Why Your Study Choices Matter More Than Ever
In 2025, Australia continues to prioritise international students not only as contributors to its world-class education sector but also as future permanent residents. Strategic course selection now plays a major role in shaping your long-term visa opportunities, with skills-based migration remaining a key government priority.
At Augustine & Co. Education Consultants, we don’t just help students enrol in a course—we guide them toward study programs that lead to meaningful career pathways and permanent residency outcomes. Because we work closely with our in-house migration lawyers at Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers, you benefit from coordinated, reliable, and forward-thinking advice every step of the way.
Top Degrees with High PR Success Rates
1. Teaching and Education
Australia is experiencing a significant teacher shortage, particularly in early childhood, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), and special education. This puts teaching on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making it a top migration priority.
Why it’s a high-PR pathway:
- Appears on federal and state skilled occupation lists.
- High demand across both metro and regional areas.
- Offers eligibility for multiple visa subclasses, including state nomination and skilled independent visas.
Strategic study options:
- Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood, Primary, or Secondary)
- Master of Teaching
- Graduate Diploma in Education
Our migration team ensures your qualifications meet the AITSL assessment criteria, which is a key requirement for teachers seeking PR.
2. Nursing and Allied Health
Nurses, aged care workers, and allied health professionals remain in high demand throughout Australia, with particularly strong need in aged care and regional areas. These occupations are listed on the MLTSSL and State Occupation Lists nationwide.
Recommended qualifications:
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Master of Nursing Practice
- Diploma or Certificate IV in Community Services (as a foundational pathway)
Graduates need to be registered with AHPRA, and our legal team can advise on both the registration and PR process.
3. Engineering
Civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers are consistently in demand across Australia’s infrastructure, mining, and renewable energy sectors. These roles appear across federal, state, and regional occupation lists.
Top course options:
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Professional Engineering
- Graduate Certificate in Engineering Design
Many engineers also benefit from completing a Professional Year Program, adding 5 migration points.
4. Information Technology and Cybersecurity
As Australia’s tech sector rapidly expands, cybersecurity analysts, developers, and data specialists are being recruited at record rates. These occupations are frequently prioritised for both independent and state-sponsored PR visas.
Relevant courses:
- Bachelor of Information Technology
- Master of Cybersecurity
- Graduate Diploma in Data Science
Completing a Professional Year Program in IT can give applicants a competitive edge in migration points.
5. Construction and Skilled Trades
Australia is investing heavily in housing and infrastructure projects, creating consistent demand for skilled tradespeople. Many trade roles offer strong PR pathways through VET (Vocational Education and Training) qualifications.
Examples of strategic trade programs:
- Certificate III/IV in Carpentry, Bricklaying, Plumbing or Electrical
- Diploma of Building and Construction
- Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design
Understanding the PR Points System
The Australian skilled migration system is based on a points-tested model. Your qualification level, study location, English ability, and work experience all contribute to your score.
Here’s how your study pathway contributes to your PR eligibility:
| Criteria | PR Points |
| Australian Study Requirement (min. 2 years) | 5 points |
| Study in a designated regional area | +5 points |
| Completion of a Professional Year | +5 points |
| English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 8.0 or PTE equivalent) | Up to 20 points |
| State or territory nomination | +5–15 points |
A well-planned education pathway can significantly boost your points—and open multiple PR options.
Course Selection Strategies That Work
When choosing a course, don’t just focus on your personal interests. Consider how your education aligns with national and state workforce needs.
Key strategy tips:
- Check occupation lists regularly to ensure your qualification leads to an in-demand job.
- Choose CRICOS-registered institutions to meet student visa and PR requirements.
- Opt for regional campuses when possible for added migration points.
- Balance tuition fees and living costs with graduate employment outcomes.
- Consult migration professionals before enrolling in a course with PR in mind.
At Augustine & Co., our education and legal teams work together to help you assess these factors before you enrol—so you’re not left guessing later.
Post-Study Work Rights: Building Your Local Experience
Graduates from Australian institutions are eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), allowing them to stay and work in Australia temporarily after finishing their course.
Duration of post-study work rights (as of 2025):
- Bachelor degree graduates: Up to 2–4 years
- Master degree graduates: Up to 3–5 years
- PhD graduates: Up to 6 years
- Additional time for regional study locations
This visa provides critical work experience that can help you:
- Meet PR eligibility criteria
- Secure employer sponsorship
- Demonstrate employability for state nomination
Industry Demand and Employment Prospects
These sectors offer strong job prospects and migration potential in 2025:
| Sector | High-Demand Roles |
| Education | Early childhood teachers, STEM teachers, special education |
| Healthcare | Registered nurses, aged care workers, psychologists |
| IT | Cybersecurity analysts, software engineers, data scientists |
| Engineering | Civil, structural, mechanical engineers |
| Trades | Carpenters, electricians, surveyors, plumbers |
Bonus: Many regional areas urgently need workers in these sectors—giving you a better shot at nomination and permanent residency.
Success Factors and Common Pitfalls
Success Factors:
• Completing your course at a recognised institution
• Gaining Australian work experience
• Meeting licensing or registration requirements (e.g., AHPRA, AITSL)
• Taking English language tests seriously
Pitfalls to Avoid:
• Enrolling in non-PR-aligned courses
• Missing the 2-year Australian study rule
• Choosing non-regional campuses when regional options offer more benefits
• Failing to consult a migration advisor early on
Future Outlook: Emerging Opportunities
The job market—and migration system—is evolving. Students who anticipate future needs can position themselves even more strategically.
Emerging growth areas:
- Renewable energy and green infrastructure
- Remote and regional education
- Mental health and counselling
- Digital security and AI integration
- Aged care and disability support
One Team, One Pathway: Study + Migration Expertise
What makes Augustine & Co. Education Consultants unique is our integrated support. Our education and legal branches work together to provide:
- Personalised course and institution guidance
- Visa and compliance support
- Skilled migration advice tailored to your study choices
- Ongoing legal support all the way to permanent residency
With both experts on your side from day one, you’ll never be left navigating PR alone.
Ready to map out your PR journey through study?
Contact Augustine & Co. Education Consultants today and speak with our team about making your study choice a strategic one—for your future in Australia.
Author
Calvin Augustine is the founding solicitor of Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers. He graduated with Honors from the University of London law school, before being admitted to practice in Malaysia and Australia (admitted in SA, appears in all Victorian Courts and Tribunals, at trial and appellate levels).
