers highly sought after by many enterprises in this new era of digital economies.
Computer Networking & Security (CNS) Path
The CNS Path is designed for those who aspire to uplift the internet-driven digital world to a higher level through excellent IT infrastructure and enhanced security. Equipped with knowledge and skills in Computer Networking, Cyber Security, Cloud
Computing and Server Management, you protect our critical IT infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted and smooth running of IT services. With your unique strength in architecting and managing secured, optimised and reliable IT infrastructures, you are the breed of IT or Security Specialists this internet-driven world could count on.
First Year
Network Fundamentals
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This module provides a general overview of
computer networking. It provides a general
introduction to networking terminology,
concepts, devices, functionality,
applications and standards required for
computer networking. Students will learn to
build simple LANs, perform basic network
and service configurations, and implement
IP addressing schemes.
Digital Electronics 1
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Introduces students to the knowledge,
understanding and design techniques
necessary to enable them to design simple
combinational circuits using commercial
SSI and MSI integrated circuits. Additional
topics covered include introduction to
simple sequential logic circuits such as flipflops
and mono-stables
Digital Electronics 2
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Builds on basic material covered earlier
with advanced topics such as adders,
multiplexers/ demultiplexers, decoders/
encoders, counters and shift registers and
some application examples of these circuits.
Principles of Electrical and Electronic Engineering 1
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This module covers the fundamental
concepts of electricity. Basic laws and
theorems which govern the operation
of electrical circuitry are explained with
illustrations. Understanding and application
of electrical phenomena are further
enhanced using circuit simulation on
worked examples and tutorial problems
and via hands-on sessions. Topics covered
include scientific notation, engineering
notation, metric prefixes, basic elements of
an electrical circuit, definitions of energy
and power, power sources, measuring
instruments, DC and AC concepts,
simple series and parallel networks,
electromagnetism, inductor, inductance,
transformers, capacitor and capacitance,
characteristics of inductor and capacitor in
DC, Kirchhoff’s Voltage and Current Laws,
Current and Voltage Divider Rules and
Superposition Theorem
Computer-Aided Design & Drafting
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Equips students with the knowledge
of drawing office practice, ISO drawing
standards and drawing skills using latest
AutoCAD software and the ability to read
and produce good technical sketches and projection drawings as a form of
engineering communication. The module
will cover basic 2D drawings, isometrics
and orthogonal projections, 3D-Design
using Autodesk software for 3D-Printing &
Laser cutting assignments, and the use of
workstation based CAD/CAM software for
computer-aided drafting.
Introduction to Engineering & Design
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This module equips students with engineering fundamentals set in the context of CDIO (conceive, design, implement and operate) in real-world systems with basic electronic projects. It aims to nurture students toward self-directed learners by giving them a challenging environment to plan, manage, review and extend their learning outcomes using growth mind-set and meta-cognitive learning systems in achieving their electronic projects. Besides, students will be exposed to a range of generic process skills such as troubleshooting skills, creative and critical thinking, teamwork and communication.
Introduction to Engineering Programming
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This module teaches students to write programs in a structured way. It emphasises on good programming techniques and covers topics on fundamental data types, input / output, selection control and loop constructs, functions and basic structures such as arrays. At the end of the module, the students will be able to write programme for simple engineering application that runs on computer and simple engineering application that runs on basic embedded system and control it.
Principles of Electrical & Electronic Engineering II
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Extends the basic concepts onto other electrical and electronic devices. Topics covered include: Semiconductor physics, semiconductor devices such as diodes, special diodes and bipolar transistors, transducers such as thermistors, and application of operational amplifiers, complex numbers and concepts of phasors, phasor angle, phasor diagrams, reactances, impedances, susceptances and admittances. Upon completion, this module consolidates students’ foundation of the electrical and electronic engineering.
Basic Mathematics
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Equips students with the necessary mathematical knowledge and skills to handle problems encountered in their course of study. Topics include algebra, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric functions. Binomial theorem, complex numbers, differentiation of algebraic and trigonometric functions and integration of algebraic function. It also serves as a foundation for further work in mathematics in subsequent modules. Basic concepts of linear programming will be introduced to students through learning activities as an application of what is taught in the module.
Engineering Mathematics I
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Equips students with necessary mathematical knowledge and skills to solve problems encountered in their course of studies. It also serves as a foundation for more advanced topics in the second year. Topics include trigonometry, determinants, matrices, complex numbers and calculus. Optimization techniques involving rates of change will be introduced to students through learning activities as an application of what is taught in the module.
Thinking Critically about the UN SDGs (TCU)
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This module aims to equip students with skills in critical and analytical thinking through the exploration of contemporary local and global issues, through the lens of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using information literacy skills, students will select a local issue connected to the SDGs, and look for relevant information on the issue. They will use a critical thinking framework to evaluate a diverse range of sources for their validity and reliability, and consider different perspectives on the issue before presenting their assigned stand, substantiated by reasons and evidence.
This module also aims to enhance students’ knowledge and appreciation of local and global issues related to the 2030 global agenda, represented by the SDGs. Students will learn about the core principles of the SDGs and find out how the goals apply to their own lives, as well as to Singapore.
Education and Career Guidance 1
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A compulsory module for all first year students, ECG 1 aims to develop an understanding of personal interests, strengths, values and life goals. With greater knowledge and understanding of self, planning and decision making in choosing a future career can be better developed. Some topics covered in ECG 1 include ‘Defining My SP Life’, ‘Personal Branding’, ‘Discovering My Interests’, ‘Planning for Success – My Personal Action Plan’ and more.
Common Core Curriculum (CCC) Modules
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Common Core Curriculum (CCC) Modules include Thinking Critically about the UN SDGs, Data Fluency, Digital Communication for Impact, Collaboration in the Digital Age, Effective Writing for the Workplace, Persuasive Communication with Data Storytelling, Problem Solving with Creative & Computational Thinking.
Second Year
Cloud Foundations (new)
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This is an introductory module to Cloud Computing. It introduces students to the fundamental knowledge and overall understanding of cloud computing concepts. Using contents from Amazon Web Services (AWS)’s “Cloud Practitioner” course, this module provides a detailed overview of cloud computing concepts, core services, security, architecture, pricing, and support. Students will apply their cloud computing knowledge in practice with elements of hands-on in lab practical work and projects. This training will prepares students to progress towards practical experience with cloud computing, and the industry recognised “AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner” exam, which represents the first milestone to achieve while working through the AWS Academy Cloud Computing Architecture courses.
Engineering Mathematics II
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Provides students with further knowledge in mathematics and analytical skills to solve engineering problems encountered in their studies. Among the topics covered are calculus, ordinary differential equations and Laplace transforms.
Statistics & Analytics for Engineers
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Provides students with an introduction to statistical and data analytics concepts to solve engineering problems encountered in their studies. Among the topics covered are descriptive statistics, probability distributions of discrete and continuous random variables, sampling distributions, statistical estimation, regression, predictive modelling and clustering. Students will learn to use statistical and data analytics software tools to perform analysis.
Common Core Curriculum (CCC) Modules
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Common Core Curriculum (CCC) Modules include Sustainable Innovation Project, AI and Its Impact.
Elective 1
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Electives can be modules offered within School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering (EEE) or from other Schools.
Elective 2
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Electives can be modules offered within School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering (EEE) or from other Schools.
Education and Career Guidance 2: Career Development
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This module aims to help you develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed for work effectiveness.
Second Year Paths (Choose 1)
Second Year Computer Engineering & Software (CES) Path
Mobile Applications Development
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Provides students with the skills and
knowledge to develop and implement
games or applications that can run on
mobile phones. Students will be introduced to open-source software tools available for
programme development, key concepts in
mobile programming, user-interface classes,
sensors and local data storage. By the end
of the module, students should be able to
conceptualise and complete a mobile game
or application.
DevOps for AIoT
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This module provides an introduction to DevOps (Development Operations) and its role in the Software Development process today in the development of AIoT (Artificial Intelligence + Internet of Things) applications. The basic Software Development process is explained to the students and the role and as a basis to of explaining how DevOps has become an essential component the modern Software Development process. Students will have hands-on experience using DevOps tools such as Git / Github, Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, etc. To consolidate the student’s grasp of DevOps and its importance in the Software Development lifecycle, students will implement an AIoT application supported by a full DevOps infrastructure.
Computer Architecture
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This module provides students with knowledge of how microprocessor systems work and operate. Topics include the computer architecture, memory interfacing, device interfacing, parallel and serial data transfer. Advanced microprocessor architecture, cache systems and pipelining will also be introduced.
Full Stack Development (new)
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This module aims to teach student fundamental knowledge, skills and tools necessary to become proficient in developing end-to-end web applications. Through this course, students will gain practical experience in both front-end and back-end development, enabling them to design, implement, and deploy fully functional web applications.
Microcontroller Applications
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Introduces the use of microcontrollers in a
range of system applications. Students are
taught how a microcontroller works, how to
program it, and the use of microcontroller.
In addition, students will learn basic
analogue and digital support circuitry,
sensors and actuators/displays required
for a microcontroller based application.
This module allows students to develop a
project conceived around a microcontroller
system with sensors and output devices.
Second Year Computer Networking & Security (CNS) Path
Computer Networking
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Provides an understanding of network fundamental and computer network routing principles. Students will learn the difference between routing and routed protocols and to configure routers for LAN communications. Students will also be equipped with network troubleshooting skills and able to discuss LAN design issues involving multiple routers at the completion of the module.
Server Management
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Introduces students to the principles, concepts and techniques in managing servers. Upon successful completion of this module, students should be able to understand how to install servers, manage users over a network, how to avoid problems through fault tolerance, and how to recover from problems through disaster recovery and how to troubleshoot network/server problems. Students should be able to evaluate and select the appropriate tools to manage the network with emphasis on server management and administration.
LAN Switching and Wireless
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Provides students a complete foundation in Wireless Networking and LAN Switching. Wireless Networking covers basic RF theory, hardware installation, configuration and management, troubleshooting, security, and site surveying. LAN Switching covers basic switch concepts and configuration, virtual LANs, VLAN protocols and Inter-VLAN Routing.
Wide Area Networks
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Discusses the WAN technologies and network services required in enterprise networks. It explains how to select appropriate devices and technologies to connect small- to medium-sized business networks. Students also learn how to implement and configure common data link protocols and how to apply WAN security concepts, principles of traffic access control and addressing services. Finally, students learn how to detect, troubleshoot, and correct common enterprise network failure issues.
Network Hacking
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This module aims to provide students with the fundamental concepts for securing hosts and network systems. Students will learn the basics of information security. Students will be able to identify threats and vulnerabilities of computer and network systems. The module will also provide some basic understanding of IDS/IPS, firewalls, and honeypots. Students will learn about network scanning concept, tools, techniques, as well as some basic techniques that hackers use to penetrate network systems, and the way to fortify their own system against those techniques. They will be able to conduct penetration testing and recommend appropriate cyber / information security risk management practices to combat such vulnerabilities and threats.
Third Year
Internship Programme/Internship Equivalent (22 weeks)
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The Internship Programme aims to provide students with an authentic on-the-job work experience in an engineering, or technology-enabled business field, to prepare them to be truly work-ready. Students will also be able to establish an industry network and learn from the experience of working professionals. Students will undergo a structured learning programme, including attending safety induction and participating in the industry projects as part of their internship. The intent of the programme is to enable students to apply and enhance their range of technical skills, hone their knowledge in areas such as professional ethics, role and responsibility of engineers, and understand the business environment in which companies are situated – as advocated by the CDIO syllabus. By the end of the programme, students will have a greater insight into what industry expects of employees, as well as opportunities to develop technical workplace competencies and other important professional skills.
Common Core Curriculum (CCC) Module
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Common Core Curriculum (CCC) Module includes Personal Branding and Career Agility.
Elective 3
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Electives can be modules offered within School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering (EEE) or from other Schools.
Year-3 Option Modules 1 to 4 (CES or CNS)
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Third Year Options (Choose 1)
Third Year Computer Applications (for CES path only)
Embedded Computer Systems
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Provides an understanding of low-cost and small-sized, but powerful embedded processors, used commonly in industrial and home devices. Students will learn to develop smart devices with remote control and monitoring functions. Topics covered include parallel input/output, serial communications, timing functions, communication protocol/HTTP and troubleshooting equipment.
Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
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The ML & AI module aims to equip students with understanding of machine learning and artificial intelligence. The module will cover the theory of machine learning and artificial intelligence, and their potential applications. Students will learn about machine learning methods and tools, Students will apply the knowledge they learn through hands-on experience in building machine learning system in mini projects.
Object Oriented Programming & Data Structures
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This module provides a basic theoretic understanding and hands on in data structures and algorithms commonly encountered in computer programming. Student will learn the construction and operations of more complex data types and structures. Basic principles and reasoning of algorithms and methods commonly encountered will be introduced. Constructions and associated operations of linked lists, stacks, queues, and binary trees will be covered. It also provides full object-oriented programming concepts. Students will be able to develop software with suitable data structures, modularity and reusability. Students will be able to design more robust event-driven GUI program using exception handling with added features using API call.
5G & AIoT Applications
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The aim of this module is to introduce the students to the basic knowledge of 5G Technology, and the potential of 5G technology in enabling the development of new business models and advanced applications. Students will learn about the key domains of 5G technology: wide bandwidth, low latency, and massive IoT, and the use cases that tap on these characteristics of 5G connections. This module will also briefly cover other wireless technologies, for comparison with 5G and also as alternative connection solutions. This module will discuss some use cases where the combination of 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies can bring to the creation and implementation of some emerging engineering applications.
Third Year Smart City Technologies (for both CES and CNS paths )
Internet of Things Security
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Students will learn the prime requirements for a secured IoT-setup. The module will provide a complete exposure to security concerns of an IoT setup by uncovering the present challenges in standardization of data routing, data integrity, device supervision, IoT Integration, information storage, IoT performance, and security solutions. This module will also provide students with practical activities to implement performance and security requirements for a secured IoT setup.
5G & AIoT Applications
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The aim of this module is to introduce the students to the basic knowledge of 5G Technology, and the potential of 5G technology in enabling the development of new business models and advanced applications. Students will learn about the key domains of 5G technology: wide bandwidth, low latency, and massive IoT, and the use cases that tap on these characteristics of 5G connections. This module will also briefly cover other wireless technologies, for comparison with 5G and also as alternative connection solutions. This module will discuss some use cases where the combination of 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies can bring to the creation and implementation of some emerging engineering applications.
Smart City Systems Design
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Students will gain understanding of the pervasive connectivity and architecture needed in smart nation and smart city ecosystems. Topics covered include networking technologies and protocols, smart city architecture and infrastructure, network and systems security, case studies and examples of smart city ecosystems worldwide. Emphasis will be on IMDA’s Smart Nation Platform, including the AG Box, wireless sensor network, and the Smart Nation OS. This module will also act as the capstone module for a “Smart City” project.
Data Analytics
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Students will also be introduced to various data mining tools, data processing techniques and algorithms used for the analysis and visualization of the collected data stored on both local and public cloud servers. As part of a mini-project, students will apply the knowledge gained to build a functional prototype system that is able to store and analyse data. This system will be used in a “Smart City” project.
Third Year Cloud Systems (for both CES and CNS paths)
Operating Systems
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Introduces the student to the inner workings of Operating Systems for computers. It provides a clear description of the concepts that underlie operation systems. At the end of this module, students will have a good understanding of the OS's management system such as processes, memory, storage, I/O devices and security issues.
DevOps for Networking
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This is an introductory module to the modern software development methodologies and tools, focusing more on IT and Network operations. Using contents from Cisco Networking Academy’s “DevNet Associate” course, this module teaches students Python programming for scripting, use of GIT, common data formats (JSON, XML and YAML), use of containers for application deployment, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure automation. Through this module, students will gain practical and hands-on experiences. They will be equipped with entry-level software development and infrastructure automation skills, and well-prepared for the DevNet Associate certification exam.
Cloud Architecting
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This is an introductory module to architecting cloud-based IT solutions using public cloud services. Using contents from the “AWS Academy Cloud Architecting” course, this module covers the fundamentals of building IT infrastructure on AWS. Students will learn to optimize the use of the AWS Cloud by understanding various AWS services and how to best-fit them in cloud-based solutions. Students will learn the best practises of architectural solutions to serve different industries, different types of applications, and different size of the business. Throughout the module, students will experience the building of a variety of infrastructures. This module helps students prepare for the “AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate” exam.
Cloud Native Application Development (new)
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This module provides a comprehensive introduction to cloud-native application development. It equips students with the foundational knowledge and tools required to build modern, scalable, and resilient applications in cloud environments. Throughout the course, students will gain hands-on experience with various essential technologies, including microservices architecture, containerisation, and continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD), which are crucial for developing cloud-native applications.
Third Year Cyber Security (for CNS paths only)
Firewall Technologies
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Covers secure network design and the technologies for securing the perimeter of a network. Security features of perimeter devices (routers and firewalls) including various filtering techniques (e.g. packet filtering, Proxy filtering and Stateful filtering) are covered. Other topics include Virtual private network, Intrusion detection and prevention, disaster recovery and business continuity. In laboratory, students will learn to configure Cisco routers and ASA (Adaptive Security Appliance) for De-Militarised Zone, Virtual Private Network, and authorization.
Network Analysis & Forensics
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Teaches the use of Network Analysis and Packet Capture tools to analyse data flowing through a network. Students will learn how to use analysis tools to perform forensic tests to determine the nature of any security breaches and exploits. The module will also use case studies to determine the nature of different exploits used by hackers on the Internet.
Cyber Security Operations
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The aim of this module is to introduce the core security concepts and skills needed to monitor, detect, analyse and respond to cybercrime, insider threats, advanced persistent threats, regulatory requirements, and other cybersecurity issues facing organizations. It emphasizes on the practical application of the skills needed to maintain and ensure security operational readiness of secure networked systems. The module takes the contents from Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification course.
AI for Cybersecurity (new)
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This module introduces students to the necessity of acquiring knowledge of Internet security and the inner workings of a hacker attacking a server over the Internet. Students will be introduced to the concept of AI and Machine Learning for Cybersecurity. In addition, students will delve into using various applications of AI tools and techniques to detect and mitigate various cyber threats and attacks.
Please note: Course structure is subject to change.
Electives
The SP elective framework offers students options to pursue their passion and/or meet different career needs, and is an integral part of the holistic education we seek to provide to our students. Find out more>
Common Core Curriculum (Module Codes starting with CC)
The Common Core Curriculum is designed to prepare students for a disruptive world that is ever-changing. Comprising critical human and emerging digital skills, the common core modules offer students an integral and inter-disciplinary learning experience,
allowing them to be versatile and thrive in the future, no matter which industry or job they go into. Find out more>