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Feeling lost about which university course you should choose for your study abroad journey? We feel you. Picking the wrong course can be costly and time-consuming if you end up having to switch, so it's crucial to weigh your options carefully to ensure you don't regret your decision.

To give you a hand in selecting a subject that's right for you, we have compiled a list of factors to consider, coupled with insights from our experts. Read on to discover everything you need to know to identify the study programme that will bring satisfaction to your life as an international student.

What subject should I go for? 

Choosing the right subject is a critical first step in your higher education journey. You wouldn't want to invest time and money in something you will lose interest in.

To facilitate your decision-making process, consider these questions and factors to ensure you select a subject aligned with your goals and interests.

What career path would you like to take?

We encourage you to consider the career you want to pursue after you've completed your studies. This can help you choose the right subject and also your study destination.

After finishing their courses, most international students tend to stay in their study abroad country for some time. If you plan to do the same to experience what it is like to work in your host country, it is worth exploring different destinations to find out if they have any growing industries that align with your career goals. 

If you intend to pursue a career in theatre and acting, it might be an ideal option to study performing arts in the UK. As the birthplace of celebrated playwright William Shakespeare, the country boasts a rich history in creative arts.

With a thriving theatre culture, there are plenty of opportunities for graduates to secure employment in the industry, whether in set design, sound production or acting.

If you are interested in starting a career in engineering, it may be a good idea to get an engineering degree in the UK. The UK is not short of universities that understand the engineering field, have connections with the industry and offer innovative teaching and the right kind of student support that helps you pave the way for a successful career.

For example, Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has a top 50 rating in the UK for engineering by the 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings (THE).

Notably, the UK is ranked fourth in the world for innovation by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). The country is also the origin of some of the most influential inventions, such as stainless steel, telephones and the World Wide Web.

If you are uncertain about what you want to do post-graduation, why not choose a subject that offers a wide range of career options? For instance, a psychology degree can provide you with transferable skills that are applicable in multiple fields.

Qualifications in psychology demonstrate your ability to comprehend scientific concepts, work with statistics and gain a thorough understanding of the human brain, making you better equipped for people-facing roles. Your valuable people skills can open doors to opportunities in sectors like social care, human resources, healthcare and education.

What do you enjoy?

When deciding which subject to study abroad, it is important to choose something you enjoy. While there may be some less appealing modules, if you find yourself dreading all your lectures, your study abroad experience won't be as enjoyable.

We recommend basing your degree choice around your hobbies or interests. If you have a particular interest in a subject you've studied before, now is the time to research whether you can study it at university.

The world is your oyster, so if you love American literature, think about studying it in the US. Or, if you are passionate about marine biology and the Great Barrier Reef, why not consider going to Australia to study the subject?

If you enjoy working with numbers, consider studying for a degree in economics. This subject teaches principles that are applicable across various sectors globally. It is always helpful to understand how the economy works, regardless of the country and industry you are in. Check out our article about what to expect when studying economics abroad to learn more.

Your studies should ideally align with your career goals, so starting with a subject you like can increase the likelihood of finding a job you enjoy. There are numerous options available, but don't let that overwhelm you. Instead, try to be excited about the possibilities that different subjects can bring in the future.

What are you good at?

If you struggle to decide on a field of study you enjoy, why not consider studying something you are good at?

When you are moving to a new country to study, choosing a subject you are skilled in could be beneficial. It will make it easier for you to integrate into university life and form connections with your classmates.

Studying a subject you've already mastered will also prevent you from feeling overwhelmed with the pressure of catching up on your coursework while adjusting to a new country.

Another benefit of studying something you are good at is that you are more likely to achieve better grades, which gives you an advantage when you pursue employment after your studies.

Ultimately, university education is supposed to equip you with the skills necessary to succeed in your chosen field. If you are already proficient in your chosen subject before beginning your studies, imagine how much better you will be at it in three to four years. You will be the ideal candidate for any employer.

If you can combine something you enjoy with what you are good at, you will likely have found the perfect subject to study at the university level.

What subjects have you already studied?

While some universities are flexible about the subjects you have studied in secondary school, most will take into account your academic background before applying for their programmes. They look for evidence of your ability to apply previous knowledge to a specific subject.

For example, if you were a science student in secondary school, you may find it hard to get accepted for an art degree as you don't have any evidence of basic knowledge in that field.

Most universities require applicants to submit evidence of their post-secondary qualifications, such as vocational diplomas and A-levels. Don't forget to find out if you are required to have studied a relevant subject during your secondary education before applying for your dream university course.

Watch the video below for more tips and advice on how to choose a university subject.

What university course should I take?

After answering the above questions, you should have an idea of what subject you want to pursue at university. The next step is to identify the specific courses you will apply to.

There are many courses available on various subjects offered by institutions all over the world. It is important to note that the same course name might include different contents at different universities. Therefore, it is vital to study course outlines provided by universities to understand what the course involves.

What is your preferred form of assessment?

When deciding which course to apply for, it is also essential to consider the type of assessment involved, as it may considerably impact your enjoyment of the study programme.

You should discover the forms of assessment students will experience before applying for a course. Will you be expected to write lengthy essays, take closed-book exams, or deliver group projects and presentations? 

For instance, most civil engineering courses have no essay requirements but plenty of drawing assessments and design tasks. Is this something that you are open to? 

We recommend looking for assessment methods that complement your strengths and preferences to make the most of your university experience.