What should you study in the U.S.? This is one of the most common questions among Vietnamese students and parents who are considering studying abroad. Instead of choosing a major simply because it is popular or because a university has a high ranking, more students are now asking a practical question: What career opportunities will this field offer after graduation?
The U.S. job market is changing rapidly due to the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cybersecurity, automation, renewable energy, and the increasing demand for healthcare professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many occupations in technology, data science, cybersecurity, and healthcare are projected to grow significantly faster than the average for all occupations between 2024 and 2034.
Therefore, if you are wondering what to study in the U.S., here are seven fields worth considering.
1. Information Technology and Computer Science
When it comes to fields being transformed by AI and digitalization, Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science are among the most promising areas to consider.
Students can specialize in areas such as:
Computer Science
Software Engineering
Information Technology
Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning
Cloud Computing
Web Development
Computer Systems
Robotics
The demand for technology professionals does not come only from technology companies. Banks, hospitals, retailers, manufacturers, logistics companies, and many other industries increasingly rely on digital systems and need professionals with strong technical skills.
According to the BLS, employment of software developers is projected to grow by approximately 15.8% between 2024 and 2034, adding around 267,700 jobs. This growth is driven in part by the expansion of AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, automation, and software-based products.
Suitable for: Students who enjoy computers, programming, logical thinking, problem-solving, and technology.
2. Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
AI is becoming increasingly integrated into business operations and everyday life. As a result, in addition to Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science are becoming increasingly attractive fields for students considering studying in the U.S.
Data Science combines:
Mathematics + Statistics + Programming + Data Analysis
Students learn how to work with data to identify trends, support business decisions, and develop data-driven products and systems.
According to the BLS, employment of Data Scientists is projected to grow by 33.5% from 2024 to 2034, significantly faster than the 3.1% projected growth for total employment. Approximately 82,500 additional Data Scientist positions are expected during this period.
This is one reason programs related to AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science are attracting increasing attention from international students.
Suitable for: Students who enjoy mathematics, technology, analytical thinking, and working with data or AI.
3. Cybersecurity
As more activities move into digital environments, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important.
Organizations need to protect:
Customer data
Financial information
Internal systems
Technology infrastructure
Cloud-based systems
AI systems and digital applications
This creates growing demand for professionals specializing in Cybersecurity.
The BLS projects employment for Information Security Analysts to grow by 28.5% between 2024 and 2034, with approximately 52,100 additional jobs. The growing number of cyberattacks and increased investment in cybersecurity are among the factors driving this demand.
Popular areas of study include:
Cybersecurity
Information Security
Network Security
Cyber Defense
Digital Forensics
Suitable for: Students who enjoy technology, security, analytical thinking, and problem-solving.
4. Engineering
Engineering is a broad field that plays an important role across many industries in the U.S. economy.
Popular areas include:
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
One of the strengths of Engineering is that students develop not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills in problem-solving, design, testing, and real-world applications.
The growth of AI, robotics, electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy is also creating new demand for engineering professionals.
For students interested in STEM but who do not necessarily want to focus entirely on programming, Engineering can be an excellent alternative.
Suitable for: Students with strong interests in mathematics and physics who enjoy technical problem-solving, designing, or building things.
5. Healthcare
Not every promising career field in the U.S. is related to technology.
Healthcare is another field worth considering because the need for healthcare services remains strong, while the U.S. population continues to age.
Potential areas of study include:
Nursing
Public Health
Health Administration
Biomedical Science
Physical Therapy
Healthcare Management
In its 2024-2034 employment projections, the BLS identifies Nurse Practitioners among the fastest-growing occupations, with projected employment growth of approximately 40.1%. Several other healthcare and medical occupations are also expected to experience significant growth.
However, students should pay close attention to education requirements, professional certifications, and licensing requirements. Graduating from a healthcare-related program does not automatically mean that an international student can immediately practice a healthcare profession in the U.S.
Suitable for: Students interested in biology, healthcare, patient care, communication, and the medical field.
6. Renewable Energy
One field that may receive less attention from Vietnamese students but shows strong growth potential is Renewable Energy.
The expansion of solar power, wind energy, and clean-energy systems is creating demand for professionals in technical, engineering, installation, and operational roles.
According to the BLS, employment of Wind Turbine Service Technicians is projected to grow by 49.9%, while Solar Photovoltaic Installers are projected to grow by 42.1% between 2024 and 2034. These are among the occupations with the highest projected percentage growth.
Related areas of study include:
Renewable Energy
Environmental Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Energy Systems
Sustainability
This can be an interesting option for students interested in engineering, environmental issues, and energy technology.
7. Business, Finance, and Related Fields
Not every international student is suited to STEM.
Business and Finance remain popular choices among international students because of their broad applications across industries.
Potential areas of study include:
Business Administration
Finance
Accounting
Marketing
Economics
Supply Chain Management
Business Analytics
Financial Technology
One important trend is that Business is increasingly being combined with technology.
For example:
Business Analytics = Business + Data
FinTech = Finance + Technology
Digital Marketing = Marketing + Data + Technology
Therefore, students who are interested in business but also want to develop technology-related skills may want to consider interdisciplinary programs.
Which Fields Have the Strongest Career Prospects?
Based on projected employment growth from the BLS for 2024-2034, several areas stand out:
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
These figures represent projected employment growth in the U.S. They do not mean that every graduate in these fields will automatically find a job. This distinction is important when using labor-market data to make educational decisions.
