Dreaming of expanding your horizons and gaining a world-class education? Studying abroad could be the adventure of a lifetime! For Indian students, the world is brimming with opportunities. Studying abroad offers Indian students a transformative experience, combining top-tier education with cultural enrichment. Choosing the right program is crucial to make the most of this opportunity. Here's a curated list of the ten best study abroad degrees and courses, that cater to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations. Let's explore some of the best programs tailored to your interests and aspirations.
Master's in Engineering (Various Specializations):Why it's hot: Engineering remains a top choice for Indian students, and for good reason. Engineering programs are highly regarded for their focus on innovation, practical experience, and industry collaboration. Fields such as mechanical, automotive, and electrical engineering offer students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and gain hands-on experience through internships and projects. A master's degree from a renowned international university opens doors to cutting-edge research, top-tier companies, and a global network.Top picks: Look to universities in the USA (MIT, Stanford), Canada (University of Toronto), Germany (Technical University of Munich), and the UK (University of Cambridge).Bonus: Many engineering programs offer internships or co-op placements, providing valuable work experience.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
Technical University of Munich
2 years
€0 (no tuition, only fees)
Cutting-edge research, industry collaboration
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
2 years
$53,790 per year
Innovative curriculum, state-of-the-art labs
1 year
£31,900 total
Focus on research, strong industry links
National University of Singapore
Singapore
2 years
SGD 38,200 total
Internationally recognized, comprehensive curriculum
University of Tokyo
Japan
2 years
¥535,800 per year
Leading research institution, advanced facilities
MBA Programs:The appeal: If you're a business-minded individual, an MBA from a top school can catapult your career to new heights. MBA programs are renowned globally for their rigorous curriculum, excellent networking opportunities, and access to vast alumni networks. Specializations in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship are particularly popular, providing students with the skills and knowledge to excel in various business sectors.Leading destinations: Consider the USA (Harvard, Wharton), UK (London Business School), France (INSEAD), and Canada (Rotman School of Management).Networking goldmine: MBAs are known for their strong alumni networks, offering a wealth of connections and career opportunities.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
USA
2 years
$73,440 per year
Strong alumni network, renowned faculty
INSEAD
France/Singapore
1 year
€89,000 total
Global perspective, multiple campuses
London Business School
UK
2 years
£92,735 total
Emphasis on leadership, global exposure
University of Melbourne
Australia
2 years
AUD 92,000 total
Industry connections, practical projects
Master's in Computer Science:Tech-driven world: In our digital age, computer science skills are in high demand. A master's degree can specialize in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, or cybersecurity. With strong ties to the tech industry, these degrees offer students the opportunity to work on real-world projects and stay at the forefront of technological advancements.Global hubs: USA (Carnegie Mellon, Stanford), Canada (University of Waterloo), UK (University of Oxford), and Australia (University of Melbourne) are renowned for their CS programs.Lucrative field: Computer science graduates often command impressive salaries and enjoy exciting career paths.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
Trinity College Dublin
4 years
€22,575 per year
Strong tech industry ties, innovative curriculum
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
USA
4 years
$53,790 per year
Leading research, tech innovation
University of Cambridge
UK
3-4 years
£29,343 per year
Prestigious program, comprehensive curriculum
University of Toronto
Canada
4 years
CAD 58,160 per year
Strong focus on AI and machine learning
National University of Singapore
Singapore
4 years
SGD 38,200 per year
Renowned faculty, cutting-edge research
Master's in Public Health:Impactful careers: If you're passionate about healthcare and global well-being, a Master's in Public Health can equip you to tackle pressing health challenges. A Master’s in Public Health equips students with the knowledge and skills to address public health challenges and improve community health outcomes. Renowned institutions: Johns Hopkins University (USA), London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (UK), and University of Toronto (Canada) are among the best in the world.Diverse options: Specializations include epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and global health.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
USA
1-2 years
$73,980 per year
Leading public health institution, extensive research
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
UK
1 year
£26,900 total
Focus on global health, strong research programs
University of Melbourne
1.5-2 years
AUD 45,760 per year
Comprehensive curriculum, emphasis on public health practice
Master of Science (MSc) in Data Science:Data is the new oil: As data becomes increasingly valuable, data scientists are sought after in every industry. Data Science programs focus on big data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. These courses are designed to equip students with the analytical and technical skills required to navigate the rapidly evolving data landscape and solve complex problems across various industries.Data powerhouses: USA (UC Berkeley, NYU), UK (Imperial College London), and Canada (University of British Columbia) offer excellent programs.Interdisciplinary field: Data science blends statistics, programming, and domain knowledge to extract insights from complex datasets.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
University of Toronto
Canada
2 years
CAD 35,000 per year
Strong emphasis on AI, big data, and analytics
UK
1 year
£31,800 total
Focus on machine learning, industry projects
USA
1.5 years
$57,861 per year
Cutting-edge research, tech industry connections
University of Melbourne
Australia
2 years
AUD 44,320 per year
Comprehensive curriculum, strong research component
ETH Zurich
Switzerland
2 years
CHF 1,298 per year
Renowned for research excellence, low tuition fees
Master's in Finance:Financial wizardry: If you're drawn to the world of finance, a specialized master's degree can open doors to investment banking, asset management, risk management, and corporate finance roles. These programs provide in-depth knowledge of financial theory, quantitative finance, and financial markets, along with practical skills in financial analysis and investment strategies.Financial capitals: Consider London (London School of Economics), New York (Columbia University), and Singapore (National University of Singapore).Competitive edge: A strong quantitative background is often essential for success in finance programs.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
London School of Economics (LSE)
UK
1 year
£37,104 total
Renowned finance faculty, strong industry connections
MIT Sloan School of Management
USA
1 year
$77,168 total
Innovative curriculum, strong focus on quantitative finance
University of Toronto
Canada
1 year
CAD 66,210 total
Emphasis on financial markets, strong industry links
Master's in International Relations/Global Affairs:Shaping the world: If you're interested in diplomacy, international development, or policymaking, these programs offer a deep dive into global issues. International Relations programs cover global diplomacy, international law, and security studies. These courses prepare students for careers in international organizations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, offering a deep understanding of global affairs and policy-making processes.Policy hubs: USA (Georgetown University, Harvard Kennedy School), UK (London School of Economics), and Switzerland (Graduate Institute Geneva) are renowned.Multicultural environment: You'll interact with students from diverse backgrounds, preparing you for a global career.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
Australian National University
Australia
2 years
AUD 45,120 total
Strong research focus, global perspective
University of Geneva
Switzerland
2 years
CHF 1,000 per year
Proximity to UN and other international organizations
Georgetown University
USA
2 years
$56,058 per year
Prestigious program, Washington D.C. location
London School of Economics (LSE)
UK
1 year
£25,920 total
Renowned faculty, focus on policy and governance
Sciences Po
France
2 years
€14,000 per year
Internationally focused curriculum, strong alumni network
Master's in Psychology:Understanding the human mind: A Master's in Psychology is ideal for students looking to deepen their understanding of human behavior, mental health, and psychological research. This program offers specializations in clinical psychology, counseling, organizational psychology, and more, preparing students for a variety of professional roles in healthcare, education, and business.Psychological centers: USA (Stanford, UCLA), UK (University College London), and Canada (University of Toronto) are top choices.Research focus: Many programs emphasize research, allowing you to contribute to the field of psychology.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
University of Cambridge
UK
1-2 years
£31,734 per year
Strong research focus, prestigious faculty
Stanford University
USA
2 years
$54,315 per year
Cutting-edge research facilities, interdisciplinary approach
University of Melbourne
Australia
2 years
AUD 38,064 per year
Comprehensive curriculum, strong clinical training
Master's in Design:Creative expression: If you have a passion for design, international programs can nurture your talent and expose you to new trends. Design programs offer a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, covering fields such as fashion, interior, and product design. Students develop creative and technical skills, preparing them for careers in various design industries, from fashion houses to design studios.Design capitals: Consider Italy (Politecnico di Milano), USA (Rhode Island School of Design), and UK (Royal College of Art).Diverse paths: Design careers span graphic design, product design, fashion design, and more.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
Politecnico di Milano
Italy
3 years
€3,900 per year
Strong design tradition, international focus
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
USA
4 years
$52,860 per year
Prestigious art school, interdisciplinary approach
Royal College of Art
UK
3 years
£30,000 per year
Renowned faculty, strong industry connections
RMIT University
Australia
3 years
AUD 30,720 per year
Strong industry ties, practical experience
PhD in Biotechnology:Biotechnology PhD programs emphasize research and innovation, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and industry collaborations. Students engage in groundbreaking research, exploring areas such as genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and molecular biology, contributing to advancements in healthcare and environmental sustainability.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
National University of Singapore
Singapore
4-5 years
SGD 27,600 per year
Cutting-edge research facilities, strong industry ties
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
USA
4-6 years
$53,790 per year
Leading biotech research, interdisciplinary approach
University of Cambridge
UK
3-4 years
£29,343 per year
Prestigious program, extensive research opportunities
ETH Zurich
Switzerland
4-5 years
CHF 1,298 per year
Renowned for research excellence, low tuition fees
University of Tokyo
Japan
4-5 years
¥535,800 per year
Leading research institution, advanced facilities
Medical Degrees
Medical schools worldwide are recognized for their comprehensive training, extensive clinical exposure, and strong emphasis on research. These programs provide a solid foundation in medical sciences and clinical skills, preparing students for global medical practice.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
University of Oxford
UK
6 years
£44,240 per year
Prestigious program, extensive clinical exposure
Harvard Medical School
USA
4 years
$64,984 per year
Cutting-edge research, world-renowned faculty
University of Melbourne
Australia
4 years
AUD 81,344 per year
Strong clinical training, emphasis on research
Karolinska Institute
Sweden
5.5 years
SEK 365,000 per year
Nobel Prize affiliation, leading medical research
National University of Singapore
Singapore
5 years
SGD 61,050 per year
Comprehensive curriculum, strong regional influence
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative WritingThe Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing is an ideal program for aspiring writers who want to hone their craft and build a career in writing. These programs provide intensive writing workshops, one-on-one mentorship from established authors, and opportunities to explore various genres, including fiction, poetry, and nonfiction.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
University of Iowa
USA
2 years
$30,613 per year
Renowned Writers' Workshop, strong literary community
University of East Anglia
UK
1 year
£17,600 per year
Strong focus on novel writing, distinguished faculty
University of British Columbia
Canada
2 years
CAD 19,500 per year
Comprehensive workshops, diverse literary genres
Master’s in Artificial IntelligenceThe Master’s in Artificial Intelligence program is designed for students interested in advancing their understanding and expertise in AI technologies. The curriculum typically includes machine learning, neural networks, robotics, and data analysis, preparing students for careers in cutting-edge tech fields.
University
Country
Duration
Tuition Fees (approx.)
Notable Features
Stanford University
USA
1-2 years
$57,861 per year
Leading AI research, strong industry connections
University of Edinburgh
UK
1 year
£30,800 total
Renowned AI research center, comprehensive curriculum
University of Amsterdam
Netherlands
2 years
€18,000 per year
Strong focus on deep learning, applied AI projects
Why Choose These Programs?
Each of these programs offers a unique blend of academic excellence, practical experience, and global exposure. They are tailored to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields, supported by robust industry connections and innovative research opportunities.
Special Exams or Tests Required to Study Abroad for Various Programs
When planning to study abroad, Indian students often need to clear specific standardized tests as part of the application process. Here’s an overview of the key exams required for various popular programs:
MBA: Most universities require the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). It assesses verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing skills. Some schools might accept the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) instead, which focuses on business-related skills.STEM Fields (Engineering, Medical, Public Health, Biotechnology, Data Science, AI):
Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): Commonly used for many STEM fields, the GRE assesses general academic abilities.Subject GREs: For some programs (e.g., engineering), there might be a Subject GRE specific to your field, testing in-depth knowledge.Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Required for entry into medical schools in the US, Canada, Australia, and some Caribbean countries. It assesses problem-solving, critical thinking, and scientific knowledge.Other medical entrance exams: Some countries might have their medical entrance exams.Finance:
GRE: Often required for Master's in Finance programs.Graduate Financial Analyst (GFA) designation: While not mandatory, it demonstrates your finance knowledge and can strengthen your application.Non-STEM Fields:
Master's in Design: Some programs might require a portfolio showcasing your design skills and experience. The format can vary by school.Master's in Psychology: The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is generally required. Some programs might also consider the Psychology GRE Subject Test.Master's in Fine Arts (MFA): Often requires a portfolio showcasing your artistic abilities and a statement of purpose outlining your artistic goals.TOEFL or IELTS is required for non-native English speakers to demonstrate English proficiency to study abroad.
Preparing for Your Study Abroad Journey
Research Thoroughly: Understand the course curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and industry connections.Financial Planning: Consider tuition fees, living expenses, and available scholarships.Application Process: Pay attention to application deadlines, required documentation, and entrance exams.Cultural Preparation: Learn about the host country’s culture, language, and social norms to ease your transition.Tips for Indian Students:
Research scholarships: Many universities and external organizations offer scholarships specifically for Indian students.Start early: The application process can be lengthy, so begin your research and preparation well in advance.Seek guidance: Talk to alumni, education consultants, and current international students for valuable insights.Remember, the best program is the one that aligns with your passions and career goals. Studying abroad can be a transformative experience – embrace the adventure!
Conclusion
Choosing the right study abroad program can significantly impact your career trajectory. These ten programs offer exceptional education and life-changing experiences, making them ideal choices for Indian students aspiring to make a mark on the global stage. Take the plunge and embark on a journey of academic excellence and cultural enrichment.
For more detailed guidance and personalized assistance, contact Walk International, your trusted partner in navigating the exciting world of international education.