Singapore is home to several top universities where you can enhance your business skills and develop a robust professional network. One such institution is Singapore Management University (SMU), a prestigious business university that offers a range of programs allowing you to tap into top career opportunities.
Here are five reasons to choose Singapore as a destination for business education:
1. Live in a city that links East and West
Singapore, often referred to as the "gateway to Asia," is strategically located at the crossroads of East and West. The city-state's geographical position makes
Studying in Singapore provides students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a dynamic environment that seamlessly connects two major economic regions.
As a student, you'll experience the vibrant blend of Eastern and Western cultures, gaining valuable insights into diverse business practices. This exposure prepares you to navigate the complexities of a globalized business landscape, where cross-cultural understanding is a key asset.
Nicholas Baston (pictured), a US-native and graduate of SMU’s full-time MBA, highly valued this international experience.
"One element I liked about SMU was that the MBA placed well with multinational and American firms during the internship and post-graduation," he explains. "This was especially important to me since I needed easy brand recognition on my resume for employers in the United States in the event my family and I moved back."
2. Join a business school and expand your knowledge
Singapore has earned a reputation for its commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
At SMU, students have access to innovative teaching methodologies and resources that foster creativity and critical thinking. 
SMU faculty design programs to address the challenges of the modern business landscape, providing students with a practical learning experience and industry-relevant curriculum, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving business world.
Michelle Chun (pictured), an Executive MBA (EMBA) graduate, moved with her company to Singapore from the Californian branch of the National University Health System to help set up the firm’s International Sales Headquarters.
“SMU was the perfect option for me to deepen my academic knowledge from experts who understand the region, meet working professionals, and build a local network.”
Michelle found the practical-forward emphasis of the program particularly useful: “I had not been the best public speaker. However, having to present the materials in every segment helped me build confidence in speaking to a larger group,” she explains.
“I used to get so nervous in the beginning, but it got better and better each time, and now I feel much more comfortable to speak publicly.”
3. Develop a diverse network
Building a career in Singapore often involves developing a broad network. Connecting with influential figures in both regional and global business spheres offers a head start in your professional journey.
While this is possible through a variety of opportunities at business school, your fellow students can be key in advancing your network and playing an invaluable part in the study experience.
"The business school emphasized group projects and discussion-based learning. To me, those elements best suited an MBA program so students could learn from each other by sharing and applying their experience," says Nicholas.
Michelle also found her fellow classmates to be one of the most important factors in enhancing the network she developed throughout the program: "I am very thankful to be given such an opportunity to meet talents from different industries, which would not have been possible if not through this program."
4. High standard of living
Singapore consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices, making it an attractive destination for students seeking a comfortable and safe living environment.
The city boasts excellent healthcare, efficient public transportation, and a well-developed infrastructure. As a student in Singapore, you'll enjoy a high standard of living that enhances your overall well-being and allows you to focus on your academic and professional goals.
“Singapore is an easy destination for a foreign student to assimilate. The world-class public transport makes getting around easy, the city is international with people from all over the world living here, and the food is incredible,” Nicholas says. “The city is also extremely safe.”
The emphasis on cleanliness, safety, and sustainability in Singapore contributes to a conducive learning environment.
5. Launch a career in a hub of business and growth
Singapore is renowned as a business hub with a robust economy and a thriving ecosystem of multinational corporations, startups, and entrepreneurial ventures.
In fact, Singapore climbed 10 places to eighth in Startup Genome’s latest global startup ecosystem ranking, the first time it has entered the top 10.
SMU taught Michelle how to prepare for the unexpected twists and turns that such companies have to deal with.
“The course taught me, with real life examples, how global companies would react to such unanticipated incidents with a prepared pool of resources, each knowing what to do instantly.”
By studying in Singapore, you position yourself at the heart of this dynamic business landscape, gaining opportunities to launch a diverse career and network with top industry professionals.
The city's strategic location, coupled with its pro-business policies, attracts companies from around the world, creating a diverse and interconnected business community.
Choosing Singapore for your business school education offers a unique blend of global perspectives, innovation, a high quality of life, and top networking opportunities. Its commitment to excellence in education and its dynamic business environment make Singapore a compelling destination for aspiring business professionals.
