Pathway courses in Australia are one of the most effective ways for international students to start their journey toward university. While there is a list of the best pathway course for pr in Australia, it is essential to clarify that pathway courses are primarily designed to help students meet university entry requirements.
While they can support the academic transition, they are not directly linked to gaining permanent residency (PR). To increase their chances of obtaining PR, students typically need to pursue courses aligned with the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), and gain relevant work experience afterward.
Key Considerations for PR in Australia
Before diving into specific courses, let’s cover some key factors regarding PR eligibility:
- Eligibility for PR:
- To qualify for PR, students must typically complete a course that is at least two years in duration and registered under CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
- Gaining PR also involves meeting the points test for skilled migration, which takes into account factors such as age, work experience, and English language proficiency.
- The course should align with the ANZSCO job list to ensure it supports the skilled migration process.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Achieving a high IELTS score (typically 7.0 or higher) is crucial for demonstrating English language proficiency, which is an essential requirement for skilled migration.
- Work Experience:
- Work experience gained after completing your studies can significantly improve your chances of securing PR. Many skilled migration pathways require relevant work experience to accumulate points.
10 Best Pathway Courses For Pr In Australia
Pathway courses help with university entry, and pursuing courses in high-demand fields can increase your chances of staying in Australia long-term. Let us have a quick look at the best pathway course for pr in Australia.
1. Engineering
Fields: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software, Environmental Engineering
Why Choose This Course?
- Australia is in need of skilled engineers across various sectors, including construction, technology, and the environment.
- Engineers enjoy high salaries and strong job opportunities.
- After graduation, you can apply for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or an Employer-Sponsored visa.
Note: Engineering fields are directly related to Australia’s MLTSSL, which increases your chances of obtaining PR.
2. Nursing and Healthcare
Courses: Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Nursing
Why Choose This Course?
- The healthcare industry, especially nursing, is in significant demand, particularly after COVID-19.
- Nurses can find work in hospitals, aged care centers, and clinics.
- This course enables international students to apply for PR through the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
3. Information Technology (IT)
Fields: Cybersecurity, Software Development, Data Science
Why Choose This Course?
- With the expansion of Australia’s technology sector, IT professionals are highly sought after.
- Many international IT graduates secure jobs with major tech companies or government agencies.
- This course provides pathways to PR through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.
4. Accounting
Courses: Bachelor of Accounting, Master of Professional Accounting
Why Choose This Course?
- Accounting is a stable and essential profession with constant demand across businesses.
- Career options in finance, taxation, and auditing are abundant.
- Graduates can apply for PR through the Skilled Migration Program.
5. Education and Teaching
Courses: Early Childhood Education, Secondary Education
Why Choose This Course?
- There is a shortage of teachers, especially in rural areas of Australia.
- Teaching is a respected profession with good pay and job security.
- Graduates can apply for PR under the Skilled Occupation List.
Note: Teachers are in high demand, but candidates should ensure their course aligns with the ANZSCO job list to improve PR chances.
6. Trade Qualifications
Fields: Plumbing, Electrical Work, Carpentry
Why Choose This Course?
- Skilled tradespeople are in high demand for construction and infrastructure projects.
- These professions offer high salaries and job stability.
- You can apply for PR through the Employer-Sponsored visa or General Skilled Migration.
7. Social Work
Courses: Bachelor of Social Work
Why Choose This Course?
- Social workers play a crucial role in helping communities, individuals, and families.
- Australia has a growing need for social workers.
- Graduates can apply for PR under the Skilled Migration Program.
8. Hospitality Management
Courses: Bachelor in Hospitality Management
Why Choose This Course?
- The tourism industry in Australia creates numerous job opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and travel companies.
- Hospitality managers can find work in major cities and tourist destinations.
- This course can help you secure PR through employer sponsorship or skilled migration.
Note: While hospitality management offers great career prospects, it may not be as high-demand for PR as engineering, IT, or nursing.
9. Automotive Engineering
Why Choose This Course?
- With the rising focus on energy-efficient vehicles, automotive engineers are in high demand.
- You can work in vehicle design, manufacturing, and maintenance.
- Graduates can apply for PR through the Skilled Occupation List.
10. Dentistry
Courses: Bachelor of Dental Science
Why Choose This Course?
- Dentists are always in demand in Australia’s healthcare sector.
- This course offers high earning potential and job security.
- After completing this course, you can apply for PR through the Skilled Migration Program.
Wrapping up
Picking the right course is essential for getting permanent residency (PR) in Australia. Courses like engineering, nursing, IT, and trades are in high demand and have better PR chances. Studying in Australia and gaining work experience can help you settle there.
If you need expert guidance on selecting the best PR pathway course and applying for an Australian visa, Nobel Education Foundation is here to assist you.