NIE offers graduate studies by research leading to the degree of Master of Science (MSc) in line with the increasing emphasis on research in the area of Sciences.
NIE is ranked #3 in Asia and #8 globally for Education in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
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NIE offers MSc (By Research) candidates research in the following areas:
- Mathematics and Mathematics Education
- Natural Sciences and Science Education
- Physical Education and Sports Science
The list of Programme Leaders can be found under "Research Area".
| Area of Research | Programme Leaders |
| Mathematics | Prof Dong Fengming |
| Mathematics Education | Assoc Prof Leong Yew Hoong |
| Natural Sciences and Science Education | Assoc Prof Chew Shit Fun |
| Physical Education and Sports Science | Asst Prof Luis Calmeiro |
The following are minimum admission requirements. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission, as selection is competitive.
A Bachelor's degree with honours at least at Second Class Upper level in the relevant areas and the ability to pursue research in the candidate's proposed field of advanced study.
Shortlisted applicants will undergo an interview session as part of the selection process.
A valid GRE score is required for applicants who are not graduates of the Autonomous Universities in Singapore. See detailed requirements for English language on competency and GRE requirements here.
Click here for more information on application periods.
Important
We strongly suggest you reach out to potential supervisors at least 3 months in advance of application deadline as the process of finding a potential supervisor and preparing your proposal may take longer than you anticipate.
The degree of Master of Science by research is offered on both full-time and part-time basis. The candidature periods are as follows:
| Full-time | Up to a maximum of 3 years |
| Part-time | Up to a maximum of 3 years |
Coursework Requirements (From August 2026 Intake Onwards)
Students must complete 10 AUs:
- Prescribed Electives: 6 AUs from approved graduate-level courses, with an overall average of at least Grade B- and no course below C+.
- Critical Literacy: 4 AUs comprising the following courses and activities:
- Fostering a Community of Respect and Support,
- Epigeum Research Integrity
- Seminar Attendance Requirement
- Graduate English: Required for students with non-English degrees.
- Enrichment courses, seminars or activities are optional and not required for graduation.
Course exemptions may be granted for relevant graduate-level coursework, capped at 1 3 AUs course.
Yearly Progress Report
Students must submit an annual progress report of at least 2,000 words.
Thesis Requirement
The Master’s thesis should not exceed 50,000 words, excluding appendices, references, maps, charts, statistical tables, graphs and illustrations.
From the AY2020/2021 intakes onward VPA Masters students on the research/practice route should have a thesis not exceeding 35,000 words (The practical component has to be documented in an archivable format). For VPA students who choose to do the full written thesis, the prevailing word limit still applies.
For theses written in Chinese, the limit is 100,000 Chinese characters.
For tuition fees, please click here.
International students who choose to pay a lower tuition fee (and thus receive higher subsidy) will have to take up a 3-year service obligation. Click here for more information.
Have more questions? Browse our Frequently Asked Questions.