International students worldwide always search for an ideal study-abroad destination that ensures a great study experience. From affordable education, quality institutions, a supportive environment, financial aid opportunities, and other factors, Singapore is one country to consider if you are looking to pursue higher education abroad.
With several top-ranking institutions like the Nanyang Technological University or the National University of Singapore, international students can choose from the array of quality academic programs offered at these institutions. The higher education in Singapore is very extensive featuring universities, colleges, and polytechniques among others. You can also get a chance to pursue some of the popular programs like engineering, creative arts, and MBA.
The higher education system in Singapore is diverse with a variety of educational options to choose from. If you are looking for more information to understand the Singaporean higher education system, this article will give you an in-depth look at what to expect, so you can make an informed decision.
Types of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Singapore
1. Junior Colleges / Centralized Institutes
Singaporean junior colleges, centralized institutes, or millennia institutes are part of the post-secondary options for students looking to pursue pre-university programs. They typically offer two to three-year courses aimed at preparing students with the relevant skills and knowledge for the A-Level examinations or the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. You will receive an A-Level certificate upon successful completion of your course.
Some of the junior colleges in Singapore include Anderson Serangoon Junior College and Catholic Junior College.
2. Polytechnics
If you are looking for a hands-on educational experience where you put what you are learning to practice, then polytechnics are your best bet. The beauty about enrolling in a polytechnic is that you get the chance to engage in practical work through industrial attachments, which run between 6 weeks and 6 months depending on your course requirements.
You can study for a diploma or post-diploma program at any of the Singaporean polytechnics. You can consider institutions like the Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) or Singapore Polytechnic (SP).
3. Institutes of Technical Education
If you are looking to pursue technical or vocational education in Singapore, you can choose from the many Institutes of Technical Education around the country. These institutions aim to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and technical skills through traineeship programs in partnership with different employers. Some of the careers that require vocational or technical education include engineering, culinary sciences, and being a technician.
Students earn a Higher Nitec or Nitec certificate upon completion, with the option of proceeding to employment or joining a polytechnic for further studies. Some of the Singaporean ITEs include the Singapore Institute of Technology and ITE College Central.
4. Universities
Universities in Singapore offer more intensive education compared to the other post-secondary options. They offer various degree programs ranging from 3 to 8 years, though the completion time depends on several factors like type of program and financial availability. Upon completion of the program, you can either graduate with a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. degree depending on your level of study.
There are also some specialized Singaporean universities, like those offering art programs like LASALLE College of the Arts (LASALLE) and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). Additionally, you will find government-affiliated and autonomous universities, all offering a wide range of programs for domestic and international students. If you are an international student looking to study in Singapore, some of the top universities to consider include the National University of Singapore, Singapore Management University, and Nanyang Technological University.
Types of Degree Levels in Singapore
1. Bachelor’s Degree
Before you plan on enrolling in a bachelor’s program in Singapore, you must fulfill certain requirements like having a high school diploma, being proficient in English, and being at least 18 years of age. You can either pursue a bachelor’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with honors. Just like many other countries, a bachelor’s degree in Singapore takes around three to four years to complete. And for you to graduate with a bachelor’s degree, you need to have completed at least 120 credits and 160 credits for the bachelor’s degree with honors.
A Bachelor’s degree in Singapore will give you a solid foundation in theoretical knowledge, and critical thinking skills, and give you the basics you need to launch your career. The majority of Singaporean universities offer bachelor’s degrees to international students in various subjects. For example, the National University of Singapore has several undergraduate programs which are offered in English, just like Nanyang Technological University.
2. Master’s Degree
Pursuing a master’s degree in Singapore is just as exciting as in any other top nation. Many Singaporean universities offer quality master’s programs, from business and humanities to science and medicine, among others. The requirements are almost similar across the institutions, like having a recognized bachelor’s degree, passing the required English proficiency test, and providing academic references.
Unlike a bachelor’s degree which is majorly theoretical, a master’s degree from a recognized Singaporean university involves a lot of research and hands-on learning. If you’re wondering how long it takes to complete a master’s at any of the top schools in Singapore, then prepare to spend 2-4 years to complete your master’s degree, depending on the program. Programs like medicine or engineering generally take longer. You will also need to complete a total of 60 credit units and attain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 to graduate.
You can find very reputable master’s programs at various Singaporean universities like Singapore Management University or the NUS Business School if you are interested in business-related master’s programs.
3. Doctoral Degree
International students looking to pursue a doctoral or Ph.D. in Singapore can benefit from the country’s high-quality education system, cutting-edge research facilities, and diverse academic community. However, to qualify for a Ph.D. position, you must meet the eligibility requirements like passing the relevant English proficiency test and having a master’s degree from a recognized institution. You can expect to spend 3 to 5 years of study upon which you will graduate with a Ph.D. in the chosen field.
Institutions such as the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are known for their strong research focus and academic excellence, hence a great choice to pursue your doctoral research. Additionally, many universities and research agencies in Singapore offer competitive scholarships and funding opportunities to support Ph.D. students, like these NUS graduate school scholarships.
FAQs: Higher Education in Singapore
What Grading System Does Higher Education in Singapore Use?
The majority of universities in Singapore use the GPA grading system, with some following the 4-point scale while others follow the 5-point scale. The GPA grading system is recognized and applied by many universities worldwide, especially in the USA and UK.
By averaging individual course grades according to a predetermined scale, such as A, B, C, D, or F, and assigning corresponding numerical values, the GPA provides a clear and straightforward summary of a student’s overall achievement. Some universities use the GPA point to award scholarships and other financial aid awards to students who meet the required points.
There is no doubt that Singapore is a global education hub in the heart of Southeast Asia, thanks to its world-class universities and cutting-edge research opportunities. From Junior colleges and polytechnics to Institutes of Technical Education and universities, Singapore’s higher education system attracts students and scholars from around the world seeking to pursue their academic and professional aspirations.
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand Singapore’s different types of HEIs. Now, it’s time to check the Available Programs you can enroll in as an international student! If you plan to study in Asia’s economic powerhouse, read more insightful articles and valuable tips on our Study in Singapore Page!