What Is the Best Degree to Graduate in Australia?

The best degree to graduate Australia isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on your interests, career goals, and financial plans. Some degrees always shine with great job prospects. They lead the way in demand and career growth.

According to government data, more than 89% of graduates from these areas secure full-time jobs within six months. These degrees are also popular among international students, as they improve chances for permanent residency. Whether you prioritise passion or practicality, picking a degree that aligns with your future goals is key.

Factors That Define the Best Degree in Australia

When choosing the best degree to graduate in Australia, you need to look beyond popularity. What fits one student might not be the right choice for someone else. The right degree should fit your career goals, lifestyle, and visa rules. Here are the key factors to consider:

Job Market Demand: Degrees in health, IT, engineering, and education are on Australia’s Skills Priority List. These offer better job prospects and quicker employment after graduation. Graduates in these most demanding fields are likely to land a full-time job in just six months.

Permanent Residency Eligibility: When you study abroad after 12th with the country’s skill shortages in mind, your chances of getting PR go up significantly. Health, teaching, engineering, and software development frequently appear on skilled visa lists.

Average Graduate Salary: IT, engineering, and healthcare degrees often pay above the national average. The typical salary is AUD 65,000-85,000+. You will enjoy great value for the money you spend.

Study Duration & Costs: Generally, bachelor’s programs require 3-4 years to complete. In contrast, shorter diplomas require less time to complete. The cost is also lower, and entry into the workforce is faster. You can pick as per your interest and career goals. 

International Students’ Work Rights: As of July 2025, if you hold a subclass 500 student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic semesters. You can work without any hour limits during your course breaks. Postgraduate research students (Master’s by research or PhD) have no work‐hour limits even during study periods. Knowing this helps you plan your finances and career experience.

Lifestyle Preferences: Some careers offer flexibility. Such as remote roles in tech or office-based jobs. Others, like healthcare or teaching, involve shift work and structured hours. Pick a degree that matches how you want to balance work and life.

Best Degrees in Australia for International Students

International students can choose from many diverse degree programs in Australia. These offer great facilities, real-world training, and high job demand worldwide. As an Indian student, studying in Australia should mean quality education, better career chances, and strong post-study work options to you. 

Health Sciences

This program builds a foundation in health and wellness. An ideal path if you are aiming to build a healthcare career.

Key Specialisations:

• Nutrition

• Nursing

• Occupational Therapy

• Paramedicine

• Public Health

Computer Science

A Bachelor of Computer Science opens doors to advanced fields in tech and innovation.

Key Specialisations:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Careers include AI Engineer, Research Scientist, and Big Data Engineer.

• Cybersecurity: Vital in today’s digital age. You can work as a Cybersecurity Analyst or an IT Auditor.

• Game & Mobile App Development: The mobile and gaming tech is rising. Career paths include Game Programmer and iOS/Android Developer.

Information Technology

Information Technology degrees are budget-friendly and flexible. It leads to jobs in growing fields like AI, data science, and software development.

Key Specialisations:

• Machine Learning: Work in AI-driven roles like Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, or NLP Scientist.

• Data Science: Roles include Data Analyst, Data Architect, and Marketing Analyst. Jobs that rely on data are booming in every industry.

• Software Development: Gain skills to create, develop, and manage software applications. Careers include Front-End, Back-End, Full-Stack, and Cloud Developer.

Business & Commerce

Business degrees are widely accepted and highly employable.

Key Specialisations:

• Marketing: Involves branding, digital advertising, and campaign strategy.

• Management: Prepare for leadership roles in any industry.

• Business Analytics: Use data to support strategic decisions.

• Human Resource Management: Manage hiring, employee relations, and company rules.

If you have a finance and economics background, commerce degrees are a great choice.

Key Specialisations:

• Financial Management: Plan and control company budgets and expenditures.

• Economics: Study market systems, public policy, and economic trends.

• Accounting & Finance: Maintain accurate records and financial reporting.

What Degree Should You Choose Based on Your Strengths?

Deciding on the best degree to graduate in Australia starts with knowing what you're good at. Your strengths can guide you to the right path. Here's a guide to help you align your skills with in-demand degrees in Australia. This approach makes your journey to study abroad after 12th a future-proof and fulfilling one.

If You’re Great with Numbers, Logic & Problem-Solving

Your strengths: Analytical thinking, numbers, patterns, logic, and building systems.

Best-fit degrees:

• Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Software): Apply logic to real-world infrastructure and tech projects.
  
  

• Information Technology / Computer Science: Ideal if you enjoy programming, algorithms, or AI.
  
  

• Accounting & Finance: Perfect for those who love structure, financial planning, or analysis.

Career paths:

• Software Engineer, Network Architect, Chartered Accountant, Financial Analyst

If You Love Helping People & Making a Difference

Your strengths: Empathy, communication, patience, teamwork.

Best-fit degrees:

• Nursing & Allied Health: For those who want to work in hospitals, aged care, or community health.
  
  

• Psychology: Great for mental health enthusiasts with long-term goals in therapy or research.
  
  

• Education / Teaching: Ideal if you enjoy guiding others, especially children or young adults.

Career paths:

• Careers like Registered Nurse, Clinical Psychologist, Primary School Teacher, and Social Worker.

If You’re Creative, Visual, or Expressive

Your strengths: Design thinking, storytelling, visual communication, innovation.

Best-fit degrees:

• Design (Graphic, UX, Industrial): For visual problem-solvers and product innovators.
  
  

• Media & Communication: Ideal for content creators, journalists, or digital marketers.
  
  

• Performing Arts / Creative Arts: For those with a passion for music, theatre, or fine arts.

Career paths:

• UX Designer, Art Director, Content Strategist, Animator, Copywriter

Top Australian Universities for High-Value Degrees

Australian universities are eminent for academic excellence. They enhance the value of the best degree to graduate in Australia. Each one offers unique strengths. Thus, they stand out to those planning to study in Australia.

Monash University

Monash University stands out for its Medicine programs. They provide world-class clinical training, early industry exposure, and advanced research facilities. This university works closely with leading hospitals across Australia. You'll get real-world training and graduate job-ready. It also boosts chances for skilled migration to Australia.

University of New South Wales

A top choice for medical and biomedical sciences to study abroad after 12th. UNSW has modern labs and high global rankings. You get clinical experience from the start. It’s a great choice if you're into health tech or medical research.

University of Sydney

One of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It ranks high for Medicine and Health Sciences. It has great research and real clinical training. Perfect if you want a strong future in healthcare.

RMIT University

A leader in Engineering and Technology. RMIT’s programs are highly practical. It offers hands-on training and real-world projects. You’ll study in top labs and get experience in civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.

University of Technology Sydney

UTS is well known for its innovation. This university delivers engineering degrees that emphasise entrepreneurship, digital skills, and real-world collaboration. Its central Sydney location also gives you access to top employers and internships.

University of Queensland

UQ is among the top 50 universities globally for engineering. This university combines theory with hands-on experience. It’s known for strong research. It has strong ties to the mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors, opening up great career pathways.

Deakin University

Deakin is a top choice for tech students. It’s known for strong IT and Computer Science programs. The university offers cloud-based learning and real industry projects. Graduates often land great jobs in digital fields.

Griffith University

Its strong focus on cybersecurity, data science, and IT innovation makes Griffith a go-to option for a future-proof career. Its Gold Coast and Brisbane campuses offer hands-on tech training in high-demand fields.

Macquarie University

Macquarie’s IT degrees blend technical and business skills, ideal for those eyeing roles in software development, systems design, or IT consulting. Its internship program and proximity to Sydney’s tech hubs offer career advantages.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

ACU is popular for its Nursing and Health Sciences programs. This university offers clinical placements in top hospitals and a supportive learning environment. The courses are tailored to fill Australia’s healthcare shortages, ideal for international students aiming for PR.

University of South Australia

UniSA stands out for practical, career-oriented nursing programs. It integrates simulated healthcare training with real-world placements, ensuring graduates are prepared for fast employment in Australia's health sector.

University of Wollongong

Strong in Accounting and Finance, UOW’s business programs are accredited and globally recognised. Students benefit from hands-on experience, financial software training, and a focus on ethical business practices.

University of Canberra

UC is a popular university among international students for its practical teaching style. Accounting and Commerce degrees here emphasise employability and global relevance. With strong industry ties and a campus near major government and finance bodies, you will gain access to real-world insights.

How to Choose the Best Degree for You – Final Checklist

Rounding Up

The best degree to graduate in Australia is the one that brings out your true potential. It opens doors to real success. Your future is shaped by smart choices. Your degree is the first step. Whether you love technology, care for others, or want to create boldly, Australia is the ideal place to begin. With world-class universities, career-focused programs, your education here is a career strategy. For every Indian student ready to rise, this is your moment. Start strong, choose wisely, and let your ambition lead the way. Australia is waiting.