Frequently Asked Questions

Why two degrees at two universities?

MIT and NTU have been partnering in both teaching and research for over seven years. During this time, we have learned much about our different academic and economic cultures, and have acquired a hands-on understanding of the realities of the global marketplace. The SMA–MST degree programme provides a unique learning environment for the student that benefits from this partnership. The two degrees allow each student to gain a strong base in all the disciplines of modern manufacturing and to pursue one area of personal interest in greater depth. In our minds, this is the best of all worlds: a globally based education, with the chance to both “see it all” and to pursue one topic in depth.

What do you mean by "Manufacturing"?

In MST, we mean the entire process of going from customer needs to order fulfillment, with a particular emphasis on the process of creating products on a commercial scale. We focus on the conversion of material into components, and components into products that are delivered into a supply chain. This also encompasses the engineering and business aspects of these industries.

How competitive is admission to the SMA–MST degree programme ?

Since admission to both MIT and NTU is required, the standards are very high. However, the targeted nature of this programme means that only those who are truly dedicated to the profession of manufacturing will apply. This leads to a smaller admissions pool, as well as the assurance that all applicants are thoroughly and carefully considered. In other words, the bar is high, but the field is much smaller than for a generic graduate degree programme.

How do I choose a Thesis Project?

Each year, a number of companies offer projects for MST. We ask for a thorough description of activities and expectations for the project. After these are presented to the cohort, the students, companies, and faculty advisors go through a matching process to fit the projects to the students’ interests.

How do I choose my research project for the NTU degree?

There are three ways, all of which include early discussions with potential thesis advisors from NTU or NUS. First, you can select a subject from your group project that you want to study in more depth, either on-campus or on-site with the company. Second, you can choose a topic that is part of our SMA–MST Research Programme, which focuses on the Manufacturing Science of Microfluidic Devices and Systems. Finally, with the approval of an NTU or an NUS faulty member, you can set up a project of your own choosing on a topic within the confines of manufacturing.

I have a specific interest in semiconductor industries; is this curriculum relevant?

Most of the material in this degree applies to all segments of the discrete parts and products industries. The physics subjects consider semiconductor and other electronics manufacturing in concert with more traditional mechanical products. However, as noted above, there will be a re-centering of this curriculum on manufacturing at the small scale, to include both microchips and MEM devices as well.

My long-term goal is to eventually return for an MBA. Why should I take this degree first?

If your long-term interest is to work in a manufacturing-oriented industry, in the end this degree will probably be more appropriate than an SM degree.

My long-term goal is industry-based research, and I expect to eventually return for a PhD degree. Should I take this degree first?

The SMA–MST degree programme in fact encourages some of our students to continue for a PhD degree with SMA. This can be done in lieu of the SM degree from NTU, but we feel strongly that the MEng degree provides an outstanding basis for any manufacturing-related PhD.