Recently, Singapore has been named one of the top destinations for higher education, securing 10th place in the first-ever Global Education Report.
The report surveyed over 70 countries using five key sub-indices: university prestige, quality of life, visa accessibility, cost efficiency, and post-graduation opportunities.
That’s not all. The 25% surge in international student pass holders, from 65,000 to 79,300 in 2023, reflects the growing appeal of studying in Singapore. Student-friendly policies and promising career opportunities are driving an upward trend in international enrolment, making Singapore an attractive long-term destination for higher education, such as bachelor’s degrees.
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.
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 accounting and finance, information technology, law, business administration, logistics, hospitality and more.
A bachelor’s degree is traditionally conducted on campus. That said, some degrees in Singapore are structured as blended learning programmes, integrating both virtual and classroom-based components. For example, many bachelor’s programmes at the London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) are delivered through this flexible approach, making them accessible to a broader range of learners.
Many students commonly pursue a bachelor’s degree immediately after high school. But you can begin doing one after taking a year-long break.
Diploma or Degree: Which is the Right Pathway?
A common dilemma for many of you is choosing between a diploma or higher diploma and a degree.
A diploma can provide a quicker entry into the workforce by training you in a relevant skill set. A degree, on the other hand, is required for fields that demand in-depth knowledge, research, and analytical skills, and it can serve as a pathway for further studies, such as a master’s degree.
You can also progress to a bachelor’s degree after completing a diploma through fast-track options, often in 8-12 months.
At LSBF Singapore, if you choose to pursue a Higher Diploma in Accounting and Finance, you can top it up with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) within 8-12 months.
Types of Bachelor’s Degrees
Singapore has the fourth-highest employment rate among countries in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), standing at 66.1% in 2024.
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 or Public:
Bachelor’s degrees in Private Education Institutions (PEIs) in Singapore cost between SGD10,000 and SGD30,000 per year for both local and international students, as government subsidies do not apply.
At the same time, the public universities cost Singaporean students around SGD 8,000 to SGD 13,000 per year after the MOE Tuition Grant, while international students pay between SGD 18,000 and SGD 40,000 or more.
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. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Singapore for three or four years can lead to 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 the top sectors in Singapore where jobs generally require a bachelor’s degree. These roles are included on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
- 1. Information & Communications Technology (ICT)
Examples of roles: Software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, AI engineers, cloud architects.
- 2. Semiconductors
Examples of roles: Semiconductor engineers, wafer fabrication specialists, equipment engineers.
- 3. Advanced Manufacturing & Process Engineering
Examples of roles: Process engineers, manufacturing engineers, quality assurance.
- 4. Sustainability & Environmental Technology
Examples of roles: Environmental engineers, energy managers, sustainability analysts.
- 5. Financial Services
Examples of roles: Investment advisers (HNW/UHNW), financial analysts, compliance specialists.
Top 8 benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree
1. 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.
A degree holder has a stronger position in the job market than a diploma holder. Most employers still believe that a candidate with a bachelor’s degree is more likely to have the skills needed for the job compared to someone without a degree. Specific jobs in Singapore or globally, primarily in the fields of IT, banking or law require a proper degree.
2. High Earning Potential
At the entry level, salaries for degree and diploma holders in Singapore are often quite similar. Diploma holders typically earn between SGD 2,500 and SGD 3,500, while those with a bachelor’s degree may start around SGD 3,500.
However, the key difference lies in career progression and long-term earning potential. A degree is often required for mid- to senior-level roles across various sectors, where salaries can significantly exceed entry-level figures. It also opens up access to professional certifications and specialised positions that may not be available to diploma holders.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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, and find a bachelor’s degree that matches your career goals today.
Speak to our education consultants to learn more about LSBF’s Bachelor’s Degree Programmes
