SUSS Part-Time Degree Guide: Programmes, Fees, Admission 2025

A comprehensive guide to part-time undergraduate degrees at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), covering programmes, tuition fees, admission requirements, and application tips for working adults.

For working adults in Singapore looking to upgrade their qualifications without putting their careers on hold, part-time degree programmes offer a practical pathway. The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) is one of the country's leading autonomous universities dedicated to adult learners, offering a wide range of part-time undergraduate degrees designed for flexibility. This guide covers everything you need to know about SUSS part-time programmes, including available courses, tuition fees, admission criteria, and key application dates. Whether you are a polytechnic graduate seeking a degree or a mid-career professional aiming for a qualification switch, understanding the SUSS part-time landscape is your first step.

Overview of SUSS Part-Time Degree Programmes

SUSS offers over 20 part-time undergraduate degree programmes across six schools. These programmes are structured to allow students to study while working, with classes typically held in the evenings or on weekends. Most part-time degrees can be completed in four to six years, depending on your pace and prior learning credits.

The university operates on a trimester system: January, May, and October intakes. Not all programmes are available in every intake, so it is important to check the specific schedule for your desired course. Below is a breakdown of the main schools and their part-time offerings.

School of Business

Bachelor of Accountancy (part-time)
Bachelor of Business Administration (part-time) with majors in Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, and more
Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (part-time)

School of Humanities and Behavioural Sciences

Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature (part-time)
Bachelor of Arts in Malay Language and Literature (part-time)
Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Language and Literature (part-time)
Bachelor of Arts in Translation and Interpretation (part-time)
Bachelor of Counselling (part-time)
Bachelor of Social Work (part-time)

School of Law

Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (part-time), for non-law graduates seeking a law qualification

School of Science and Technology

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Business (part-time)
Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics (part-time)
Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Power Engineering (part-time)

School of Human Development and Social Services

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (part-time)
Bachelor of Community Leadership and Social Development (part-time)

SR Nathan School of Human Development

Bachelor of Social Science in Public Safety and Security (part-time)
Bachelor of Science in Food Service Management (part-time)

For a complete and up-to-date list, visit the official SUSS website. Many programmes also offer specialisations or minors that allow you to tailor your degree to your career goals.

Tuition Fees and Financial Support

Tuition fees for SUSS part-time programmes are subsidised by the Singapore government for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Fees are charged per credit unit (CU), and most programmes require 130 CUs for graduation. Below are the indicative tuition fees for the 2024/2025 academic year, based on government-subsidised rates.

Category	Fee per Credit Unit (SGD)	Total Fees for 130 CUs (SGD)
Singapore Citizens	$270	$35,100
Singapore Permanent Residents	$400	$52,000
International Students	$600	$78,000

Note: Fees are subject to annual revision. Additional costs include a student services fee (approximately $50 per semester) and course materials. Some programmes, such as the Bachelor of Accountancy and Bachelor of Laws, may have slightly different fee structures.

Financial Schemes and Bursaries

SUSS part-time students can apply for various financial assistance schemes:

CPF Education Loan Scheme, Allows Singapore Citizens to use their Ordinary Account (OA) savings to pay tuition fees. The repayment starts after graduation.
MOE Bursary for Part-Time Students, Means-tested bursary for Singapore Citizens with a Gross Household Income of $4,000 or less per month. Award amount ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 per academic year.
SUSS Bursaries, University-administered bursaries for students facing financial difficulties.
SkillsFuture Credit, Eligible Singapore Citizens aged 25 and above can use their SkillsFuture Credit (top-up of $500 in 2025) to offset course fees.
Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA), Can be used to pay fees for approved programmes.

For a detailed breakdown of how to manage your education finances, read our guide on how to choose a course in Singapore that fits your budget.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Admission to SUSS part-time degree programmes is competitive and based on a holistic review of your qualifications, work experience, and personal statement. Below are the general admission requirements.

For Polytechnic Diploma Holders

Polytechnic graduates from any of the five local polytechnics (Singapore Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Temasek Polytechnic, Nanyang Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic) are eligible for admission. Your diploma must be relevant to the programme you are applying for. Some programmes may require a minimum GPA, typically around 2.0 to 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, but this varies by course.

For A-Level / IB / NUS High School Graduates

Applicants with GCE A-Levels (minimum two passes at H2 level and one at H1 level), International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma, or NUS High School diploma may apply directly. Relevant work experience is an advantage but not mandatory.

For Mature Applicants (Non-Standard Qualifications)

If you do not meet the standard academic requirements, you may still be considered under the Mature Applicant Route. You must be at least 30 years old in the year of application, have at least five years of full-time work experience, and demonstrate the ability to complete the programme through relevant prior learning or professional certifications.

Application Process

Online Application, Submit your application via the SUSS website during the application window. You will need to upload your academic transcripts, NRIC/passport, and a personal statement (500-800 words).
Selection Interview, Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Some programmes, such as Social Work and Counselling, may also require a written test or group discussion.
Offer Acceptance, If successful, you will receive a conditional or unconditional offer. Accept the offer and pay the acceptance fee (non-refundable) to secure your place.
Course Registration, Register for your first semester courses during the designated registration period.

Application periods are typically:

January intake: Apply from August to September of the previous year.
May intake: Apply from January to February.
October intake: Apply from May to June.

Always check the SUSS website for exact dates, as they may vary by programme.

Learning Mode and Student Life

SUSS part-time programmes are delivered through a blended learning model that combines face-to-face sessions with online components. This is especially suitable for working adults who need flexibility. For a broader comparison of learning formats, read our article on online vs classroom courses in Singapore.

Class Schedule

Classes are held on weekday evenings (typically 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM) and on Saturdays. Each course usually has one 3-hour session per week, plus online activities such as discussion forums, quizzes, and pre-recorded lectures. Some programmes also include intensive weekend workshops or residential stints.

Assessment Methods

Assessment varies by course but commonly includes:

Continuous assessment: assignments, projects, presentations, and online quizzes (typically 40-60% of final grade)
Final examination: held at the end of the trimester (typically 40-60% of final grade)

Some courses are fully continuous assessment (no final exam), while others may have a heavier exam weighting. Check the course syllabus during registration. For tips on interpreting course structures, see our guide on how to read a course syllabus.

Support for Working Adults

SUSS provides several support services tailored to part-time students:

Academic Advisors, Assigned to help you plan your study schedule and choose electives.
Career Services, Workshops, career coaching, and job matching services. SUSS has partnerships with over 1,000 employers.
Student Clubs, Over 30 student interest groups, including professional clubs for accountancy, business, and IT students.
Library Access, Online and physical library resources, including e-books, journals, and study spaces.

Credit Exemption and Prior Learning Recognition

One of the key advantages of studying at SUSS is its generous credit exemption policy. If you have prior qualifications or work experience, you may be able to reduce the number of courses you need to take, shortening your study duration and saving on fees.

Credit Exemption from Diplomas

Polytechnic diploma holders can typically receive exemption of up to 30 credit units (about 5-6 courses). The exact amount depends on the relevance of your diploma to the SUSS programme. For example, a Diploma in Accountancy from Singapore Polytechnic may qualify for up to 40 CUs in the Bachelor of Accountancy programme.

Credit Exemption from A-Levels

GCE A-Level holders may get exemption for up to 10 CUs (about 2 courses) for relevant subjects.

Work Experience Credit (WEC)

Mature applicants with significant relevant work experience (typically 5 years or more) may apply for Work Experience Credit. This allows you to be exempted from certain courses if you can demonstrate that your on-the-job learning covers the same learning outcomes. You will need to submit a portfolio and may be required to sit for an assessment.

How to Apply for Credit Exemption

Credit exemption is not automatic. You must submit a separate application during the admission process, providing supporting documents such as transcripts, course syllabi, and employer letters. The university will evaluate your request and inform you of the outcome before the start of the semester.

For more on how to leverage your existing qualifications, read our guide on part-time degree vs diploma: which is better for your career.

Career Prospects and Industry Recognition

SUSS part-time degrees are recognised by the Singapore government and accredited by the respective professional bodies. For example:

Bachelor of Accountancy, Accredited by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) and the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Graduates are eligible for the Singapore Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification.
Bachelor of Social Work, Accredited by the Singapore Association of Social Workers (SASW). Graduates can register as social workers.
Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Recognised by the Ministry of Law for admission to the Singapore Bar.
Bachelor of Counselling, Accredited by the Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC).

According to SUSS's Graduate Employment Survey 2023, the overall employment rate for part-time graduates was 92.5% within six months of graduation, with a median gross monthly salary of $4,200. These figures reflect the strong demand for SUSS graduates in sectors such as social services, finance, IT, and healthcare.

If you are considering a complete career change, our article on the complete guide to upskilling and career change in Singapore provides a roadmap for making the transition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

Applying to a part-time degree programme requires careful planning. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Missing the application deadline, Mark the dates in your calendar. Late applications are rarely accepted.
Submitting incomplete documents, Ensure all transcripts, certificates, and your personal statement are uploaded. Missing documents can delay your application.
Choosing the wrong intake, Not all programmes are offered in every intake. Verify the intake schedule for your desired course.
Overlooking SkillsFuture Credit, Many applicants forget to claim their SkillsFuture Credit to offset fees. Read our guide on common mistakes when using SkillsFuture credits to avoid losing out.
Ignoring the personal statement, Your personal statement is a critical part of the application. Use it to explain your motivation, career goals, and why you chose SUSS. Generic statements weaken your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work full-time while studying part-time at SUSS?

Yes, the vast majority of part-time students work full-time. The class schedule is designed for working adults, with evening and weekend classes. However, you should be prepared to dedicate at least 10-15 hours per week per course for study outside of class.

How long does it take to complete a part-time degree?

Typically 4 to 6 years, depending on the number of courses you take per semester. If you take 3 courses per trimester (9 per year), you can finish in about 4.5 years. Taking 2 courses per trimester extends it to about 6.5 years.

Is there a maximum period to complete the degree?

Yes, the maximum candidature period for part-time undergraduate programmes is 8 years.

Can I switch from part-time to full-time?

Yes, subject to availability and approval from the programme leader. You will need to meet the full-time admission requirements and may need to adjust your study plan.

What is the difference between SUSS and other universities offering part-time degrees?

SUSS is the only autonomous university in Singapore specifically established for adult learners. Its curriculum, support services, and policies are tailored to working professionals, which is not always the case at other universities that offer part-time programmes as an extension of their full-time offerings.

For more on comparing different institutions, see our article on accredited vs non-accredited courses to ensure your qualification is recognised.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a part-time degree at SUSS is a significant commitment, but it can open doors to career advancement, higher earning potential, and personal fulfilment. The key to success is careful planning: choose the right programme, manage your time effectively, and take full advantage of the financial schemes and support services available. Start your journey by checking the SUSS website for the latest programme details and application dates. For additional guidance, explore our resources on how to check your SkillsFuture credit balance and top courses you can use SkillsFuture credits for.

The Complete Guide to Upskilling and Career Change in Singapore
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Online vs Classroom Courses in Singapore
Part-Time Degree vs Diploma: Which is Better
Common Mistakes When Using SkillsFuture Credits
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