The Diploma in Media, Arts & Design (Experience & Product Design) at Singapore Polytechnic stands out for offering exceptional career prospects in a rapidly evolving design landscape.
Known for its unique approach, XPD blends creative expression with insights into human behaviour, equipping students with the skills to solve real-world problems through design. By mastering user research, prototyping, and design thinking, you’ll learn how to create innovative solutions that enhance accessibility, improve user experiences, and revolutionize how people interact with technology.
Please note: Course structure is subject to change.
Your DMAD experience begins with the common programme in the first semester known as the Foundry, where you will build foundational skills across all media, arts and design domains. You will also take two pre-specialisation modules. With the exposure to different specialisations, you will be better equipped to select the ones that best match your passions.
In Year 1 Semester 2, focus on design fundamentals, creative thinking, and psychological principles, gain exposure to various creative disciplines and dive into User Experience Design & Research to create engaging, user-friendly products that meet real-world needs.
Enhance your skills and express your creativity in User Experience and User Interface Design, mastering cohesive brand experiences with digital design and 3D modelling tools. The Sustainable Innovation Project (SIP) allows you to tackle real-world design challenges, refining your problem-solving skills.
Put your skills into action through the Innovation Lab, working on real-world projects across domains. Complete a 22-week internship and Final Year Project (FYP) to gain industry experience and prepare for your design career.
By the end of Year 3, you’ll be equipped with the skills and confidence to excel in the design industry.
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.
What are the eligibility requirements for experience and product design?
You must meet the following criteria to qualify for the Diploma in Media, Arts and Design (Experience and Product Design):
Experience and product design at SP prepares me for the future.
At SP, the MAD Factory allows you to create 3D models and prototypes with 3D printers, digital cutting plotters, and laser machines. The Usability Lab lets you design and test digital products, equipped with tools for user research and usability testing.
Experience and product design at SP prepares me for Singapore.
UX Design is vital in Singapore’s tech-driven society, shaping the experiences of how people interact with technology. By 2025, advancements in AI and emerging technologies will further transform the design landscape. SP teaches you to harness tools like Figma to create innovative solutions. While many associate this field with creativity, it’s equally about leveraging technology to solve problems, enhance usability, and improve how users experience products and services.
Experience and product design at SP prepares me for the world.
Diploma in Media, Arts & Design (Experience & Product Design) is grounded in Human-Centered Design, focusing on user needs and experiences.
While many students initially mistake this specialisation for graphic design, its scope is far broader, covering diverse fields like app design, prototyping, branding, and animation.
1. User Experience (UX) Design: Understand psychology and behaviour to design intuitive and enjoyable products.
2. User Interface (UI) Design: Create visually engaging and functional digital interfaces.
3. 3D Modelling: Design digital representations for visualization and prototyping.
4. Design Research: Uncover user insights to guide effective design.
5. Service Design: Develop user-centered services for seamless experiences.
6. Web Design: Build websites that balance aesthetics, usability, and functionality.
This comprehensive curriculum equips students with the skills and versatility to excel across creative industries, from digital media and branding to designing impactful, user-focused solutions.
SP students have opportunities for internships at various organizations, including startups, SMEs, MNCs, and government agencies. You will complete a 22-week internship.
Past students from the Diploma in Media, Arts and Design (Experience and Product Design) have interned at GovTech, FoodPanda, Accenture, DBS Bank, and FoolProof.
Many interns have made significant contributions, sometimes outperforming university counterparts. These internships often lead to job offers as Junior UX Designers or Junior Product Managers, giving you a strong start in your career.
Internships connect you with professionals, offering insights, networking, and real-world experience to guide your career choices. SP’s coaching boosts your confidence and employability. Exposure to various industries enhances decision-making, raises starting salaries, and expands business knowledge. A valuable internship offers meaningful work, learning opportunities, clear goals, and strong mentor support for professional growth.
Overseas exposure helps broaden your horizons. Understanding globalization and working with diverse cultures is important in a global city like Singapore. experience and product design 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.
We know some of you want to take on more challenges. Stepping out of your comfort zone and being proactive is key.
Past students have joined and won competitions like the Crowbar Awards and National University of Singapore's CNM Pitch-it Competition.
Winning these competitions boosts your confidence by testing your skills and knowledge. Competing helps you understand your strengths and areas for growth.
Most students who pursue further education choose related fields or areas that complement their diplomas. Here are some common degrees our alumni have taken:
These degrees cover a range of fields and are offered by universities locally and internationally. SP graduates can apply to top universities and may get advanced standing. For more details, 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!
To excel in experience and product design, consider these top industry certifications. Staying current with the latest tools and techniques is key.
Certifications such as IDEO Design Thinking and Adobe Certified Professional for Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects are widely recognized.
The skills you develop at SP give you a solid foundation to achieve these certifications and advance your design career.
Alumna now studying Bachelor of Arts - User Experience Design Student at University of the Arts London (UAL) | "The course prepared me to tackle more complex concepts after graduation as fundamental thinking methods were taught. I was allowed to experiment with a lot of interdisciplinary materials and abstract briefs. This gave me confidence to explore the thinking process that shaped my design style. I am currently pursuing a degree in User Experience Design at the University of The Arts London (UAL)."