Best Courses to Study in UK for International Students
Over 600,000 international students choose the UK annually, attracted by its top-ranked universities, shorter degree programs, and strong global career prospects. This makes the UK a popular destination not just worldwide but especially among Nepalese students aiming for skilled jobs and future PR opportunities.
Naturally, with so many options available, deciding on the right course can feel overwhelming. But taking the time to explore your choices is a smart first step toward making an informed decision.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best courses to study in the UK, covering specialisations, tuition fees, eligibility criteria, and career outcomes to help you find the path that fits your goals, whether after +2 or at master’s level.
Let’s begin with the most popular fields for Nepalese and other international students.
Table of Contents
- Best Courses in UK for International Students
- Best Courses to Study in UK After 12th
- Best Short Courses to Study in UK from Nepal
- Final Takeaway
- Choose a UK Educational Consultant for Easy Processing
- Frequently Asked Questions - Top Education Degrees in UK
Best Courses in UK for International Students
From business to biomedical sciences, the UK offers a wide range of programs that are aligned with global industry demand. Here's a closer look at the top fields, what they offer, and why they may be right for you.
1. Medical and Healthcare Courses in UK
Healthcare remains one of the most respected and rewarding fields in the UK. With an ageing population and a well-funded public health system like the NHS (National Health Service), there's a steady demand for skilled professionals across sectors.
Popular Programs:
- Undergraduate: MBBS, BSc Nursing, BSc Physiotherapy, BSc Biomedical Science
- Postgraduate: MSc Public Health, MSc Mental Health Nursing, MSc Healthcare Leadership
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
+2 Science or equivalent for bachelor's programs (with Biology/Science background) |
6.0 overall |
£20,000 – £38,000/year |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor's degree in health or science for postgrad courses |
6.5 overall |
£15,000 – £30,000/year |
Career Outcomes & Salary:
- Nurse: £24,000 (entry-level) to £40,000+ (experienced)
- Public Health Officer: £30,000 – £50,000
- Physiotherapist, Biomedical Scientist, Healthcare Assistant
Medical degrees in the UK open doors not only within the country but also globally. With the PSW visa, graduates can gain valuable work experience that leads to longer-term sponsorships or NHS placements.
Discover: Bachelor of Nursing in the UK from Nepal
2. Science and Technology Courses in UK
In today’s digital age, science and tech professionals are more in demand than ever. The UK has positioned itself as a leader in AI, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and data-driven research, making it a hotspot for future-ready students.
Popular Programs
- BSc/MSc Computer Science, BSc Cyber Security & Networks
- MSc Data Analytics / Data Science
- BSc Biotechnology / MSc Bioinformatics
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
12th Science with Mathematics or Computer for bachelor's |
6.0 overall |
£14,000 – £25,000/year |
|
Master’s |
A related bachelor’s degree for master's programs |
6.5 overall |
£13,000 – £22,000/year |
Career Outcomes & Salary:
- Cyber Security Analyst: £35,000 – £60,000
- Data Scientist: £40,000 – £70,000+
- Software Developer: £30,000 – £55,000
- Researcher, Biotech Lab Technician
What makes tech courses especially attractive is their high employability and relatively lower cost of education compared to medicine. Some universities even offer placement years or sandwich programs, which include a year of paid work experience in the UK.
3. Business and Finance Courses in UK
The UK is home to some of the world’s most renowned business schools. Courses in accounting, finance, business management, and marketing remain top choices among Nepalese students due to their practical relevance and career prospects.
Popular Programs
- BBA, BA (Hons) Business Management, BSc Accounting & Finance, BA Marketing
- MBA, MSc Finance, MSc Business Analytics, MSc International Business
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
+2 Management/Science or A Levels |
6.0 overall |
£13,000 – £20,000/year |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor’s in business, finance, or related |
6.5 overall |
£14,000 – £26,000/year |
Career Outcomes
Graduates often land roles in banking, consulting, marketing, and corporate sectors. Salaries start at around £28,000 and can exceed £50,000 with experience.
MBA graduates may access leadership roles faster and gain eligibility for skilled work visas under the UK's shortage occupation list.
4. Arts, Design and Media Courses in UK
For creative minds, the UK’s vibrant cultural scene and industry-led programs make it an ideal place to study. Fields like fashion, media, film, graphic design, and music production offer hands-on training, industry exposure, and portfolio development.
Popular Programs
- BA (Hons) Fashion Design, BA Graphic Design, BA Media & Communication, BA Photography
- MA Fashion & Textiles, MA Film Production, MA Music & Sound, MA Game Design
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
+2 or A Levels in any stream + portfolio |
6.0 overall |
£12,000 – £19,000/year |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor’s in a relevant field + portfolio |
6.5 overall |
£13,000 – £22,000/year |
Career Outcomes
Students can pursue careers as filmmakers, fashion designers, music producers, game designers, media strategists, or freelance creatives. Entry-level salaries typically range from £22,000 to £35,000, with growth depending on experience and project portfolio.
5. Architecture, Building and Planning
Architecture courses in the UK focus on sustainable design, urban planning, and smart infrastructure. With rising global demand for sustainable cities and housing solutions, these programs lead to rewarding career paths both in the UK and globally.
Popular Programs
- BSc Architecture, BSc Urban Planning, BSc Environmental Design
- MArch Architecture, MSc Urban Design, MSc Construction Project Management
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
+2 Science or A Levels + design portfolio |
6.0 overall |
£14,000 – £22,000/year |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor’s in architecture or related field |
6.5 overall |
£15,000 – £25,000/year |
Career Outcomes
Graduates work as architects, planners, construction managers, and sustainability consultants. Starting salaries average £30,000 and may reach £50,000+ with professional accreditation and experience.
6. Agriculture and Related Sciences
Given Nepal’s strong agricultural roots, many students are now turning to the UK to learn about modern agriculture, food technology, and agribusiness management. The UK offers practical, research-driven courses in one of the most advanced agricultural ecosystems.
Popular Programs
- BSc Agriculture, BSc Agribusiness, BSc Animal Science
- MSc Agricultural Technology, MSc Food Security, MSc Environmental Science
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
+2 Science (preferably biology/agriculture) |
6.0 overall |
£13,000 – £19,000/year |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor’s in agriculture or a science field |
6.5 overall |
£14,000 – £22,000/year |
Career Outcomes
Career opportunities include roles in agri-research, food safety, organic farming, and sustainability consulting. Students can also apply their knowledge back home through entrepreneurship in Nepal’s growing agri-tech scene.
7. Hospitality and Tourism Management
As one of the most globalised service sectors, hospitality and tourism provide wide-ranging job opportunities. The UK’s practical approach to training ensures students graduate with employable skills in hotel management, event planning, and travel services.
Popular Programs
- BA (Hons) Hospitality Management, BA Travel & Tourism
- MSc International Hospitality Management, MSc Tourism Marketing
Eligibility & Tuition Fees
|
Program Level |
Academic Eligibility |
IELTS Requirement |
Tuition Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s |
+2 or A Levels in any stream |
6.0 overall |
£12,000 – £18,000/year |
|
Master’s |
Bachelor’s in business or related field |
6.5 overall |
£13,000 – £20,000/year |
Career Outcomes
Career paths include hotel and resort management, airline services, event coordination, and tourism boards. Starting salaries are around £24,000–£35,000, and international students often gain work placements in global hospitality brands.
Best Courses to Study in UK After 12th
If you’ve recently completed your +2 (NEB, A-Levels, or equivalent) and are considering the UK for your undergraduate studies, you’re already ahead of the curve. The UK’s undergraduate degrees are globally recognised, career-oriented, and often shorter; most bachelor's degrees take just 3 years to complete, saving you time and money.
Here are some of the best undergraduate courses to study in UK after 12th, based on stream and career potential:
|
Stream |
Recommended Courses |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Science |
Computer Science, Nursing, Biomedical Science, Engineering |
3–4 years |
|
Management |
Business Administration, Marketing, Accounting & Finance |
3 years |
|
Humanities/Arts |
Psychology, English Literature, Media & Communication, Sociology |
3 years |
|
Hotel Mgmt |
Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary Arts |
3 years |
|
Creative Fields |
Fashion Design, Film & TV, Interior Design, Graphic Design |
3 years |
Eligibility and English Requirements
- Completion of +2 (HSEB, NEB, or CBSE equivalent)
- IELTS score of 6.0 (some universities may accept lower with a foundation year)
Why Apply After +2?
- Early start to your international career
- Opportunity to work part-time during studies and full-time during holidays
Access to 2-year post-study work visa (PSW) after graduation - Easier progression to master’s or work visa routes
If you're unsure which course best suits your academic background and career goals, expert counselling can help you explore the right match.
Best Short Courses to Study in UK from Nepal
Short courses in the UK offer a practical and cost-effective way to upgrade your skills, switch careers, or gain international experience in a focused area. These programs are designed to deliver industry-specific training in as little as a few weeks to a year.
Popular Short Courses Among International Students
|
Course Area |
Duration |
Common Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
|
Digital Marketing |
3–12 months |
SEO/PPC specialist, content strategist |
|
Business Management |
6–9 months |
Project coordinator, team leader |
|
Hospitality Management |
6–12 months |
Hotel supervisor, front desk roles |
|
IT & Cyber Security |
3–6 months |
Entry-level IT jobs, security assistant |
|
Health & Social Care |
6–12 months |
Care assistant, support worker |
|
Graphic Design |
3–6 months |
Freelance designer, junior designer |
Visa and Admission Tips:
- Many short-term programs require a Short-Term Study Visa or can be done under Tier 4 (Student) Visa if combined with longer study.
- Entry requirements vary, but most courses require a +2 pass and basic English proficiency.
Benefits of Short Courses in the UK
- Quick entry into the workforce
- No long-term commitment required
- Ideal for skill-based or specialised practical training
- Great exposure of British culture, education, and the job market
- Excellent for career-switching or building your UK CV before applying for a full-time degree
Things to Consider Before Studying the UK’s Short-Term Course
- These are typically vocational courses or professional certificate training.
- You will not receive a Post-study work visa (PSW) like Bachelor's, master's, or PhD graduates
- Allows for study in the UK for courses lasting longer than 6 months but not more than 11 months
Final Takeaway
Choosing the best course to study in the UK is more than just picking a subject you enjoy. It’s about aligning your interests with industry trends, career opportunities, and visa pathways that set you up for long-term success.
Whether you're exploring after +2 or planning a postgraduate move, the UK offers incredible options, from tech and health to business and the arts.
Explore the subjects of your interest, take suggestions from your experienced tutors and seniors, or even consider career counselling to make the best decision without any delay.
Once you are done choosing the perfect course for yourself, you can proceed to understand the academic and visa requirements to study in the UK from Nepal.
Choose a UK Educational Consultant for Easy Processing
There’s a long path from your first step of exploring courses in the UK to stepping into your dream university for the first time. A pile of confusing documentation, planning, preparing applications, submitting them, and finally getting approved! And, the beginning of the next journey ahead.
At such crucial times, Dewarshi Education is your strategic partner in making confident, informed, and effective study decisions. Recognised by students and parents alike as a trusted consultancy in Nepal for the UK, we help you:
- Choose the right course and university
- Prepare and apply with complete documentation
- Secure scholarships and understand visa options
- Get pre-departure guidance and post-arrival support
Let’s find the course that brings out the best in you.
Book a FREE counselling session with Dewarshi Today! Take your first step toward studying in the UK with clarity and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions - Top Education Degrees in UK
Which course is in demand in the UK?
Cyber Security and Nursing top the demand charts. Cybersecurity is officially on the UK government’s shortage occupation list, with over 30,000 vacancies listed on UK job sites. Meanwhile, the NHS projects a need for 50,000+ new nurses by 2026. The construction trades (electricians, plumbers, builders) are also critically short of 300,000 professionals.
Which course has the best scope in the UK?
Courses in Data Science, AI & Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity are expanding rapidly. Job postings for AI roles alone grew 21% from 2018–2024, accelerating demand for skilled professionals. Additionally, green jobs, especially in electrical engineering and renewable energy are a national priority.
Which course is best for PR in the UK?
Fields listed under the Skilled Worker Shortage Occupation List are highly favorable for work visa routes and PR. Popular courses include:
- Nursing & other healthcare professions
- Cyber Security & IT
- Construction project management and trades
- Engineering specialties (Civil, Electrical)
These degrees help graduates meet key eligibility for skilled worker visas.
Which course is highly paid in the UK?
AI & Machine Learning, Data Science, and Construction Trades (like bricklaying, plumbing) offer some of the highest pay. Senior ML professionals earn £45,000–£75,000+. Remarkably, a London bricklayer can earn up to £90,000 a year with no university debt.
Which course is best for international students in the UK?
Courses in Computer Science, Engineering, Business & Finance, and Nursing are popular among international students. These fields combine high employability, shorter degree durations (Master’s in 9–12 months), and post-study visa eligibility. Over 70% of international students report faster career progression due to UK education.
Which course is best for a UK student visa?
Courses with full-time duration (6+ months) and recognised by UK Visas & Immigration (Tier 4/Student route) qualify. Popular options include undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fields such as:
- Business & Management
- STEM (Engineering, IT, Data Science)
- Healthcare (Nursing)
- Creative arts (with portfolio)
Short courses under six months may require a separate Short-Term Study Visa.
Which course is the cheapest in the UK?
Humanities, Education, Social Sciences, and Arts-based undergraduate programs often have the lowest tuition fees—typically £10,000–£15,000/year. Popular affordable universities include Sunderland, Bolton, Leeds Trinity, Chester, and Stirling (tuition ranging £12,000–£14,000/year).
Is the UK good for Nepali students?
Yes, the UK remains a preferred destination for Nepalese students, with a growing diaspora of over 77,000 Nepali-born residents. The UK offers:
- Globally recognised degrees,
- Diverse multicultural environments,
- Strong post-study visa pathways—but living costs and tuition are high, so wise budgeting and scholarship guidance are essential.
How much does it cost to study abroad in the UK?
Typical annual costs for international students are:
- Tuition: £10,000–£38,000/year (UG), £10,000–£30,000/year (Master’s)
- Living expenses: £900–£1,400/month depending on city
- Visa + NHS surcharge: £348–£524 visa fee + £470–£776/year health surcharge
For Nepali students, total cost ranges from £11,000 to £22,000/year tuition, plus £10,000–£13,000 living, plus visa/IHS fees making average annual costs roughly £24,000–£35,000.
Explore all the cost requirements to study in the UK from Nepal in detail
Is the UK a good place to study abroad?
Absolutely. The UK stands out for:
- Shorter degree formats (e.g., 3-year UG, 1-year Master’s),
- High global employability for UK graduates (70% report quicker promotions),
- Strong academic quality and multicultural campuses,
- Clear post-study visa routes, such as the Graduate Visa, allowing 2 years stay after graduation.
Just ensure you plan your finances carefully and choose courses aligned with your goals and market demand.
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