Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About 1-Academia & Our Philosophy
Who is 1-Academia?
1-Academia is an industry-driven training entity founded by the 1-Group, Singapore’s leading lifestyle F&B company. We are dedicated to bridging the skills gap by offering specialized, advanced education tailored specifically for the F&B, MICE, and broader Experience Economy.
1-Academia offers both MSc and MBA, which is more relevant to me?
The choice depnds on whether you want to be a Generalist Leader or Technica Expert. The MBA is designed to turn specialists (like Chefs, Operations, or Nightlife Specialist) into Generalist. The MBA’s focus is holistic business leadership. The MSc is a specialist degree. It is designed to make you a “Master” of one specific domain, the focs is subject matter expertise, specialised consulting. If you need to speak to one of our academic advisors, drop us a quick Whatsapp or email. We can have a chat with you to see which path is most relevant for your career development.
What is "Collective Leadership" (c-Leadership)?
c-Leadership is the unique, proven operating model of 1-Group. It emphasiaes a flat hierarchical structure, shared ownership, and ground-level decision-making, which enhances organisational agility and resilience. Selected courses are now available to the public to train in this proven methodology.
More on Collective Leadership.
About the Master of Business Administration (MBA) Programmes
Which MBA programme does 1-Academia offer?
The MBA degree is accredited by Cardiff Metropolitan University and delivered in partnership with our academic collaborator, ensuring global recognition and academic rigor.
Students who successfully complete and pass the modules stipulated in the programme structure will be awarded the MBA award from the University.
The degree will be the same as that awarded to the on-campus graduates in the University’s home country. Graduates will be allowed to use their MBA after their names.
How are the MBA programmes structured?
This programme follows a stackable, two phase modular pathway designed for working professionals:
Phase 1 consists of 8 core NCC Level 7 Diploma modules in Business Management.
Phase 2 (The Top-Up) consists of 3 specialised MSc modules and a dissertation with the awarding university.
What is a UK Level 7 Diploma? Find out more about what qualification levels means here https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
About the Master of Science (MSc) Programmes
What MSc programmes does 1-Academia offer?
We offer two specialised programs, accredited by the University of Buckingham (UK): MSc Strategic Marketing and Customer Experience Management and MSc Management in a Digital Service Economy.
About our Master of Science programme.
How are the MSc programmes structured?
The programmes follow a stackable, two-phase modular pathway designed for working professionals: Phase 1 consists of 8 core Graduate Diploma modules in Service Management. Phase 2 (The Top-Up) consists of 3 specialised MSc modules and a Dissertation with the awarding university.
Entry Requirements & Accessibility
What are the primary entry requirements for the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science (MSc)?
Local candidates must meet one of the following:
1) A pass in diploma and above in any field and be at least 21 years old, OR
2) Be a mature candidate (at least 30 years old) with 8 years of relevant supervisory or management experience in F&B / MICE or lifestyle industry
International candidates must meet one of the following:
1) A pass in degree and above in any field and be at least 21 years old, with at least 5 years in F&B industry
What if I don't meet the entry requirements for the MBA / MSc programmes?
We strongly encourage candidates with extensive industry experience to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Assessment. If you do not qualify for direct entry after the PRL assessement, our admissions team will advise you on alternative preparatory pathways or foundation courses that can qualify you for admission to the MSc programme.
For more information on RPL, read https://1-academia.sg/regonised-prior-learning/
What is the minimum required class attendance?
A minimum of 75% class attendance is required for all modules to ensure optimal learning outcomes and meet program requirements.
What if I cannot keep up with the course demands?
We understand the demands of industry for F&B professionals. Dedicated coaching and guidance will be provided throughout the course. This is an industry programme, and our support is geared toward ensuring experienced industry leaders can successfully complete the academic requirements.
Are there skillsfuture subsidy for the MBA / MSc programmes?
Yes, 1-Academia’s MBA/MSc are SkillsFuture Credit-eligible for Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents. You may utilise your credit towards the programme fees for some of the modules, making your course fees more manageable.
What if I do not meet the English requirements for the MBA /MSc programmes?
You must meet one of several criteria, including a GCE ‘O’ Level pass in English (min. C6), WPL Level 6, IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent for international students), or having successfully passed a tertiary program (min. 24 months) conducted in English.
If you do not meet these requirements, please contact us for a separate assessment to see if one of our coaches can support you.
Partnerships & Programme Value
Why does 1-Academia emphasise on partnerships?
Our partnership strategy is built on four pillars (IHLs, Industry Leaders, Certification Bodies, Associations) to ensure relevance (industry), credibility (academia), and impact (competence). It blends practical expertise with global academic rigor.
What are the assessment method? Are there traditional exams?
Our programmes emphasises on project-based learning. Competencies are demonstrated through tangible project work, strategic proposals, and case studies, not just traditional essays or theoretical exams, focusing on immediate application in the industry.
What are the typical class delivery methods?
Our delivery utilises a blended learning model, combining flexible online components with immersive in-person sessions to accommodate the schedules of working professionals in the F&B and Experience sectors.
Does 1-Academia offer short courses or specialised certificate programmes?
Yes, In addition to our full MBA / MSc pathways, we offer specialised short courses and certificate programmes focused on key skills like Collective Leadership, Digital Marketing, and specific F&B Operations. These are ideal for rapid skills upgrading and professionals who require targeted competency development.