Top 6 BDEs you didn’t know existed
Published by: Sridevi Sridhar
Uni life isn’t just about checking off core modules and chasing AUs—it’s also the perfect time to try something unexpected. Whether you’re hunting for that one class that changes how you see the world or just want to shake up your timetable with something different, we’ve rounded up five of NTU’s most underrated, niche, and surprisingly fascinating BDEs. They're the hidden gems you didn’t know you needed—and there’s a bonus pick at the end that might just be your next big adventure.
1. HP4274 – The Last Dance: Perspectives of Death, Dying & Bereavement
Yes, it’s a course about death—but don’t scroll past just yet. This mod offers a deeply human, often eye-opening look at how different cultures and disciplines approach dying, grief, and the meaning of life. You’ll explore personal beliefs, societal practices, and psychological insights through lectures, discussions, and creative projects. It’s one of those rare classes that sticks with you long after the semester ends.
2. EE5083 – From Passion to Action: Six Key Steps to a Start-Up!
Ever dreamed about launching a startup but didn’t know where to begin? This mod breaks it down into six actionable steps, taking you from a vague idea to a polished pitch. You’ll work in teams, get real feedback from industry mentors, and learn what it really takes to turn passion into something tangible. It’s practical, inspiring, and way more hands-on than your average elective.
3. DM5000 – Creative Robotics
This course blends art and engineering through the lens of robotics. You’ll explore the history, design, and cultural impact of robots, while learning basic skills in physics and mechatronics. Using sensors, motors, and simple components, you’ll build your own interactive robot and present it as a creative project. Ideal for students interested in animation, design, or interactive media, it’s a hands-on and imaginative take on technology in the arts.
4. DM2012 – Explorations in A.I. Generated Art
This mod explores how AI is transforming the arts—from new media installations to robotic art, electronic music, and beyond. Seminars and hands-on sessions cover everything from how data becomes artistic material, to how artists use algorithms to push the boundaries of visual, audio, and literary art. Whether you’re a computer science major looking for a creative outlet or an art student curious about tech, this course opens the door to an entirely new way of thinking and creating.
(Or try DM3008 – Generative Art if you're more interested in rule-based, algorithmic art with less of a machine-learning focus!)
5. AB5102 – Forensic Accounting & Fraud Investigation
Crunching numbers just got way more exciting. This course dives into the world of white-collar crime, teaching you how to apply forensic accounting and finance techniques to real investigations. You'll explore legal and accounting concepts, identify fraud risk factors, and analyze evidence with a critical eye. With case studies and hands-on learning, it’s part accounting, part detective work, and completely eye-opening.
6. HY4040 – The Meaning of Life
Philosophers have chased this question forever, and now you can too. HY4040 dives into theories from existentialism, religion, personal fulfillment, and science. You’ll explore big answers—finding meaning in love, art, duty, and more. It's reflective, philosophical, and perfect for anyone who has ever wondered why we’re here.
Bonus BDE: EG5003 – Product Development Challenge
This mod is for all second and third year engineering students who want to get your hands dirty building something real. This engineering elective tasks you with designing, prototyping, and constructing a product within a set timeframe. You can enter solo or in a team. You’ll work with mentors from NTU and Dyson, and there’s a strong emphasis on solving problems creatively, beyond what textbooks can teach. For aspiring engineers, makers, or inventors, this is a must.
Pro Tips for Picking the Right One
Match your curiosity—pick one that excites your passion (robotics? startups? fraud mysteries?).
Balance your schedule—project-heavy courses (like robotics or product challenge) need time; theory-heavy ones require reflection.
Think about outcomes—remember to ask yourself what you’re truly interested in, whether it’s prototyping and product building, or deep, philosophical discussions.
Ask seniors—they’ve taken these courses before and can give honest insights on workload, teaching style, and what you’ll actually get out of it.
From questioning life’s biggest mysteries to experimenting with robots, and AI art, these BDEs offer a chance to break out of the ordinary. Each one adds a fresh perspective and a creative spark to your university journey.
Author’s disclaimer: Do double-check whether you are eligible to take these courses through NTU’s course catalog
