International Students: Popular Us Degree Choices

what subjects do international students study in americ

The USA is one of the most popular study destinations for international students, with more than 1 million international students hosted by US higher education institutions. The country offers a unique, religious experience with various Catholic universities and Bible colleges. It also provides a balance of quality degree programs, safe neighbourhoods, and access to local businesses that hire young talent. The US is home to roughly half of the world's best-ranked universities, and students have access to first-class academic programs across all fields of study. The top subjects of study for international students in the United States include business and management, engineering, math and computer science, and physical and life sciences.

Characteristics Values
Top subjects for international students Business and management, engineering, math and computer science, physical and life sciences, social sciences, health professions, education, and the arts
Number of international students More than 1,000,000 international students in total as of 2024, with over 1 million in 2023
Percentage of international students Nearly 5% of all students enrolled in higher-level education in the USA
Requirements Student visa, travel essentials, cash, international student insurance, and means to call home regularly and affordably
Costs Tuition, fees, living expenses, books and supplies, and health insurance
Scholarships Academic, athletic, artistic, and service-based scholarships, as well as need-based financial aid
Degree types Graduate master's, doctorate, associate's, and bachelor's degrees

shunstudent

Business and management

The USA is a popular destination for international students, with over 1 million students hosted by US higher education institutions. The country is home to some of the world's top universities, offering a diverse, innovative, and engaging student experience. The US also emphasises accessibility and quality independent research, allowing students to push the limits of their field.

International business management courses provide students with the knowledge and skills required to establish or advance their careers in various businesses on a global scale. The courses are designed to give students the opportunity to master specific skills in strategic decision-making and instruct in international finance and economic management. The Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree is a popular choice, providing students with practical skills and knowledge to build careers in a variety of business environments. The curriculum covers accounting, finance, marketing, economics, organizational behaviour, and business ethics.

Students can also pursue graduate master's and doctorate programs focused on specific academic subjects, such as the Master of Science in International Business Management. This degree program is typically 36 semester hours in duration and includes training in general business and management skills, accounting, managerial economics, operations, marketing, organizational behaviour, and leadership.

Additionally, the US offers several scholarships for international students pursuing business and management degrees, such as the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program.

shunstudent

Engineering, maths and computer science

The USA is a popular destination for international students, with more than 1 million international students hosted by US higher education institutions. The country is home to roughly half of the world's best-ranked universities, and students have access to first-class academic programs across all fields of study.

Engineering

Aerospace engineering is a popular course for international students in the USA. The course covers various topics, including aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, aircraft and spacecraft design, flight mechanics, control systems, and structural analysis. Students also gain practical knowledge through laboratory work, computer programs, and team-based projects. Entry requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, a strong mathematics and science background, and standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT).

Maths and Computer Science

American universities are renowned for their excellence in STEM programs, making the country an ideal destination for those aiming to master computer science. A bachelor's degree in computer science allows students to become proficient in various programming languages and frameworks, while also studying the fundamentals of computer hardware and architecture. Math and science courses are frequently included in the curriculum to provide a solid analytical basis.

A master's degree in computer science focuses on advanced topics, preparing students for profitable and influential employment. Students learn advanced programming languages, algorithms, artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity. They also increase their knowledge of software development, machine learning, and big data analysis. The course duration is typically 2 years, and the entry requirements include a bachelor's degree in a related field, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

There are also many scholarships available specifically for international students pursuing computer science degrees in the USA, offered by universities, professional associations, and state and local organizations.

shunstudent

Physical and life sciences

The USA is home to some of the world's best-ranked universities, offering first-class academic programs across all fields of study. With over 5,000 colleges and universities to choose from, international students can explore different subjects before choosing a major.

Physical sciences encompass a range of disciplines that focus on the study of the physical aspects of the world, including physics, chemistry, earth sciences, and astronomy. Students in these fields may specialize in areas such as quantum mechanics, materials science, geophysics, or astrophysics.

Life sciences, on the other hand, involve the study of living organisms, their structures, behaviours, and interactions. This includes subjects such as biology, biochemistry, genetics, ecology, and neuroscience. Students interested in life sciences may pursue specializations such as molecular biology, developmental biology, conservation biology, or neurobiology.

American universities offer a wide range of courses and research opportunities in physical and life sciences. The specific courses and specializations available will vary depending on the university and its strengths. Some universities may have well-known faculty members or research centres specializing in particular areas, which can be a draw for international students.

International students interested in studying physical and life sciences in the United States should research the specific academic programs and institutions available to find the best fit for their personal interests and career goals.

shunstudent

Social sciences

The social sciences cover a broad range of subjects, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science. These subjects explore human behaviour, societies, and social relationships, often through a critical and analytical lens. They offer valuable insights into the human condition and can help students develop a wide range of transferable skills.

Psychology is a popular subject for international students in the USA, with many top-ranked universities offering programmes in this field. Psychology explores the inner workings of the brain and human behaviour, and graduates may pursue careers in clinical psychology, research, or other related fields.

Sociology and anthropology are also popular subjects within the social sciences. Sociology focuses on the study of human social behaviour, societies, and cultures, while anthropology takes a more holistic approach, examining human behaviour, biology, and cultures across time and space. These subjects can provide valuable insights into diverse societies and cultural practices, and graduates may find career opportunities in research, education, social work, or international development.

Economics and political science are also in-demand subjects for international students. Economics explores how individuals, businesses, and nations make decisions about allocating their resources, while political science examines political systems, policies, and global issues. These subjects can lead to careers in finance, government, consulting, or international organisations.

International students should note that the application process for US colleges and universities can be extensive and confusing, with various requirements such as standardised tests, essays, and credential evaluations. Additionally, studying in the USA can be expensive, but financial aid and scholarships may be available, and the country offers a unique blend of quality degree programs, a lower cost of living than some other destinations, safe neighbourhoods, and access to local businesses open to hiring young talent.

Exploring US-Canada Student Travel

You may want to see also

shunstudent

Health professions

International students in the United States face a challenging application process, especially when applying for health profession courses. The US has the world's largest international student population, with more than 1,000,000 students choosing to further their education at an American college or university. The US is home to roughly half of the world's best-ranked universities, and students have access to top-quality academic programs across all fields of study.

International students can access support from EducationUSA, the U.S. Department of State's network, which has over 430 educational advising centres in more than 175 countries and territories. Additionally, Shorelight offers sessions with enrolment counsellors to help foreign students find universities that meet their needs. University fairs are also a great way to meet representatives and learn more about the application process.

For international students interested in health professions, there are additional challenges. Data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) indicates that of the 20,000 places in US medical schools, only about 200 are offered to non-US citizens or non-permanent residents. International students must also navigate the complex US healthcare system and ensure they have adequate health insurance. The F-1 Doctors platform, founded by an international medical student, offers valuable resources, guidance, and mentorship specifically for international applicants to US health profession schools.

Despite the challenges, international students in health professions can benefit from diverse career opportunities and contribute to improving healthcare equity. They can also access financial aid and scholarships, just like their American counterparts. With perseverance and the right resources, international students can successfully pursue their dream of becoming healthcare professionals in the United States.

Frequently asked questions

According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), the top subjects for international students in the USA are business and management, engineering, math and computer science, and physical and life sciences.

The USA is one of the most popular study destinations for international students, with roughly half of the world's best-ranked universities. International students can benefit from a balance of quality degree programs, a lower cost of living, safe neighbourhoods, and access to local businesses that hire young talent. Additionally, there may be scholarships available, or need-based financial aid, depending on the university or college.

To study in the USA as an international student, you will need a student visa. You may also need to take certain tests, such as the SATs or TOEFL, and there may be other requirements such as essay writing and credential evaluation.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment