Engineers can now upskill and reskill through a flexible pathway that leads towards a bachelor’s degree with honours.

The first class for Electronic Systems, a micro-credential in the Electrical and Electronic Engineering programme under the Competency-based Stackable Micro-credential pathway, started in September 2024. (Photo: A/Prof Neelakantam Venkatarayalu)

There has never been a more exciting yet challenging time for engineers in Singapore and around the world.

The rapid pace of urbanisation and digital transformation has created a surge in demand for engineers. However, the complexity of modern systems, driven by technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, has made it challenging for these professionals to keep up.

Enter SIT's new Competency-based Stackable Micro-credential (CSM) pathway, which offers a structured and flexible approach to reskilling and upskilling.

Unlike a traditional degree programme, the CSM pathway enables learners to choose and complete micro-credentials, or short courses, at their own pace, making it ideal for working professionals balancing studies with their career. This personalised approach provides a path to attaining a bachelor’s degree in Infrastructure and Systems Engineering (ISE) or Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE).

SIT’s ISE and EEE degree programmes are the first engineering degrees offered via the CSM pathway in Singapore.

Empowering Learners with Confidence and Competency

The CSM pathway in ISE and EEE are designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today's complex and dynamic engineering environment. SIT works closely with industry partners in the development of its programmes to ensure that they meet industry needs. By focusing on emerging technologies such as robotics, data analytics, electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy and smart grids, the programmes address the critical skills gaps identified by industry leaders.

Sustainability is also a core focus for both programmes, allowing graduates to contribute to the growing development of sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy sources and smart grids in Singapore and beyond. These programmes align with Singapore's vision for a greener future, as the Singapore Green Plan 2030 outlines.

The ISE and EEE programmes feature a selection of in-demand micro-credentials that learners can take in any order. On completing a micro-credential, learners will receive a Specialist Certificate. They can also stack multiple micro-credentials and complete a capstone project and other university requirements to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Each micro-credential takes around four months to complete and is valid for five years for stacking. All this provides the flexibility for the learners to customise and achieve targeted learning.

The first three micro-credentials offered – Data Analytics, Electronics Systems, and Engineering Design and Solutioning – started their run in September 2024. More micro-credentials will be offered in subsequent trimesters.

The first class for Engineering Design and Solutioning, a micro-credential in the Infrastructure and Systems Engineering programme under the Competency-based Stackable Micro-credential pathway, started in September 2024. (Photo: A/Prof Choo Jian Huei)

Made for Busy Professionals

Most notably, the CSM degree pathway recognises learners’ prior learning, such as industry certifications or competencies acquired from work, in addition to formal education qualifications, which can earn them credits or exemptions.

In essence, adult learners can leverage the CSM pathway to gain competencies that suit their progression needs. For example, university graduates can choose to take micro-credentials that complement their current qualifications; those aspiring to earn a degree can do so with fewer disruptions to their professional and personal lives as micro-credential courses will be delivered in both asynchronous and synchronous learning modes.

Professor John Thong, Deputy President (Academic) and Provost at SIT said, "The rapid technological advancements in the engineering landscape and the increasing complexity of global challenges necessitate a continuous learning mindset for engineers to stay relevant and competitive. The new degree programmes under the CSM pathway address this critical need by offering a flexible and competency-based approach, allowing working adults to upskill and reskill at their own pace.”

Moreover, each CSM pathway learner will be assigned a success coach to enhance their academic experience. Serving as a mentor, the success coach will work closely with learners to develop a tailored academic goal-setting plan. Through these coaches, learners will also gain access to additional resources and support, and have a reliable partner to pace and motivate them on their learning journey.

Upskilling to Meet Higher Aspirations

The EEE and ISE programmes were jointly developed with SIT’s industry partners, which include, among others, the Singapore Army, Republic of Singapore Navy, SBS Transit and SMRT, factoring in the most pertinent needs of these organisations and their work for Singapore’s development.

The inaugural batch of learners, including those from these partner organisations, started their first micro-credential course in September 2024. Many are veterans in their field who recognise the value of a rigorous and thoughtfully designed degree programme to help them make a greater impact.

"The flexibility of the ISE programme enables me to advance my engineering knowledge at my own pace. As the rail industry evolves, with the shift towards digitalisation in operations and maintenance, this course keeps me up to date on the latest advancements, including data analytics, engineering design, smart maintenance, and more. It also gives me the opportunity to share this knowledge with my colleagues," said 47-year-old Patrick Tan, a Senior Engineer at SBS Transit. He joined the company 17 years ago.

68-year-old Ben Xiao, a learner from the EEE programme, at his office at MSV Systems & Services Pte Ltd. (Photo: Ben Xiao)

A polytechnic graduate with decades of work experience and nine professional certificates, 68-year-old Ben Xiao did not hesitate to sign up for the EEE CSM pathway. The Senior Engineer at MSV Systems & Services Pte Ltd had long wanted to pursue a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, but found it difficult to do so while working full-time.

“Lifelong learning isn't just about acquiring knowledge; it's about finding joy and fulfilment in pursuing knowledge. The flexible nature of the CSM pathway has made it possible for me to realise my lifelong dream of getting an EEE degree. With the new knowledge acquired, I can be a better mentor to my colleagues, too.”

By providing a flexible, competency-based approach, SIT is empowering engineers to stay ahead of the curve and contribute to Singapore's future growth and development.

Find out more about SIT’s CSM pathway programmes here.