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.
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.
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.
Choose between Engineering and Software or Networking and Security
In Year 2, you can make a choice between
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.
In Year 3, you’ll apply your knowledge through an internship, gaining hands-on experience in the industry while also completing the common modules.
You can specialise in one of four areas:
By the end of Year 3, you’ll be a confident graduate ready to enter the industry.
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:
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.
Computer engineering at SP prepares me for the future.
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.
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.
In computer engineering, you can specialise in several fields. At SP, these include:
Each specialisation provides thorough training so that you’re prepared for advanced roles in the tech industry.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
DCPE Gold Medallist | Lee Kuan Yew Award recipient | Smart Nation Scholarship 2020 recipient | Class of 2020 With the advent of smart cities across the globe, SP’s DCPE course has rapidly evolved its content and extra-curricular opportunities to include highly sought-after skills in computing, such as IMABC: IoT, Machine Learning, AI, Block Chain and Cloud Computing. Armed with these fundamental know-how, I was able to perform at my engineering internships at Grab and the Centre for Strategic Infocomm Technologies. With our training, I have great faith that my DCPE cohort will do great things for our nation and beyond
DCPE Gold Medallist | SingTel Engineering Cadet Scholar | Class of 2018 Through the DCPE course I was able to explore many technologies such as machine learning and computer vision be equipped with useful computer networking an security skill, and have the opportunities to go for renowned industrial certification I also had the chance to work on many industry projects to build new solutions reinventing the way we interact with technology This allowed me to solve real-world problem be made for future challenges
Lee Kuan Yew Award recipient | DCPE Gold Medallist | Class of 2019 Singapore Polytechnics DCPE was my top choice as I knew that it will equip me with the relevant computer networking and cyber security skills and industrial certifications also had the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge during my internship at the Center for Strategic Infocomm Technologies where I developed a unique solution to identify potential data leakage. This has given me the confidence to help support Singapore's growing need for computer scientists and engineers