Every year, thousands of Nepali students and international students choose to study in the USA from Nepal and beyond. Their goal? World-class education and high-paying career opportunities.
In 2025, selecting the best courses in USA for international students is more important than ever. Rising education costs mean students are looking for programs that provide a strong return on investment and clear career growth.
This guide will help you identify the top courses in USA that offer:
- Competitive salaries
- High-demand skills for today’s global job market
- Opportunities in emerging fields like AI, Data Science, and Healthcare
Whether your goal is technology, business, healthcare, or innovative industries, this blog gives you a step-by-step roadmap to make an informed and strategic choice.
Why Study in the USA in 2025?
The USA remains the top choice for international students due to several factors:
- Reputation and Rankings: American universities dominate global education rankings. Degrees from universities such as MIT, Stanford, and Harvard carry immense global recognition.
- Cutting-Edge Research and Innovation: The USA invests heavily in research and development, offering students access to advanced labs, internships, and project-based learning.
- Career Opportunities & Work Experience: Programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) provide students opportunities to work up to three years post-graduation, especially for STEM courses.
- Cultural Diversity: With students from over 200 countries, the USA offers a rich multicultural campus life that helps international students adjust and grow intellectually.
- Scholarship Availability: Many universities and private organizations offer scholarships specially designed for talented international students, including those from Nepal.
For Nepali students planning to study in the USA from Nepal, combining these advantages with carefully chosen career-oriented programs maximizes chances for success.
Best Courses in USA for International Students
Choosing the right course depends on industry demand, salary prospects, and personal interests. Below are some of the best courses in the USA for 2025:
1. Computer Science & Information Technology
- Why It’s Best: High salary, vast global opportunities, and long OPT work period for STEM students.
- Popular Specializations: Software development, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI.
- Median Salary: ~$120,000/year (BLS, 2024)
- Job Growth: 15% projected by 2030
2. Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Software)
- Why It’s Best: Foundational skills across multiple industries.
- Average Salary: $88,000–$115,000 depending on specialization
- Job Growth: 4%–9% depending on discipline
3. Business & MBA
- Why It’s Best: Teaches management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship skills.
- Median Starting Salary: $105,000+
- Notes: Many U.S. business schools offer scholarships and assistantships for international students.
4. Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Why It’s Best: One of the fastest-growing fields worldwide.
- Median Salary: $120,000–$135,000
- Job Growth: >20% over the next decade
5. Healthcare & Nursing
- Why It’s Best: Rising demand creates stable career options.
- Median Salary: ~$80,000 annually (nurses), higher for administration/specializations
- Notes: Bridge programs available for international students seeking U.S. licensure
6. Law & Legal Studies
- Why It’s Best: Opens global career paths in international law, IP, corporate law.
- Entry-Level Salary: $60,000–$130,000 depending on experience
7. Media & Communication
- Why It’s Best: Growing demand for digital marketing, PR, and entertainment professionals.
- Median Salary: $45,000–$65,000
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
High-Paying & High-Demand Courses in USA
| Course | Starting Salary | Median Salary | Job Growth Rate (2023–2033) |
| Computer Science & IT | $70,000 | $120,000+ | 15% (much faster than average) |
| Engineering | $65,000 | $88,000–$115,000 | 4–9% |
| Business & MBA | $60,000 | $105,000+ | 8–10% |
| Data Science & AI | $75,000 | $120,000–$135,000 | 20%+ |
| Healthcare & Nursing | $55,000 | $80,000+ | 10–12% |
| Law & Legal Studies | $60,000 | $85,000–$130,000 | 6% |
| Media & Communication | $45,000 | $65,000 | 5% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook.
Best Degree in USA for Jobs & Career Growth
The best degrees balance salary, job growth, and personal interest:
- Computer Science: High salaries, innovation leadership, flexible career options
- Business & MBA: Leadership and strategic skills needed worldwide
- Healthcare: Guaranteed demand paired with social impact
- Engineering: Timeless technical degree with global employability
These degrees maximize both short-term employability and long-term career growth.
Courses in USA for Nepali Students
Nepali students often select programs considering cost, scholarships, and career prospects:
- Computer Science & IT
- Business Administration & Management
- Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil)
- Nursing & Allied Health
Scholarships & Costs
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Universities like University of Illinois and University of Texas
- Fulbright & Private Scholarships: For exceptional Nepali students
- Tuition Fees: $20,000–$50,000/year + living costs $10,000–$15,000
- Tip: Early applications enhance scholarship chances
Source: Institute of International Education – Open Doors Report.
Visa & Post-Graduation Work
- F-1 Student Visa: Proof of admission and financial support required
- STEM OPT Extensions: Up to 36 months of work post-study
- Universities provide dedicated visa counseling and career services
How to Choose the Right Course in USA
Consider the following when selecting career-oriented courses:
- Your Interests: Passion drives better engagement and performance
- Career Outlook: Research job market trends before committing
- Cost vs ROI: Factor tuition, living expenses, and expected starting salary
- Long-Term Goals: For U.S. work experience or permanent residency, focus on STEM-friendly courses
- Scholarship Availability: More scholarships = more affordable and strategic
Research thoroughly and consult education counselors for guidance.
Conclusion
For international students, especially those from Nepal planning to study in the USA, choosing the right course is more than just an education decision it’s an investment in your future.
The best courses in USA for international students include Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Data Science, and Healthcare, offering high salaries, strong job growth, and flexible career options.
Make your choice based on your passion, market demand, tuition costs, and future visa/work opportunities.
If you want personalized guidance on scholarships, visas, and course selection, our team at BBC Global Education can help you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey toward a successful study and career path in the USA.
FAQs
1. What are the highest-paying courses to study in the USA for international students?
Courses in Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Engineering offer the highest salaries, often exceeding $120,000/year after graduation (BLS, 2024).
2. Which courses are best for Nepali students planning to study in the USA?
Popular choices include Computer Science, Business Administration, Engineering, Nursing, and Healthcare programs. These courses provide scholarships, strong job prospects, and OPT work opportunities.
3. Which degrees are in the highest demand in the USA in 2025?
Data Science, AI, Computer Science, Healthcare, and Cybersecurity are the fastest-growing fields, with high employer demand and excellent long-term career potential.
4. Can Nepali students work while studying in the USA?
Yes! International students on F-1 visas can work part-time on campus and participate in OPT or CPT programs after graduation to gain real-world experience.
5. How can I choose the right course in the USA for my career goals?
Consider your interests, career outlook, tuition vs ROI, scholarships, and visa/work prospects. STEM courses often provide longer OPT periods and higher earning potential.
6. Are scholarships available for Nepali students in the USA?
Yes! Universities offer merit-based, need-based, and private scholarships, including programs like Fulbright. Applying early increases your chances of funding.
7. Is the USA still a good choice for international students in 2025?
Absolutely. The USA provides world-class education, global recognition, multicultural campuses, research opportunities, and strong career pathways, making it ideal for students from Nepal and other countries.
