PASSPORT TO GLOBAL STUDIES
Choose from short-term courses that help build a new skill or a long-term programme that gives you an added advantage.
Are you looking for international experience and diversity or do you want to try out a different academic paradigm? Here are five tips to help you shortlist your course.
IDENTIFY YOUR CAREER GOALS If you need a full-time immersive learning experience to gain knowledge and acquire credentials for career prospects, a short-time course abroad will not be equally valued as a long-term course in many educational and professional sectors pertaining to medicine, engineering, science, and finance.
SUIT YOUR ACADEMIC NEEDS Short-term courses are best leveraged to strengthen your areas of interest before you pursue them in your undergraduate. If you have already decided on your area of study, head for a long-term course. It is oriented towards providing you a comprehensive educational scaffolding and personal growth.
PERSONALISE THE EXPERIENCE Studying abroad is a personal journey and you must be fully aware of your expectations. If you want to spend a summer constructively, explore a different geography and enjoy a new culture, a short summer course fits the bill. For a more intensive international experience of academic feats, campus life, culture and lifestyle, consider a long-term course.
REVIEW YOUR BUDGET Study your financial considerations well as they play a crucial role in your study plans. Test the waters with a short-term course on your preferred subject in your target college first. If you can pool funds through scholarships and loans then evaluate the impact of your academic endeavours abroad to your investment.
FACTOR IN THE TIME You might have time constraints pertaining to family or don’t want to stay away from home for a longer period, yet you want to savour the experience of study abroad. A short-term course will provide you with the needful.
WHAT’S IN DEMAND A longer course will add value to your CV, besides giving you a distinguished brand. If you are a graduate from a top-tier school, you’ll be an asset to any employer across the globe. However, with the emergence of a skill-driven job market, short-term courses are gaining importance.
WHERE TO STUDY Do your homework and scour university websites, speak to students and alumni, and if possible, visit your target colleges. More than rankings, go for schools which offer courses that meet your needs.