Why Pursue a Degree After a Diploma to Stay Relevant in the Singapore Job Market

Singapore’s education system recently ranked top in the latest Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) for its high standards.

The island nation follows a well-rounded learning system that emphasises critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, preparing young people for the challenges of the future workplace.

Studying in Singapore can provide significant global recognition and offers numerous opportunities.

That’s not all; Singaporean degrees have high regard among employers worldwide. This is why students flock to this little red dot nation to pursue bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate courses, and diplomas.

Singapore is a perfect choice for pursuing a bachelor’s degree at one of the world’s globally recognised and reputed institutions.

Keep reading to discover the advantages of pursuing a bachelor’s degree, the benefits of studying in a country like Singapore, and how it can help you stay relevant in the thriving Singaporean job market.

But Firstly, What is a Bachelor’s Degree?

A bachelor’s degree, commonly referred to as a college degree, is an undergraduate degree. You study a subject of your choice in a college or university for approximately three to four years to earn a bachelor’s degree.

The coursework typically consists of general education courses, programme-specific courses, and electives.

Most professional and technical jobs require a bachelor’s degree to increase your chances of getting a job with a reasonable salary.

According to Singapore’s National Library Board, the median salary of a graduate is 62% higher than those with a diploma. Those with a degree earn a substantial median salary of $4,200, whereas those without a degree earn $2,600.

Fast Facts About Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree takes around four to five years to complete. You need a minimum of 120 credits to earn your bachelor’s degree.

Majors in a bachelor’s degree can include numerous subjects such as psychology, computer science, business, nursing, or English.

A bachelor’s degree is traditionally conducted on campus. But now you can earn one online as well.

Many students commonly pursue a bachelor’s degree immediately after high school. But you can begin doing one after taking a year-long break.

Types of Bachelor’s Degrees

According to Statista, the Singapore job market employment rate stands at 66% and experiences stable growth.

However, the country is facing a rapidly ageing population, leading to a higher demand for skilled professionals in the workforce. This is why Singapore focuses on academic excellence, providing a wide range of educational programmes, especially bachelor’s degrees.

Here are the most common types of bachelor’s degrees that you can pursue and use to immediately enter the Singapore job market after graduating:

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

You earn a Bachelor of Arts when you specialise in subjects such as humanities or social sciences. This includes history, psychology, English, and communication.

A Bachelor of Arts typically teaches skills such as critical thinking and communication skills. You can broaden your career horizon by either pursuing a master’s degree or beginning a career in teaching, human resources, advertising, marketing, etc.

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Subjects such as technology, maths, biology, chemistry, finance, or computer science come under the umbrella of a Bachelor of Science.

The course typically focuses on developing your technical and quantitative skills. A Bachelor of Science can be a launchpad for your career in STEM.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Do you have a passion for creativity and expression? A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) can turn your artistic talent into a rewarding career.

This bachelor’s degree is designed for those who love visuals, performing, and fine art.

A BFA can equip you with the knowledge to excel in theatre production, museum curation, graphic design, copywriting, and beyond.

Application Requirements for Bachelor’s Degree

To apply for a bachelor’s degree programme, you are required to provide:

• Past Grades or GPA:

Some courses require you to earn a minimum GPA in high school. A programme’s application form usually mentions the grade requirements.

• A GED or High School Diploma:

Most bachelor’s degree programmes require you to complete a high school level of education or equivalent.

• Standardised Test Scores (SATs or ACTs):

This is a standardised test for high school students that helps them to get through college admissions.

• Letters of Recommendation:

These can come from a high school teacher who speaks about your qualities and academic achievements. You can also get recommendations from a manager from a past or current job, a sports coach, or a volunteer coordinator.

• Personal Essays:

Colleges request personal essays to get to know you as an individual. These essays give you a chance to share your personal story and explain why you are interested in a particular programme.

Cost of a Bachelor’s Degree Programme

The cost of a bachelor’s degree programme depends on several factors such as the institutions (public or private), the mode of study (online or in-person), or financial aid.

Private vs Public:

According to the College Board, a four-year bachelor’s degree in a public university costs an average of $10,940 for in-state students and $28,240 for out-of-state students. A bachelor’s degree in a private institution costs $39,400, with the possibility to offer financial aid.

Online or In-person:

Online bachelor’s programmes can reduce relocation and transportation costs and offer enough flexibility for those who work part-time.

Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Many institutions offer scholarships or financial assistance. Singapore offers scholarships and financial programmes to help students to pursue bachelor’s degrees. There are government subsidies to support students who are in Singapore.

Jobs you can get with a Bachelor’s Degree

Many high-paying jobs in Singapore require a bachelor’s degree. So, pursuing a bachelor’s degree for three or four years in Singapore can land you a lucrative career.

Careers in Singapore are as diverse as the scope of learning that it has to offer. Singapore offers some of the highest-paid jobs you can apply for with a degree.

Here is a list of potential jobs that typically require a bachelor’s degree and are expected to evolve in the next ten years, according to the BLS:

• Computer and information system managers
• Financial managers
• Information security analysts
• Market research analysts and marketing specialists
• Medical and health service managers
• Operation research analysts
• Social and community service managers
• Software developers
• Web and digital interface designers

Top 8 benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree

More Job Opportunities

Lightcast, a labour market analytics firm, cited that nearly 40.7% of job postings in January 2023 required a bachelor’s degree.

Most employers still believe that a candidate with a bachelor’s degree may have the skills for the job compared with someone without a degree.

So, a bachelor’s degree can give you a better chance of getting more career opportunities.

High Earning Potential

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that a full-time worker with a bachelor’s degree took home an average salary of $1,432 per week, compared to $853 per week for those with a high school diploma and no college experience.

A bachelor’s degree can offer many high-paying jobs in fields such as computer science, finance, and healthcare, eventually leading to high-paying jobs.

Develop Marketable, In-demand Skills

A majority bachelor’s degree is designed with specific industries and career paths in mind. This can help you gain valuable, in-demand skills such as communication, critical thinking, and teamwork.

Build a Strong Network

The relationships that you form during your time studying for a bachelor’s degree can benefit you in the long run. Interaction and discussions in the classroom can have a lasting effect on your future success.

Opens the Door to Advanced Degrees

A bachelor’s degree makes it easy for you to reskill according to the industry requirements. For example, if you choose to pursue an MBA to obtain managerial or leadership positions, having a bachelor’s degree can significantly improve your future path.

Expand your Worldview and Perspective

In addition to specific coursework, most bachelor’s degrees require you to complete several general education credits.

These courses can help you to develop a different perspective about the world that might help with your career in the future.

Gain Lifelong Access to University Resources and Faculty

Many colleges and universities support their alumni, giving access to libraries, research labs, technology resources, internships, and an alumni network—all of which can help you break into a new field or accelerate your career.

Build and Demonstrate Personal Resilience

Earning a bachelor’s degree not only shows your subject matter expertise but also highlights your discipline and hard work.

Check out the broad range of undergraduate degree courses offered by the London School of Business and Finance in Singapore (LSBF Singapore Campus), and find a bachelor’s degree that matches your career goals.