Doc Summary
Choosing what course to study in Australia is a strategic decision that affects your employability, visa options, budget, and long‑term goals. This guide from Skills Campus explains how to choose the right program based on job demand, permanent residency (PR) pathways, entry requirements, and total cost—plus how Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can fast‑track your outcomes.
Quick answer: What course should I study in Australia? #
Pick a course that aligns with your skills and interests, is CRICOS-registered, and leads to jobs on Australia’s skilled occupation lists. In-demand fields include nursing, IT (cyber/data), engineering, education, trades, aged care, and community services. Verify PR pathways, entry requirements, total cost, and location before you apply.
- Match your strengths and career goals to labour market demand.
- Confirm the occupation appears on the Skilled Occupation Lists for PR potential.
- Ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (for Student visa 500).
- Check English, academic, and financial requirements.
- Consider RPL to reduce time and cost where your experience counts.
How to choose the right course #
Understand your career goals and job demand #
Start with your strengths and desired occupation. Then validate demand using government data. Australia needs qualified professionals in healthcare, education, technology, construction, and care sectors. Use Labour Market Insights to review job outlook, typical earnings, and required qualifications.
Consider permanent residency (PR) pathways #
If PR is part of your plan, select courses aligned to an ANZSCO occupation on the skilled occupation lists. Typical PR‑friendly areas include Registered Nurse, Early Childhood Teacher, Software Engineer, Civil Engineer, Electrician, Carpenter, Chef (varies by state), and Social Worker. Always cross‑check current lists at Home Affairs and state migration sites, as lists change.
Budget and return on investment #
Balance tuition, living costs, and likely graduate salaries. Public universities and reputable VET providers offer a range of CRICOS courses at different price points. Explore scholarships via Study Australia, and compare projected earnings on Labour Market Insights to ensure value for money.
Location and lifestyle #
City choice affects internships, part‑time work, and living costs. Major hubs (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide) differ in industry clusters—for example, tech in Sydney/Melbourne, resources and engineering in Perth, aged care and education across all states.
Entry requirements and English level #
Check academic prerequisites and English scores (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent). Some programs require portfolios, interviews, or work experience. Verify Genuine Student (GS) requirements and evidence of funds under the Student visa (subclass 500): official guidance.
Study mode and duration #
Undergraduate programs are typically 3–4 years; postgraduate coursework 1–2 years; VET certificates/diplomas range from 6–24 months. Consider pathways (VET to degree), internships/placements, and the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa settings relevant to your level of study.
Use Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) #
If you have work experience or previous study, RPL can convert skills into nationally recognised qualifications, reducing study time and cost. RPL is particularly effective in trades, community services, business, and IT—ask Skills Campus for an eligibility check.
Accreditation matters: CRICOS and AQF #
For international students, the provider and course must be CRICOS-registered. Ensure the qualification is mapped to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and the relevant accrediting body (e.g., TEQSA/ASQA, industry boards). This safeguards quality and visa integrity.
In‑demand courses for international students (examples) #
- Nursing and Midwifery: Bachelor of Nursing; strong demand nationwide; potential PR pathways; skills assessment via ANMAC.
- Information Technology: Cyber security, data analytics, software engineering; skills assessment via ACS.
- Engineering: Civil, electrical, mechanical; infrastructure and energy projects continue to drive demand; skills assessment via Engineers Australia.
- Early Childhood and Teaching: Early childhood education and secondary teaching; national demand across states.
- Trades and Construction: Carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting, and construction management; strong pathways via VET and apprenticeships (state dependent).
- Community Services and Aged Care: Certificates/Diplomas in Individual Support, Community Services; growing sector linked to ageing population.
- Allied Health Pathways: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, medical laboratory science (competitive entry; strong outcomes).
- Hospitality and Cookery: Commercial cookery and hospitality management; PR suitability varies by state and lists.
- Business, Project Management, and Supply Chain: Strong if aligned with analytics/operations and practical experience.
Confirm current occupation eligibility and assessment pathways against the latest Home Affairs lists and state nomination criteria.
Costs, scholarships, and earnings outlook #
Tuition varies widely by provider and level. Many VET courses are more affordable and offer direct job skills; university degrees may unlock higher‑level roles and longer graduate visas. Investigate scholarships and grants at Study Australia, and compare job outlooks and median earnings using Labour Market Insights to project your return on investment.
Frequently asked questions #
Which courses are best for PR? Nursing, early childhood teaching, engineering, IT, trades, and community services frequently appear on skilled lists. Always verify current occupations on Home Affairs.
Can I work while studying? Student visa work limits apply and can change. Review the latest rules on the official Student 500 visa page: Home Affairs.
How do I know a course is valid for my visa? It must be on the CRICOS Register and meet Genuine Student criteria. Engage a reputable provider and seek guidance from Skills Campus.
How Skills Campus helps you choose the right course #
- Personalised shortlisting aligned to job demand and PR options.
- Admission support for CRICOS‑registered courses and providers.
- RPL assessments to recognise your experience and shorten study time.
- Guidance on English requirements, GTE/GS evidence, and financials.
- Ongoing support after enrolment: compliance, progression, and next‑step pathways.
Ready to decide what course to study in Australia? Speak with a Skills Campus advisor for tailored recommendations and a clear plan from study to skilled employment and PR where eligible.
Visit Skills Campus or contact us here to get started.
