University Town Residential Programme (UTRP)

4.1      Overview of Programme

NUS University Town (UTown) completed its first phase with the opening of its first two residential colleges – Cinnamon College (USP) and Tembusu College – in August 2011. The third residential college, Angsana College, will welcome the first intake of residents in August 2012. The University Scholars Programme (USP) is housed in Cinnamon College while the University Town Residential Programme (UTRP) is offered in Angsana College and Tembusu College. An exciting, multidisciplinary programme, students from all Faculties/Schools who are enrolled in the UTRP will have the opportunity to live and learn alongside their professors and peers.

The UTRP offers modules with a variety of themes, allowing students to broaden their intellectual horizon. In addition, class sizes are kept small to allow for an interactive and highly-personalised learning experience. There will be an emphasis on independent critical thinking, strong communication skills and international experience.

Typically, students are expected to complete a core curriculum of five modules over 2 years: two modules on Ideas and Exposition, a junior seminar and two senior seminars focusing on global issues in both Asian and Singapore contexts.

Apart from the formal curriculum, residents will also participate in a myriad of activities including field trips, Master’s and/or Fellows’ Teas as well as special events organised by the Colleges where distinguished scholars (or simply interesting people) are invited to interact and share their vast experiences with students.

4.2      Admission Requirements

Admission to the UTRP is on a competitive basis. The selection process will consist of an essay and an interview (for shortlisted candidates), in addition to consideration of the student’s academic results and extra-curricular records.

4.3      Exiting the Programme

Students are encouraged to stay for 2 years to extract the optimal benefits of residential learning. Students can choose to leave the programme after careful deliberation and discussion with the Master of their College or can be asked to leave the programme if their performances are deemed unsatisfactory by the Master.

4.4      Relevant website

For more information, please visit http://utown.nus.edu.sg/.