Pursuing a CS Degree and Studying Abroad: Pathways to Success

Going abroad for higher education is a popular choice among many students, especially those in the field of Computer Science (CS). Whether your goal is to gain specialized knowledge in a specific area or to transition to a more general management role, there are several pathways to consider. This article provides an overview of the steps and strategies involved in pursuing a CS degree, with a focus on studying abroad and pursuing an MBA degree.

Choosing the Right Pathway

The first step in exploring your options is to make a list of the countries that interest you, taking into account your financial status and personal preferences. For students with financial stability, the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada are popular choices for their quality education. If you are looking for more affordable options, you might consider countries like Germany, Norway, Belgium, and France, which offer high-quality education at a lower cost.

Absolutely, if you are in the US, you should consider Northeastern University and Saint Louis University for MS programs. Some of the best universities for an MS or MBA in the US include Harvard and Stanford. While there are some universities that offer free tuition, you will need to manage your living costs.

Key Requirements for Admission Abroad

To apply for these programs, you will need to take entrance tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, or GRE. These tests are essential in proving your language proficiency and academic abilities. In addition to these tests, a strong statement of purpose and two great letters of recommendation (LORs) are necessary to support your application.

Options After Completing a CS Degree

After completing your CS degree, you have several options for pursuing further education or a career abroad.

1. Master of Science (MS) in a Specific Field

If your goal is to gain specialized knowledge in a specific area, you might opt for an MS program in your field of interest. You can choose countries like Australia, the UK, or Europe for MS programs. For example, pursuing an MS in computer science in the UK can be very beneficial, as it aligns closely with industry needs and provides opportunities for hands-on learning.

2. MBA Degree

While an MBA might not add much value directly for going abroad, pursuing an MBA from a reputable institution may open doors to international employment opportunities. According to my experience, top business schools like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and some of the other top 20 colleges often have partnerships with foreign companies for student placements.

When choosing an MBA program, one of the key factors to consider is the college's placement assistance. Many colleges have strong ties with global companies and can place students in international roles. Some institutions also offer specialized MBA programs that can help you tailor your career path to your goals.

3. Job at an IT Company

If you prefer a more immediate approach, you could take up a job at a service company like Infosys. These companies often send their employees onshore to client sites for project work, which can be a practical way to gain international experience and work in a different culture.

Alternate Career Path: International Qualifications

While pursuing further studies is one option, another path to consider is earning international recognized qualifications. If you want to travel or live abroad, obtaining a qualification like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the US or Chartered Accountant (CA) can be beneficial. If you are interested specifically in the field of CS, obtaining the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) in the US or the Chartered Management Accountant (CMA) in India can enhance your employability.

Once you have obtained these qualifications, you can look for job opportunities in different countries, especially those that offer telecommuting positions such as the US, which can provide you with the flexibility to work and travel.

Conclusion

Choosing to pursue a CS degree and studying abroad is a significant decision that requires planning and preparation. Understanding the various pathways and requirements is crucial to making the right choice. Whether you opt for further education, seek out job opportunities, or pursue international certifications, the key is to tailor your path to your personal and professional goals.

Wishing you all the best on your journey to success!