Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Northumbria University Graduate (2021)

I was driven to pursue an MBA as I felt stagnant in terms of my level of knowledge and desired a breakthrough in terms of my professional network. The in-depth and stringent MBA programme broadened my knowledge in managing the business with a practical approach, allowing us to apply knowledge learned through the assignments.
Networking is the best part about taking up an MBA. In my cohort, there was a surgeon from a public hospital and there were many students in senior positions in large companies from various fields. This helped me to grow my connections.
My advice to those who are thinking of taking up an MBA is: Don’t think, just do. Taking up an MBA is not just a career-propelling act, but has taught me to prioritise the things I do daily while advancing my knowledge and challenging what I thought I knew, having managed a business for a decade. Furthermore, have an open mind and practice good time management while learning, re-learning and challenging yourself to greater heights.
With a growing percentage of the population holding at least a Bachelor’s Degree, it is imperative to have an MBA to stand out among your peers. From middle management executives to busy business owners like myself, taking the time and effort to achieve an MBA qualification will bring you a new skill set and mindset. Because Kaplan offers a manageable timetable for the programme, it is not difficult, speaking as a married man with three kids, similar to many peers in my class.
Manson Ng Kok Hwee
Manson Ng Kok Hwee
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Guidance and Counselling (Top-up)
Northumbria University Graduate (2023)
I previously worked in sales before joining the People’s Association. I then decided to pursue a Degree in Guidance and Counselling to enhance my career and improve my conversation skills in order for me to guide and counsel others more confidently and professionally.
By applying the knowledge that I have gained from the programme, I am now able to counsel individuals across different levels. I am also able to efficiently collaborate with my colleagues and stakeholders to serve the community more effectively. The Mending the Gap: Collaborative Learning with Service Users module was applicable in terms of helping me bridge the gap between people. By learning and applying techniques that I have learnt, the community would feel more comfortable sharing their concerns with me.
I will recommend this Degree programme as it can be completed in 18 months on a part-time basis and is suitable for people holding a full-time job in the day. During my course of study, I was even promoted from Assistant Manager to Manager.