Industry Relevance
Develop capabilities aligned with evolving business and digital needs.
Industry-Focused Stackable Programmes
Build on your experience. Shape what comes next.
Industry-Focused Stackable Programmes
Designed for working professionals, SMU brings together the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE) and a range of Industry Graduate Diplomas (IGDs). Covering areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital health, sustainability and leadership, the programmes support the development of industry-relevant knowledge and capabilities in the digital economy.
With a modular structure, learners can pursue an IGD independently or explore opportunities to build towards IPMDE, subject to applicable programme requirements. Learning combines academic perspectives with practical, industry-focused experiences.
Work-based Learning
Engage in applied, real-world projects that develop innovation and strategic capabilities.
Modular & Stackable
Build your IPMDE progressively through IGDs.
Recognising Prior Learning
Relevant qualifications or professional experience may qualify you for module exemptions, reducing your study requirements.
Learner Testimonials
Alumni Spotlight
Driving Human-Centred AI Adoption: From Learning to Industry Impact
Discover how IPMDE alumna Geraldine Gan shared practical strategies for AI adoption in procurement at ProcureCon Asia Summit 2026.
Guiding Responsible AI Through Legal Leadership: Rishi’s IPMDE Journey
Learn how IPMDE alumnus Rishi Ganiswaran made an impact at the World Lawyers Forum 2026 through his AI governance insights.
Learning Beyond the Textbook: A Broader Lens on Digital Health
Learn how IPMDE and IGD alumnus Leslie Wee gained fresh perspectives on digital health through diverse industry insights and discussions.
How IPMDE Changed the Way Michelle Thinks About Accounting
Discover how Michelle’s IPMDE journey reshaped her approach to accounting, technology and data-driven decision-making.
Beyond the AI Hype: How IPMDE Shaped Dr Choo Wee Tong’s Approach to Digital Transformation
Explore how Dr Choo applies learning from SMU Academy’s IPMDE to real-world challenges in AI, digital transformation and responsible innovation.
Choose Your Learning Pathway
Learners can choose between two pathways to suit their learning goals, schedule and preferred pace.
Start with the Industry Graduate Diploma (IGD) and decide whether to exit with your diploma or continue towards the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE). Follow the steps below to understand how the pathway works.
Complete the Industry Graduate Diploma (IGD)
Begin by completing the IGD requirements, which comprise:
IGD Modules Complete 10–14 modules.
IGD Examination Successfully pass the associated examination.
Integrated Learning Project Complete the Integrated Learning Project, where applicable.
Enrichment and Networking Fulfil the applicable enrichment workshops and/or networking sessions.
Choose Your Next Step
After completing the IGD, you can choose how you wish to proceed:
OPTION 1: Graduate with IGD Complete your learning journey with the IGD.
Upon successful completion of all IGD requirements, you will graduate with the IGD.
OPTION 2: Graduate with IGD and Progress to IPMDE Complete your learning journey towards the IPMDE.
Complete the Additional IPMDE Requirements
If you opt for Option 2, complete the following additional IPMDE requirements:
Programme Core 7 modules + examination.
Programme Electives 8 modules, or 6 modules + Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP).
Industry Certification or Personalised Learning 32 Credit Hours Equivalent (CHE).
Digital Economy Capstone Project SMU-X Lifelong Learning (64 CHE).
Final Outcome
Graduate with IPMDE Qualifications
Upon successful completion of all requirements, you will graduate with the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE).
Important to note: IGD learners who wish to progress to the IPMDE must first complete the IGD and be filed for graduation before applying for the next available intake.
Enrol directly in the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE) and complete the IPMDE and Industry Graduate Diploma (IGD) requirements alongside each other. Follow the steps below to understand how this pathway works.
Enrol Directly in the IPMDE
Begin your learning journey through direct enrolment in the IPMDE. You will work towards both the IPMDE and IGD qualifications as part of this pathway.
Complete the IPMDE and IGD Requirements
Complete the requirements for both qualifications alongside each other.
IPMDE Requirements
Programme Core 7 modules + examination.
Programme Electives 8 modules, or 6 modules + Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP).
Industry Certification or Personalised Learning 32 Credit Hours Equivalent (CHE).
Digital Economy Capstone Project SMU-X Lifelong Learning (64 CHE).
IGD Requirements
IGD Modules Complete 10–14 modules.
IGD Examination Successfully pass the associated examination.
Integrated Learning Project Complete the Integrated Learning Project, where applicable.
Enrichment and Networking Fulfil the applicable enrichment workshops and/or networking sessions.
Complete the Associated IGD Examination
In addition to fulfilling the IPMDE requirements, complete the associated IGD examination to fulfil the requirements for both qualifications.
Final Outcome
Graduate with IPMDE Qualifications
Upon successful completion of all requirements, you will graduate with the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE).
$3,000 SMU Alumni Credits
As an SMU alumnus, including IGD alumni, you can enjoy S$3,000 in SMU Alumni Credits to support your learning journey with the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE).
The credits may be applied towards either the Digital Economy Capstone Project (SMU-X Lifelong Learning) or a future Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP).
Important to note: The credits can only be utilised once, for either option, and cannot be used towards both. Terms and conditions apply.
Exclusive AI Learning Opportunities for SMU Alumni
Upon successful completion of the Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE), graduates are officially recognised as SMU alumni, gaining access to SMU's alumni benefits and community networks.
As part of a national initiative by the Ministry of Education (MOE), Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) are expanding access to Artificial Intelligence (AI) Continuing Education and Training (CET) programmes for their alumni.
In support of this initiative, SMU Academy has curated practical AI programmes to help SMU alumni develop relevant capabilities for today's workplace. Whether you are building your AI foundations, exploring generative AI or learning to apply AI strategically in your role, these programmes are designed to support the confident and effective use of AI.
Eligible SMU alumni who are Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents can enrol in one selected programme at a discounted fee of S$50 (before GST). This offer is redeemable once per alumnus.
Find out more: If you’re an SMU alumnus, check your SMU inbox for details on the exclusive AI and Generative AI courses.
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