Your Healthcare Career is Just Getting Started
Making a career change into healthcare is not just about starting anew—it’s about unlocking opportunities for long-term career growth. For many mid-career individuals, transitioning into healthcare as a Therapy Assistant is just the beginning.
With structured training, industry-recognised qualifications, and a clear pathway for upskilling, you can advance into roles like Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, or Speech Therapist.
If you’re wondering what’s next after completing the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) at HMI Institute, here’s how you can progress in Singapore’s healthcare sector.
Myron’s Journey: From Nursing to Physiotherapy
After years as a nurse, Myron Lee found himself drawn to the field of rehabilitation. His passion for patient care, combined with an interest in sports therapy, led him to explore physiotherapy as a new career direction. However, shifting into a different healthcare discipline required new skills and certifications.
Myron’s journey wasn’t without challenges. His initial application to the Singapore Institute of Technology’s physiotherapy programme was unsuccessful, and he faced uncertainty. Friends and colleagues offered mixed advice, leaving him unsure about his next step.
Rather than giving up, Myron decided to gain hands-on experience as a therapy assistant. “It was a way to learn more about the field while preparing for the next opportunity,” he recalls.
The programme’s hybrid learning structure and supportive environment stood out. “The lecturers were incredibly encouraging, and my classmates came from such diverse backgrounds,” he shares. “We learned so much from each other.”
Myron’s nursing experience enriched classroom discussions, while his clinical attachment at St Luke’s Hospital deepened his understanding of therapy support and strengthened his determination to become a Physiotherapist.
Today, Myron is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy at Singapore Institute of Technology, taking a significant step towards his goal.
Your Career Progression Pathways
If you’re starting as a Therapy Assistant, here are some pathways you can take to advance your career:
1. Therapy Assistant → Physiotherapist
What they do: Help patients regain mobility and manage pain through exercise, manual therapy, and rehabilitation techniques.
✔ Next Step: Pursue a degree in Physiotherapy at Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to become a licensed Physiotherapist.
2. Therapy Assistant → Occupational Therapist
What they do: Help individuals regain independence by assisting with daily activities and rehabilitation exercises.
✔ Next Step: Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at SIT to become a certified Occupational Therapist.
3. Therapy Assistant → Speech Therapist
What they do: Assess and treat individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties.
✔ Next Step: Further studies with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Speech and Language Therapy at SIT.
Upskilling and Support for Mid-Career Individuals
Switching careers can feel daunting, but with the right support, it becomes a manageable and rewarding journey. HMI Institute’s WSQ Higher Certificate in Healthcare (Therapy Support) is designed for mid-career professionals looking to enter healthcare.
✅ Up to $3,000/month SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Allowance for Singaporeans 40 years and above (T&Cs apply)
✅ $4,000 SkillsFuture Credits (Mid-Career) Top-up Claimable
✅ Up to 90% course fee subsidies for Singaporeans, PRs, and LTVP+ holders
✅ Offset your course fees with your SkillsFuture Credit
✅ Structured learning and hands-on training
✅ Job placement support to help you secure employment in the Care Economy
Start Your Healthcare Career with HMI Institute
If you’re looking for a stable, meaningful career with progression, healthcare offers multiple pathways for growth. Take your first step today!
