plp-minors
PLP Minors

PLP Minors

Graduate with a Diploma + Minor
Own your learning with >50 Learning Units across diverse disciplines

Personalised Learning Pathway (PLP) Programme

Pair Your Diploma with a Minor to Unlock Possibilities


What is PLP?

Define and own your learning! PLP is NP’s signature programme to enable you to pursue your passion and gain in-demand skills. From applied psychology to data analytics, entrepreneurship to sustainability, the 11 PLP Minors and over 50 Learning Units (LUs) cut across diverse disciplines to give you a wide variety of choices. 

You can pursue a dedicated pathway or mix and match LUs, which are bite-sized lessons. Take LUs in areas that pique your interest. Or complete 3 distinct LUs to get a Minor. The choice is yours.  

 

 

Why PLP?

PLP is a game-changer in the dynamic world we live in. To help you seize opportunities to achieve a brighter future, the PLP lets you develop in-demand skills that complement your course – and graduate with a Diploma + Minor!  

Because you get to choose what you want to learn, you can build skill sets to complement the training that your course gives you. The unique skills combination that you develop (think of it as your secret superpower!) will unlock more possibilities for your further studies and careers! 

 

Pursue Multiple Passions & Interests

After my O-levels, I was torn between taking up Business and Psychology. I decided on NP's Business Studies to pursue a career in HR management. Thanks to PLP, I'm able to pursue both my passions and through the combined skill sets, learn to build better working relationships with clients.

Photo of student, Evelyn Koo

Be A Versatile, All-Rounded Graduate  

I wanted to take up a Minor in Internet of Things (IoT) under NP's PLP Programme to complement my business diploma. By learning all about communications networks, data storage servers and machine learning, I've gained fresh skills and expertise in a different subject area!

Photo of student, Alfred Ng

Stand Out from the Pack 

I was eager to bring my business idea, Timeless Tales to the next stage so I signed up for the Accelerator Programme Learning Unit designed for students like me, raring to build their first start-up. I received guidance and mentorship, and eventually pitched my proposal and secured funding!

Photo of student, Lim Cai Qian

Stand Out from the Pack 

PLP is one of the many opportunities that NP availed to me. I've always been interested in Asia. Through the Minor in Global Readiness, I learnt about cultural intelligence and working in a globalised world. I even participated in a virtual Overseas Immersion Programme, organised in partnership with a university in Shanghai.

Photo of student, Ryan Soh


Personalise Your Learning with

4 Exciting Pathways & 11 Minors

 


PROFESSIONAL SKILLS PATHWAY


Acquire in-demand skills and knowledge from emerging and growth sectors. This may give you an edge when applying for university or a career in a related field in the future!

The Gist

Psychology is all about understanding how the mind works. Having insights into people’s thoughts and psyche will give you an edge in almost any career. With the growing awareness of mental health issues, the study of psychology will enable you to play a bigger role in supporting people to improve their mental wellbeing. This minor will introduce you to a broad range of topics within the exciting field of psychology, including social, health, and industrial and organisational psychology. The Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted either in-person or online.

Highlights

  • Be equipped with the foundational psychology knowledge and skills required to thrive within and beyond the social service and civic sectors
  • Level up and learn how to apply social psychology principles in everyday life
  • Some lessons will be conducted online, so you can learn at your own pace

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in International Trade & Business
+
Minor in Applied Psychology

Do business confidently with an understanding of the complex human behaviour across diverse cultures.

Diploma in Mass Communication
+
Minor in Applied Psychology

Understand your consumers better and launch ad campaigns that speak to your target audience.

Diploma in Engineering Science
+
Minor in Applied Psychology

With a better understanding of psychology and design-driven engineering, you could create the next Dyson or Tesla.

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in Applied Psychology LU Duration (hours)
1. Level 1: Society & You: Social Psychology 45
2. Level 2: Well-being & Support: Psychology of Health and Behaviour 45
3. Level 3: Psychology in the Workplace: Industrial & Organisational Psychology 45

How do I attain the Minor?

Complete all 3 LUs in the order of sequence as listed above.

Who can apply?

The LUs in the Minor in Applied Psychology are open to all NP full-time students.

The Gist

With every click, like or share, data is being created every second globally. This Minor in Data Analytics allows students from all disciplines to appreciate the relevance of AI and the complexities of large data sets. You’ll be well-equipped for a digital future as you gain skills to perform fundamental data analysis and use programming software tools favoured by industry professionals! Plus, be exposed to the basics of machine learning and other emerging trends so that you can value-add to the industry of your choice! The Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted either in-person or online.

Highlights

  • Find out the importance of data and how it affects the competitiveness of organisations
  • Learn to use the tools of choice for data scientists, such as Tableau and Jupyter Notebook
  • Go at your own pace using e-learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning Level
  • Understand how to explore, analyse and present data

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in Tourism & Resort Management
+
Minor in Data Analytics & AI

Use data to enhance customer experiences, predict trends and gauge marketing effectiveness for tourism-related products and services!

Diploma in Optometry
+
Minor in Data Analytics & AI

AI has the potential to revolutionise the optometry profession so you could improve patient care by using AI and data as valuable complementary tools!

Diploma in Landscape Design & Horticulture
+
Minor in Data Analytics & AI

Level up your skills by learning to confidently analyse environmental data to better understand and optimise urban agriculture

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in Data Analytics & AI LU Duration (hours)
1. Level 1: Fundamentals of Data Analytics & AI 45
2. Level 2: Programming for AI 45
3. Level 3: Project in Data Analytics & AI 45

How do I attain the Minor?

Complete all 3 LUs in the order of sequence as listed above.

Who can apply?

The learning units in the Minor in Data Analytics & AI are open to all NP full-time students except those taking Diploma in Data Science.

The Gist

The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionising the way we live, work and play. Thanks to IoT, everyday objects like smart home appliances, wearable devices, industrial machines, and even vehicles can collect and exchange data with each other without requiring any direct human intervention! With IoT driving growth in many industries, including healthcare, aerospace and manufacturing, you can complement your diploma with a Minor in Fundamentals of Internet of Things and look forward to rewarding career opportunities. All LUs will be conducted during the semester either in person or online.

Highlights

  • Understand what an IoT system is and the major components that build an IoT system
  • Design a cloud-based IoT sub-system using design-thinking methodology
  • Gain insights into the basics of networking as well as common IoT communication protocols
  • Be equipped with the skills and knowledge to design and deploy your own IoT project

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in Nursing
+
Minor in Fundamentals of IoT

IoT has the potential to impact communities worldwide, particularly in healthcare and you can be part of initiatives that address global challenges and improve people's lives.

Diploma in Accountancy
+
Minor in Fundamentals of IoT

Combining IoT skills with accounting can make organisations more effective by improving the management of people, assets and risks!

Diploma in Environmental & Water Technology
+
Minor in Fundamentals of IoT

IoT is making our world more sustainable and energy-efficient so you can contribute to environmental initiatives and develop smarter, greener technologies!

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in Fundamentals of IoT LU Duration (hours)
1. Level 1: IoT Innovation Basics 45
2. Level 2: IoT Cloud-based Services 45
3. Level 3: IoT Data Science Project 45

How do I attain the Minor?

Complete all 3 LUs in the order of sequence as listed above.

Who can apply?

The LUs in the Minor in Fundamentals of Internet of Things are open to all NP full-time students except AEG (Avionics specialisation), MR, BME, CEP (Electrical track), ECE, EE and ES courses due to curriculum duplication.

The Gist

Social media has become the most influential space with platforms like Instagram and TikTok used not only for social networking but also brand and product promotions. Today, businesses and brands leverage social media platforms to interact and connect with their audience. Through the Minor in Social Media Marketing, you will learn about the strategic framework used by industry professionals to launch social media campaigns for Fortune 500 companies. You’ll even gain skills to use digital tools and social platforms to pitch a social media campaign! All Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during the semester either in person or online.

Highlights

  • Be exposed to brand storytelling techniques to build a brand on social media
  • Identify consumer trends and read market sentiment for products and brands
  • Understand viral advertising and PR campaigns
  • Execute a social media campaign for a new or existing brand

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in Business Studies
+
Minor in Social Media Marketing

Whether you’re your own boss or working for a company, harness the power of social media to build a strong brand.

Diploma in Design
+
Minor in Social Media Marketing

As you create designs that impact lives & communities, tell a compelling story on social media to generate awareness.

Diploma in Community Development
+
Minor in Social Media Marketing

As you champion social causes, spread the word through impactful campaigns to engage audiences.

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in Social Media Marketing LU Duration (hours)
1. Level 1: Brand Storytelling 45
2. Level 2: Social Media Marketing 45
3. Level 3: Social Media Portfolio Project 45

How do I attain the Minor?

Complete 3 LUs, there are prerequisites for some of the LUs.

Who can apply?

The LUs in the Minor in Social Media Marketing are open to all NP full-time students.

The Gist

Digital experiences are important gateways to information, services and even entertainment. The ability to provide users with easy and intuitive experiences will affect the bottom line for businesses and the effectiveness of public agencies. With the Minor in User Experience, you will be introduced to principles of good experience design, as well as learn basic design methodologies to enhance the user experience for platforms widely used today. All Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during the semester either in person or online.

Highlights

  • Equip yourself with design methodologies that focus on human-centric approaches in design
  • Apply and integrate creativity, knowledge & skills through a series of workshops
  • Experiment with methodologies and craft user-centric solutions that enhance user experience

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in Banking & Finance
+
Minor in User Experience Design

Play a role in creating user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for consumers to interact with a bank's services and products.

Diploma in Chinese Media & Communication
+
Minor in User Experience Design

Be a versatile media professional who is confident in using products or services that are visually appealing, functional, and user-friendly!

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
+
Minor in User Experience Design

As you build sleek technology for industrial or commercial use, your UX skills will enhance the usefulness of your products.

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in User Experience Design LU Duration (hours)
1. Level 1: Design Fundamentals 45
2. Level 2: User Experience: Introduction & Application 45
3. Level 3: User Experience: In Action 45

How do I attain the Minor?

Complete all 3 LUs in the order of sequence as listed above.

Who can apply?

The learning units in the Minor in User Experience Design are open to all NP full-time students.

The Gist

To fight against cybercrime, companies are investing heavily in keeping their data, networks and systems safe. Through our Minor in Cybersecurity, gain a better understanding of the presence of cyberattacks in computer networks and their impact on information security. Plus, pick up critical skills like learning to perform simple hacking to better understand the trends and threats in this rapidly evolving industry. All Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during the semester either in person or online.

Highlights

  • Identify common cyberattacks to recognise the impact of these attacks on critical IT infrastructure
  • Learn to hunt for security threats or vulnerabilities through ethical hacking and mitigate hacking operations
  • Acquire skills to identify threats, propose and implement firewall security policies to protect an organisation’s information

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in International Trade & Business
+
Minor in Cybersecurity

With the global trade sector susceptible to cyberattacks, your knowledge will help you better work with your in-house cybersecurity analysts to secure digital platforms.

Diploma in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
+
Minor in Cybersecurity

Be in the know of how industries like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology secure their systems to avoid vulnerabilities and prevent breaches.

Diploma in Hotel & Leisure Facilities Management
+
Minor in Cybersecurity

As smart technology like Internet of Things and cloud computing transforms the hotel and leisure industry, your cybersecurity knowledge will give you an added edge.

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in CybersecurityLU Duration (hours)
1. Level 1: Fundamentals of Cybersecurity and Networking45
2. Level 2: Ethical Hacking Essentials45
3. Level 3: Server and Network Security45

How do I attain the Minor?

Complete all 3 LUs in the order of sequence as listed above.

Who can apply?

The LUs in the Minor in Cybersecurity are open to all NP full-time students except for students from the Diploma in Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics.

The LU “Level 1: Fundamentals of Cybersecurity and Networking” will also not be open to students from the IT, ECE and MR courses due to curriculum duplication.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP PATHWAY


Where better than NP for budding entrepreneurs to learn the ropes of starting a business? Immerse yourself in our vibrant campus ecosystem comprising *The SandBox (TSB), start-ups, alumni-entrepreneurs, mentors and more!

* NP’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship Office

The Gist

Build the foundations of your brilliant business idea. This minor allows you to learn the ropes of starting a business from start-ups, industry leaders and mentors as you graduate with a Minor in Entrepreneurship on top of your diploma. The Minor in Entrepreneurship is designed to reflect the four stages of business growth: Seed, Start, Sprout and Scale. Seven Learning Units (LUs) will be offered and conducted either during the semester or vacation period.

Highlights

  • Soak up that start-up culture vibe with a 4-week immersion programme
  • Gain access to funding through the NP Accelerator Programme for selected budding entrepreneurs
  • Learn all about e-Commerce business models to seize online retail business opportunities

Imagine the Possibilities

Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

Diploma in Design
+
Minor in Entrepreneurship

Design spaces and products, and learn how to run your own business like a pro.

Diploma in Arts Business Management
+
Minor in Entrepreneurship

Manage the arts and heritage industries and value add by proposing viable business solutions.

Diploma in Electronic & Computer Engineering
+
Minor in Entrepreneurship

Identify business opportunities in the electronics industry, a key growth sector in Singapore.

Learning Units (LUs)

LUs offered by Minor in EntrepreneurshipLU Duration (hours)
1. Seed Stage: Entrepreneurship First Steps45
2. Seed Stage: Starting Your Side Hustle50
3. Start Stage: Startup Immersion Project45
4. Start Stage: eCommerce for Entrepreneurs45
5. Sprout Stage: Startup Competition*45
6. Sprout Stage: Global Startup Challenge*45
7. Scale Stage: Accelerator Programme*45
8. Scale Stage: Incubation*45

Consultations are provided to assess the stage of your business to determine the most suited LU.

    How do I attain the Minor?

    Complete 3 LUs in any order.

    Who can apply?

    The LUs in the Minor in Entrepreneurship are open to all NP students, except students taking the Diploma in Business Studies (with the Entrepreneurship specialisation) and Diploma in Business Studies (with the Entrepreneurship Management option).


    GLOBAL READINESS PATHWAY


    Did you know that the ASEAN region is growing like never before, opening up bountiful opportunities? Deepen your intercultural competencies and regional language skills to prepare for exciting global careers.

    The Gist

    South-East Asia (SEA) is one of the fastest-growing regions in the world, providing exciting opportunities for expansion and careers to local companies and talents respectively. Beyond SEA, our graduates have also made their mark all over the world. To help you get a head start to succeed in the global workplace, this Minor allows you to acquire language and cross-cultural competencies; deepen your understanding of issues relating to ASEAN, China and India; and grow your business network. Some of the Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during vacation.

    Highlights

    • Embark on an international trip to get a firsthand experience of ASEAN, China or India
    • Acquire in-demand language and cultural competencies as you gain insights into the economic and social developments of key economies within South-East Asia
    • Attend lectures delivered by university professors from an overseas university and interact with students abroad

    Imagine the Possibilities

    Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

    Diploma in Information Technology
    +
    Minor in Global Readiness

    Learn how business leaders and policymakers in ASEAN drive tech development as you play your role in creating IT solutions.

    Diploma in Arts Business Management
    +
    Minor in Global Readiness

    Gain insights into the cultural and social norms of different countries in the region to thrive in creative and heritage industries.

    Diploma in Real Estate Business
    +
    Minor in Global Readiness

    Deepen your understanding on how the ASEAN region tackles smart technology and sustainability so you can better contribute to shaping future cities.

    Learning Units (LUs)

    LUs offered by Minor in Global ReadinessLU Duration (hours)
    1. International Trip* (includes pre-trip preparation)45 - 60
    2. International Language / Regional Business Language45 - 60
    3. Cultural Intelligence (CQ) Knowledge and Strategies for Success45
    4. Regional Knowledge - China: A Rising Power45

    *All international trips are not available through PLP Ranking exercise. Look out for mass recruitment drive by the respective school/department. 

    How do I attain the Minor?

    Complete 3 LUs, including an overseas trip under the International Trip LU. There are also prerequisites for some of the LUs.

    Who can apply?

    The LUs in the Minor in Global Readiness are open to all NP full-time students.

    The Gist

    Demonstrate your appreciation of foreign cultures and interest in the world beyond by taking on a Minor in Foreign Languages (French/Japanese/Korean). In an increasingly globalised world, being proficient in one or more foreign languages is an advantage that more employers are recognising. Add an important credential to your resume and improve your employment prospects in multinational companies and local companies expanding overseas. Some Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during vacation.

    Highlights

    • Acquire the skills to speak, write and read in a new language
    • Deepen your understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Japan/Korea/France
    • Expand your global awareness and cross-cultural understanding

    Imagine the Possibilities

    Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

    Diploma in Mechatronics & Robotics
    +
    Minor in Foreign Languages (Japanese)

    Japan is home to some of the world's leading manufacturers and robotics companies and you could explore opportunities out of your comfort zone!

    Diploma in Pharmaceutical Science
    +
    Minor in Foreign Languages (French)

    France has one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical industries and you could land a dream job with one of the key players!

    Diploma in Media Post-Production
    +
    Minor in Foreign Languages (Korean)

    Korea has a thriving media industry and you could apply your cutting-edge post-production techniques internationally!

    Learning Units (LUs)

    LUs offered by Minor in Foreign Languages LU Duration (hours)
    1. Level 1: Japanese/Korean/French Language 1 45
    2. Level 2: Japanese/Korean/French Language 2 45
    3. Level 3: Japanese/Korean/French Language 3 45

    How do I attain the Minor?

    Complete all 3 LUs in the order of sequence as listed above.

    Who can apply?

    The LUs in the Minor in Foreign Languages are open to all NP full-time students.


    SOCIAL LEADERSHIP PATHWAY


    Create a positive impact while gaining relevant skills and experience to add value to businesses and communities through sustainable solutions and practices for social good.

    The Gist

    Understand what sustainability means, what it entails, and why it is important to individuals, communities, businesses and governments. Learn how to add value to businesses and communities through creative sustainable solutions for both social good and profit. You will also be exposed to green careers in the future as countries and businesses make the transition to greener and more inclusive economies. And you don’t need to be an environmentalist to create a better world. All three Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during vacation.

    Highlights

    • Learn key sustainability concepts through interactive gaming, field trips, case studies & workshops
    • Work on collaborative projects with NP students from different courses
    • Experience blended learning that includes face-to-face sessions and online asynchronous lessons
    • You can complete your Minor within about a week during vacation

    Imagine the Possibilities

    Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

    Diploma in Mass Communication
    +
    Minor in Sustainability

    Develop content on TikTok to show your brand’s efforts in fighting climate change.

    Diploma in Community Development
    +
    Minor in Sustainability

    Champion social sustainability and work with corporates to serve disadvantaged communities here and abroad.

    Diploma in Electrical Engineering
    +
    Minor in Sustainability

    Reduce the effects of global warming with innovative engineering solutions.

    Learning Units (LUs)

    LUs offered by Minor in Sustainability LU Duration (hours)
    1. Understanding Sustainability: People, Planet, Prosperity 45
    2. Sustainable Innovation and Solutions 45
    3. Sustainability in Business and Community 45

      How do I attain the Minor?

      Complete 3 LUs, in the order of sequence as listed above.

      Who can apply?

      The LUs in the Minor in Sustainability are open to all NP full-time students.

      The Gist

      Pick up a new set of competencies and knowledge that can put you in good stead to pursue adjacent career pathways in social service agencies, social enterprises or corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments. Be equipped with the skills to make a positive impact on the community, whichever career you pursue. Some of the Learning Units (LUs) will be conducted during vacation.

      Highlights

      • Work with underserved communities outside of Singapore through an overseas trip
      • Implement a sustainable Service-Learning project tackling pressing community needs
      • Gain leadership skills and lead students on an overseas Youth Expedition Project
      • Learn more about ‘hidden communities’ in Singapore through dialogues and learning journeys

      Imagine the Possibilities

      Here are a few examples of how you can pair your diploma with this minor!

      Diploma in Film, Sound & Video
      +
      Minor in Social Leadership

      A deeper understanding of community issues will help you tell more nuanced and affective stories that will impact lives.

      Diploma in Biomedical Engineering
      +
      Minor in Social Leadership

      Become a more effective biomedical engineer as you design, develop and test medical devices that prioritise accessibility and inclusion for all.

      Diploma in Immersive Media
      +
      Minor in Social Leadership

      With technology increasingly used in healthcare, your sense of empathy will help you develop immersive experiences that meet advocacy needs.

      Learning Units (LUs)

      LUs offered by Minor in Social Leadership LU Duration (hours)
      1. Changemakers in Practice: Connecting with Communities – Local 45
      2. Changemakers in Practice: Connecting with Communities – Overseas 60
      3. Changemakers in Practice: Leadership Development through a Youth Expedition Project 50
      4. Changemakers in Practice: Becoming a Volunteer Leader 60
      5. Changemakers in Practice: Youth Corps Leaders Programme – Project Track 1 64
      6. Changemakers in Practice: Youth Corps Leaders Programme – Project Track 2 72

        How do I attain the Minor?

        Complete 3 LUs, including an overseas YEP trip. There are prerequisites for some of the LUs.

        Who can apply?

        The Minor in Social Leadership are open to all NP full-time students. Some Learning Units are not offered to students from the Diploma in Community Development due to curriculum duplication.

        Frequently Asked Questions About PLP


        You can decide, based on your career interests/aspirations, which pathway you would like to pursue. Within each pathway, there are one or more Minors offered. Each Minor comprises 3 curated Learning Units (LUs) and if you choose to complete 3 LUs, you will be awarded a Minor Certificate to complement your diploma.

        Yes! If you choose to complete 1 or 2 LUs, you will receive an Enrichment Programme (EP) statement that you can include in your resume or LinkedIn. Feel free to explore LUs across the pathways!

        Obtaining a Minor or taking up LUs in a skill area different from your diploma study can give you a competitive edge, allow you to pivot to another industry or career, or even start your own business.

        No, it will not. Your core module lessons will end by 4pm on Mon and Tue (for Year 1s and 2s), and PLP classes take place on Mon and/or Tue from 4pm onwards. PLP LUs are typically 45-60 hours in total. This translates to an average of about 3-4 hours per week.

        Each PLP LU is about 45-60 hours of lesson time, and this is equivalent to 3-4 hours per week. Most LUs can be completed within a semester, so you will be able to manage both your core curriculum and PLP LU.

        NP offers many exciting curricular and co-curricular opportunities to cater to students’ diverse interests, aspirations and learning needs. We encourage you to choose carefully how you would like to enrich your learning, whilst ensuring you are able to cope with your coursework. If in doubt, consult your advisor and/or one of our ECG counsellors from the Office of Immersion & Careers.

        Some LUs such as overseas trips, Service-Learning and selected entrepreneurship LUs may take place during vacation.

        You will be allowed to retake the failed LU if you choose to, subject to availability. PLP is not credit-bearing and the failed PLP LU will not be reflected in your transcript. If you choose not to retake the same LU, you can explore other LUs, subject to availability.