If you’re interested to dig a little deeper into more subjects prior to your degree, a diploma programme is a good option to consider. 

Unlike other pre-u programmes, like a foundation which spans about one year long, a diploma programme typically takes 2-2.5 years to complete.

The longer duration allows you ample time to dive into more subjects each semester than what a foundation programme offers which aims to only prepare you for the basics of your degree. 

Depending on the programme and institution, you’ll usually be assessed based on a combination of assignments, quizzes as well as final examinations, so you’ll be a certified expert in your field by the time you graduate!

Since you’ve been exposed to more subjects during your diploma, you would have familiarised yourself with the field of studies of your chosen degree compared to your other pre-university counterparts.

This means you’ll process information faster and be ahead of the game! 

That’s not all. A diploma can be considered as equivalent to Year 1 of a degree. If you’re pursuing a degree after completing your diploma, you’ll usually be able to fast-track your degree, entering into Year 2 immediately instead of starting from scratch.

This, of course, depends on how well you fared in diploma and both your diploma and degree have to be of relevant fields.

If you’re an outgoing social butterfly who is fond of meeting new people and lending a helping hand in events and activities, a diploma programme definitely has more room for you to be an active member of a clubs and societies! 

As you’ll have a whole 2-2.5 years, to complete your programme, you’ll have more time in between to participate in extracurricular activities that spark your interest.

Of course, this isn’t to say that a diploma has a lax schedule as you’ll still have to juggle between assignments and studying for exams. But as long as you’re efficient with time, you’ll definitely have more opportunities to have fun engaging with others!

A diploma programme is curated with specific subjects that are relevant to your chosen industry. Aside from theoretical knowledge, the curriculum emphasises on providing students with practical knowledge and industry skills that are relevant in the workforce.

Hence, it’s highly recommended if your career interest requires a lot of hands-on skills as you’ll be able to apply what you’ve learned. 

On top of that, you’ll also usually be required to undergo an industrial training programme related to your course before you graduate in diploma.

This means you’ll be exposed to a real working experience, which is an added advantage for you before continuing to a degree programme or if you’re planning to jump into the workforce.

Although a diploma programme is a pre-u programme that is a level below an undergraduate degree programme, you would have acquired plenty of practical skills from the diploma programme itself. 

So, you don't have to worry as many companies do accept graduates for entry-level positions with a diploma qualification.   

That means you can immediately start making money upon graduation and climb your way up the ladder of success slowly! But, should you change your mind, you can always resume studying a degree later on.