Social Services
The social service scene in Singapore today has evolved into one very different from its own past of attending to mere simple needs. With the increase in complexity in today’s social issues and impending demographic outcomes (eg: silver tsunami, falling fertility rates, increased immigration) the professionals in the social service sector continues to work hard to ensure that every individual lives a life of dignity and to their best potential.
The social service sector provides services for the well-being of people, across all sub-sectors including families in social and financial need, persons with disabilities, seniors living alone, and youth-at-risk. The sector professionals take on a multi-disciplinary team approach, work together to help strengthen and build this community. Opportunities for employment in the social service sector await those keen to make a difference in the lives of others.
Did you know?
- Sector professionals in more than 400 Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs), work closely with the Ministry of Social and Family Development and the National Council of Social Service to deliver help and services to those in need.

National Council of Social Service
http://www.ncss.gov.sgThe National Council of Social Service (NCSS) is the coordinating body for some 400 voluntary welfare organisations in Singapore. With the charter to improve the lives of the disadvantaged in Singapore, it aims to provide leadership and direction in social services, enhance the capabilities of voluntary welfare organisations and promote strategic partnerships for the sector.
During their studies, scholars will be invited to tea sessions, dialogues and forums with senior thought leaders. They will attend seminars and workshops to build essential knowledge and skills. They will also be mentored by senior professionals. Upon graduation, scholars will embark on their career progression with voluntary welfare organisations in the sector.
- Business and Accountancy (Accountancy / Business / Business Administration)
- Communication Studies (Communication Studies or Mass Communication / Communication and New Media)
- Information Communication and Technology (Computing / Computer Science / Information System Management / Information Technology)
- Psychology

National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre
http://www.nvpc.org.sgEstablished in 1999, the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) is the national body that promotes and develops volunteerism and philanthropy across all sectors, functioning as a first-stop centre, catalyst and networking agency to foster the giving spirit in Singapore, whether of time, money or in kind.
As a non-profit, non-government organization, NVPC works in partnership with non-profit organisations, companies and public sector bodies to facilitate and strengthen Community Giving efforts through its promotional and networking platforms, public education programmes, grants as well as research and publications.
Scholars passionate about the non-profit sector will enjoy working in our dynamic environment, doing leading edge work. They will get a broad exposure of the non-profit sector before diving deep into any specific areas. Scholars will be groomed to become leaders of the non-profit sector. They will have challenging rotational stints and be exposed to different divisions according to their interests. They will undergo on-the-job training as well as a structured training programme designed to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to do a good job. They will be assigned a mentor from the NVPC Board and will have opportunities to network with other non-profit organisations.
Potential Career Path:
“Give. Inspire. Transform. Come change Singapore with us.”
Many Gen Y and Z graduates aspire to have a meaningful job that makes a difference to society. With different organisations serving many social needs and causes, it may be difficult to decide which is the best place to start your career after graduation.
NVPC will be a focal point for young talent to launch your career. Starting your career with NVPC equips you with the perspectives, networks and knowledge of the non-profit sector.
Scholars will begin their career as Management Associates, but every career path is different. To help you meet your goals and maximise your potential, NVPC will partner with you to design your career roadmap and provide the training and coaching to enhance your knowledge and skills.
You will be given the opportunity to network with strategic stakeholders, flexibility to craft your desired career path and ultimately be groomed to make a difference to the sector as a specialist or a leader.
- Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (excluding Chinese / English / Linguistics and Multilingual Studies / South Asian Studies / Theatre Studies)
- Business and Accountancy (Business / Business Administration / Business Management)
- Communication Studies (Communication Studies / Communication and New Media)
- Statistics

