Graduating from JC/Poly/ITE? Here is your complete guide on what's next.

If you are like most students in Singapore, your education quest has so far been linear - being led by the government to attend Primary, Secondary, and then to either JC, Poly or ITE.

But the first major decision in your life has finally come.

For the first time in your education quest, you are provided with choices. Choices that make you confused and lost.

Here, we present you with a walkthrough of the pros and cons of each and every route you can take as you further your quest.

Route A:

Top 3 Universities

What are the top 3 universities?

The top 3 universities commonly refer to National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU).

They are referred to as the top 3 because their reputation are way ahead of the other local public universities in Singapore.

 

Why choose this route?

If your academic achievements are good enough for you to even consider the big 3, congratulations!

This route should be fairly clear to you as it is the most orthodox route that brings about many benefits and lay good foundations for your career.

Strengths

  • Graduates from the big 3 command the highest salary as compared to other autonomous and private universities’
  • NUS and NTU in particular, are consistently ranked in the top 20 universities in the past 5 years. This recognition will likely open up doors for graduates for global jobs
  • Subsidised rates.
  • Extensive industry partners and well managed alumni clubs provide great networking opportunities.

Weaknesses

  • Long curriculum. Most programmes are 3 years and above
  • For budding entrepreneurs, this route is not only long but can be unfulfilling. Just ask Mark and Bill.
  • Must be able to withstand rigorous workload, loneliness and a highly competitive environment. Like really intense.
  • May not be as strong in certain specialisation as overseas university. Some examples include veterinary, design and hospitality management.

To know more about what you can achieve in this route, read our detailed breakdown of the top 3 universities here.

Route B:

local universities route

Other Local Universities

* If you are interested in getting into SIT/SUSS/SUTD, read our full breakdown of it here.

What are the other local universities?

As the population grew larger, Singapore has established 3 more autonomous universities in the past 15 years to meet demand.

These 3 universities are Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT).

Each of these universities have its own specialisations, though they all offer general courses as well.

SUTD specialises in design and IT technology, SUSS focuses on social sciences and SIT focuses on engineering.

Why choose this route?

Strengths

  • These universities offered highly specialised programs that are not found in the big 3.
  • Being autonomous universities, the universities have extensive local industry partners that can offer placements and other networking opportunities.
  • They are more adult learner centric, offering flexibilities for adult learners that the big 3 cannot offer, such as night classes.

Weaknesses

  • SUTD and SIT specialises in their own niches and may not be suitable for everyone.
  • Despite having social sciences in its name, SUSS is considered a generalist, and do not have as much recognition due to it being the newest autonomous university in Singapore.
  • Small campus size which means resources and infrastructure may not be as extensive.
Route C:

private universities full time

Private Universities (full-time)

* If you are interested in getting into a private university, read our full breakdown of private universities here.

* Check out our course finder to find your ideal diploma/degree/masters program from a private university.

What are private universities?

Private universities are officially called Private Education Institution (PEI) in Singapore.

These PEIs offer courses from overseas universities though some of them can be campuses opened directly by overseas universities.

For instance, PSB Academy is a PEI that offers courses by overseas universities such as The University of Newcastle, while other PEIs like James Cook University have campuses in Singapore.

Why choose this route?

Strengths

  • Variety in Courses and Disciplines: Private institutions typically offer a wide range of courses in different disciplines. This variety allows students to explore diverse fields and find the right fit for their interests and career goals.
  • Smaller Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes mean students can receive more individual attention from tutors and professors, which can lead to better understanding and retention of course material. This intimate learning environment often allows for more in-depth discussions and personalized feedback.
  • Lower Entry Requirements: Private institutions may have more relaxed admission standards compared to public universities. This can be beneficial for students who may not have achieved the necessary grades or qualifications for entry into public institutions.
  • Strong Networking Opportunities: Private institutions often have strong industry connections and can offer students numerous networking opportunities. Networking can be essential for career development, internships, and job placements after graduation.
  • Accelerated Programmes: The availability of shorter and more intensive courses means that students can graduate faster and enter the workforce sooner. This can be advantageous for those looking to quickly gain qualifications and start their careers.

Weaknesses

  • Higher Tuition Fees: The most notable weakness of private education institutions is the higher cost of tuition compared to public institutions. The increased cost can be a significant barrier for many students and may necessitate taking on student loans or finding other means to finance their education.
  • Perception of Quality: Some employers and members of the public might perceive private institutions as being of lower quality compared to public universities. This perception can potentially impact graduates’ employability and career prospects.
  • Limited Research Opportunities: Private institutions may not have the same level of access to research opportunities and facilities as public universities. This limitation can be a disadvantage for students interested in pursuing research-intensive fields or advanced degrees in academia.
  • Accreditation and Recognition: Some private institutions may face challenges in obtaining or maintaining accreditation, which can affect the recognition and value of the degrees they offer. It's crucial for prospective students to verify the accreditation status and recognition of the institution and its programs.
  • Limited Campus Resources: Private institutions may not have extensive campus resources, such as libraries, recreational facilities, or student services, which are typically available at larger public universities. This limitation can affect the overall student experience and well-being.
Route D:

local universities route part-time

Private Universities (part-time)

What is the difference between full-time and part-time studies?

The main difference is that part-time studies are essentially night and weekend classes, so you can still hold a full-time job while studying.

Why choose this route?

Choosing to study part-time has all the pros and cons of studying full-time, but with the following as well:

Strengths

  • Continued Income: Part-time studies allow individuals to maintain their employment and continue earning an income while pursuing their education. This can be crucial for those who are not in a position to forgo earnings to study full-time.
  • Application of Learning: The concurrent experience of working and studying enables students to apply their learning in real-world settings immediately, reinforcing academic concepts and enhancing understanding.
  • Enhanced Employability: Gaining practical experience while studying can make individuals more marketable, potentially opening up better employment opportunities upon graduation.

Weaknesses

  • Potential Burnout: Balancing work, studies, assignments, and personal life can be overwhelming and lead to burnout, impacting both academic performance and job productivity.
  • Extended Graduation Timeline: Part-time studies usually take longer to complete compared to full-time studies. The extended duration can be exhausting, particularly for those with significant work and family commitments.
  • Reduced Networking Opportunities: Part-time students may miss out on building relationships and networking with classmates, professors, and industry professionals, as they are less likely to be on campus and engage in extracurricular activities.
  • Limited Peer Interaction: Less time on campus might mean fewer opportunities for collaborative learning, group discussions, and forming study groups, which can impact the learning experience.
  • Impact on Personal Life: The demands of balancing work and studies can significantly reduce personal and leisure time, impacting overall well-being and potentially causing strain on relationships.
Route E:

Specialised Diplomas/Degrees

* If you are interested in specialised diplomas/degrees, read our full breakdown of the specialised diplomas/degrees route here.

What are specialised diplomas/degrees?

Specialised degrees may mean different thing to different people, but at least on the Level Up website, we define specialised degrees/diplomas as diplomas and degrees that are highly niche and tailored, focusing on specific areas of study not typically offered by local universities and most private schools.

These programs differ from general academic courses, providing a concentrated curriculum on unconventional subjects or skill sets.

Some specialised programs include: culinary, arts, sports, religion, construction, aviation, and many others.

Why choose this route?

Strengths

  • Quick Job Placement and Industry Connection: Specialised programs in Singapore are industry-relevant, focusing on in-demand skills leading to fast job placements. Many schools offering these programs have strong ties with industry partners, providing students with internship opportunities that often convert to permanent placements.

    Example: BCA Academy’s integrated work-study diploma enables students to secure job placements during their study through mandatory internships and workplace learning in the Built Environment sector.

  • Higher Earning Potential: Graduates from specialised programs tend to have higher salaries due to their unique skill sets. The in-depth, practical training and hands-on experience provided by these programs make graduates highly valued in the job market.

    Example: A graduate in NTU Data Science and Artificial Intelligence earns 18%, or $1,050, more than a graduate from the more general NTU Computer Science program.

  • Alignment with Passion: Specialised programs allow students to pursue their passions, potentially leading to fulfilling careers.

    Example: Singapore’s growing culinary industry offers lucrative opportunities for those passionate about food-oriented business through institutions like At-sunrice and Shatec.

Weaknesses

  • Limited Scope: The narrow focus of specialised programs may limit students' exposure to interdisciplinary subjects, potentially restricting their career options and understanding of related fields. However, some programs offer a balanced curriculum, combining specialized knowledge with broader educational foundations.

    Example: Lasalle's program in Animation Art combines technical skills with exposure to art history, critical studies, and cultural perspectives.

  • Risk of Skills Obsolescence: In fast-evolving industries, specialized skills may become obsolete, requiring continual learning to stay competitive.

    Example: A student in applied computing may find their skills becoming outdated shortly after graduating due to rapid advancements in technology and AI development.

  • Limited Job Opportunities: While specialised programs offer fast job placements and strong industry connections, they can also lead to limited job opportunities within certain niche fields.

    Example: Specialised manufacturing processes or niche culinary skills cater to a relatively small job market, potentially posing challenges for those looking to switch jobs within the industry in the future.

Route F:

professional certificates

Professional Certificates

What is a professional certificate?

Differing fundamentally from academic qualifications such as diplomas or degrees, professional certificates are specialised credentials.

These are typically awarded by reputable institutions, acknowledging the attainment of specific skills or knowledge in a particular field or discipline.

These certifications focus more on practical, skill-based learning and are tailored to individuals seeking proficiency in a specialised area, often correlating directly to vocational or career-oriented needs.

Professional certificates are also mostly shorter programs, ranging from a few weeks to a few months.

Some professional certificates include

  • ACCA Qualification
  • Certificate in Practical Counselling
  • WSQ-Operate Forklift

Why choose this route?

Strengths

  • Shorter Duration: Certificate programs are succinct, often taking substantially less time than a bachelor’s degree, allowing for a swift entry into the workforce. Some programs may be completed in just a few weeks, furnishing you with immediate skills essential for employment.

  • Cost-Effective: The abbreviated duration of certificate programs typically renders them more economical, sometimes costing merely a few hundred dollars, presenting an affordable avenue to acquire focused skills.

  • Focused Skills: Certificate programs are usually highly specialized, imparting a precise set of skills pertinent to specific industries or roles. The specialization in certain programs, like the ACCA certifications, is highly sought after, enabling one to become a certified accountant in Singapore.

Weaknesses

  • Narrow Scope: The specificity of certificate programs may become a limitation for individuals aiming for a career shift or when employers place high value on comprehensive education.

  • Limited Advancement Opportunities: The absence of a bachelor’s degree may impose restrictions on career progression and promotional prospects within some sectors.

  • Recognition Concerns: The perception of certificates may vary among employers, some of whom may not equate them with a bachelor’s degree, potentially narrowing job prospects.

Route G:

getting a job without further studies

Getting a job without further studies

* If you want to know more about working without furthering your studies, read our full breakdown of this router here.

What is getting a job without further studies?

Many people think that getting degrees will lead to better jobs and more money.

But there’s another good option too—starting work right away to use your skills and gain practical experience immediately.

Why choose this route?

Strengths

  • Immediate Income: You'll begin earning money right away, which can be particularly useful if you have financial obligations.
  • Work Experience: You can gain practical experience in your chosen field, which can be a stepping stone to better opportunities in the future.
  • Less Student Debt: Avoiding further education can mean avoiding student loans and debt.

Weaknesses

  • Limited Job Prospects: Certificates from ITE and JC are typically intended as a stepping stone to university, so job prospects directly after JC and ITE can be quite limited. 
  • Lower Income: On average, degree holders tend to earn more than those graduated from JC/ITE/Poly 
  • Potential Career Ceiling: Without a degree, there might be a limit on how far you can progress in your career.

Now we'd like to hear from you

We hope you found this guide on the different routes you can take after JC/Poly/ITE useful.
Now I’d like to hear what you have to say:
Which route are you likely to take and why?
Are you willing to take the less travelled route?
Or maybe you prefer the popular route?
Either way, let me know by leaving a comment below right now.