Janice Lozano
Choosing a college major can be stressful for international students, who often need to think about their future employment prospects and potential return on investment. In the United States, international students tend to focus on STEM and business majors, which often lead to high-earning careers. Computer science was the most common primary major for international students in 2022, while non-English language studies were the second most popular. Other popular majors for international students include business, economics, engineering, finance, liberal arts, intensive English, fine and applied arts, physical and life sciences, social sciences, and mathematics and computer science.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most popular major for international students | Computer science |
| Second most popular major for international students | Non-English language studies |
| Percentage of international students who studied in one of the top 20 majors | 50% |
| Degree type pursued by international students | Associate degree (6%), Bachelor's degree (37%), Master's degree (41%), Doctoral degree (16%) |
| High-paying majors for international students | Computer science, Electrical engineering, Business analytics, Economics, Finance |
| Median annual salary of a business major aged 25-29 in 2017 | $50,500 |
| Median annual salary of a liberal arts major aged 25-29 in 2017 | $39,000 |
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What You'll Learn
Computer science
Secondly, the availability of computer science degrees across nearly all American universities means that international students can choose an institution in their preferred setting without compromising the quality of their degree. The United States offers a diverse range of environmental settings, and the ability to select a location that aligns with one's preferences is a significant advantage for international students.
Another advantage of studying computer science in the United States is the robust availability of resources. As the country with the world's largest single economy, American institutions of higher education, particularly in fields like computer science, have access to unrivaled funding. This translates to better programs, a more advanced educational experience, and diverse internship opportunities with a wide range of employers.
The curriculum at American universities offering computer science degrees is also a significant draw for international students. These universities offer concentrations in cutting-edge subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cybersecurity, and Management Information Systems. The theoretical knowledge gained in these programs is complemented by practical training and internship opportunities, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their future careers.
Finally, the job prospects associated with a computer science degree from an American university are attractive to international students. The United States is home to many of the world's leading software and product companies, and the global recognition of an American degree can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Additionally, computer science graduates have strong employment prospects, with better job chances than those in other engineering fields. The problem-solving skills developed during a computer science degree are highly valued by employers.
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Business analytics
The field of business analytics is centred around leveraging large amounts of data to guide businesses towards success. It involves seeking patterns and insights in data to drive strategic decisions and optimise workflow. As businesses increasingly adopt data-driven approaches, business analytics professionals are becoming integral to organisations. These professionals help businesses stay ahead in a competitive market by interpreting data, identifying patterns, and making informed decisions.
A degree in business analytics provides students with transferable skills that can be applied across various industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, and technology. It equips individuals with the ability to conduct in-depth market research, understand consumer demands, and anticipate market shifts. This skill set is highly valued by companies, leading to lucrative career opportunities and competitive salaries for business analysts.
The University of Hartford's Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program, for example, offers a flexible curriculum covering big data, programming skills in R and Python, and effective communication techniques. The program can be completed in under two years through online or on-campus study options. Additionally, as a STEM-designated degree, international students who complete the MSBA may qualify to work in the US for up to three years through Optional Practical Training (OPT), providing a head start to their careers.
Overall, business analytics is a rewarding and in-demand field that offers international students excellent career prospects and the opportunity to drive business growth and success.
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Economics
The analytical and problem-solving skills gained from studying economics are highly valued and transferable across industries. Economics majors can pursue careers in finance, consulting, general business, government, international development, and academia. The average early career salary for economics majors is $65,000, increasing to $100,000 in mid-career, showcasing the competitive advantage that an economics degree can offer in the job market.
For international students, economics can be an appealing major due to its applicability to global issues and its ability to provide a solid foundation for a range of career paths. The critical thinking and quantitative skills developed through this major are sought-after by employers, making economics a rewarding choice for those seeking a versatile and intellectually stimulating field of study.
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Engineering
To succeed in an engineering major, students should have excellent mathematical and scientific skills. Required courses for engineering majors often include statistics, algebra, calculus, chemistry, and physics. Competence with technology is also important, and students will develop their skills in design and computing software throughout their studies.
Some of the most common engineering majors for international students include mechanical, electrical, civil, computer, and chemical engineering.
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Liberal arts
For international students, the sense of community and the opportunity to be part of a diverse student body can be appealing. Liberal arts colleges with a strong global presence often host cultural groups and events, creating a platform for international students to share their traditions and connect with their American peers. This enriches the overall campus experience and fosters a more inclusive environment.
When considering a liberal arts college, it's important to reflect on your personal goals and preferences. These colleges may offer fewer academic majors, so ensure the available options align with your interests. Additionally, while liberal arts colleges may be more expensive than public universities, they often provide more financial aid, making them accessible to a wider range of students.
Overall, liberal arts colleges in the US offer international students a unique educational experience. With their focus on interdisciplinary learning, skill development, and community-building, they provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for a variety of future endeavours. By offering a supportive and culturally diverse environment, liberal arts colleges can ease the transition for international students and create a memorable college experience.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the interests and goals of the individual student. However, some of the most popular majors for international students in the US include business, computer science, economics, engineering, finance, and liberal arts.
Some majors that can lead to high-paying jobs for international students include computer science, electrical engineering, and business analytics.
A business degree is versatile and can lead to many different high-paying careers, including finance, accounting, management, and economics-related fields. Business majors also have the option to combine their degree with another discipline, such as computer science or marketing.
When choosing a major, international students should consider their interests and passions, as well as the potential career prospects and monetary returns. It is important to find a major that specializes in a particular skill set, facilitates personal growth, and provides sufficient employment opportunities.
