Studying abroad is more than just an adventure or a cultural exchange. It’s also one of the smartest moves you can make for your career. But let’s face it: not every degree guarantees a job offer, especially in a foreign country. If you’re going to invest your time, money, and energy into getting a qualification overseas, you’ll want to make sure it pays off with a job that supports your future.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best courses to study abroad for jobs, especially for students from South Africa. Whether you’re planning to study in the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, or Australia, we’ve highlighted fields that are not only popular but also lead to real job opportunities after graduation.
Let’s break it all down.
1. Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science
Tech continues to dominate the global job market. Countries like Canada, Germany, and the United States are constantly looking for software engineers, cybersecurity analysts, data scientists, and AI specialists. If you’re good with computers or math, this might be your calling.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Every company today needs IT support, from banks to hospitals.
- AI and machine learning are rapidly growing industries.
- Cybersecurity threats mean more specialists are needed.
Top Specializations:
- Data Science
- Software Engineering
- Cloud Computing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
Best Countries:
- United States
- Canada
- Ireland
- Germany
- Australia
Pro Tip: Many tech degrees also come with post-study work visas, especially in Canada and Australia.
👉 You can also explore career tips and funding options for tech students here.
2. Healthcare and Nursing
If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that healthcare workers are heroes. And they’re needed worldwide. If you have a passion for helping others, this path offers high job security and a good income abroad.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Global shortage of nurses and healthcare workers
- Aging populations in countries like Japan, Canada, and Germany
- High-paying jobs and permanent residency opportunities
Top Specializations:
- Nursing
- Public Health
- Physiotherapy
- Pharmacy
- Medicine
Best Countries:
- Canada
- UK
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Germany
Many of these countries also offer pathways to permanent residency for nurses and doctors.
💡 If you’re considering health science or nursing as a career path, check out available health bursaries in South Africa to help fund your undergraduate degree.
3. Engineering
Engineering is another field that opens doors globally. From civil and electrical to software and mechanical, engineers are always in demand. Countries are building smarter cities, greener infrastructure, and tech-based transportation systems.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Infrastructure development worldwide
- Green energy and climate change solutions
- Industrial expansion in emerging economies
Top Specializations:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Environmental Engineering
Best Countries:
- Germany (home of engineering excellence)
- Canada
- Australia
- UK
- Netherlands
💡 Browse engineering bursaries for South African students to prepare early.
4. Business and Finance
Every country needs skilled professionals in business management, finance, and accounting. These fields are especially good for students who want flexibility to work in different sectors or even start their own ventures.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Global companies need international managers
- Financial planning is key in every economy
- MBA graduates often receive high-paying job offers
Top Specializations:
- Business Analytics
- Accounting and Finance
- International Business
- Supply Chain Management
- Economics
Best Countries:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Singapore
- Canada
- Australia
Many business schools abroad have strong links to global companies. That means better internship and job placement opportunities.
✅ Consider applying for commerce and accounting bursaries in South Africa before heading abroad.
5. Education and Teaching
Believe it or not, teachers are in demand globally, especially for English, math, and science. If you’re fluent in English and love teaching, you can land jobs abroad with teaching credentials.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Demand for English-speaking teachers is growing
- Education systems abroad require skilled teachers
- It’s a noble and impactful profession
Top Specializations:
- TEFL or TESOL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
- Early Childhood Education
- Mathematics Education
- Special Needs Education
Best Countries:
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- UAE
- Canada
💡 You don’t always need a teaching degree to work abroad as an English teacher — a certificate like CELTA or TEFL is often enough.
6. Hospitality and Tourism Management
If you’re a people-person who loves travel, this field offers a global passport to work in hotels, airlines, resorts, and tourism companies. It’s especially big in countries that depend on tourism.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Tourism is a key economic driver in many countries
- Hotels, airlines, and restaurants are booming post-COVID
- Opportunities for quick career growth
Top Specializations:
- Hotel Management
- Culinary Arts
- Travel and Tourism
- Event Management
Best Countries:
- Switzerland (world leader in hospitality education)
- Australia
- Spain
- UAE
- France
🎓 Want to start with a diploma? Some bursaries support South Africans pursuing hospitality courses. Check out our guide to hospitality bursaries.
7. Environmental Science and Sustainability
Climate change is real, and the world needs experts who can help create greener solutions. If you’re passionate about nature, science, or policy, this field offers meaningful work and exciting research opportunities.
Why It’s In Demand:
- Growing need for climate change experts
- Renewable energy and sustainability are booming
- Jobs in both government and private sectors
Top Specializations:
- Environmental Engineering
- Climate Policy
- Marine Biology
- Renewable Energy
- Agriculture and Food Systems
Best Countries:
- Germany
- Sweden
- Canada
- Netherlands
- Australia
🌱 Bonus: Green jobs often come with funding and scholarships from international organizations.
Tips for South African Students Who Want to Study Abroad
Before you apply for any course, here are some key things to keep in mind:
✅ Check Post-Study Work Visas
Always confirm whether the country offers work opportunities after your studies. Countries like Canada, Australia, and Germany allow international students to stay and work after graduation.
✅ Choose Accredited Institutions
Make sure the college or university is recognized in both the host country and internationally. This matters for job applications and further studies.
✅ Apply for Bursaries and Scholarships
There are scholarships for South African students who want to study abroad. Organizations like the Commonwealth, DAAD (for Germany), and Chevening (for the UK) offer financial aid.
👉 Explore our complete list of bursaries for 2025 to find one that matches your field.
✅ Prepare for Language Tests
Some countries require English tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Others, like Germany or France, may require local language skills depending on the program.
Final Thoughts: Go Where Opportunity Leads
The best course to study abroad isn’t just about passion — it’s about opportunity. By choosing a field that’s in demand, you not only secure your future but also make your time abroad truly worthwhile.
As a South African student, you have so much potential and so many resources available. Don’t just dream of studying overseas — plan it right, and let your degree open doors to a global career.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out more tips and study abroad resources here. We update our listings regularly with new bursaries, university info, and career advice.
Have questions or want help applying for international bursaries? Drop your comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for updates straight to your inbox.