MBA Programmes in Singapore (2022) – Guide To Fees, List of Universities, Part-Time MBA

Ready to begin your MBA journey? Considering which are the best MBA programmes in Singapore for 2022? We’ve got you covered!

So you've decided to enrol in an MBA programme – great! An MBA in Singapore provides several advantages, including new professional prospects and improved leadership abilities. You can also pursue an MBA part-time or full-time. Many students choose part-time study because it enables them to keep working while obtaining their degree. 

Singapore is an ideal place for pursuing an MBA since there are many options, and the country is home to some of Asia's best universities.

Why an MBA in Singapore

Due to its world-class educational institutions and diversified metropolitan setting, beginning or upgrading your career with an MBA in Singapore is an excellent way to get your foot in the door.

Students acquiring an MBA in Singapore will have a good business foundation and the choice to specialise in marketing, finance or hotel management, among others, during their studies.

MBAs in Singapore teach you business principles that can be applied internationally, with an Asian focus. They are intended to give you the knowledge and abilities needed to excel in today's competitive business world. 

You will learn to think analytically and strategically to succeed in today's fast-changing corporate environment. You will also learn to lead, communicate and collaborate effectively with others from different cultures and backgrounds. 

On top of that, you'll discover what it takes to be a leader in today's corporate environment. This course will teach you how to be an effective manager of people, teams and organisations. It will also teach you to develop positive connections with your colleagues, clients and customers. 

MBA programmes in Singapore

National University of Singapore

To help you grow professionally and personally, the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) MBA offers an all-encompassing educational experience. The curriculum equips you with the skills and information you'll need to thrive in a fast-evolving world by combining academic rigour with a hands-on approach. 

Beyond the classroom, you can extend your learning via exchange programmes, international study trips, case competitions, internships, and many other opportunities. Getting an MBA at NUS costs S$76,000, and it offers full-time (17 months) and part-time (24–30 months) study options. 

NUS MBA prerequisites:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or institution.
• A competitive score on the GMAT or GRE
• At least two years of job experience after graduating from college
• If the applicant’s undergraduate degree was not in English, they must take the TOEFL.

Nanyang Technological University

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a public research university in Singapore. According to the QS World University Rankings, it is now the 12th best university globally. NTU boasts excellent research facilities, a welcoming environment, and some of the top professors in the world.

Aspiring MBA candidates often view NTU as a top choice. The challenging, comprehensive and condensed programme at NTU’s Nanyang Business School is attended by international students from more than 20 countries. 

The school also offers double master's programmes, which aim to broaden your international exposure, in conjunction with Waseda University (Japan), the University of St Gallen (Switzerland) and ESSEC (France).  

You can opt for a 12-month full-time MBA or the 18-month part-time Professional MBA. The MBA costs S$65,000 for the full-time programme and S$72,760 for the part-time programme. 

NTU MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of two years of work experience
• Competitive GMAT or GRE score
• TOEFL score > 100 IBT or IELTS score > 6.5, if English was not the medium of instruction used at the undergraduate level​

NTU Professional MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor’s degree
• At least three years' full-time work experience
• Competitive GMAT or GRE score
• TOEFL score > 100 IBT or IELTS score > 6.5, if English was not the medium of instruction used at the undergraduate level​

Singapore Management University 

The Singapore Management University (SMU) is Singapore's first American-style and publicly-funded autonomous university. The SMU MBA programme aims to develop the next generation of Asian business leaders who can think, decide and act in a complicated world. 

Its curriculum is based on the latest management research and proven approaches in management practice. Its programme aims to cultivate leaders who are versatile and dynamic. 

The programme runs for 15 months full-time (with the flexibility to complete in 10 months) and 18 months part-time. Getting an MBA from SMU will cost you S$69,550.

SMU MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor's degree from a reputable university 
• At least two years of post-university work experience 
• Competitive GMAT or GRE score
• Interpersonal skills, international outlook, ability to work in groups 
• Factors such as professional accomplishments, leadership experience and community impact are bonuses

INSEAD 

Renowned as a premier business school, INSEAD’s MBA programme took the top spot in Financial Times’ 2021 ranking of Global MBA programmes. INSEAD prides itself on developing thoughtful leaders and entrepreneurs who create value for their organisations and communities. It offers a robust multicultural experience with over 80 nationalities attending its programme.

Its MBA programme is a full-time course which runs for 10 months. The school’s fees are around S$140,410, making it the priciest programme on this list. 

INSEAD MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor's degree from a reputable university 
• Competitive GMAT or GRE score
• Strongly encouraged to have a minimum of two years of work experience 

London School of Business & Finance

The London School of Business & Finance’s (LSBF) MBA programme provides a systematic, broad and integrated approach to global business. Designed and awarded by the University of Greenwich, students may choose from various subjects designed to keep up to date with global market trends. 

It's a recommended option for folks with some job experience to learn more about corporate strategy and change management. This approved institution can provide you with an internationally recognised master's degree in business administration with an international emphasis. Both the 13-month full-time and 18-month part-time programmes cost S$18,000, making it one of the cheaper options on our list.

LSBF MBA prerequisites:

• Bachelor's degree from a reputable university 
• Two years of work experience in managerial/professional capacity

James Cook University

Learners who want to enhance their careers and extend their managerial horizons can consider James Cook University’s (JCU) MBA programme.

Furthermore, professionals without a bachelor's degree can also apply to the programme, recognising real-world expertise via a structured evaluation procedure. 

The programme offers six majors to focus on, including Analytics and Business Solutions, Creative Marketing, and Finance. You'll learn new skills and gain information you can put to use right away in your company. Through a combination of in-person and online delivery, you will have the chance to network with other professional managers and gain knowledge with practical applications. 

The full-time programme takes a year to complete, while the part-time programme takes 16 months. Singapore residents pay fees of S$37,752, while international students pay S$39,168.

JCU MBA prerequisites:

• AQF level 7 bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject or AQF level 8 honours degree / Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
• Or four years of management experience that meets the course’s standards 

How to choose an MBA 

Step 1: Determine your career goals

The most crucial factor to consider when selecting the best MBA programme is to be clear about what you want to pursue. Because business schools in Singapore are expensive, you should consider why you want to attend one. Do you want to change industries or advance in your current one? Are you seeking a job at the next management level or as CEO?

Step 2: Determine if an MBA is suitable for you

Investing in an MBA school will cost you money and effort, so be sure it is the best fit for your professional aspirations. If it isn't, you may want to save your money and focus on other pursuits.

Step 3: Decide on the kind of MBA programme required

MBA programmes are available in various formats, including full-time, part-time, online, and executive MBAs. Choose the one that best matches your schedule and budget.

Step 4: Apply for the MBA 

Prepare the relevant education transcripts, proof of work experience, and personal/reference statements as needed.

How much does an MBA in Singapore cost?

Tuition fees are relatively higher when pursuing an MBA in Singapore, compared to other parts of Southeast Asia. You should also budget for additional expenses such as books and supplies, lodging and food. The cost of living in Singapore is among the highest globally, so planning your budget for your MBA if you’re coming from another country is critical. The good news is that some MBA programmes offer scholarships. 

Tuition fees for degree programmes vary based on the institution, degree level, and type of course selected. 

Here is a summary of the fees of the top MBA programmes: 

Is getting an MBA worth it? 

What you do with your MBA will determine its worth. While an MBA may give you a leg up in terms of qualifications and networking, it’ll be how you use the experience, connections, and knowledge gained that will ultimately make the difference in your career. 

Get ahead in your professional development with an appropriate loan. These best education loans can help fund your MBA while ensuring you won’t have to stretch your finances. 

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