The Most Reliable Degrees for International Students

Leaving your country to attend university is a big, scary step. Many international students make this move as the first step toward living in the new country. Graduates often have the goal of getting a good job in their field of study that will sponsor their residency, which could eventually open the door to citizenship. In the United States, an employer can sponsor a work visa, which provides the international worker with legal residence. Then, the employee can apply and wait for a green card. If they get a green card, they then must live in the US for five years as a permanent resident before they can officially apply for citizenship.

Though this process is technically available to all international workers, it is much easier to obtain a work visa if you enter a high-demand field (usually in STEM) and excel in your job. Below, we reveal the most reliable degrees that international students should pursue for the highest chance of building a stable life in the US.

Engineering

The field of engineering is almost always on the lookout for talented recent graduates. This industry is reliable because of its persisting relevancy in building the modern world. It is a stable choice that also offers many unique paths. For example, you can focus on software, mechanical, biomedical, electrical, civil, or another type of engineering, and each one is in high demand.

Business Administration

A degree in business administration is flexible. Whether you want to work in finance, marketing, or management, a business degree gives you the foundational skills to adapt to diverse roles. Keep in mind that you will probably have to pursue an MBA after graduating with your bachelor’s degree and be very intentional with your internships during your studies. Likewise, the prestige of your institution also plays a role in how successful you will be after graduation. Knowing what to consider when choosing a business school will help you commit to a reputable institution that should build a solid framework for your future career.

Computer Science and IT

A degree in computer science or IT all but guarantees a reliable career path. If you want to strengthen your computer science skills throughout your life, consider roles like software developer, data scientist, or cybersecurity analyst. These jobs are in high demand. In fact, employers often try to scout computer science students before they even graduate. Moreover, tech is a wealthy industry. This means that most big- and even small-name employers have the funds to sponsor long-term work visas, and it’s a very common practice in the industry.

Healthcare and Allied Health

Degrees in nursing, pharmacy, and public health offer incredible job stability. Healthcare professionals are always in demand because of the essential services they provide. If you have an interest in health and science, then this could be a smart move for you.

Choosing a reliable degree as an international student can shape your entire future. The options we reviewed in this blog have historically provided stable paths to long-term residency and eventually citizenship, if that is your goal.