How a Nursing Degree Propelled Nur Afrah's Career in Singapore
Published: 31 October 2025
As a nurse in Singapore, have you ever felt the desire to grow, embrace new challenges, and make a greater impact in your field? You’re not alone. The journey from a dedicated Staff Nurse to a respected leader often begins with one courageous decision: pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree.
This is a journey that Nur Afrah Binte Mohamed knows well. As a student of the Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) programme from Northumbria University at Kaplan (Singapore), Nur Afrah’s studies have not only deepened her clinical expertise but are already transforming her career trajectory.
Let’s explore the key factors behind her journey and discover how you, too, can take the next step towards your own professional growth.
From Registered Nurse to Degree Graduate:
Nur Afrah's Journey
Nur Afrah began her career, like many others, as a Staff Nurse. With a strong foundation from her Diploma in Nursing and registration with the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB), she was well-prepared for clinical practice, yet she felt a calling for more. She aspired to enhance her skills, take on new challenges, and explore broader opportunities within Singapore’s evolving healthcare landscape. For her, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree was the natural next step.
When it came to choosing the right programme, Nur Afrah’s decision was intentional and well-considered. She sought a course that could fit her work schedule, provide a comprehensive curriculum, and remain financially accessible. After careful research, she chose the Northumbria University’s Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) programme, a decision she describes as guided by its “flexible study schedule, comprehensive curriculum, and reasonable programme fees.”
A Supportive Environment for Professional Growth
Once enrolled, Nur Afrah’s academic journey proved to be deeply rewarding. She found herself immersed in a nurturing, supportive environment, guided by inspiring lecturers who provided mentorship and encouragement every step of the way. This atmosphere, which she describes as “truly enriching and transformative,” ignited her motivation to excel.
This Bachelor’s Degree also sharpened her technical expertise, strengthened her leadership skills, and deepened her critical thinking and evidence-based practice. For instance, she shared that modules such as Healthcare Law & Ethics equipped her to navigate complex professional decisions with greater confidence and a stronger focus on patient welfare. These experiences translated into a noticeable improvement in her job performance, and her growing confidence and enhanced competencies have already set the stage for continued career progression.
Paving the Way for Leadership and Specialisation
Today, Nur Afrah serves as a Senior Staff Nurse at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital. Her role is proof that her Nursing Degree was far more than just a piece of paper; it was a powerful catalyst for her career. The enhanced skills and newfound confidence she gained directly contributed to her climb into this leadership position.
Her success is a powerful illustration of the value of advanced qualifications in Singapore's Healthcare sector. As the nation’s population continues to age, the demand for Healthcare professionals — especially nurses — is projected to grow significantly, with Singapore requiring an estimated 24,000 additional nurses and Healthcare staff by 20301. A Nursing Degree becomes increasingly essential for those who aspire to take on higher roles, such as Nurse Managers or Clinical Nurse Specialists. This aligns with the Ministry of Health's efforts to enhance the workforce with innovation and evidence-based practices2. It's also the gateway to specialisation in crucial fields like critical care or gerontology, giving you the expertise to drive better patient outcomes and make a lasting impact.
Northumbria University’s Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) Degree at Kaplan (Singapore): Your Next Step
So, what’s your next step as a nurse who, like Nur Afrah, is ready to embrace new challenges and advance your career? The Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) programme offered by Northumbria University at Kaplan (Singapore) is your answer.
A Curriculum Designed for Nurses
The Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) Degree is delivered on a part-time basis over 24 months (four semesters), making it ideal for your busy schedule.
The programme, which comprises eight modules and a broad range of assessments like assignments and projects, is taught using a blended-learning model with two-weekend teaching blocks each semester. This flexible structure allows you to effectively balance your work, studies, and personal commitments. With two intakes a year, in January and July. You can also choose an intake that best fits your timeline.
You will also benefit from small class sizes and be taught by a qualified team of registered nurses from Northumbria University, ensuring personalised guidance and practical insights. Most importantly, the programme is accredited by the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB)3, assuring you that the curriculum is both professionally recognised and highly relevant to Singapore’s healthcare landscape, supporting your goals for career advancement.
Programme Fees and Value
We understand that pursuing a part-time Degree is a significant investment — both financially and personally. That is why the Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) Degree at Kaplan (Singapore), offered in partnership with Northumbria University, is designed to be both valuable and competitively priced.
The total programme fee is S$19,511 (inclusive of 9% GST)
(Nett programme fee listed above = Tuition fee of S$22,781 minus Education Grant of S$3,2704).
The total tuition fee covers university registration, lectures/tutorials/workshops, and main assessments such as assignments/tests/examinations/projects (where applicable), programme materials in digital format, Degree (if earned), and transcript.
To make your educational journey more accessible, a range of financial assistance options is available. NTUC members can apply for funding support under the Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP), with assistance capped at S$250 or S$500 per year, depending on age.
We encourage you to connect with our programme consultant for the latest details on available grants and financial schemes. They can provide a personalised breakdown of fees and guide you through your eligibility for financial support.
Your Nursing Career, Your Future
Nur Afrah’s journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for every nurse who began their career with a Diploma. Her story demonstrates that a Nursing Degree is far more than just an academic milestone. It is a powerful instrument for career progression, opening doors to leadership, specialisation, and greater professional fulfilment. With a strong job outlook for nurses holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, higher qualifications can open new career pathways,
If you are ready to elevate your career, just as Nur Afrah did, the key benefits of a Nursing Degree from enhanced skills to expanded career pathways are waiting for you.
Explore the Bachelor of Science Nursing (Top-up) Degree at Kaplan (Singapore) and begin your own transformative journey today.
Alternatively, you can discover a wide range of other Degrees for working professionals offered by Northumbria University, including the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Childhood and Early Years Studies (Top-up) and the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Guidance and Counselling (Top-up).
124k more nurses, healthcare staff needed by 2030 as Singapore ages
2Healthcare and R&D Landscape in Singapore
3Accredited by the Singapore Nursing Board (2025 – 2030)
4Terms and conditions apply