Beyond STEM: Why Singapore tertiary institutions are putting more emphasis on arts and social sciences

As artificial intelligence assumes more technical and routine tasks, Singapore's tertiary institutions are placing a greater emphasis on arts and social sciences. Programming a robot used to involve writing lines of code, but now AI handles much of the technical work, leaving students with more time to focus on creativity, critical thinking, communication, empathy, and real-world problem-solving. This shift is part of a broader transition from STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) to STEAM (adding arts).

PSB Academy reported a 47% increase in demand for STEAM education over the past two years, with student numbers growing from about 3,400 in 2023 to 5,000 in the previous year. The institution is constructing an Integrated STEAM Hub at Tai Seng, with expected completion in 2027. At Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), there is a growing focus on combining technology with humanities and social sciences, such as economics, business, psychology, and philosophy.

The university's curriculum aims to teach students not just to ask "can we do this," but "should we do this, for whom, and under what conditions?"

James Cook University's Singapore campus is also emphasizing practical skills through its new barramundi hatchery facility. Meanwhile, schools like Singapore Management University (SMU) are piloting dance choreography courses to foster creativity, empathy, and cultural understanding, areas AI struggles with. At Kaplan and Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS), more working professionals are enrolling, with employers seeking individuals capable of interpreting AI-generated information and turning it into actionable insights.

EHL Hospitality Business School has noted a nearly 40% increase in enrollment from working professionals, reflecting the demand for practical, skills-based learning.