Through an integrated approach based on language and communication skills, the students are helped to acquire communicative competence as well as thinking and study skills needed for their studies at the Polytechnic.
A041011
Mathematics & Statistics 1
This subject is designed to equip the students with basic mathematical and statistical techniques which are essential for the course of study. Topics covered include algebra, calculus, probability, probability distributions and their applications.
A041003
Inorganic
& Physical Chemistry
The subject introduce students to the basic concepts which will include nomenclature and stoichiometry; chemical reactions in aqueous; chemical thermodynamics; electrochemistry and the state of matter and solutions. The principles of physical chemistry and the properties and the reactions of inorganic compounds will also be covered in the lectures, tutorials and laboratory practicals.
A041013
Organic
& Biological Chemistry
This subject investigates the basic concepts in organic chemistry, constituents of biological systems, their properties and significance to biological science. Topics covered include organic chemistry , water, carbohydrates, proteins & enzymes, fats, minerals and vitamins.
This subject provides the foundation of plant biology, which is required as a prelude to biotechnology. Topics covered include plant physiology, structure and functions of plant systems.
This subject investigates the importance of
basic microbiology and its relevance to the food and biotechnology industries.
Topics covered include the microbial world, prokaryotes and eukaryotes,
cultivation and growth of microorganisms; nutritional requirements and
microbiological media, control of microorganisms.
This subject is designed to equip students with basic mathematical and statistical techniques which are essential for the course of study. Topics covered include basic statistics, sampling distribution, hypothesis testing, analysis of variance and non-parametric testings.
This subject provides the further understanding of functions and analyses of proteins and enzymes, and protein synthesis and information pathways. Students will also learn the co-ordination between catabolism and anabolism as a foundation to develop deeper understanding of metabolism and their dysfunctions in subsequent subjects.
Students will be introduced to the concept of genes from a molecular perspective to classical heredity studies. The topics covered include the organisation of genetic material in organisms, with emphasis on eukaryotic chromosomes; patterns of Mendelian inheritance; phenotypic variations caused by various forms of gene interactions; and basic concepts in population and evolutionary genetics.
This subject covers the biology of cells of higher organisms: structure, functions, and biosynthesis of cellular membranes and organelles; cell growth; transport, receptors and cell signalling; the cytoskeleton, the extracellular matrix, and cell movements; chromatin structure and RNA synthesis.
A041006
Computer Applications
This is a practice-oriented subject with all sessions conducted in the computer laboratory. The topics covered include functions and components of a personal computer system; hardware components, operating system, basic word processing and some advanced features; basic slide production and presentation and some advanced features.
A041016
Chemical
Engineering Principles
This subject will cover a number of scientific
principles and techniques which are basic principles of the food process
engineering and bioprocess engineering. Physical laws such as Law of Thermodynamics
, Material and Energy Balances, Heat Transfer, Mass transfer, and Fluid
Flow will be discussed.
YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1
This subject aims to provide students with a basic understanding of gross and microscopic human anatomy and physiology. Topics covered include the functions of various organs and organ systems and how these systems interact to contribute to harmonious functioning of the body.
A042303
Biochemistry 2
The subject focus on principles in biochemistry and provide in-depth treatment on metabolism and bioenergetics by building on concepts gained from Organic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, and Biochemistry 1. Topics covered include basic concept in bioenergetics, energy sources in biological systems, glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, additional pathways in carbohydrate metabolism, electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, photosynthesis, lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and integration and control of the metabolic processes.
This subject teaches both the theoretical knowledge and practical techniques of molecular genetics. Topics covered include the detailed structure and function of DNA, the replication and expression of genes, and genetic mutations.
A042305
Basic
Clinical Chemistry & Haematology
This subject is designed to equip the students with the basic foundation in clinical chemistry and haematology. It introduces the concept, procedures and common terms used in the clinical chemistry and haematology laboratory with equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge and practical work.
A042306
Basic
Histology & Serology
This subject introduces concepts, procedures
and common terms used in both histology and serology. Lectures will be
supplemented by tutorials, laboratory works, laboratory demonstrations
and practical.
Basic concepts in classical and instrumental methods of analysis of commercial sample will be introduced. The analytical approach in a chemical analysis will also be emphasised. Topics to be covered include sampling, techniques of sample pre-treatment, chemical equilibrium, theories and applications of chromatography, analytical spectroscopy and electrochemistry.
The subject is focused on two principle aims. The first is to introduce the student to environmental issues related to pollution. This should enable the student to speak intelligently about concerns being addressed by government and industry. The second aim is to give the student some practical knowledge in environmental biotechnology specific to Singapore. This will give the student the background necessary to answer industry questions about health hazards and concerns.
A042307
Biochemical
Techniques
This subject focuses on the biochemical techniques and various applications in the field of biotechnology. The identification, extraction, purification and analyses of biomolecules are emphasised.
This subject has a theoretical and practical/laboratory focus which allows the students to apply their knowledge acquired in Basic Microbiology in the fields of food , industry, medicine and environment. Content includes the role of microorganisms in food spoilage, foodborne illness, industrial products, infectious diseases and the environment.
The study of molecular biology is vital for the basic understanding of the principles and applications of genetic engineering. It is one of the most important subjects which needs to be understood in order for one to be competent in the field of biotechnology.
A042311
STUDENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME
This is a 10-week attachment programme which
provides the students an opportunity to apply their skills & knowledge
to both the healthcare and biotechnology industries.
The course comprises a balanced mix between the components of theoretical understanding as well as practical application of communication and behavioural skills required in the context of the professional workplace. Emphasis is placed on full participation on the part of the students, in activities and exercises designed according to the stated aims and objectives.
A043301
Final Year Project
This project is compulsory to all final year
Biotechnology students. Students must obtain a minimum pass grade for this
subject to be awarded the Diploma. The aim of this project is to provide
the students exposure to current and relevant research and development
within the industry . Emphasis will be on independent learning by doing.
Finding relevant references and problems solving through group discussion
are strongly encouraged. Students are expected to work independently with
minimum guidance and supervision from the project supervisor. At the end
of the project, students are required to submit a written report and perform
an oral and poster presentation.
General Biotechnology Option
This subject provides the basic theoretical and applied knowledge of genetic engineering. Topics covered include fundamentals of recombinant DNA, cloning in E. coli and other organisms such as yeast, plants and animals, analytical techniques, and modern applications of genetic engineering.
Introduces the various aspects of plant biotechnology.; from the fundamentals of totipotency of cells to the regeneration of complete plants. Covers the basic tissue culture laboratory, nutritional components of tissue culture media, initiation and maintenance of callus, cell suspension culture, micropropagation, plant protoplasts, anther and pollen culture, organogenesis and embryogenesis, storage of plant genetic resources, virus eradication, secondary metabolite production.
Provides both the theoretical and practical knowledge on growing animal cells in a sterile environment. Topics include aseptic techniques, nutrient requirements, maintenance of culture, quantitation and experimental design.
This subject provides the fundamental principles
of bioprocess technology and its relevance to the biotechnology industry.
Topics covered include an overview of industrial bioprocesses, with emphasis
on fermentation and enzyme application; operations involved at various
bioprocess stages, starting from raw materials and ending with a pure product;
basic concepts of bioprocess engineering; process control and instrumentation;
bioreactor design for culturing micro-organisms, animal cells and plant
cells.
Medical Technology Option
Provides students with an understanding of the science of diseases. Discussions include inflammation, neoplasia, necrosis, degeneration, thrombosis, embolism and cytopathology.
An in-depth study of anaemia, haemoglobinopathies, leukaemia, blood parasites, haemostasis and bleeding disorders with emphasis on the laboratory investigations and identification of the above haematological disorders. Automation, quality control and assurance in haematology will also be covered.
Equips students with knowledge of immunology with respect to infectious agents. Students apply their knowledge in serodiagnostic techniques in clinical and research laboratories.
A study of the identification and quantification
of biomolecules in human fluids in normal and diseased conditions. Emphasis
is on the analytical measures of the biomolecules and the understanding
of the effect(s) of abnormal concentration of the biomolecules on the individuals.
The course comprises a balanced mix between the components of theoretical understanding as well as practical application of communication and behavioural skills required in the context of the professional workplace. Emphasis is placed on full participation on the part of the students, in activities and exercises designed according to the stated aims and objectives.
A043301
Final Year Project
This project is compulsory to all final year Biotechnology students. Students must obtain a minimum pass grade for this subject to be awarded the Diploma. The aim of this project is to provide the students exposure to current and relevant research and development within the industry . Emphasis will be on independent learning by doing. Finding relevant references and problems solving through group discussion are strongly encouraged. Students are expected to work independently with minimum guidance and supervision from the project supervisor. At the end of the project, students are required to submit a written report and perform an oral and poster presentation.
A043318
Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) & Quality
Management
The Asian pharmaceutical market is estimated at S$28 billion annually and this is expected to grow between 8-15% every year. At this rate of growth, which is twice the rate elsewhere in the world, it could account for almost half the world’s pharmaceutical market within the next 10 years. In recent years, the Singapore Economic development Board (EDB) has been successful in attracting independent drug companies to establish regional offices in Singapore. It is therefore important for the Biotechnology students of Temasek Polytechnic to be trained in Good Laboratory Practice procedures and some aspects of Good Clinical Practice in the study of the safety, efficacy and regulatory matters affecting the development of new drugs. In this module, the historical developments and the current trends and practices, affecting both GLP and GCP, will be introduced to the students as an overview.
This subject also deals with the overall management
of a science or medical laboratory. Discussions include laboratory design
and set-up, guidelines and practices, hazards associated with various laboratories
especially chemistry, microbiology & molecular biology, quality assurance
& quality control programmes including quality audit and safety programmes
& implementation.
General Biotechnology Option
A043306
Hybridoma Technology
Focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of hybridoma technology and applications of monoclonal antibodies in the various areas of biotechnology.
A043307
Immunology
Covers defence system of the human beings against a wide variety of disease-causing agents. Topics include immunity, immune response, complement, immunological techniques and vaccination.
A043308
Agrotechnology & Farm Management
Introduces the concepts of modern technology
in farming and management. Topics include greenhouse designs, hydroponic
technology, soil science, plant propagation techniques and aquaculture
systems for fresh and salt water systems. Farm management systems applicable
to the above topics are also introduced. Marketing and business Management
are also included.
Medical Technology Option
A043313
Medical Microbiology
Students will study the major microbial diseases
in the different body systems and the causative micro-organisms. Discussions
include type of specimens, collection & handling, techniques for detection,
isolation and identification, quality assurance and quality control. The
safety & management of a medical microbiology laboratory will also
be covered. This subject requires students to apply knowledge and techniques
gained in subjects " Basic Microbiology" and "Applied Microbiology".
A043316
Blood Banking
Covers theoretical, practical and clinical basis of blood transfusion. Topics include blood components and plasma derivatives, blood collection, processing, storage, cryopreservation and shipment; immunology principles, blood group systems; application of serologic principles and clinical considerations in transfusion practices.
A043317
Histological Techniques
This subject aims to provide the students a
detailed understanding of the theory and physical principles of histotechnology
and histochemistry. It also aims to provide technical competence in laboratory
techniques used in histopathology. Emphasis will be placed on staining
techniques used in histopathology. An introduction to basic exfoliative
cytology will also be covered. The teaching mode will include lectures,
tutorials, practical and demonstration sessions.