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Last Updated: 26 Jun 2025

Common Design Programme

As the starting point of your transformative learning experience at School of Design, the Common Design Programme offers the opportunity to explore design interests before choosing a pathway after the first semester. Immerse yourself in the Process, Craft, Context, and Mindset of being a designer. Discover the secrets of problem-solving, the power of design tools and techniques, and develop an appreciation for the artistry that lies within design. Gain an exclusive preview of the diplomas in order to make an informed decision about your creative path forward.

Course code : T71
Temasek Polytechnic
Admission type: JAE , JPAE , Poly EAE , PFP , DAE
2025 JAE ELR2B2-D net aggregate: 5-14
Course duration : 3 years
At the end of Semester 1, you can choose to major in one of the following courses:

Applicants with mild or severe colour vision deficiency or severe vision impairment may have difficulties meeting the course requirements and expectations. Interested applicants with these conditions should contact Temasek Polytechnic for more information.

Learn more on:

Course details

Field of study Media and Design
Certification offered

Depends on the diploma course you choose to major in
Learn more about the course

Minimum entry requirement

You must meet the respective examination requirements in order for us to consider your application.

For N(A)-Level students seeking admission through PFP

This course is under the Design sub-cluster

Subject Grade
English Language Syllabus A 1-3
Mathematics Syllabus A / Additional Mathematics 1-3

One of the following relevant subjects:
  • Design and Technology
  • Food and Nutrition/Nutrition and Food Science
  • Science (Chemistry, Biology)
  • Science (Physics, Biology)
  • Science (Physics, Chemistry)
 1-3

Any 2 other subjects excluding CCA
1-4
For O-Level students seeking admission through JAE
Subject Grade
English Language 1-7
Additional Mathematics or Mathematics 1-7

Any one of the 2nd group of Relevant Subjects for the ELR2B2-D Aggregate Type
  • Art
  • Biology
  • Biotechnology
  • Chemistry
  • Computing/Computer Studies
  • Creative 3D Animation
  • Design & Technology
  • Design Studies
  • Food & Nutrition/Nutrition & Food Science
  • Electronics/Fundamentals of Electronics
  • Higher Art
  • Media Studies (English)
  • Media Studies (Chinese)
  • Physics
  • Science (Chemistry, Biology)
  • Science (Physics, Biology)
  • Science (Physics, Chemistry)
 1-6

Course modules

Year 1

Diploma-related modules

  • Discovering Design
  • Design in Context
  • Aesthetics for Design
  • Form & Materiality
  • Visual Narratives: Photography
  • Visual Narratives: Videography

How to register

Joint Admissions Exercise (JAE)

You may register using the JAE Internet System (JAE-IS). Learn the process and how to apply.

Joint Polytechnic Admissions Exercise (JPAE)

You may register using the JPAE Portal. Learn the process and how to apply.

Polytechnic Early Admissions Exercise (Poly EAE)

You may register using the Poly EAE Portal. Learn the process and how to apply.

Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP)

You may register using the PFPAE Portal. Learn the process and how to apply.

Direct Admissions Exercise (DAE)

You may apply through the respective polytechnics’ websites. Learn the process and how to apply.