Polytechnic Foundation Programme
The Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP) is a one-year preparatory programme for top Secondary 4 Normal (Academic) students who are keen to pursue a polytechnic education. Students enrolled in the PFP will be granted a provisional place in a diploma programme at the start of the PFP.
Featuring a practice-oriented curriculum taught by polytechnic lecturers, the PFP is designed to give you a head start in your diploma course. What’s more, you won’t need to sit for the GCE O Level Examinations in Secondary 5!
Upon successful completion of your PFP studies at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, you will be well-prepared for the industry-relevant and sought-after course that you are already enrolled in!
Watch this to find out more about the PFP:
The programme will begin in April every year.
What is the PFP curriculum at NP?
NP’s PFP is grouped into three domain clusters:
- Science (PFP Group 1);
- Technology (PFP Group 1); and
- Non-Science & Technology (PFP Group 2).
Note: Courses under the School of Design & Environment are clustered under PFP Group 1.
During the 30-week PFP that is spread across two semesters, you will undertake academic modules such as English, Mathematics and domain-specific cluster modules and non-academic modules such as life skills, general education and national education.
The curriculum structure for the three domain clusters is shown in the tables below:
Programme curriculum
Science
School of Life Sciences & Chemical Technology
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biomedical Science
(N59)
| 1 | Intro to Life Science Module Synopsis Introduction to Life Sciences
This module aims to introduce students to the life sciences, which is essentially the study of biology. Students will learn to appreciate the complexities of cells; study characteristics and classification of living organisms; differentiate types of cells and cellular organelles, biomolecules and transport mechanisms; and applications of life science technologies. Principles of bioethics will also be covered.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. | Principles of Chemistry Module Synopsis Principles of Chemistry
This module aims to build a strong foundation in chemistry as well as to expose students to applications of chemistry in everyday life and in industry. The topics cover structure of matter, chemical bonding, electrochemistry, redox reactions, acids and bases, metals, and properties of elements and periodic trends. Students also learn organic compounds and functional groups.
Fundamentals of Biology Module Synopsis Fundamentals of Biology
This module aims to provide students with a basic understanding of human physiology and cell biology. Students will be able to explain the basic characteristics and functions of living cells and their relationship to tissues and organ systems. They will also learn cell cycle and cell division, reproduction and survival of the species. A basic knowledge of genetics will also be covered. |
| Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
(N56) | 1 | ||
| Common Science Programme
(N15) | 1 | ||
| Environmental & Water Technology
(N74) | 1 | ||
| Landscape Design & Horticulture
(N57) | 1 | ||
| Pharmaceutical Science
(N73) | 1 |
School of Health Sciences
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing
(N69) | 1 | Intro to Life Science Module Synopsis: Introduction to Life Sciences This module aims to introduce students to the life sciences, which is essentially the study of biology. Students will learn to appreciate the complexities of cells; study characteristics and classification of living organisms; differentiate types of cells and cellular organelles, biomolecules and transport mechanisms; and applications of life science technologies. Principles of bioethics will also be covered.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. | Principles of Chemistry Module Synopsis: Principles of Chemistry This module aims to build a strong foundation in chemistry as well as to expose students to applications of chemistry in everyday life and in industry. The topics cover structure of matter, chemical bonding, electrochemistry, redox reactions, acids and bases, metals, and properties of elements and periodic trends. Students also learn organic compounds and functional groups.
Fundamentals of Biology Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Biology This module aims to provide students with basic understanding of human physiology and cell biology. Students would be able to explain the basic characteristics and functions of living cells and their relationship to tissues and organ systems. They will also learn cell cycle and cell division, reproduction and survival of the species. A basic knowledge of genetics will also be covered. |
| Optometry
(N83) | 1 |
Technology
School of Engineering
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineering
(N65) | 1 | Essential Physics Module Synopsis: Essential Physics
This module introduces applied Physics used in engineering and technology. It enables students to acquire the skills and knowledge to appreciate the contribution that physics makes to our understanding of the physical world. The main topics covered are Measurement, Newtonian Mechanics, Thermal, Waves and Electricity.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. | Fundamentals of Computing Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Computing
This module introduces problem-solving and logical thinking skills and will extend to the use of software design techniques such as flowcharts and pseudocodes. Students will also acquire the essential knowledge and skills to create and design interactive Web pages. Basic principles of web design will be introduced, which includes discussion of copyright and legal issues associated with publishing materials on the web.
Foundation in System Design Module Synopsis: Foundation in Systems Design
This module strengthens students' appreciation and application of systems that are multidisciplinary in nature. These multidisciplinary systems require students to appreciate the inter-connectivity and inter-dependence of fundamental skills in IT, electronic and mechanical engineering, which may include smart, transportation, security and environmental systems. Students will acquire design, critical thinking and problem solving skills through case studies and group projects. |
| Mechatronics & Robotics Systems Renamed
(N50) | 1 | ||
| Biomedical Engineering
(N60) | 1 | ||
| Common Engineering Programme
(N71) | 1 | ||
| Electrical Engineering
(N43) | 1 | ||
| Electronic & Computer Engineering
(N44) | 1 | ||
| Engineering Science
(N93) | 1 | ||
| Marine & Offshore Technology
(N42) | 1 | ||
| Mechanical Engineering
(N41) | 1 |
School of InfoComm Technology
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common ICT Programme
(N98) | 1 | Essential Physics Module Synopsis: Essential Physics
This module introduces applied Physics used in engineering and technology. It enables students to acquire the skills and knowledge to appreciate the contribution that physics makes to our understanding of the physical world. The main topics covered are Measurement, Newtonian Mechanics, Thermal, Waves and Electricity.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. | Fundamentals of Computing Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Computing
This module introduces problem-solving and logical thinking skills and will extend to the use of software design techniques such as flowcharts and pseudocodes. Students will also acquire the essential knowledge and skills to create and design interactive Web pages. Basic principles of web design will be introduced, which includes discussion of copyright and legal issues associated with publishing materials on the web.
Foundation in System Design Module Synopsis: Foundation in Systems Design
This module strengthens students' appreciation and application of systems that are multidisciplinary in nature. These multidisciplinary systems require students to appreciate the inter-connectivity and inter-dependence of fundamental skills in IT, electronic and mechanical engineering, which may include smart, transportation, security and environmental systems. Students will acquire design, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills through case studies and group projects. |
| Data Science Revamped
(N81) | 1 | ||
| Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics
(N94) | 1 | ||
| Information Technology
(N54) | 1 | ||
| Immersive Media
(N55) | 1 |
Non-Science & Technology
School of Design & Environment
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design
(N12) | 1 | Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
This module allows students to appreciate entrepreneurship. It starts with understanding the enterprising spirit and innovative mindset; exposure to basic economics; identification and evaluation of business opportunity; and how to set up a business and plan the resources required to run it. Real-life examples and case studies are used to help students understand the application of the entrepreneurial process in the real world.
Intro to Mass Media Module Synopsis: Introduction to Mass Media
This module is designed to equip students with media literacy skills, so that they become individuals who understand the media's place in society and use media effectively. Students will learn about different media platforms, analyse media texts, discuss media representation and ethics, and understand the rationale for media regulation and the nature of media institutions. | Understanding Human Behaviour Module Synopsis: Understanding Human Behaviour
This module introduces students to the world of behaviour and mental processes. Students will explore the nature and causes of human behaviour in relation to decision making. The aim is to provide students with a broad understanding of the mechanisms and processes by which human behaviours and opinions can be influenced by various social, cognitive, environmental, cultural and biological factors.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. |
| Hotel & Leisure Facilities Management
(N40) | 1 | ||
| Real Estate Business
(N48) | 1 |
School of Business & Accountancy
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accountancy
(N51) | 2 | Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
This module allows students to appreciate entrepreneurship. It starts with understanding the enterprising spirit and innovative mindset; exposure to basic economics; identification and evaluation of business opportunity; and how to set up a business and plan the resources required to run it. Real-life examples and case studies are used to help students understand the application of the entrepreneurial process in the real world.
Intro to Mass Media Module Synopsis: Introduction to Mass Media
This module is designed to equip students with media literacy skills, so that they become individuals who understand the media's place in society and use media effectively. Students will learn about different media platforms, analyse media texts, discuss media representation and ethics, and understand the rationale for media regulation and the nature of media institutions. | Understanding Human Behaviour Module Synopsis: Understanding Human Behaviour
This module introduces students to the world of behaviour and mental processes. Students will explore the nature and causes of human behaviour in relation to decision making. The aim is to provide students with a broad understanding of the mechanisms and processes by which human behaviours and opinions can be influenced by various social, cognitive, environmental, cultural and biological factors.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. |
| Banking & Finance
(N53) | 2 | ||
| Business Studies
(N45) | 2 | ||
| Common Business Programme Revamped (N97) | 2 | ||
| International Trade & Business
(N85) | 2 | ||
| Tourism & Resort Management
(N72) | 2 |
School of Humanities & Social Sciences
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arts Business Management
(N91) | 2 | Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
This module allows students to appreciate entrepreneurship. It starts with understanding the enterprising spirit and innovative mindset; exposure to basic economics; identification and evaluation of business opportunity; and how to set up a business and plan the resources required to run it. Real-life examples and case studies are used to help students understand the application of the entrepreneurial process in the real world.
Intro to Mass Media Module Synopsis: Introduction to Mass Media
This module is designed to equip students with media literacy skills, so that they become individuals who understand the media's place in society and use media effectively. Students will learn about different media platforms, analyse media texts, discuss media representation and ethics, and understand the rationale for media regulation and the nature of media institutions. | Understanding Human Behaviour Module Synopsis: Understanding Human Behaviour
This module introduces students to the world of behaviour and mental processes. Students will explore the nature and causes of human behaviour in relation to decision making. The aim is to provide students with a broad understanding of the mechanisms and processes by which human behaviours and opinions can be influenced by various social, cognitive, environmental, cultural and biological factors.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. |
| Chinese Studies
(N70) | 2 | ||
| Chinese Media & Communication
(N88) | 2 | ||
| Early Childhood Development & Education
(N96) | 2 | ||
| Community Development
(N11) | 2 |
*In order to be granted teacher certification status to teach up to Kindergarten levels by Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA), new teachers must have a minimum of a B4 grade for GCE O-Levels English as a First Language (EL1) or equivalent.
PFP Students will be granted conditional certification to teach up to Kindergarten levels upon graduation and have two years from the point of teacher certification to obtain at least a B4 (GCE O-levels EL1) or an English Language Acceptable Alternative. Otherwise, students will be certified to teach up to Nursery Levels after the two-year conditional certification.
School of Film & Media Studies
| Courses | PFP Group | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Media Programme
(N14) | 2 | Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship Module Synopsis: Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship
This module allows students to appreciate entrepreneurship. It starts with understanding the enterprising spirit and innovative mindset; exposure to basic economics; identification and evaluation of business opportunity; and how to set up a business and plan the resources required to run it. Real-life examples and case studies are used to help students understand the application of the entrepreneurial process in the real world.
Intro to Mass Media Module Synopsis: Introduction to Mass Media
This module is designed to equip students with media literacy skills, so that they become individuals who understand the media's place in society and use media effectively. Students will learn about different media platforms, analyse media texts, discuss media representation and ethics, and understand the rationale for media regulation and the nature of media institutions. | Understanding Human Behaviour Module Synopsis: Understanding Human Behaviour
This module introduces students to the world of behaviour and mental processes. Students will explore the nature and causes of human behaviour in relation to decision making. The aim is to provide students with a broad understanding of the mechanisms and processes by which human behaviours and opinions can be influenced by various social, cognitive, environmental, cultural and biological factors.
Fundamentals of Digital Skills Module Synopsis: Fundaments of Digital Skills
This module builds the foundation in digital skills and develop students’ competencies in the use of essential digital tools to create, communicate and collaborate information for learning and work. Students will also learn about cyber wellness, which involves the understanding of the norms of appropriate and responsible behaviour in technology use, as well as knowledge and attitudes as to how to protect oneself and other internet users. |
| Film, Sound & Video
(N82) | 2 | ||
| Mass Communication
(N67) | 2 | ||
| Media Post-Production
(N13) | 2 |
Common Modules
| Courses | Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|---|
| All Courses | Bridging English I This module aims to equip students with the necessary language skills for entry into their diploma courses. A variety of topics will be explored to stretch students’ critical thinking abilities. The approach taken will be process-based and highly interactive with varied activities and ample opportunities to hone students’ listening, speaking, reading, writing and interpersonal skills.
Mathematics Fundamentals I Fundamental Mathematics consists of two modules. It is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills in Mathematics required to solve basic engineering, science and business problems. It aims to equip students with a better understanding of the application of Mathematics in real-life situations.
Personal Development This module is designed to enable students to develop personal effectiveness and interpersonal competency skills to handle life issues while relating to and working with others. An experiential and reflective approach is adopted to encourage students to interact and reflect on their growth.
Sports and Fitness I The aim of this module is to enhance students’ physical, social and psychological well-being through a variety of sports and to take the students through the process of character development, as well as choice and decision making. Towards the end of the module, students will participate in a series of competitions. | Bridging English II This follow-up module aims to build on knowledge and skills acquired to further enhance students’ language skills. Using a highly interactive approach, students will have many opportunities to deepen their listening, speaking, reading, writing and interpersonal skills.
Mathematics Fundamentals II This module extends from Mathematics I. Topics cover graphs of functions, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, matrices and vectors in two dimensions.
Culture and the Community This module aims to develop a deeper level of understanding and appreciation of the role of culture in communities. In studying various theories, students will examine different types of cultures from all over the world and learn to apply their understanding of multi-cultural societies to Singapore’s context.
Sports and Fitness II The aim of this module is to build on Part 1 to further enhance students’ physical, social and psychological well-being through sports and to take them through the process of character development, as well as choice and decision making. Towards the end of the module, students will participate in a series of competitions. |
Courses with medical requirements
What are the tuition fees?
The annual tuition fees are illustrated in the table below:
| Nationality | PFP Tuition Fees per student | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| AY2024 | AY2023 | ||
| Singapore Citizen (SC) | $350 | $340 | |
| Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) | $3,550 | $3,250 | |
| International Student (IS) | $11,440 | $11,040 | |
The Government will continue to absorb the GST on tuition fees payable by SC and PR.
The tuition fees for International Students are inclusive of 9% GST.
Note:
Other fees payable include Examination Fee*, Miscellaneous Fee, Insurance Fee and Sports Fee.
* Applicable to IS and SPR.
Financial Schemes & Eligibility
We offer various forms of financial support to our students to finance their tuition fees.
| ELIGIBILITY ON THE FINANCIAL SCHEMES | ||
| Course | Citizenship | Financial Scheme |
| Poly Foundation Programme (PFP) | Singaporean | PSEA |
| Permanent Resident (PR) | Not eligible for any financial scheme | |
| International (IS) | Not eligible for any financial scheme | |
Eligibility
- Singapore Citizen students with balance in their PSEA (Edusave) accounts; OR
- Students with Singapore Citizen siblings with balance in their PSEA (Edusave) accounts
Coverage / Value
- Up to 100% of tuition fee and other fees, subject to sufficient balance in the account
How to Apply
- Check available balance in your PSEA account, and/or your sibling's if you are using their PSEA account
- Applicants using the funds in their own PSEA account must submit their applications online. If the applicant is above 21 years of age, please login with your own SingPass. If you are below 21 years old, your parent or legal guardian must complete the form on behalf of the applicant.
- Please note that legal guardians will be required to upload supporting documents as proof that they have the legal authority to decide on behalf of the student. Should further verification be required, NP will contact the student to furnish additionals documents.
- Applicants using the funds in their siblings' PSEA account must submit their online applications.
- Find out more information about PSEA and usage of funds.
Application Period
- Refer to Post Secondary Education Account (PSEA) Scheme for the application period. If an application is submitted past the closing date for the semester, it is deemed to be an application for the following semester's fees unless informed otherwise via email to fin_student@np.edu.sg
- For enquiries about using PSEA to pay for your tuition and other fees at NP, please email fin_student@np.edu.sg
- To check on your PSEA account balance or make enquiries, contact the PSEA Scheme Hotline: 6260 0777.
Eligibility
- Singapore Citizens
Value of Award
- PCI less than $751 or GHI less than $3,001: $1,300
Disbursement of Award
- Approved applicants will receive the bursary award in two tranches
- The award will be disbursed via GIRO credited to bank account, minus any outstanding tuition fees at point of disbursement
How To Apply
- Apply via NPal Student Portal
- For more information on application procedures and checklist of required supporting documents, please refer to the application guide
Application Period
- Refer to Overview of Bursaries & Grants for the application period.
Eligibility
- Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents
- Possess outstanding academic results
- Active participation in CCAs
- Demonstrate strong leadership qualities
Terms
- Bond-free
- Concurrent hold of a bursary is allowed
- Concurrent hold of another scholarship is NOT allowed, both in naming and in monetary terms
- Refund of disbursed scholarships may be required for recipients who terminate or are terminated from their studies prematurely
Benefits
- $340 for tuition fees
Applying for the Award
All enrolled PFP students are invited to apply in May. Students will be informed of the application opening through their NP Connect emails, with applications to be submitted online via the NPal student portal.