FAQ

Cybersecurity is a multifaceted field encompassing various technologies and approaches.

For students pursuing the Security track, ISTD offers a rich collection of subjects, including:

1. Foundations of Cyber Security
2. Network Security
3. System Security
4. Distributed Systems and Computing
5. Blockchain Technology

These courses provide a comprehensive foundation in cybersecurity, covering both theoretical concepts and practical applications. Students learn to design, implement, and maintain secure systems, as well as to detect and respond to security threats.

Additionally, the Security track includes courses that intersect with other critical areas of computing, such as:

• Distributed Systems Security
• Cloud Computing Security
• Internet of Things (IoT) Security
• Mobile and Web Security

This diverse curriculum ensures that ISTD graduates specializing in Security are well-prepared to tackle the complex and evolving challenges in the cybersecurity landscape. They develop the skills to protect systems, networks, and data across various platforms and technologies, making them valuable assets in today’s security-conscious digital world.

Artificial Intelligence is a mix of many technologies.

For students going for the AI track, ISTD has a rich collection of subjects to offer. These includes:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Machine Learning
• Theory and Practice of Deep Learning
• Computational Data Science
• Natural Language Processing
• Computer Vision

These subjects provide students with a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of AI, covering essential algorithms, data analysis techniques, and neural networks. Through these courses, students gain hands-on experience in developing AI solutions and applying them to real-world problems across various industries.

By working on projects and utilizing cutting-edge tools, ISTD students develop critical skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and the implementation of AI models. This track prepares them for a range of AI-intensive careers, such as AI engineers, data scientists, and machine learning specialists, equipping them to lead in a rapidly evolving field.

1. Software Development
   ● Python Programming Projects
   ● Artificial Intelligence Projects
2. Hardware Integration
   ● Programming with Robots (Arduino)
   ● Raspberry Pi Projects
   ● Sphero Projects
3. Software/Hardware Co-design
   ● Projects integrating both software and hardware components
4. User Experience
   ● User Interface Design Projects
5. Network and Security
   ● Networking and Cybersecurity Projects

These projects are delivered through a mix of structured coursework, hands-on laboratory sessions, and workshops. Many ISTD courses feature semester-long projects applying theoretical concepts to practical problems. Capstone courses typically combine knowledge from various classes to address complex, real-world problems in partnership with other SUTD pillars. This approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for diverse technological challenges in the field.

Traditional Computer Science Graduates have a deep technical background, excelling in programming and theoretical computing. They are well-suited for roles requiring deep technical expertise but may lack exposure to broader design or business integration.

ISTD Graduates combine computer science, technology design, and interdisciplinary problem-solving to create innovative, user-centric products and systems. They are highly adaptable and can fit into various roles that require both technical knowledge and business or design insight.

Traditional Information Systems Graduates bridge the gap between technology and business, focusing on implementing and managing IT solutions within organizational settings. They are well-equipped for roles that require aligning technology to business processes and improving operational efficiency.

If you have passion for computing, technology, and a desire to innovate, ISTD is a great choice for you. Your analytical thinking and holistic problem solving skills will help you maximize the benefits of the program. In addition, joining ISTD would result in the following benefits and opportunities.

1. Future-focused education
2. Interdisciplinary learning
3. Exposure to emerging technologies
4. Foundation for lifelong learning
5. Strong industry demand
6. Opportunity for entrepreneurship

No, ISTD is not all about coding. ISTD focuses on the design, development, and application of information systems to solve real world problems.

In ISTD, you learn algorithms, techniques to secure complex systems, methods for reliable data communications, algorithms for machine learning, analysis of algorithms, logic for Artificial Intelligence, and many more.

Learning these often does require the design of computer programs, but is more so as a means to an end. It is by no means the main focus of what you learn in ISTD.

ISTD modules provide students with a diverse set of skills including:

1. Core Computing Skills

• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Programming in multiple languages
• Computer hardware fundamentals

2. Software Engineering

• Software design and development
• Testing and deployment of software products
• Database management

3. Hardware and Integration

• Software/hardware integration
• Testing and deployment of hardware products
• Computer graphics and computational fabrication

4. Specialized Technical Areas

• Networking and cybersecurity
• AI/ML applications
• User interface design
• Extended reality / Metaverse

5. Professional Skills

• Multidisciplinary teamwork
• Self-learning of new technologies

These skills prepare ISTD graduates for versatile roles across various technology-driven industries, making them valuable assets in the modern job market.