8 Cheapest Part Time Diploma Courses in Singapore

Editor’s Note: This post was updated with the latest information as of 1 Jan 2023.

Looking for cheap part time diploma courses in Singapore, but don’t know where to start?

In Singapore, with the fast-paced changes in the job market, it is important to constantly upgrade your skills to stay relevant and competitive.

While many may wish to pursue a full-time degree to gain the necessary knowledge and skills, it may not be feasible due to a variety of reasons, such as financial constraints or the need to work while studying.

That is where part-time diploma courses come in.

Part-time diploma courses are an excellent option for those who are looking to upgrade their skills while balancing other commitments such as full-time work or family responsibilities. These courses are designed to be flexible and cater to individuals who have busy schedules.

Moreover, many reputable institutions in Singapore offer part-time diploma courses that are recognised and accredited by relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).

Some popular part-time diploma courses in Singapore include Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Information Technology. These courses provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their respective fields and build a successful career.

In addition to being flexible and affordable, part-time diploma courses offer several other benefits. For instance, students can learn from experienced industry professionals, build a network of contacts, and gain valuable practical experience through internships and industry projects.

Moreover, part-time diploma courses can also be an excellent complement to full-time studies.

For example, students pursuing a full-time degree in Business Administration may choose to take a part-time diploma course in Marketing or Human Resource Management to gain additional skills and knowledge.

In conclusion, part-time diploma courses are an excellent option for those who are looking to upgrade their skills and build a successful career while balancing other commitments.

With flexible schedules, affordable fees, and recognised accreditation, part-time diploma courses can provide a solid foundation for a successful career in Singapore’s competitive job market. So, if you are looking to take your career to the next level … read on!

Are Part Time Diploma Courses Recognised in Singapore?

While it used to be true that local employers preferred degrees over diplomas, times have changed.

As a matter of fact, according to the Ngee Ann Academy, part time diplomas are increasingly given attention due to how quickly skills are changing.

All things considered, these part time diplomas help working adults like you get the necessary skills without sacrificing your full time job for studies. This is particularly important during these trying times.

Top 8 Cheapest Part Time Diplomas in Singapore – The List

8. Dimensions International College Higher Diploma in Business and Management (Part Time)

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You’ll notice that Dimensions is mentioned 5 times in this list because of how low-priced their programmes are. If you’re interested to know more about this private education institution, then check out our complete review!

Course Background

The course will provide students with broad knowledge in the major fields of business such as finance, sales and marketing, economics, human resources, and operations management across 16 modules.

You can expect to learn and further develop the necessary skills and competencies to build your expertise in the field when you take this course. That is to say, in just a short period of time, you’ll learn how to grow a solid customer base and market a business profitably. Not only that, but you’ll also effectively manage sources of finance to sustain a successful business and understand the different factors that influence consumer behaviour. In addition, you’ll be gaining knowledge about global issues on entrepreneurship.

Fees: S$30,939.05

Duration: 16 months (the programme allows students to complete the course for a maximum period of 32 months)

Intake: Click here

Part Time Diploma Requirements:

• Academic Level: Passing grade in at least one (1) GCE A-Level subject or DIMENSIONS’ Foundation Diploma in Business or other certificate in Foundation programme. For mature students, there’s a requirement of at least 30 years of age, as well as 8 years minimum of work experience in relevant industries.
• English Requirement: At least a 5.5 IELTS score or DIMENSIONS’ Certificate in Academic English (CAE) Level 4 or passed DIMENSIONS’ English Proficiency Test at an equivalent level or its equivalent. If the applicant has already obtained the highest qualification where English was the sole medium of instruction, then the English requirement may be considered to have already been met.

 

Our Recommendation

While slightly pricier than the other options on this list, Dimensions International College is rather well-known in Singapore for its expertise in hospitality and business management.

You’re pretty much guaranteed to be exposed to structured learning from experts. The course length is average when you compare it with other options on the list, so it fits well in career progression plans for most people.

Verdict: Pricey, might be long for some people, but worth it if your focus is in business or hospitality.

 

7. Dimensions International College Higher Diploma in Accounting and Finance (Part Time)

Course Background

The course aims to equip students with broad knowledge and skills in management, financial, and digital accounting. Not only that, but the course also covers financial reporting and analysis coupled with principles of internal auditing.

In detail, the programme will provide you with particular insights into the financial information and terms concerning budgeting and forecasting grounds to keep smooth and efficient business operations. By the end of the programme, you’ll be able to provide sound financial advice and tax services to clients with the practical knowledge you’ve gained. Furthermore, you’ll learn to conduct periodic internal audits and evaluate the risk of fraud more accurately.

Fees: S$30,939.05

Duration: 16 months (the programme allows students to complete the course for a maximum period of 32 months)

Intake: Click here 

Part Time Diploma Requirements:

• Academic Level: Passing grade in at least one (1) GCE A-Level subject or DIMENSIONS’ Foundation Diploma in Business or other certificate in Foundation programme. For mature students, they need to be at least 30 years old, as well as have 8 years minimum of work experience in relevant industries.
• English Requirement: At least a 5.5 IELTS score or DIMENSIONS’ Certificate in Academic English (CAE) Level 4 or passed DIMENSIONS’ English Proficiency Test at an equivalent level or its equivalent. If the applicant has already obtained the highest qualification where English was the sole medium of instruction, then the English requirement may be considered to have already been met.

 

Our Recommendation

Our thoughts on this are similar to the previous one – it’s not exactly the cheapest, but it gets you where you want to be.

Verdict: Pricey, might be too long for others. But, if you’re Accounting / Finance interests you and you work in business or hospitality, it’s worth taking.

6. Dimensions SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) Advanced Diploma in Business (Part Time) 

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Course Structure

SQA Advanced Diploma is a highly useful qualification for advanced entries in numerous undergraduate degree programmes in universities globally. This is because SQA Advanced Diploma is recognised globally and is partnered with international institutions.

The course trains you in terms of business accounting, marketing, human resource management, and economics.

That’s not all! The course also covers marketing techniques that are suitable for varying international markets.

Fees: $29,359.20. For more information on the fees that are likely to be incurred during the students’ course of study, check out this link.

Duration: 22 months. The programme allows a student to complete the course in a maximum period of 44 months (Institutional Training).

Intake: Click here

Part Time Diploma Requirements:

• Academic Level: Passing grade in at least one (1) GCE A-Level subject or DIMENSIONS’ Foundation Diploma in Business or other certificate in Foundation programme. Note that those with non-standard entry qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• English Requirement: At least a 5.5 IELTS score or DIMENSIONS’ Certificate in Academic English (CAE) Level 4 or passed DIMENSIONS’ English Proficiency Test at an equivalent level or its equivalent. If the applicant has already obtained the highest qualification where English was the sole medium of instruction, then the English requirement may be considered to have already been met.

Our Recommendation

The SQA AD is a requisite qualification if you’re aiming to further your studies elsewhere after your diploma studies.

If you already have a diploma, or already are experienced in a particular field, then you might want to consider other options that use your qualifications or experience, such as an MBA.

If you want to pursue other courses elsewhere after this, then the AQA AD is great for you!

Verdict: Worth it if you don’t have anything beyond a secondary school qualification. If not, we encourage you to look at other options.

 

5. Dimensions International College Advanced Diploma in Business with Accounting (Part Time)

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Course Background

The course equips students with the knowledge and skills needed in assessing financial performance. It also includes business information processing, management, problem-solving, and information and communication technology.

Upon completion of the programme, you’ll have better chances of landing an employment opportunity in an extensive array of business or accounting related areas. Basically, this includes positions such as accounts assistant, finance assistant, accounts supervisor, accounts technician, financial or management accountant.

Here’s the catch! Students who finish this diploma course successfully can qualify with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Fees: S$27,445.50. For more information on the fees that are likely to be incurred during the students’ course of study, check out this link.

Duration: 22 months. The programme allows a student to complete the course in a maximum period of 44 months (Institutional Training).

Intake: Click here 

Part Time Diploma Requirements:

• Academic Level: Passing grade in at least one (1) GCE A-Level subject or DIMENSIONS’ Foundation Diploma in Business or other certificate in Foundation programme. Note that those with non-standard entry qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• English Requirement: At least a 5.5 IELTS score or DIMENSIONS’ Certificate in Academic English (CAE) Level 4 or passed DIMENSIONS’ English Proficiency Test at an equivalent level or its equivalent. If the applicant has already obtained the highest qualification where English was the sole medium of instruction, then the English requirement may be considered to have already been met.

 

Our Recommendation

While this diploma is similar to what we’ve seen above, the difference is that there’s an ACCA qualification for this diploma. That’s killing two birds with one stone. If you want to learn more about the qualification mentioned, visit this website.

Verdict: We’d recommend this for people who want to be certified accountants. Also, if accountancy generally interests you, this programme will suit you best!

4. Dimensions International College Diploma in Business (Part Time)

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Course Background

The course is particularly designed for junior college graduates who seek to acquire the education needed to pursue a career in the business sector. It is also for those people who seek to acquire higher academic qualifications in business-related disciplines in the future.

Hence the course tackles lessons on the aspects of business such as managing financial resources, organisations and behaviour, quantitative techniques for business, managing accounting, financial systems and a lot more.

By the end of taking this course, you’ll be able to acquire knowledge and theories in the field of business for further study and individual advancement. Furthermore, you’ll be able to develop the concept and understanding of business and culture in favour of your career development in different business areas.

Fees: S$9,309.00

Duration: 8 months. The programme allows a student to complete the course in a maximum period of 16 months.

Intake: Click here 

Part Time Diploma Requirements:

• Academic Level: Passing grade in at least one (1) GCE A-Level subject or DIMENSIONS’ Foundation Diploma in Business or other certificate in Foundation programme. Note that those with non-standard entry qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• English Requirement: At least a 5.5 IELTS score or DIMENSIONS’ Certificate in Academic English (CAE) Level 4 or passed DIMENSIONS’ English Proficiency Test at an equivalent level or its equivalent. If the applicant has already obtained the highest qualification where English was the sole medium of instruction, then the English requirement may be considered to have already been met.

 

Our Recommendation

As you’ve read, this is for people with no prior experience in business who want to pursue business in the future.

If you’re already qualified or have gained working experience previously, then this might not be the most suitable course for you. In fact, you might want to look at part-time degrees instead. 

3. Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) International Foundation Diploma in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management

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Course Background

This course equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills for the fields of travel, tourism and hospitality management, with tidbits of Information Technology, economics, and more.

The programme also includes field trips and hands-on exercises. Perfect for getting out and experiencing new things!

Upon graduating from this programme, you’ll be able to take on career opportunities in industry sectors such as hotels and resorts, cruise lines, restaurants, catering, events, attractions, travel agencies, conventions, destination marketing and other tourism organisations.

Fees: S$6,634.00

Application Fees: S$107.00

Duration: 12 months

Intake: No confirmation yet as of April 2022

Part Time Diploma Requirements: Click here 

 

2. Kaplan Diploma in Commerce (Finance and Banking)

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Of course we have Kaplan!

Kaplan provides the widest variety of the cheapest part time diploma courses in Singapore, and this is just an example of what they offer.

More importantly, Kaplan diplomas are well-recognised and favoured by many part-time students and employers in Singapore.

Course Background

The course will provide students with the knowledge and skills in basic accounting, financing, management and marketing.

There are also a couple of rebates available if someone you know from Kaplan recommends you. Check out the course page for more information (and so you don’t need to pay so much).

Fees: S$6,527. It might also interest you to know that you can receive a S$200 referral fee when you recommend a friend to enrol in this programme! You may check out the terms and conditions for this.

Duration: 8 Months

Intake: February, April, June, August, October and December

Part Time Diploma Requirements: Click here 

Our Recommendation

Kaplan is trusted by many mid-career professionals for their part-time studies. It goes without saying that it’s a reputable institution. The course itself is great too, with practical skills.

However, if you already have a lot of experience in these fields, then the basics that this course offers might not appeal to you as much.

Verdict: Trustworthy and affordable. But, it’s good only if you don’t have prior experience or if business interests you.

 

1. Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) International Foundation Diploma in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Art – Engineering

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Finally, we have our only non-business related course on this list!

And since a diploma in MDIS ranked first on our list, you might want to read our complete review about this private university! Just click here to check it out.

Course Background

This course provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand strategies, techniques, and concepts through the following modules:

• Academic and Research Writing
• Effective Communication and Presentation Skills
• Capstone Project
• Mathematics
• Engineering Science

By the end of the programme, you’ll be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of concepts and applications in study disciplines that are relevant to your intended progression route. Additionally, you’ll also be gaining practical skills such as disseminating and acknowledging a variety of sources of information and carrying out work accurately in keeping with health and safety procedures. On top of that, you’ll be able to communicate effectively both in oral and writing for different audiences when you finish taking this programme.

Tuition Fees: S$4,173.00

Non-Tuition Fees: S$200.00 – S$450.00

Duration: 8 months

Intake: No announcement yet as of April 2022

Part Time Diploma Requirements: Click here 

 

Our Recommendation

We’d recommend this if you’re really at a loss about what to learn and the fields above interest you. Not only is there a lot of subject exposure, but you’ll probably get to learn new things you’ve never thought of learning.

However, if you’re already working, or want something related to work and practical, we’d suggest other options.

Verdict: Great course, but only for people who have interests in the areas. Not recommended for mid-career professionals.

 

Final Thoughts

We hope that this list of part time diploma courses in Singapore helped you narrow down where you’d like to go to.

Of course, while the course you ultimately go to is up to you, you may want to consider your finances and work commitments before making the jump.

Did we miss anything? Drop us a comment below and let us know if there are more lobangs available!