In recent years, Singapore’s digital economy has emerged as a key growth driver, contributing a remarkable US $77.7 billion to the GDP in 2022—almost double the previous years. By 2023, the government’s Digital Government Blueprint further propelled the tech sector, securing US $685 million in funding, the highest in Southeast Asia.
This growth has carried into 2024, with a high demand for skilled professionals to fill information technology jobs in fields such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI).
With Singapore projected to require 1.5 million digital workers in 2025, pursuing a diploma is a timely step toward building essential skills for this high-demand sector.
Such a qualification, specifically in IT, provides essential knowledge in programming, networking, and database management, helping you build a strong foundation for a career in one of the country’s most dynamic industries.
Top Entry-Level IT Jobs for Diploma Holders in Singapore
Starting your career in IT doesn’t always require a degree—many companies hire diploma graduates for key roles that offer valuable industry experience and career progression. Here are some promising entry-level positions:
1. Junior Software Developer
- Key Responsibilities: Assist in coding, testing, and debugging software applications; collaborate with senior developers to create scalable and user-friendly solutions.
- Skills Required: Basic programming knowledge in Java, Python, or C++; understanding of version control systems like Git; problem-solving abilities.
- Average Monthly Salary: SGD 2,500 – SGD 5,000 (Source: MyCareersFuture)
2. IT Executive
- Key Responsibilities: Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot hardware and software; ensure system and network stability for end users; assist in implementing basic IT policies.
- Skills Required: Familiarity with computer hardware and software; ensure system and network stability for end users; basic cybersecurity awareness, and troubleshooting skills
- Average Monthly Salary: SGD 2200 – SGD 3,500 (Source: MyCareersFuture)
3. Junior Java Developer
- Key Responsibilities: Support Java-based software development; assist in coding, debugging, and maintaining applications.
- Skills Required: Knowledge of Java programming; basic understanding of integrated development environments (IDEs) like Eclipse; basic database skills.
- Average Monthly Salary: SGD 1,500 – SGD 2,000 (Source: MyCareersFuture)
4. E-commerce Operations Assistant
- Key Responsibilities: Help manage online store platforms (e.g., Shopify, Lazada); upload product listings and troubleshoot basic technical issues.
- Skills Required: Familiarity with e-commerce platforms; basic problem-solving; data entry skills.
- Average Monthly Salary: SGD 2,100 – SGD 3,200 (Source: MyCareersFuture)
Industries Hiring IT Diploma Holders
The IT industry is no longer confined to tech companies—every sector relies on digital solutions. Diploma holders can find career opportunities in the following areas:
- Banking and Finance: Roles in IT support, cybersecurity, and financial technology (FinTech) services.
- E-commerce and Retail: Positions in website management, IT operations, and digital marketing tech support.
- Healthcare and Biotech: Opportunities in health informatics, IT security, and systems management.
- Government and Public Sector: Jobs in IT infrastructure, data analytics, and smart city initiatives.
- Media and Telecommunications: Positions in digital communications, cloud services, and technical support.
- Green Tech and MedTech: With sustainability and healthcare innovation on the rise, tech professionals are needed for roles in environmental technology, medical software development and AI-driven healthcare solutions.
By pursuing higher education, the knowledge and qualifications give you a competitive edge in these industries, helping you specialise in emerging technologies and secure advanced roles with better career prospects.
Advancing Your Education: From Diploma to Degree
With Singapore’s digital economy booming, there has never been a better time to start your IT career. LSBF offers a structured pathway to help you build your skills and qualifications, starting with the Diploma in IT and progressing to bachelor’s degrees in partnership with various UK universities.
Undergraduate Progression:
After completing the Diploma in IT, you can choose from two bachelor’s degree programmes, both awarded by the University of East London:
Covers software development, data structures, and algorithms, preparing you for diverse IT roles.
Focuses on cyber threat intelligence, risk management, and security technologies, equipping you for cybersecurity careers, one of the fastest growing fields globally and in Singapore.
While a diploma provides a strong foundation, further education enhances career prospects. With LSBF, you could also progress to a Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Financial Technology, or Digital Forensics.
Such postgraduate programmes equip graduates with specialised knowledge, leading to high-paying roles like Cybersecurity Analyst, Cloud Engineer, and AI Specialist.
Hence, having a Diploma in IT is just a steppingstone to a dynamic and rewarding career. With Singapore’s booming digital economy, investing in skills and further education can unlock endless possibilities in this fast-growing industry.
