Specialist Diploma in Data Science (Artificial Intelligence)

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Specialist Diploma in Data Science (Artificial Intelligence)

Overview

Course Date:
21 Apr 2025 to 31 Mar 2026
Registration Period:
01 Dec 2024 to 31 Jan 2025
Duration/Frequency:
TBA
Mode of Training:
Facilitated Learning (Face-to-Face/ Online Synchronous) and Asynchronous E-Learning
Venue:
Singapore Polytechnic (facilitated classroom training) and Online E-Learning
Funding:
Eligible for SkillsFuture Credit

Class schedule:

For PDC1

Every Tue and Thurs
5.30pm to 6.30pm (e-learning*)
6:30pm to 9:30pm (face-to-face class)

For PDC2

Every Tue and Thurs
4.00pm to 7.30pm (e-learning*)
7.30pm to 9.00pm (face-to-face class)

Modules in this course conduct in-class tests, typically in the last week of each 7-week or 8-week term in the SP academic calendar. Attendance at these tests is compulsory. Please refer to the SP academic calendar.

Students are strongly advised against scheduling any travel plans during mid-semestral (MST) or end-semestral (EST) weeks. Detailed information regarding test schedules can be found on the website.

*e-learning: the students are not required to attend classes during this period and the stated timing is only a guide. Students are free to read the materials any time prior to the face-to-face class.

Duration:
270 hours (1 year)

Course Objective

Harness the Power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Build the Future! The Specialist Diploma in Data Science (Artificial Intelligence) is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to build data-driven AI applications and cognitive products.

You will learn the foundational concepts and methods of statistics and programming for data science, as well as specialised skills in applied machine learning, deep learning, time-series forecasting, generative AI prompt engineering, and AI-human interfaces (such as chatbots).

Upon graduation, you will be able to:

Apply machine learning algorithms to design and develop intelligent software applications
Build cognitive products that interact with humans in a natural and engaging way
Use data to solve complex business problems and make better decisions

Course Outline

The course is a one-year part-time programme. It consists of 2 Post Diploma Certificates (PDC) conducted over 2 semesters, 1 PDC per semester. The first PDC to start with is PDC1. The classes are conducted in the evening.

This course consists of 2 post diploma certificates (PDCs). Each PDC comprises two modules and the details are as follows:

Please click here for Module Synopsis

Semester One
PDC 1 Certificate in Fundamentals of Data Science
Module 1 - Introduction to Statistics for Data Science
Module 2 - Introduction to Programming for Data Science

Semester Two
PDC 2 Certificate in Artificial Intelligence
Module1 – Applied Machine Learning
Module2 – AI Human Interface

Participants must complete PDC1 before they can progress to PDC2.

PDC Exemptions for Specialist Diplomas in Data Science

Participants who have graduated from this course may be eligible for PDC1 exemption if they plan to register for another Specialist Diploma in Data Science:

Please note exemptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Interested participants may email ptenquiry@sp.edu.sg. Our team will get in touch to address your queries and guide you through a separate application process.

Minimum Requirements

Students enrolled in the Specialist Diploma in Data Science (Artificial Intelligence) must satisfy at least one of the following entry requirements:

(i) An engineering diploma from a polytechnic in Singapore
(ii) Any diploma from a polytechnic in Singapore AND

a C6 or better in Additional Mathematics in the O-level examinations
OR a C grade or better in a one-semester polytechnic mathematics module that substantially covers the Additional Mathematics syllabus;
OR relevant work experience (considered on a case-by-case basis).

(iii) Any degree from one of the following Singapore universities: NUS, NTU, SMU, SUTD, SIT, or SUSS (UniSIM).

Candidates with degrees from other universities are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements may apply for admission to the course by producing evidence of at least 5 years relevant working experience or supporting information to ascertain their competency readiness. Eligible applicants who are shortlisted may have to go through an interview and/or entrance test. The Polytechnic reserves the right to shortlist eligible applicants and admit applicants who perform well in the interview and/or entrance test.

Certification / Accreditation

Upon completion of two Certificates within a two-year validity period, students will be conferred a Specialist Diploma qualification from Singapore Polytechnic.

Upon completion of Datacamp content in the course, students will receive Datacamp course digital certificates.

As part of the Nvidia Deep Learning Institute (DLI) University Ambassador Program, Nvidia DLI Deep Learning course with digital certificates will be offered to students.

Specialist Diploma in Data Science (Artificial Intelligence) graduates will receive an exemption of up to 12 subject credits on SUTD’s ModularMasters in Data Science programme. Details can be found on SUTD website. (https://www.sutd.edu.sg/Education/Academy/Our-Offerings/ModularMasters/ModularMasters-in-Data-Science)

Specialist Diploma in Data Science (Artificial Intelligence) graduates will receive exemption up to 2 modules, namely Data Programming in Python and Data Visualisation from University of London - Master of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Details can be found on SIM's website - UOL MSc in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence | SIM GE

Suitable for

This course is designed for working adults who want to master the AI and machine learning skills needed to thrive in their chosen field. Whether you're a software developer, data analyst, cybersecurity specialist, research engineer, semiconductor engineer, electronics engineer, or technology educator, you will learn how to harness the power of AI to solve real-world problems and make a bigger impact. This course covers a mix of theory and application, so you will gain a deep understanding of the underlying concepts and learn how to apply them to real-world projects. You will also have the opportunity to work on hands-on exercises and assignments, so you can put your skills to the test and build your own AI-powered solutions.

If you're interested in the AI Singapore AI Apprentice Program (AIAP) but don't have the pre-requisites, this course will give you the solid foundation you need to succeed.

Special Requirements

Students in this course are required to bring a notebook computer to class. Necessary software is provided free-of-charge to students for the duration of the course.