After earning the NITEC qualification, some may choose to enter the workforce in entry-level roles, with starting salaries ranging from SGD 2,100 to SGD 2,400 per month.
However, as both Singapore’s and the global job market become more competitive, continuous learning and academic progression have become crucial to staying relevant and advancing professionally.
Your NITEC experience has already provided you with a strong foundation in practical skills and professional discipline. Let’s explore how you can build on that foundation to earn a degree in Singapore, leading to career advancement and better salary prospects.
What Are Your Options After NITEC?
After acquiring your NITEC qualification, several academic progression options are available to you.
| Start | Category | Achievements |
| Polytechnic | O-Level scorers / Higher NITEC graduates | Diploma → Local U or PEI Degree |
| Work-Study Diploma offered by ITE in Singapore | Prefer learning + working after Higher NITEC | Industry skills + job experience |
| Private Education Institution (PEI) | NITEC / Higher NITEC / O-Level graduates | Diploma → Higher/Advanced Diploma → Degree |
However, if you’re exploring alternatives to polytechnic and work-study diplomas in Singapore, the following are two common study pathways that students often follow to obtain a degree in Singapore after completing a NITEC.
NITEC PATHWAY 1:
NITEC PATHWAY 2:
The foundation diploma to degree study pathways are commonly offered by Private Education Institutions (PEIs) such as LSBF Singapore. They are designed to be industry-relevant, offering the academic standard of a polytechnic diploma combined with the flexibility often seen in work-study programmes.
You should also ensure that the degree is in the same specialisation as the one chosen for the NITEC qualification. For example, suppose you have completed InfoComm in the NITEC and Higher NITEC. In that case, you will then pursue a Foundation Diploma in IT, followed by a Diploma in IT, and subsequently a degree in a related field, such as a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science.
Common Myths Around NITEC (Debunked)
| Myth | Reality |
| You must take the polytechnic route after NITEC to earn a degree in Singapore, and attain more career opportunities | That’s one option, but not the only one. There are flexible, skill-based learning paths tailored to different student needs—including NITEC graduates, which helps you to pursue a degree in Singapore and opportunities for career advancements |
| NITEC graduates can’t pursue degrees | Many NITEC graduates advance through foundation diplomas, then into diplomas, advanced diplomas, and eventually top-up degrees offered by reputable PEIs such as LSBF. |
| I won’t be able to catch up academically. | Bridging programmes such as diplomas are designed to fill knowledge gaps and build confidence, especially for learners transitioning from vocational tracks. |
| It’s too late to go back to school after ITE. | Many students return to study after working, often with a clearer sense of career goals and improved motivation. There are also flexible study options available to support your academic progression from NITEC to a degree. |
Academic Progression to Degree after NITEC with LSBF
LSBF diploma and degree programmes support NITEC graduates by offering a flexible, modular route to a degree in Singapore.
As Singapore’s job market increasingly values skill-based qualifications and industry-relevant expertise, pursuing academic progression to a degree would significantly boost your career advancement.
LSBF’s bridging programmes (Foundational Diplomas and Diplomas) are designed to help you transition from NITEC to a diploma and eventually to a UK top-up degree, without requiring A-Levels or a polytechnic diploma.
If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, consult our education consultant to learn more about your next steps in getting a degree in Singapore with LSBF.
