You don’t have to be a teacher to pursue your professional development at the National Institute of Education (NIE), and you don’t have to commit to a programme with a long course duration.

While many may associate NIE with teacher training, the institute is also home to many PD and CET courses, some of which can be credited to a master’s degree. There are also SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) funded courses, making lifelong learning an affordable pursuit. 

A PLACE TO LEARN

NIE’s Professional Learning and Continuing Education (PLaCE) offers professional learning courses and programmes that have been designed through the institution’s deep knowledge in curriculum development as well as in the fields of Arts & Humanities, Education, Physical Education and Science (including Mathematics).

However, PLaCE is not just for educators.

Any working professional with a bachelor’s degree could benefit from courses offered in PLaCE. The list of course offerings is updated regularly. NIE offers course participants access to the latest research findings and ideas, while providing content relevant to the local context that will ensure their learning is applicable to their careers.

Course duration ranges from several days to a semester-long, giving participants with busy schedules more options. In addition, participants can choose to sign up for standalone courses that are recognised as Modular Graduate Courses (MGCs), and they may transfer those course credits to a relevant NIE master’s degree programme.

ADDRESSING A VARIETY OF SECTORS

NIE’s short courses and programmes span a range of interests and competencies, many of which are applicable to a variety of professions.

For example, professionals who are keen to explore the possibilities of data science or discover more about the data science sector as a whole can take up the Data-Driven Conversations in Professional Learning Teams course to learn how to analyse and interpret basic statistical data.

Professionals in the arts and creative industries may benefit from Art Making and Aesthetic Enquiry, which involves studio visits and contact with practising artists while learning about their working methodologies and thematic inspirations. Those who are interested in the evolving field of sustainability science can learn more from Topics in Sustainability, which explores the subject through the interrelated factors of economy, society and the environment.

Whether you aim to strengthen your current skill set and advance in your field or to explore a possible switch in industries, there are courses and programmes available to meet your requirements.

LEARNING AT YOUR OWN PACE

With lifelong learning a necessity for every working Singaporean, stopping at a bachelor’s degree is no longer enough. Courses and programmes are an effective, cost-efficient method of enhancing one’s competitiveness in the workplace while maintaining flexibility in one’s schedule. They can also be a gateway to new professional interests and pathways.

So, whether you’re just starting out in your first job, looking for a midway career boost or exploring a change in industries, a professional learning course or programme will take you one step closer to achieving your aim.

Visit place.nie.edu.sg for more information.