Introduction

The world has become a global village. Students aspiring to study abroad can apply from anywhere at any time. Studying abroad helps students gain knowledge and exposure from world class universities. They guide students in their career paths and help excel in their life. The most important decision to be made is regarding the right course. Each student should prioritise their interests, needs and dreams while selecting a study abroad program. The course one chooses should aid with motivation and help pursue career and life goals. Let’s take a look at some of the highly-talked about futuristic courses to study abroad.

5 Unique Courses of 21st Century

Rapid changes are seen in every nook and corner of the world. New career paths have gained significance as the human race moves farther forward. Business studies, engineering, law and accounting are some of the conventional courses opted by students across the globe when it comes to studying abroad. Studying something unique and futuristic instead is highly needed. Choosing these subjects and their respective courses alongside having a good career map in mind can help you serve the needs of tomorrow’s world and build a strong career foundation.

1. Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking

This is a digital transformation era. Cybersecurity has become a necessity, simultaneous with the evolution of other technologies. Large and small organizations hire cybersecurity personnel to safeguard their valuable information and data from the attack of hackers. Loss or breach of data means huge financial losses to any company. With the increasing demand for talented technical personnel towards this objective, a new stream termed ‘Ethical Hacking’ is evolving. Ethical or legal hackers are the ones who are employed to find out technical glitches inside the security systems deployed within the company. 

2. Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is a fast growing discipline which combines  biology and computer science. Students study human genes and analyse data to find out their protein sequences. There are prestigious world class universities in many countries offering bachelors and masters programs in bioinformatics. Career roles in teaching, as a science technician, research assistant, bioinformatics analyst, bioinformatics software developer and research associate can also be looked at. 

3. Econometrics

Econometrics is the discipline of economics which uses mathematical approaches to analyse economic policies. Policy makers and researchers use this branch of study to understand economic reforms as well as policies of governments and countries. The impact of economic policies on a nation can also be understood using this statistical branch. Both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes are available in many countries for those interested in a career in econometrics. Slow and steady growth is expected for successful economists and data analysts. 

4. Dance Therapy

Not just for people interested in becoming professional dancers, but also for the general public, some sort of dancing is always fun! Yes, dancing is not just a career these days. Many dance forms are used in modern day physical fitness and exercise regimes as therapies. Dance therapies like the centuries-old music therapies have been found to have a positive effect in treating anxiety, depression and stress. 

5. Gemology

Gemology is the art of studying precious stones. Students learn various aspects of precious gems, processing, cutting and valuing them. It is truly an exciting and high-flying career for those with a flair for gems and their sparkle! There are universities and small scale specialised academies in different parts of the world where you can earn a recognized diploma or degree in gemology. Remember, this is one career where progression gets better as you gain experience and grow enthusiastic to learn more. 

Conclusion

After completing high school, you will have to choose a stream to begin tertiary education in. In today’s world there are unconventional yet exciting and rewarding courses that can open up the doors of the future for you. Do a thorough study on the job market both in your country and internationally, analyse your interests and dreams, understand the course modules and apply. Remember, studying abroad is not just about academics, it is also about networking with an international community, developing your interpersonal-communication skills and gaining immense life skills.