The MDTS programme is divided into two parts, the Common Curriculum and the Specialized Curriculum.   

The Common Curriculum aims to provide students with a broad range of knowledge pertaining to systems engineering and introduction to key defence technologies.  Here, the learning emphasis is on systems thinking.  It comprises 9 coursework modules to be conducted in NUS within the first 2 quarters of the programme. The students then proceed to NPS where they will embark on the “Integration Project” over the subsequent 2 quarters. 

The Specialized Curriculum aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge of a specific field in defence technology.  Students are required to choose one of the specialization tracks available.  The Specialized Curriculum comprises another 10 coursework modules and a “Thesis Research”.