Singapore University of Technology and Design Logo Singapore University of Technology and Design

Address: 8 Somapah Road, Singapore 487372
Phone: +65 6303 6600
Email: enquiry@sutd.edu.sg
Website: www.sutd.edu.sg


The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) has specific English language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students have the necessary language proficiency to succeed in their academic studies. The language requirements vary based on the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate) and the specific program. Below are the general language requirements for SUTD:

1. Undergraduate Programs

English Proficiency Tests:

International applicants who have not been taught in English or whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the language through one of the following standardized tests:

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

    • Minimum overall band score of 6.5.

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

    • Internet-based Test (iBT): Minimum total score of 90.
    • Paper-based Test (PBT): Minimum score of 600.

  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW):

    • Minimum score of 700.

  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic):

    • Minimum overall score of 66.

Exemptions:

Students who have completed their high school education in English-speaking countries or in English-medium institutions may be exempt from these English proficiency tests. Typically, students from countries like the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand may not be required to submit additional test scores.

2. Graduate (Master’s and PhD) Programs

English Proficiency Tests:

For postgraduate programs, applicants must meet the following language requirements unless they have completed their previous degree in an English-speaking institution.

  • IELTS:

    • Minimum overall band score of 6.5 with no sub-score lower than 6.0.

  • TOEFL:

    • Internet-based Test (iBT): Minimum score of 90.
    • Paper-based Test (PBT): Minimum score of 600.

  • PTE Academic:

    • Minimum overall score of 66.

Exemptions:

Applicants who completed their undergraduate or master's degrees in institutions where English is the primary language of instruction may not need to submit an English proficiency test score. However, this varies by program and applicants should check with the specific graduate program for more details.

3. Additional Notes:

  • Some programs may have higher English language requirements, particularly if the coursework is communication-intensive or requires a high level of proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking.
  • All test results must be recent, typically taken within the last two years from the application date.

English Language Support:

For students who do not meet the required proficiency level, SUTD may offer English language support or recommend language preparatory programs. These are designed to help students improve their English before or during their studies.

The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) is known for its focus on technology, design, and innovation. It offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to education, blending engineering, architecture, information systems, and design thinking. Below are some of the key course specialties at SUTD:

1. Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD)

  • Specialties: Architecture, Urban Planning, Environmental Design, Sustainable Building.
  • Why Notable: SUTD’s ASD program emphasizes sustainable architecture, urban design, and green building solutions. It integrates technology and engineering into architecture to address global sustainability challenges.

2. Engineering Product Development (EPD)

  • Specialties: Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Biomedical Devices, Product Design and Manufacturing.
  • Why Notable: The EPD program at SUTD focuses on developing products and systems through innovation in engineering. Students are trained in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to create cutting-edge technologies, from robotics to biomedical solutions.

3. Engineering Systems and Design (ESD)

  • Specialties: Operations Research, Systems Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Financial Engineering.
  • Why Notable: The ESD program prepares students to design and optimize complex systems across industries. It focuses on solving real-world problems in logistics, healthcare, transportation, and finance through data analytics and systems thinking.

4. Information Systems Technology and Design (ISTD)

  • Specialties: Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering.
  • Why Notable: SUTD’s ISTD program is renowned for its focus on technology innovation in computing, software development, and data management. The curriculum integrates computer science with design thinking to address modern technological challenges, including AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity.

5. Design and Artificial Intelligence (DAI)

  • Specialties: Artificial Intelligence, Human-Computer Interaction, Design Thinking, User Experience Design.
  • Why Notable: This program blends AI and design, emphasizing the creation of AI-driven systems that improve human interaction and experience. Students learn to integrate design principles with cutting-edge AI technology to solve complex problems in various industries.

6. Technology and Entrepreneurship

  • Specialties: Innovation, Start-ups, Business Strategy, Technology Management.
  • Why Notable: SUTD encourages entrepreneurship through courses and programs that blend technology with business strategy. Students learn how to commercialize technological innovations and develop sustainable business models.

7. Master of Innovation by Design

  • Specialties: Design Innovation, Strategic Innovation, Technology Development.
  • Why Notable: This master's program focuses on the intersection of design, technology, and business, training professionals to lead innovation in various sectors. It emphasizes creative problem-solving and developing innovative products and services.

8. Master of Architecture

  • Specialties: Urban Design, Advanced Building Technologies, Environmental Design.
  • Why Notable: The program focuses on sustainable and future-ready architecture with an emphasis on integrating technology into architectural solutions.

9. PhD and Research Programs

  • Specialties: Robotics, Smart Cities, Advanced Manufacturing, Computational Design, Data Analytics.
  • Why Notable: SUTD offers interdisciplinary PhD programs that emphasize cutting-edge research in areas such as smart cities, advanced manufacturing technologies, and computational systems. The university collaborates with global institutions like MIT for research projects.

Collaborative Opportunities

  • SUTD-MIT Collaboration: SUTD has a close collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which influences its curriculum and research programs. This collaboration enhances SUTD’s specialties in design and technology.

The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) has several distinguished professors who are recognized for their contributions to research, teaching, and innovation in fields such as engineering, technology, design, and architecture. Below are some of the top professors at SUTD:

1. Professor Kristin L. Wood

  • Field: Engineering Product Development (EPD)
  • Position: Head of Pillar, Engineering Product Development (EPD)
  • Why Notable: Professor Wood is an expert in mechanical engineering, design innovation, and product development. He has published extensively in the areas of design thinking, innovation processes, and systems engineering, and he leads multiple initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in students. His work has had a global impact in terms of product design and sustainable innovation.

2. Professor Archan Misra

  • Field: Information Systems Technology and Design (ISTD)
  • Position: Professor and Associate Provost (Research)
  • Why Notable: A leading researcher in the field of pervasive computing, data science, and smart city technologies, Professor Misra has worked extensively on networked sensing, mobility analytics, and Internet-of-Things (IoT) systems. His research focuses on real-world applications of AI and computing technologies, with a particular emphasis on smart city development.

3. Professor Peter Jackson

  • Field: Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD)
  • Position: Professor and Director of SUTD-MIT International Design Centre
  • Why Notable: As a key figure in the design and architecture pillar, Professor Jackson focuses on sustainable design, urban planning, and innovation. His leadership at the SUTD-MIT International Design Centre connects SUTD with global research in sustainable and urban design, enhancing the university’s profile in cutting-edge architectural research.

4. Professor Lynette Cheah

  • Field: Engineering Systems and Design (ESD)
  • Position: Associate Professor and Head of Pillar, Engineering Systems and Design (ESD)
  • Why Notable: Professor Cheah is known for her research in sustainable transportation systems, energy efficiency, and urban sustainability. Her work addresses the environmental impacts of transportation and focuses on the design of sustainable solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of cities. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to sustainability research.

5. Professor Tony Quek

  • Field: Information Systems Technology and Design (ISTD)
  • Position: Head of ISTD Pillar
  • Why Notable: An expert in wireless communications and networking, Professor Quek is highly regarded for his research in areas such as 5G/6G technologies, wireless sensor networks, and AI-enabled communication systems. His work is at the forefront of advancements in telecommunications, making significant contributions to the future of wireless technology.

6. Professor Bige Tuncer

  • Field: Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD)
  • Position: Associate Professor and Director of Digital Design and Development
  • Why Notable: Professor Tuncer specializes in computational design, digital architecture, and the application of advanced technologies in urban design. She leads research in smart city planning and digital tools for urban development, making her a prominent figure in the field of sustainable and digital architecture.

7. Professor Harvey Felberbaum

  • Field: Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS)
  • Position: Associate Professor
  • Why Notable: Professor Felberbaum is known for his interdisciplinary approach to education, blending humanities and design thinking to help students understand the social and cultural dimensions of technology. His work emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in technological innovation.

8. Professor Dario Poletti

  • Field: Science and Math
  • Position: Associate Professor
  • Why Notable: A physicist with expertise in quantum mechanics, Professor Poletti focuses on quantum systems and their applications in computing and other advanced technologies. His work in quantum simulations is contributing to the next generation of computing systems, positioning SUTD at the cutting edge of quantum research.

9. Professor Chen Zhong

  • Field: Information Systems Technology and Design (ISTD)
  • Position: Assistant Professor
  • Why Notable: Specializing in cybersecurity and privacy, Professor Chen's research covers important areas such as cryptography, secure multi-party computation, and privacy-preserving technologies. His work addresses key challenges in securing data and communication systems, critical for future information systems.

10. Professor Erwin Viray

  • Field: Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD)
  • Position: Head of Pillar, Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD)
  • Why Notable: Professor Viray is a prominent figure in architecture with expertise in sustainable urban design and innovative architectural practices. His leadership in the ASD pillar focuses on fostering a new generation of architects who are trained in both design and sustainability, shaping the future of architectural education at SUTD.

As of now, the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) does not have any direct Nobel Prize laureates associated with the institution. However, the university has strong research collaborations and partnerships, particularly with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a university renowned for its connections to multiple Nobel Prize winners. This collaboration significantly enhances SUTD's research output, quality of education, and innovation.

Notable Contributions and Achievements at SUTD:

While Nobel Prizes may not yet be part of SUTD’s history, the university is known for:

  • Cutting-edge research: SUTD excels in fields such as artificial intelligence, urban planning, design innovation, and sustainable architecture, contributing to advancements that align with the kind of groundbreaking work recognized by Nobel committees.
  • Global Research Impact: Through interdisciplinary research in technology, design, and engineering, SUTD aims to address pressing global issues, from smart cities to sustainable technologies, positioning itself as a key player in these areas.
  • Faculty Excellence: The faculty at SUTD includes leading researchers who have earned international recognition and awards in their fields, although none have yet been Nobel laureates.

It is hard for me to imagine anything more exciting than creating a new university from scratch, especially in a country like Singapore that is so deeply committed to education and research. The creation of a new university provides a unique opportunity to design something special, a contemporary, vibrant university for these times and for the future. It is a great honour to be appointed the founding President of Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). Let me share my dreams and aspirations for the university. The Singapore University of Technology and Design is established in collaboration with MIT to advance knowledge and nurture technically grounded leaders and innovators to serve societal needs. This will be accomplished, with a focus on Design, through an integrated multi-disciplinary curriculum and multi-disciplinary research. As an Institute Professor and the former Dean of Engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), I have had the privilege of working with some of the most talented and creative people in the world and been immersed in an organization that bubbles with enthusiasm and has a passion to literally change the world. MIT does this through first class scholarship, the development of big and important ideas, a deep commitment to educating the most talented students to be found anywhere, and an unwavering commitment to sustaining a culture of innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship.

The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) is renowned for several reasons that distinguish it as a forward-thinking and innovative institution both in Singapore and globally. Here’s why SUTD is famous:

1. Collaboration with MIT

  • MIT Partnership: One of SUTD’s standout features is its collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This partnership helps shape SUTD’s curriculum, pedagogy, and research programs. MIT faculty work closely with SUTD in course development, and students benefit from global exposure through exchanges and joint research initiatives.
  • Global Recognition: This partnership has elevated SUTD’s global profile, giving it a reputation for high-quality education and research.

2. Focus on Design and Innovation

  • Design-Centric Education: SUTD is the only university in Singapore with a unique focus on design in every program. Whether it’s architecture, engineering, or information systems, design principles are deeply integrated into the curriculum, fostering creativity and innovative problem-solving skills.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: SUTD’s interdisciplinary teaching approach prepares students to apply design thinking across multiple fields, making graduates well-rounded and adaptable to various industries.

3. Cutting-Edge Research

  • Technological Innovation: SUTD is at the forefront of research in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, sustainable urban development, advanced manufacturing, and smart cities. The university’s research output and impact have contributed to its recognition as a center of technological innovation in Asia.
  • Research Collaborations: SUTD partners with industry leaders, research institutes, and other universities globally, driving impactful research with applications in real-world technologies and industries.

4. Small Class Sizes and Personalized Learning

  • Interactive Learning: SUTD is known for its small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, which allows for more personalized attention and interactive learning. Students receive mentorship from professors, which fosters a deeper understanding of their subjects and encourages innovation and creativity.
  • Holistic Development: The university emphasizes the development of both technical and soft skills, including teamwork, leadership, and communication, making graduates more employable.

5. Innovation in Curriculum

  • Unique Curriculum Structure: SUTD's curriculum is designed to break down traditional disciplinary barriers. Students start with a common core that integrates subjects like engineering, mathematics, and design before specializing in their chosen fields.
  • Focus on Problem-Solving: SUTD encourages students to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems through its emphasis on project-based learning. The projects often involve collaboration with industry partners, ensuring practical and relevant learning.

6. Entrepreneurial Mindset

  • Entrepreneurship Focus: SUTD nurtures entrepreneurship and innovation by providing resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities for start-ups. Many SUTD graduates have gone on to become successful entrepreneurs and innovators, developing products and technologies with real-world applications.
  • Technology Transfer: The university also supports the commercialization of research innovations, turning academic ideas into viable businesses.

7. Sustainability and Urban Solutions

  • Urban and Environmental Design: SUTD is known for its contributions to sustainable urban planning and development. Through programs like Architecture and Sustainable Design (ASD), the university leads research in creating environmentally friendly and energy-efficient urban solutions.
  • Smart City Innovation: SUTD has made significant contributions to Singapore’s vision of becoming a “Smart Nation” through projects involving smart infrastructure, sustainable urban environments, and digital transformation.

8. Global Exposure

  • International Collaboration: Beyond its MIT collaboration, SUTD partners with other leading global institutions such as Zhejiang University in China and the Singapore Management University (SMU). These partnerships provide students with international exposure and opportunities for global research collaborations.
  • Global Programs: SUTD also offers international exchange programs and internships, allowing students to gain global insights and experiences.

9. State-of-the-Art Facilities

  • Innovative Campus: SUTD boasts modern, high-tech facilities, designed to encourage collaboration and creativity. The campus is built with design in mind, offering flexible learning spaces and advanced labs where students can work on cutting-edge projects in robotics, AI, and sustainable design.
  • Fabrication Labs: Students have access to state-of-the-art fabrication labs where they can prototype and develop new products and solutions, an essential aspect of the hands-on, project-driven learning environment at SUTD.

10. Attracting Top Talent

  • Diverse Student Body: SUTD attracts talented students and faculty from around the world due to its reputation for innovation, interdisciplinary education, and collaboration with MIT. Its admission process focuses not just on academic excellence but also on a student's creativity and potential for innovation.