Earning a Living and Pursuing Higher Education: Navigating Jobs and Part-Time Studies in Singapore
Graduates from polytechnics in Singapore often have the option to secure employment immediately after completing their diploma, despite not having a bachelor’s degree. This financial stability, combined with the practical skills gained from their training, can serve as a solid foundation for further education. Balancing work and study is not only possible but can also enhance your career prospects in the long run.
Getting a Job with a Polytechnic Diploma
Yes, you can indeed find a job with a diploma from a Singapore polytechnic. Polytechnic diplomas are highly regarded in the job market, and many employers value the practical skills and industry-relevant training provided by these institutions. Graduates often find job opportunities that match their diploma specializations, even though salaries and job complexity might not be as high as those of university graduates.
Why It's Easier for Polytechnic Graduates to Find Jobs
One key reason polytechnic graduates often find jobs more easily is the direct relevance of their education to the job market. For instance, a diploma in Computer Science from Singapore Polytechnic would lead to jobs in the IT sector, where practical skills are highly valued. Many of my peers from my Computer Science cohort found jobs quickly in IT, allowing them to support themselves financially and gain valuable work experience. Students from junior colleges (JC) might face more difficulty due to less direct industry relevance of their education, often leading to filler jobs.
Working While Studying
Whether you choose to work part-time or full-time, there are several considerations to keep in mind.
Part-Time Work
Part-time work can provide financial support while you pursue your bachelor’s degree. Popular part-time roles include retail, hospitality, and internships in your field of study. These roles offer practical experience and can complement your education. Doing so can also help you build a varied work experience portfolio, which is valuable for both current employment and future endeavors.
Full-Time Work with Part-Time Studies
Another option is to work full-time and attend part-time courses for your bachelor’s degree. Many universities in Singapore offer flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate working adults. However, this approach can be challenging and may require you to manage your time effectively. It is essential to weigh the benefits against your personal circumstances and dedication levels.
Considerations for Working while Studying
Job Market: Research the job market in your field to identify potential employers and roles that align with your diploma. Consider enterprising fields where your skills are likely to be in high demand, such as IT, healthcare, or business technology.
Work-Life Balance: Balancing a full-time job with part-time studies can be demanding. Ensure that you can manage your workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This might involve adjusting your study schedule or considering a lighter course load.
Financial Planning: Assess your financial needs and plan accordingly. Determine whether part-time work is sufficient to cover your expenses or if you might need to find additional income sources. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your educational and career paths.
Personal Testimonials
Based on my own and my peers' experiences, the path to higher education while working can be rewarding. For instance, after graduating from SP, my own journey underscored the practical benefits of working while studying. I found relevant part-time jobs that helped me gain experience and support my studies. Similarly, my brother and I have seen other graduates take this route successfully at later stages in life, even after years of professional work.
My brother enrolled in a part-time bachelor’s degree at NUS after working full-time for two years, maintaining his career growth. I pursued an overseas BSc at the age of 33, a full 13 years after graduating from SP, while working a busy full-time job and raising a family. Both experiences reaffirmed the importance of setting goals and maintaining a strong work ethic to achieve academic and career success.
In conclusion, while the path to higher education through work may be challenging, it is certainly achievable with the right mindset and planning. Whether you pursue a full-time or part-time degree, your polytechnic diploma can provide a solid foundation for both immediate employment and further education.