Today, we are joined by Dr. Easwaramoorthy Rangaswamy, widely known as Dr. Moorthy, a leading figure in Singapore’s higher education and transnational education (TNE) sector. Dr. Moorthy is the Founding Principal and former Provost of Amity Global Institute, Singapore, and currently serves as a member of its Academic Board as well as Research Supervisor/Director of Studies.
With over two decades of experience, he has played a pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s TNE landscape. His leadership has included the establishment of international campuses and the design of more than 130 TNE programmes in partnership with UK universities such as the University of London, University of Northampton, University for the Creative Arts, University of Stirling, Teesside and Anglia Ruskin University.
Alongside his leadership roles, Dr. Moorthy is an accomplished researcher, with more than 40 Scopus- and Web of Science–indexed publications. His work focuses on integrating analytics, AI and digital tools into education while advancing employability, inclusion and workforce development. Having collaborated with students and partners across Asia, Europe and the Middle East, he brings a uniquely comparative perspective on how Singapore has positioned itself as a trusted hub for high-quality TNE, balancing academic excellence, global partnerships and strong graduate outcomes.
In today’s conversation, Dr. Moorthy shares his reflections on the current and future directions of TNE in Singapore— from post-COVID shifts and regional competition to the growing opportunities for deeper collaboration with UK universities.
TNE Institute: How would you describe the current TNE landscape in Singapore?
Dr. Moorthy: The Transnational Education (TNE) sector in Singapore has expanded significantly over the past decade. In 2014, there were 312 registered Private Education Institutions (PEIs), offering 2,831 active courses, with 109 EduTrust-certified. Student enrolment for new courses reached 151,704, with about 48% being Singaporeans or Permanent Residents and 34% studying part-time. Foundation (29%) and Diploma programmes (18%) were the most prevalent among enrolments, collectively accounting for nearly half of the student population. Bachelor's programmes represented 18% of enrolments, while Postgraduate courses constituted a smaller segment at 3%. Business & Administration courses dominated the landscape, accounting for nearly half (49%) of all post-secondary course offerings. The next most significant fields were Information Technology (8%) and a tie between Humanities & Social Sciences and Services (each at 10%). Fine & Applied Arts (6%), Engineering Sciences (4%) and Education (4%) represented smaller, specialized segments of the market.
Fast forward to 2024, the private education sector remains a multi-billion-dollar industry (S$3.58 billion), with 3,400 active courses across 308 institutions, of which 129 are EduTrust-certified. Student intake has grown to 141,700, with about two in five students being Singaporeans or PRs, and the majority of international students coming from China, India, Japan, Malaysia and the US. Bachelor, Master and Doctorate programmes are delivered through TNE partnerships with reputable overseas universities, ensuring globally recognised qualifications. Based on new student intake numbers, Diploma (25%) and Certificate (12%) courses continue to be popular, while International and Local primary/secondary pathways account for 41% of enrolments. Bachelor's programmes represented 12% of enrolments, while Postgraduate courses constituted 7%. Business and administration remain the dominant fields, followed by Information Technology and other specialised disciplines.
Students and parents continue to choose Singapore’s TNE offerings because of its global university partnerships, rigorous quality assurance and strong employability outcomes. The English-medium environment, strategic location and industry-relevant curriculum make Singapore a trusted hub, not only for local learners but also for regional students seeking world-class qualifications closer to home.
As of 30 September 2025, EduTrust accreditation data indicates 3 institutions hold EduTrust Star status, 106 institutions are EduTrust-certified for four years, and 23 are on EduTrust Provisional status, with a total of 310 schools.
TNE Institute: From your experience, what key changes in TNE have you observed in Singapore since COVID-19?
Dr. Moorthy: The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated several important shifts in Singapore’s Transnational Education (TNE) landscape.
Firstly, digital and blended learning have become integral. Institutions quickly adopted online platforms to ensure continuity, and today hybrid delivery remains common, offering students flexibility to balance study, work and location constraints.
Secondly, there has been greater regionalisation of enrolments. Travel restrictions temporarily limited mobility from distant countries, but enrolments from Singaporeans, Permanent Residents and students from neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, China and India remained strong. Singapore’s role as a trusted regional hub was reinforced, with universities strengthening partnerships with local PEIs to ensure continued access to globally recognised qualifications.
Thirdly, employability and industry-relevant skills are more emphasised. COVID-19 highlighted the importance of adaptable skill sets, prompting institutions to integrate internships, work-based learning and industry-aligned curricula more systematically into TNE programmes.
Finally, the student profile remains diverse. In 2024, about two in five students were Singaporeans or PRs, while international students came predominantly from China, India, Japan, Malaysia and the US. This mix demonstrates that Singapore TNE attracts learners from both the local and regional context, driving PEIs to enhance student support and tailor programmes to a broad range of needs.
Overall, TNE in Singapore has become more flexible, digitally enabled and resilient, while maintaining its hallmark of high-quality, globally recognised qualifications.
TNE Institute: In comparison with Malaysia, how is Singapore positioning itself within the TNE sector (differently or in competition)?
Dr. Moorthy: Singapore and Malaysia are both key players in the Transnational Education (TNE) landscape, but their strategies and positioning differ.
Singapore positions itself as a premium, high-quality hub for internationally recognised qualifications. The city-state leverages strong regulatory frameworks such as EduTrust certification, rigorous quality assurance and a highly developed ecosystem of private education institutions (PEIs) offering globally partnered Bachelor, Master and Doctorate programmes. English as the medium of instruction, strategic location in Asia and a focus on employability and industry-relevant curricula make Singapore attractive to both domestic and regional students seeking a trusted, career-oriented pathway.
Malaysia, on the other hand, competes primarily on accessibility and affordability. The country hosts a large number of branch campuses of foreign universities and private institutions offering international curricula at lower tuition costs. Malaysia attracts a significant number of regional students seeking cost-effective education with English-medium instruction, but it generally targets a broader mass market rather than the high-end, premium segment that Singapore emphasises.
In essence, Singapore and Malaysia are both competitors and complementary players. While Malaysia appeals to students looking for affordability and breadth, Singapore positions itself as a high-quality, globally recognised, career-focused destination. This differentiation allows Singapore to maintain its reputation for excellence while continuing to attract top talent from the region and beyond.
TNE Institute: Do you think the growth of TNE in other Asian countries (e.g., India, Vietnam) will impact Singapore’s position in the region?
Dr. Moorthy: The expansion of Transnational Education(TNE) in countries such as India and Vietnam will certainly influence the regional education landscape, but Singapore’s position remains resilient.
While other countries are rapidly developing local TNE offerings, often at lower cost, Singapore maintains a strong competitive edge through quality, reputation and employability outcomes. Its universities and private education institutions have long-established partnerships with globally recognised universities, rigorous quality assurance (e.g., EduTrust certification) and industry-relevant curricula that attract both domestic and regional students.
Rather than being significantly threatened, the growth in neighbouring countries may complement Singapore’s TNE ecosystem. Singapore can position itself as a premium hub for students seeking high-quality, globally recognised qualifications, while regional TNE expansion creates opportunities for collaboration, articulation pathways and student mobility within Asia.
In short, while cost-effective TNE options are increasing across Asia, Singapore’s focus on quality, strategic location and career-oriented programmes ensures it retains its status as a trusted, high-value education hub in the region.
TNE Institute: What new trends or emerging developments in TNE are you currently seeing in Singapore?
Dr. Moorthy: I can see that there are several notable trends shaping the TNE landscape in Singapore today.
Blended and Hybrid Learning Models: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital platforms, and institutions are increasingly offering flexible, hybrid modes that combine online and in-person learning. TNE universities in Singapore are moving beyond the traditional franchise model: many now offer joint-delivery options, where home-campus lecturers provide online teaching alongside local instruction, albeit in a
limited capacity. This approach allows students to access globally recognised programmes while remaining in Singapore or their home countries, benefiting from both local support and international expertise.
Focus on Employability and Industry Alignment: TNE programmes are increasingly embedding work-integrated learning, internships, and industry-relevant curricula. Employers’ expectations are shaping programme design, ensuring graduates are job-ready in a rapidly evolving workforce. Assessment methods are also evolving: universities are moving away from purely traditional exams, with project- or coursework-based assessments now common, alongside online and time-constrained assessments. This shift not only reflects real-world problem-solving but also aligns evaluation methods with the skills and competencies demanded by employers.
Micro-credentials and Short Courses: There is a growing demand for stackable learning and micro-credentials, which allow students to upskill or reskill without committing to full-degree programmes. Public universities such as NUS and NTU have been leading this trend, offering modular courses and targeted certificates that support lifelong learning and help students and professionals remain adaptable in a rapidly changing workforce.
Regionalisation and Strategic Partnerships: Singapore continues to strengthen its position as a regional TNE hub, attracting students across the Asia-Pacific and beyond. Beyond traditional markets such as China, India, ASEAN and South Asia, private education institutions (PEIs) are now attracting growing student numbers from Central Asia and are exploring opportunities in the MENA region. By offering qualifications locally and fostering joint-delivery programmes, Singapore appeals to students seeking premium, internationally recognised education closer to home, while expanding cross-border academic partnerships and enhancing its regional influence.
Emphasis on Student Support and Experience: With a more diverse student body, institutions are enhancing pastoral care, mental health support, career guidance and international student services, creating a holistic learning environment.
Sustainability and Future-ready Skills: Some institutions are incorporating sustainability, AI, and digital transformation into curricula, preparing graduates for emerging global challenges.
Overall, Singapore’s TNE sector is evolving to be flexible, career-focused and globally connected, positioning it as a resilient and attractive destination for students in the region.
TNE Institute: In your view, how could the sector collaborate or operate differently to strengthen impact?
Dr. Moorthy: The Singapore TNE sector can enhance its impact through greater collaboration, innovation and strategic alignment with global partners and industry.
Firstly, enhanced university-PEI collaboration can move beyond traditional franchise models. Institutions could work with partner universities for joint-delivery courses, combining local teaching with partner, international teaching (by virtual) expertise to create richer, more integrated learning experiences.
Secondly, regional partnerships and mobility can be expanded. PEIs could implement “Multiple Hub Programmes,” where students start a degree in their home country, spend a semester at a Singapore PEI to leverage its industry connections and regional perspective, and complete an exchange term at the home campus in the UK, Australia, or elsewhere. This not only enhances students’ multi-country experience but also positions Singapore as a strategic node in a global learning network, reinforcing its relevance and appeal to international learners.
Thirdly, flexible and stackable learning through micro-credentials, modular courses, and hybrid delivery can support lifelong learning, upskilling, and reskilling, catering to both local and international students. While many PEIs and universities currently focus on traditional transactional education, their exposure to stackable learning models remains limited. There is a growing opportunity for partner universities and PEIs to explore micro-credential pathways, which are likely to become a key driver of future education, offering students modular, flexible, and industry-aligned learning experiences.
Finally, shared best practices and quality assurance across PEIs and universities can strengthen the sector’s reputation, enhance student support services and ensure consistent academic standards. Initiatives such as the Committee for Private Education’s “Community of Practice” provide a structured platform for institutions to collaborate, exchange teaching innovations, discuss emerging challenges and develop solutions collectively, fostering continual improvement and a culture of excellence across the TNE sector.
In addition, the demographic shift where Singaporean and PR students dropped from 48% of student commencements in 2014 to about two in five in 2024 underscores the sector’s growing reliance on international students. Leveraging partnerships with overseas universities and offering multi-hub programmes ensures that Singapore remains globally interconnected, attractive to a diverse student population and firmly embedded in the international education and talent ecosystem.
TNE Institute: In terms of teaching and learning, and staff development at TNE hosting institutions, what do you wish the UK universities to support you the most?
Dr. Moorthy: From my perspective, TNE hosting institutions in Singapore would benefit most from UK partner universities in the following areas:
- Faculty Development and Pedagogical Training: Support in innovative teaching methods, online/blended delivery and assessment design, particularly project-based, coursework and online/time-constrained assessments.
- Joint Research and Scholarship Opportunities: Collaboration on applied research, pedagogical research and knowledge exchange, enabling PEI faculty to strengthen teaching and scholarly expertise.
- Quality Assurance and Academic Standards: Support in assessment moderation, programme benchmarking and accreditation practices, maintaining consistent global standards across TNE programmes.
- Professional Development for Academic and Administrative Staff: Opportunities for short courses, workshops or exchange programmes to enhance staff skills in student support, curriculum delivery and digital learning platforms.
- Technology and Digital Learning Support: Guidance on hybrid learning platforms, learning analytics and online engagement tools, helping institutions deliver high-quality TNE programmes in flexible modes.
- Global Exposure and Networking: Facilitating staff mobility, international collaborations and communities of practice, fostering cross-cultural insights and innovation in teaching and learning.
In summary, UK universities can have the greatest impact by partnering strategically in pedagogy, curriculum, research, and staff development, helping TNE hosting institutions in Singapore deliver globally recognised, high-quality and industry-relevant programmes.
TNE Institute: If you could share one message with UK universities engaging in TNE, what would it be?
Dr. Moorthy: Singapore offers a premium, strategically located hub with strong regulatory standards, high employability outcomes and access to a diverse regional student market. UK universities that invest in joint programmes (beyond the popular Franchise model), multi-hub delivery and flexible learning models, including micro-credentials, can expand their global footprint, attract high-quality students and generate sustainable revenue streams while enhancing their brand and reputation in Asia.
TNE Institute: Looking ahead, what do you see as the future of TNE in Singapore?
Dr. Moorthy: Looking ahead, Singapore’s TNE sector is set to become more flexible, globally integrated and skills-focused. We can expect programmes that combine in-person, online and multi-country experiences, enabling students to access global education while gaining local industry exposure. Stackable credentials, micro-credentials and modular learning will expand, supporting upskilling and reskilling in a rapidly evolving workforce.
Curricula and assessments will increasingly align with employer needs, incorporating project-based, practical and technology-driven evaluations to ensure graduates are job-ready. Singapore will continue to attract students beyond traditional markets, including Central Asia and the MENA region, strengthening its role as a regional education hub.
Overall, TNE in Singapore will remain globally competitive, strategically positioned and highly attractive to students seeking premium, internationally recognised qualifications.