University Education In Singapore

If you have chosen to further your education in Singapore, there are 2 main choices available to you.

(i) Get a degree in local universities

The National University of Singapore (NUS) and the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have initiated a number of innovative programmes, including the broadening of undergraduate education, the introduction of a core curriculum, collaborations with top foreign universities, and the establishment of inter-disciplinary centres. The Singapore Management University (SMU), offers a broad-based business curriculum modelled after that of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Being autonomous, these universities can chart their own destiny, differentiate themselves and pursue new heights of excellence in education, research and service, whilst receiving substantial government funding.

SIM University (UniSIM) provides university education to working professionals and adult learners by adopting a flexible learning approach to enable its learners to balance their career, family and studies.

If you are concurrently looking for overseas exposure, do not worry. The universities are providing increasing number of students with the opportunities to take part in exchange programs, overseas work attachments and on

Students are encouraged to approach the university of your choice if you have enquiries. The following links may prove useful to you:

1. FAQ on admissions to NUS (with an accredited Diploma from a polytechnic in Singapore)
http://www.nus.edu.sg/oam/apply/catb/require.htm#Republic_Polytechnic

2. FAQ on admissions to NTU (with an accredited Diploma from a polytechnic in Singapore)
http://www.ntu.edu.sg/oad/admissions/catb_criteria.htm#Republic

3. FAQ on admissions to SMU (with an accredited Diploma from a polytechnic in Singapore)
http://www.smu.edu.sg/admissions/criteria/diploma_holders.asp

4. UniSIM homepage
http://www.unisim.edu.sg/uni/pub/gen/uni_pub_gen_home.cfm

(ii) Get a degree from a Private Education Organisation (PEO)

There are many institutions and courses available and most students find themselves at a loss, due to the barrage of advertisements. A key indicator of quality for any private education organization (PEO) is the attainment of the CaseTrust for Education mark, which certifies the organisation as one that possesses the foundation for good quality student welfare and sound protection practices and standards.

Similarly, there is also the Singapore Quality Class (SQC) to recognise that the PEO has attained a commendable level of business excellence based on the Singapore Quality Award (SQA) framework and requirements in the private education sector.

More info can be obtained from the following website:

http://www.moe.gov.sg/privatesch/list_of_dlp.htm

Such quality assurance indicators aside, students are strongly advised to conduct their own research when shopping for a suitable course or PEO.

After ensuring the credibility of the PEOs, you will then be in a better position to compare the packages offered by them. You have to choose between costs, both in terms of time, money and benefits - namely what that new title can bring you. Choosing the right institution for your present and future needs requires intensive gathering of information as well as reflection.

By engaging a PEO, they are able to assess your grades and situation, and provide you with professional recommendations. With their help, you are then able to choose the most suitable course based on your interests and strengths.

When deciding on a PEO, these are some useful questions that you should ask:

• Which university or institution?
If you are looking for a reputable school, then these names and branding will come at a cost. A good way to search for an excellent school in your specialisation is to find out where the experts teach.

• Who is teaching the class?
The certification may be from a particular renowned tertiary institution, but the lecturers or tutors who teach the course are often not from the same university. You may wonder if these teachers of the same calibre. Hence, ask to sit in for one of the classes, which will allow you to gauge the teacher’s ability. It is also good to ask about the tutors’ academic background and work experience.

• Who creates the examinations and how rigorous are they?
Examinations are the bane of all students, but they are necessary as a measure of how much you have learnt. Therefore you should check who creates and marks the examination papers. Be aware of subtleties such as the difference between an institution which “awards” a degree and one which “validates’ a degree.

• Should I do a Part-time or Distance Courses?
Many people have commitments that do not allow them to leave the country to pursue their further studies. Many part-time and distance courses can be quite credible. The main issue is to try to get a taste of the accredited university life either through a summer course there or by visiting lecturers who teach the course. If you pay a premium on the name of that international university, not to have a chance to build a relationship with the faculty would be a waste. Even if you do not get to go to the physical campus, do try to establish links with the staff and faculty there or when they teach in Singapore. These links are important as the professors are the ones who can provide you with a recommendation should you need one in the future.

Click here to see the list of foreign University degrees offered in PEOs, Singapore.