Announcement
DCPE - S53

Diploma in
Computer Engineering

OVERVIEW

Why is the Diploma in Computer Engineering the best course for me in 2025? 

Are you curious about how computers work, and do you enjoy working with technology? If you’re analytical, detail-oriented, and curious about computer systems, the Diploma in Computer Engineering is for you. Tailored for those who prefer practical, experiential learning. You’ll engage in hands-on activities in advanced labs, working with real hardware and software. Start your journey in computer engineering at SP today. 

Eindhoven

What are the benefits of studying computer engineering in 2025?

This diploma enhances your logical thinking and empowers you with knowledge and practical skills, helping you thrive in the dynamic field of technology. You'll engage in large-scale projects and work with like-minded professionals, laying a solid foundation for a future in cybersecurity, AI and automation. With the right skills and mindset, you'll excel in computer engineering and reach your career goals.

Read

What is computer engineering in 2025?

Computer engineering in 2025 is about designing and implementing the technology that powers our daily lives. It focuses on hardware-software integration, preparing you to work on smarter AI systems, faster 5G connections, and secure technologies. This unique mix makes computer engineers vital for driving innovation and industry growth.

How does computer engineering impact our daily lives?

Computer engineering plays a big role in our daily lives. Without it, services like healthcare and communication would be slower and less efficient. It helps you learn skills to create useful solutions, work with like-minded peers, and create new solutions that improve lives.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

What will I study in computer engineering?

Please note: Course structure is subject to change.

DCPE students make a choice between Computer Engineering & Software (CES) or Computer Networking & Security (CNS) path in Year 2 of the Course. These two equally exciting paths have been designed to suit the interest, strength and career aspiration of the students. In Year 3 of the course, you can specialise in one of four fields: Computer Applications, Smart City Technologies, Cloud Systems, or Cyber Security.

 

EEE DCPE

 

 

Year 1

Building Foundations in Computer Engineering and Essential Skills
In Year 1, you will start with the basics of computer engineering. You’ll learn key concepts, common practices, and important terminologies through modules like Principles of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Digital Electronics, Network Fundamentals, Basic and Engineering Mathematics. These modules will introduce you to essential software and hardware skills.

Electives The SP elective framework offers students options to pursue their passion and/or meet different career needs, and is an integral part of the holistic education we seek to provide to our students.

Learn about SP Elective Framework

The Common Core Curriculum (CCC) prepares you for a changing world with essential human and digital skills. Through its 10 modules, the CCC also provides a wide learning experience to examine local and global issues based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These modules help you understand real-world issues and the impact on different communities, and equip you with skills to create a better, sustainable Singapore and world.

Learn about Common Core Curriculum

Module Name
Total Hours
Network Fundamentals
30
Digital Electronics 1
60
Digital Electronics 2
60
Computer-Aided Design & Drafting
30
Introduction to Engineering & Design
90
Introduction to Engineering Programming
60
Principles of Electrical & Electronic Engineering I
60
Principles of Electrical & Electronic Engineering II
75
Basic Mathematics
60
Engineering Mathematics I
60
Collaboration in the Digital Age
15
Digital Communication for Impact
15
Effective Writing for the Workplace
15
Data Fluency
15
Persuasive Communication with Data Storytelling
30
Thinking Critically about the UN SDGs
30
Education and Career Guidance
30
Problem Solving with Creative & Computational Thinking
15

Year 2

Choose between Engineering and Software or Networking and Security

In Year 2, you can make a choice between

  • Computer Engineering & Software (CES)
  • Computer Networking & Security (CNS)

You’ll also participate in a Sustainable Innovation Project (SIP), which encourages creative problem-solving and innovative thinking. This year focuses on deepening your knowledge and preparing you for internships and the professional world.

Module Name
Total Hours
Cloud Foundations
60
Engineering Mathematics II
60
Statistics and Analytics for Engineers
45
Elective 1
45/60
Elective 2
45/60
Sustainable Innovation Project
45
Artificial Intelligence and its Impact
15

The CES Path has been tailor-made for those who aspire to design, implement and manage digital solutions. Equipped with knowledge and skills in 5G Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and Cloud Computing, you are empowered to shape the digital world with your innovative, creative and intelligent solutions. With your unique strength in integrating software and hardware for optimised solutions, you will be the breed of Computer Engineers highly sought after by many enterprises in this new era of digital economies.
Module Name
Total Hours
Mobile Applications Development
60
DevOps for AIoT
60
Computer Architecture
75
Full Stack Development
75
Microcontroller Applications
90

Year 3

In Year 3, you’ll apply your knowledge through an internship, gaining hands-on experience in the industry while also completing the common modules. 

 

Module Name
Total Hours
Internship Programme/Internship Equivalent (22 weeks)
22 weeks
Personal Branding and Career Agility
30
Elective 3
45/60

You can specialise in one of four areas: 

  • Computer Applications  (for CES path only)
  • Smart City Technologies (for both CES and CNS paths)
  • Cloud Systems (for both CES and CNS paths)
  • Cyber Security  (for CNS path only)

By the end of Year 3, you’ll be a confident graduate ready to enter the industry.

Module Name
Total Hours
Embedded Computer Systems
60
Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
60
Object Oriented Programming & Data Structures
90
5G & AIoT Applications
60
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Who is computer engineering for?

DCPE Classroom

What are the eligibility requirements for computer engineering?

Applicants should not be suffering from severe vision deficiency, acute hearing impairment or uncontrolled epilepsy. Interested applicants with any of these conditions are advised to contact Singapore Polytechnic for more information.

You must meet the following criteria to qualify for the Diploma in Computer Engineering:

How do I know if computer engineering is for me?

This course is perfect if you’re analytical, love challenges, and think critically. Ideal for those who are detail-oriented, process-focused, and curious. Computer engineering enhances your problem-solving skills and creativity, preparing you to tackle complex tech challenges and innovate in real-world environments. If this sounds like you, computer engineering could be your path.

YOUR FUTURE

What is the future of computer engineering?

Student

Computer engineering at SP prepares me for the future.

What facilities does SP have to prepare me for the future in computer engineering? 

Excelling in computer engineering requires hands-on learning. At SP, you’ll find amazing laboratories that let you build foundational skills in Digital Electronics, Electrical and Electronics, and Digital Fabrication. The Network Security Operation Lab trains you to tackle cybersecurity threats, while the Data Analytics Lab focuses on big data and visualisation tools. Explore IoT in the SMART Connected Solutions Lab and work on real-world projects in AI, smart devices, and more at the 5G & AIoT Hub. These facilities ensure that you're fully prepared for the tech industry.

Computer engineering at SP prepares me for Singapore.

What opportunities are there for computer engineering in Singapore and the region? 

 Computer engineering is important because it powers everyday technology. In 2025, advancements in AI and 5G are transforming industries. However, cyber threats are becoming increasingly pervasive. DCPE equips you with the knowledge to understand these technologies and address cyber threats, preparing you for the future. Many people think it's just about coding, but it also includes hardware and designing systems that change how we live and work.

Computer engineering at SP prepares me for the world.

What are the different types of fields covered in computer engineering? 

In computer engineering, you can specialise in several fields. At SP, these include:

  • Computer Applications: Learn to develop software that solves everyday problems. You’ll gain deeper skills in programming, software design, and user experience. 
  • Smart City Technologies: Focus on creating tech for better urban living. You’ll work on securing IoT devices, harnessing 5G and AIoT for innovative applications, and designing smart city systems. 
Read
  • Cloud Systems: Learn how to architect, deploy, and manage cloud resources. You will gain the skills to design scalable and secure cloud solutions, and build resilient cloud-native applications on a leading cloud platform.
  • Cyber Security: Learn to protect data and systems from cyber threats. You’ll master the art of protecting networks from threats, uncovering and tracing hidden cyber attacks, and ensuring security operational readiness.

Each specialisation provides thorough training so that you’re prepared for advanced roles in the tech industry.

INDUSTRY EXPOSURE

What industry exposure do I get in computer engineering?

What can I expect from my computer engineering internship?

SP provides 22-week internships at various organisations, including startups, SMEs, MNCs, and government agencies. Students have interned at leading organisations like Equinix (Singapore) Enterprises Pte Ltd, Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd, NCS Pte Ltd, Singapore Telecommunications Limited, and the Centre for Strategic Infocomm Technologies.

What is a good SP internship?

These internships allow you to make significant contributions and often lead to advanced job offers. They provide insights into different business environments and help you decide if this field suits you. Some interns move on to full-time roles like Data Centre Operation Technicians, laying a solid career foundation.

Internships connect you with industry professionals, offering job insights and opportunities. SP supports with coaching to boost your confidence and employability. Experiencing diverse internships broadens your career perspective, leading to informed decisions, higher starting salaries, and business exposure. A quality internship provides meaningful work, learning opportunities, professional growth, and guidance from mentors.

 

Can you get overseas exposure while studying computer engineering?

Overseas exposure helps broaden your horizons. Understanding globalisation and working with diverse cultures is important in a global city like Singapore. Computer engineering students and alumni have experienced international internships and exchanges, enriching their worldviews and career prospects. Students in other CCAs also have opportunities to represent Singapore abroad and gain international experience.

How can I gain a competitive edge while studying computer engineering?

We know some of you want to push yourself further and take on more challenges. Stepping out of your comfort zone and being more active can help. 

DCPE students have participated in and won competitions like the RoboRoarZ International competition, Lee Hsien Loong Interactive Digital Media Smart Nation Award, NTU Deep Learning Week Hackathon, CloudHacks, and the National Robotics and National IIoT Competitions. These achievements build confidence by testing your skills and knowledge. Competing helps you see where you stand and grow from the experience.

 

Pressing on key

What are my options after attaining my Diploma in Computer Engineering?

With your diploma, you can choose between further education or beginning your career.

More than two-thirds of SP graduates continue their education at local and international universities, with SP diplomas recognised by over 150 universities worldwide. Many graduates receive over a year of advanced standing. Alternatively, you can start working at companies like AWS, GovTech, Singtel, and Bosch, using the skills you learned at SP.

Both pathways offer great opportunities to grow and succeed in computer engineering.
Image of person doing something

What career options are there in computer engineering? 

The computer engineering industry offers many career paths, depending on your specialisation. Exploring different sectors can help you decide on a full-time job.

Common roles include Junior Engineer, Systems Analyst, and Senior Engineer. With technology advancing rapidly, the demand for computer engineers is high, making it a great field to enter.

Career Options:

  • Assistant Computer Engineer
  • Associate Security Engineer
  • Cloud Engineer
  • Embedded System Engineer 
  • IT Support Engineer 
  • Network Engineer/Administrator
  • Software/Mobile Applications Developer

Life after my Diploma in Computer Engineering

Which degrees are most common among computer engineering graduates of SP?
SP graduates often pursue further studies in related or complementary fields. Alumni have earned degrees in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, Information Security, Data Science and AI, and Software Engineering. Common degrees include:
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc)
  • Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
  • Bachelor of Computer Science (BCompSc)
  • Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT)

SP EEE diploma graduates can apply for NUS Computer Science degrees with additional exemptions. For a full list of degree options and advanced standings, visit the Advanced Standing Database.

How may I fast-track my education? 

If you’re preparing for university and want to make the most of your diploma time, an SP diploma can let you fast-track your education by 0.5-2 years!

  • Module Exemptions & Advanced Standing — You can skip specific university modules at local and international universities. 
  • Accelerate your education ambitions through the SP Accelerated Pathway Programmes (APP) with NUS 
    • At SP, you can speed up your education and gain a competitive edge over your peers through APP - SP's collaborations with partner universities that enable selected, high-performing SP students in pursuit of a university education to experience the benefits of a polytechnic-to-university curriculum, and the potential to complete their diploma and university degree studies within a shortened time frame. 
    •  During your time at SP, you'll study with first-year university students and your grades will be recognised in the SP Examination Grading System.

 SP NUS & SUTD APP
What other professional certifications are available for computer engineering?

Improve your career with globally recognised certificates in computer engineering. These certificates keep you updated with the latest in cloud computing, networking, programming, and security.

Your education at SP will support your success. Look into certificates like AWS Solutions Architect Associate, Oracle Certified Java Programmer, and Cisco CCNA to boost your skills and career.

Full List

  • Cloud — AWS-certified Cloud Practitioner
  • Cloud — AWS Solutions Architect Associate
  • Linux — LPIC (via elective modules)
  • Linux — RHCSA (via elective modules)
  • Microsoft Server Administration — MCSA
  • Networking — CCNA
  • Programming — Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer
  • Security — Cisco CyberOps
  • Security — CompTIA Security+

 

HAPPENINGS