Master of Architecture (MArch)
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
Master of Architecture
What is FEP?
The FEP, or the Freshmore English Programme is a 4-week (4 hours per week) English module that is offered in term 1 for selected freshmore students. Lessons are conducted twice a week, for 2 hours at a time. This is a Pass/Fail module and the grades will appear on the student’s transcript when they graduate from SUTD. Students have to pass FEP in order to graduate.
During the module, students will have the opportunity to learn essay writing skills and techniques, pick up close reading and critical reading skills, learn textual analysis and write critical responses to academic based articles.
The English Writing Entrance Test (EWET) in SUTD
The EWET is the English Writing Entrance Test conducted by SUTD for selected Freshmore students in term 1. It is an English Diagnostic Test run by the Centre for Writing and Rhetoric (CWR) to ensure that undergraduate students have the necessary skills to cope with HASS readings, essays and other modules that require some form of writing. Students who fail the EWET are not expected to withdraw from SUTD. However, they are required to take two additional modules – Freshmore English Programme in term 1, as well as Freshmore Communication Programme in term 3, during their Freshmore year.
Freshmore English Programme (FEP)
- Duration: Eight weeks (16 hours); weekly (2hrs)
- Start: first term – academic week three
- Outcome: This is a Pass/Fail module and the grades will appear on the student’s transcript when they graduate from SUTD. Students have to pass FEP in order to graduate.
During the module, students will have the opportunity to learn essay writing skills and techniques, pick up close reading and critical reading skills, learn textual analysis and write critical responses to academic based articles.
Exemptions will be given for students who meet the criteria stated in the table below. If students submit more than one category of scores, the category with the higher score will be considered for the exemption.
| Examination Body | Subject | Score |
| Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘A’ Level | General Paper (H1 Level GP) | C and above |
| Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘A’ Level | Knowledge Inquiry (KI) | C and above |
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | Theory of Knowledge | C and above |
| NUS High School of Mathematics and Science | For students from Class of 2021 and later
EL5131: Critical Reading and Writing II: The Global Connection; or EL6131: Critical reading and writing III: Emerging issues in a changing world; or EL6132 Language for Personal & Professional Communication |
B- and above |
| NUS High School of Mathematics and Science | For students from Class of 2020 and earlier
EL5101 Language in Society II and EL6103 Language in Society |
B and above in both |
All students without the above minimum qualifications and scores must take the EWET.
How can I learn more about the program?
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us at muspp@sutd.edu.sg
Is there an opportunity to do fieldwork?
Yes! The courses are designed to incorporate a component of fieldwork. In the third term, you will also be undertaking a master practicum project that will require fieldwork.
Is a Master's thesis required for graduation?
Instead of a thesis, you will get an opportunity to work in multi-disciplinary teams in a research practicum project to address current planning and policy issues faced by government and industry partners. For students thinking of pursuing a PhD in a related field, the option of pursuing an independent research project is possible, if a suitable subject area advisor can be found.
Is the curriculum mostly focused on Singapore?
The curriculum is designed to enable students to understand the Singapore model of development, but also to learn and apply lessons and theories on urban planning and development from a global perspective. A course on leadership and planning in Singapore, together with an urban symposium that introduces students to different development projects around Singapore, will provide a strong grounding in local discourse. Other coursework will draw upon historical and global examples to provide a strong foundation for those with an interest in comparative and international studies.
Can I take classes in other pillars outside of the MUSPP?
Requests to take electives in other pillars in SUTD will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Do I need to have a background in computer science to excel in the program?
No, the course curriculum will be designed for students with different levels of experience. Students with experience in programming or computer science may opt for more advanced assignments in the Data and Methods courses.
What kind fo background should students have?
Students from a variety of backgrounds are welcome. However, the typical profile is someone with a degree and/or work experience in the social sciences, public administration, urban planning or development and an interest in quantitative and computational methods. This program is also suitable for candidates with a background in civil engineering, data or computer science who are interested in combining their technical skills with urban management and public policy.