A recession-proof career in health

Around the world, many university graduates face a shrinking job market. But there is one career sector that will always be in demand – medicine and health.

Even now, doctors and medical specialists enjoy an almost 100% employment rate. And bonus migration points for qualified medical staff in some countries, such as Australia, can also make it easier to work abroad, especially if you’re willing to work in rural areas to start with.

Although that shouldn’t be your only reason for considering a career in health, if you are genuinely interested in helping people and making a difference to their lives, then it can also be a very rewarding career.

‘Medical studies’ is such a broad term. Although your parents may be keen to see you graduate as a doctor or surgeon, there are many other options. This guide will help you choose the best specialisation for your interests and abilities.

Your entry into the Health Industry

The University of Queensland has introduced a three-year degree program that can open doors to a wide range of health careers.

The Bachelor of Health Sciences (CRICOS code: 055897K) is an innovative, undergraduate program developed in consultation with the Australian health sector. The degree has been designed to be highly relevant to today’s health environment, where childhood obesity, cardiovascular disease and other ‘lifestyle’ induced health problems are in epidemic proportions and where there is a shortage of both clinical health professionals and health prevention experts.

It provides a broad overview of healthcare in areas such as biomedical sciences (e.g. anatomy, physiology, and psychology), the business of health (e.g. health systems) and preventive health (e.g. health promotion, nutrition and physical activity, and behavioural change). To ensure graduates of this degree are “job ready”, all students undertake an industry placement program which provides hands-on experience and an insight into future career options.

Top 10 reasons to choose your study destination

Last month, we looked at the things you should think about when choosing your course. But what if you need - or want - to decide on your destination first?

The truth is it doesn’t matter which way to you start narrowing your choices down, as long as it gets you where you want to be.

So, in this article we look at the Top 10 reasons for choosing a specific country to study in. You all have different reasons for wanting to study abroad, different interests and different needs. But at least one of these tips should lead you down the right path, and help you find the right course for you. If you think of some more, post a comment below!

Learning the laws of the world

So you want to be a lawyer. Or a solicitor, barrister, attorney. Or you want to fight for human rights, or negotiate complex business deals.

You’ll need a law degree. But laws are different in every country – so is studying law abroad a good idea?

Yes - especially if you want to practice Common Law, or English Law, somewhere in the world. Make sure you find the right law degree for you, with this guide to studying law overseas.

Australia: Training designed for global students at Menzies

Menzies Institute of Technology offers accredited Australian vocational courses to international students from around the world.

Located in the heart of Melbourne, one of Australia’s most cosmopolitan cities, the Menzies campus is the perfect place for international students to gain a diploma or certificate qualification. It’s safe and supportive, with all the help you need to settle into a new country.

UK: Indian law student shines at Swansea

Akash Sehdev was anxious at first about studying and living in a new country. But he soon found the confidence to take on extra-curricular roles such as international student ambassador and secretary to the Asian Society.

The Swansea University Business Studies and Law student shared his inspiring story in the British Council’s 2009 International Student Award Competition – and received a runner-up prize of £100.

USA: Ohio forges international friendships

Hyeran Chung, from South Korea, is a freshman at Ohio University’s College of Business, majoring in finance. As an international student, she says “we’re different, so we can sometimes be isolated. To me, to say hello to a native English speaker is very difficult, so I was scared to meet an American student.”

It’s a familiar story for new international students. So the College of Business has recently introduced a new international mentoring program.

Student Poll

Should you study abroad during a recession?

A global financial crisis. Mass unemployment. International firms closing their doors.

In this current economic climate, it’s not surprising that many students are reluctant to pay for international study.

But a recession can be the perfect time to take on a new degree. An education will only make you more employable when things pick up. Because things always do pick up.

Ask Anna

Question:

"Can you help me understand the new UK points based visa system for international students?"

Answer:

The new points-based visa system means that you need to obtain a certain amount of ‘points’ before you can apply for a student visa. For adult students you need 40 points in order to apply for a student visa.

Application Deadlines

Australia and New Zealand – Application deadlines are closing soon for July 2009 intake - especially if you live in visa level 3 and 4 countries like India and China.

Do not worry! Submit your application and supporting documents to us by the end of April to qualify. You do not need to scan and attach your documents; a counsellor can do this for you. Contact a counsellor for assistance with selecting a course, completing your applications and confirming your enrolment.

Applications are now opening for 2010 scholarship programs.

USA and Canada – You can still submit your application to start in September 2009, but you should contact your counsellor immediately. We encourage you to apply well in advance to secure a place and to allow time to apply for your visa.

Contact a counsellor for assistance with selecting a course or completing your applications.

UK and Ireland – Submit your application to StudyLink now to start in September 2009, the UK's main term. It is best to get your application in early, as popular courses will start to fill up soon. The application deadline is June 2009.

We recommend you submit your application and supporting documents to us as soon as possible, even with your latest results. You do not need to scan and attach your documents, a counsellor can do this for you. Contact a counsellor for assistance with selecting a course, completing your applications, and confirming your enrolment.