Master of Science (Research) | Sciences

NIE offers MSc (By Research) candidates research in the following areas:

• Mathematics and Mathematics Education
• Natural Sciences and Science Education
• Physical Education and Sports Science
  

The list of Programme Leaders can be found under "Research Area".

A Bachelor's degree with honours at least at Second Class Upper level in the relevant areas and the ability to pursue research in the candidate's proposed field of advanced study.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo an interview session as part of the selection process.

A valid GRE score is required for applicants who are not graduates of the Autonomous Universities in Singapore. See detailed requirements for English language on competency and GRE requirements  here.

Click here for more information on application periods.

Important

We strongly suggest you reach out to potential supervisors at least 3 months in advance of application deadline as the process of finding a potential supervisor and preparing your proposal may take longer than you anticipate. 

The degree of Master of Science by research is offered on both full-time and part-time basis. The candidature periods are as follows:

Qualifying Examination

A rigorous system is used to prepare you into the research phase. In the first 12 months of study, you will be required to complete the Qualifying Examination requirements as indicated in (i) and (ii) below:

(i) Attend classes and pass the examinations of

• 3 graduate level courses chosen from the University's Master-degree coursework programmes or from approved special topic courses and
• obtain an overall average Grade B-, and no course should have a Grade below C+

(ii) Submit an in-depth literature review of an approved research topic

Exemption of courses may be granted by the Dean if you are deemed to have already done sufficient coursework in the relevant area in a graduate level programme at a recognised university. You would have to complete a minimum of two courses after allowing for exemptions.

Thesis Requirement

The nature of the Masters thesis requires that the student demonstrates the acquisition of research skills and their effective application in an investigation of genuine substance and significance. The thesis should comprise a comprehensive, lucid and concise exposition on the context, objectives and conduct of the investigation and on its outcomes and interpretations.

A Masters thesis should not exceed 50,000 words (including footnotes, but excluding appendices, references, maps, charts, statistical tables, graphs, illustrations, etc).

For tuition fees, please click here.

International students who choose to pay a lower tuition fee (and thus receive higher subsidy) will have to take up a 3-year service obligation. Click here for more information.