Sought after degrees to pursue at leading global universities

Employment opportunities are changing dynamically around the globe. Today, employers are going beyond the traditional graduates who come from conventional academic backgrounds and appreciating candidates who have navigated a different trajectory in terms of their academic disciplines.

Risk is finally being rewarded as far as choices of academic majors are concerned. A degree signals to employers that you can stay committed and work through years of subject matter to become well-versed in a topic. It also shows employers that you have many skills that are transferable in the workplace, such as time management, problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and more. Let's have a look at some of the most sought-after degrees to pursue at leading global universities:



1. Pharmacology
With the ongoing pandemic, allied medicine domains have gained significant popularity for all the right reasons. Students are now inclined to create alternate careers that stem beyond pure medicine. For a lucrative career helping people, pharmacology is at the top of the list for in-demand degrees. Some of the major universities around the world have refined their courses to make programs related to pharmacy and pharmacology more attractive to students.

2. Computer Science
Computer Science affects virtually every industry, and as such, it is a growing and prosperous field of study, it always has been and always will be. Among the most-in-demand Computer Science degrees are those specialising in management information systems because the big data boom is constantly expanding. The number of branches just keeps diversifying and candidates are spoilt for choice.

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is another such specialisation that has been prominent in recent years. HCI is the study of how people interact with computers and to what extent computers are or are not developed for successful interaction with human beings.

3. Health Science
Health Science and Healthcare Administration is a promising career choice as medical technology and average life expectancy continue to increase. Individuals who major in Health Science have the opportunity to work in various settings, from hospitals, doctor’s offices, rehab clinics, in-home and the like. Mixing business and health, the degree is best for analytical thinkers and good communicators. By 2026, the field is expected to grow by 20% and salary increases heavily with more education.

4. Finance
This is no surprise. Finance is one of the most sought-after domains at leading universities globally. Candidates understand the industry requirements and are aware of how employers are always on the lookout for well-rounded candidates, coming with a strong academic background in finance. A finance degree is a gateway to several jobs. Finance majors may work in investment banking, corporate finance, private equity, venture capital and asset management. One might work as a planner, analyst, or investment associate with no training beyond your degree and related experience. These finance jobs pay well and present opportunities for growth.

5. Human Resources
Employees in Human Resources help to deal with people in organisations. They manage hiring, onboarding, talent management, developmental resources and help maintain equality within organisations. This is one of the critical functions of any organisation. The demand is only on the rise for this favoured domain, and it remains one of the favourite degrees for aspiring candidates at leading universities.

6. Psychology
From therapy to counselling to working in schools and hospitals, those who get a degree in Psychology open doors to many possibilities. Over the next decade, the field is expected to grow by 19% as there is a wave of focus on personal well-being and mental health. There is no industry that does not require candidates from a background in psychology and that is how rich this discipline is, and leading universities that offer exceptional programs are even updating the curriculum as well as their pedagogy to make this domain even more robust than it already is.

7. Political Science
Because it often deals with current events and sophisticated statistical analysis, political science is timely, fascinating, and perpetually changing. In a nutshell, it's the study of politics of government, and some of the common concentrations are international relations, public policy, foreign affairs, political philosophy, and comparative government. Political science majors develop excellent critical thinking and communication skills, and more broadly, an understanding of history and culture. There will be lots of reading, writing, and math. Possible career paths are diverse—from lawyer to civil services to politician to journalist.

There is an array of degrees up for grabs at the leading universities around the globe and it is just a matter of interest carefully matched with the candidate's aptitude; and the growing industry demand that can make a viable case for an individual’s success.

In case you are unsure about the right degree for you, it is always better to connect with a career counsellor who can help you navigate this crucial journey. Please note that the aforementioned degrees are bound to change in due time, as the opportunities will continue to grow and evolve, and we should be prepared to adapt to dynamic shifts in career trends.