The Master of Science (MSc) in Life Sciences programme by coursework and dissertation is tailored to meet the needs of working teachers, science graduates or professionals interested in life sciences. It is designed and mass-customised in manageable courses to suit your previous educational background.
The programme aims to provide teachers and science graduates with specialised knowledge in the field of life sciences, by addressing not only the knowledge base, but also the necessary experimental skills required. Without sacrificing the necessary breadth and depth of the multi-disciplinary nature of the life sciences, you are offered a highly personalised roadmap in which the most recent scientific developments are taught, and social and bioethical issues are discussed.
The courses are designed for the following target groups:
- Science graduate teachers in schools and junior colleges who are keen to upgrade their knowledge in life sciences for their teaching and professional development.
- Science and engineering graduates from NTU, NUS, and foreign universities, who wish to upgrade themselves for better job opportunities in life science-related industries e.g., biomedical products, bioengineering processes, etc.
The target enrolment is 25 students for each specialisation, giving a total intake of approximately 75 students per year.
As you receive training in the basic concepts, conduct experiments and projects under experienced and highly qualified scientists, you will be given the opportunity to interact and explore vast new realms in the life sciences.
Specialisations are:
- Clean Energy Physics
- Chemistry
- Environmental Biology
Bachelor of Science with Honours degree, or equivalent, in relevant courses or
Bachelor of Science degree, or equivalent, in relevant courses, and a year's professional working experience
For international applicants, more information on the entry requirements can be found here.
There are generally two intakes a year (January and August). You are advised to visit the website and look out for NIE’s announcements in May/June and November/ December to confirm if the programme will be open for application at any particular intake.
Applicants who are currently working with sponsors, donors or financial institutions to fund their studies, are encouraged to submit their applications early to NIE so as not to miss out on our application period.
Applications are to be made online. Click here to sign up for an ISAAC (Integrated Student and Academic Administration System) account to apply with us. For those with an existing account, login to apply.
More information on application details can be found here.
There are two options within this programme. You are required to either:
- Complete 6 courses plus a dissertation, or
- Complete 7 courses plus a 2 AU Critical Inquiry Course
Coursework with Dissertation Route
Complete 1 core course (4AU), 3 required courses (12AU), 2 elective courses (8AU) and dissertation (6AU).
Coursework Only Route
Complete 1 core course (4AU), 3 required courses (12AU), 3 elective courses (12 AU) and a Critical Inquiry course (2AU).
Important note for matriculated students:
Please refer to the ISAAC system for the programme structure relevant to your intake during Course Registration or consult
Dr Beverly Goh, your programme leader if you need clarifications.
Note: Programme structure is subject to changes
The degree of Master of Science (Life Sciences) is offered on both full-time and part-time basis. The candidature period is as follows:
Full-time | Minimum 1 year | Maximum 3 years |
Part-time | Minimum 2 years | Maximum 4 years |
Full-time Programme
The full-time programme is a one-year programme where you will complete about 4 courses per semester. You are required to attend four 3-hour lectures per week in the evenings each semester. You will follow a prescribed programme of study. The programme of study involves formal classes, tutorials, seminars, laboratory work, assignments and/or written examinations.
Part-time Programme
The part-time programme has a normal duration of 2 to 4 years. In a typical academic year for a part-time student, you are required to attend up to two 3-hour lectures per week in the evenings. You will follow
a prescribed programme of study. The programme of study involves formal classes, tutorials, seminars, laboratory work, assignments and/or written examinations.
The course requirements for each specialisation are as follows:
For tuition fees, please click here.
For more information on scholarships, please click here.
For programme-related matters, please consult the programme leader, Dr Beverly Goh for more information.