The United States has long been recognised as one of the top study destinations in the world. Its enduring reputation has lasted decades. It hosted more than a million international students during the 2022-2023 academic year. This was a 12% increase from the year prior and the fastest growth rate in over 40 years.
International students consistently choose the USA for many compelling reasons: its high-quality education, a diverse range of programs and courses, research opportunities, global recognition and post-graduation pathways. These include the US post-study visa, or the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows graduates to temporarily work within their field of study for up to 12 months upon completion of their academic program.
As a global leader in higher education, most students seek to pursue higher studies in the USA. According to Statista, among the international student population in the US for the 2022-2023 academic year, 467,027 were graduate students. In this article, we’ll go through postgraduate studies in the USA—what they are and which programs are best for international students.
What is a postgraduate degree in the USA?
In the US, a postgraduate degree refers to advanced academic qualifications obtained after completing a bachelor’s degree. These degrees include master’s and doctoral programs which offer advanced and specialised knowledge through in-depth research, coursework and practical experience.
Postgraduate degrees from US institutions provide a competitive edge in the international job market. They offer global recognition and paving diverse career pathways. Their advanced curriculum structures make graduates highly qualified and attractive internationally. Thus, many international students see pursuing them as ideal for their career growth.
Best postgraduate programs in the USA
As aspiring international students are faced with the decision to pursue postgraduate studies in the USA, they could feel pressured and perplexed. To help those who haven’t decided on a program yet, we’ve prepared a list of some of the best postgraduate programs in the USA for international students.
Business analytics
Postgraduate programs in business analytics combine business acumen with data analysis skills. They empower students to interpret complex data sets and drive informed business decisions as data analysts, business intelligence managers and consultants in a wide range of industries.
Computer science
Computer science graduates have only grown higher in demand in today’s increasingly digital world. Postgraduate programs in computer science offer specialised training that covers both theoretical foundations and practical applications in computing. They can go into areas such as:
- programming and software development
- computer systems
- artificial intelligence
- cybersecurity
- software engineering, etc.
These programs equip students to pursue careers in technology companies, research institutions and academia.
Data science
With the growing importance of data-driven decision-making, postgraduate degrees in data science equip students with expertise in data analysis, machine learning and statistical modeling. Data science programs position graduates for roles in technology, finance, healthcare and beyond, driving innovation and informed decision-making.
Economics
Postgraduate degrees in economics provide students with an advanced understanding of economic theory, policy analysis and quantitative methods. They prepare them for careers as economists, policy analysts and researchers in government agencies, financial institutions and international organisations.
Education
Postgraduate degrees in education offer specialised training for educators, administrators and policymakers. These are usually focused on curriculum development, educational leadership and instructional technology to address global challenges in education. Education graduates can pursue careers as teachers, school administrators, educational consultants and policy analysts in schools, universities and government organisations.
Finance
Postgraduate programs in finance provide advanced knowledge and skills in financial analysis, investment management and risk assessment. They prepare students for lucrative careers as financial analysts, investment bankers and portfolio managers, enabling them to enter various sectors like banking, investment management, corporate finance and financial analysis.
Law
While getting into postgraduate programs in law can be challenging and competitive with its more rigorous set of prerequisites, many students understand its value and role in progressing their careers. Postgraduate law studies provide students with in-depth legal training and specialisation in areas such as corporate law, intellectual property and international law. This enables them to pursue careers as attorneys, legal advisors and policymakers.
Marketing
A postgraduate program in marketing focuses on strategic marketing concepts, consumer behavior analysis and digital marketing strategies. Postgraduate marketing graduates often delve into areas such as:
- market research
- digital marketing
- consumer behaviour analysis
- strategic marketing management
- brand management
- advertising.
Medicine and science
Undertaking medicine and science studies demands intensive commitment and effort yet proves immensely rewarding for countless students drawn to the profound impact within this field. Postgraduate studies in medicine and science encompass a wide range of disciplines, including biomedical research, public health and clinical specialties. These offer students with opportunities to advance scientific knowledge and contribute to healthcare innovation. Graduates typically go on to become medical practitioners specialising in their respective fields, but there’s a wealth of sectors they can enter, such as medical research, pharmacy, diagnostics and public health.
Nursing
With the global surge in healthcare needs, there is a reciprocal surge in the demand for skilled healthcare professionals like nurses. This is evidenced by the # 1 ranking of registered nurses on Indeed’s 25 High-Paying In-Demand Jobs list. Postgraduate programs in nursing dive into advanced clinical practice, nursing leadership and management, healthcare policy and advocacy and specialised nursing fields like psychiatric-mental health or pediatric nursing. These programs prepare graduates to become nurse practitioners, nurse educators, nurse administrators and advanced practice nurses.
Learn more about postgraduate studies in the USA
Deciding on postgraduate studies in the USA—programs and schools—can be nerve-racking. This is why aspiring students can benefit from receiving support from trusted professionals. To learn more ways to assist students throughout their international education journey, get in touch with our business development managers today!
