Australia is not just a dream destination for international students because of its high-quality education and scenic beauty, but also because it offers a promising pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). For students who aim to settle in Australia after completing their studies, choosing the right course aligned with Australia's skill shortage list is crucial. This article explores the best courses to study in Australia for PR, career prospects, and why these fields are in demand.

Why Choosing the Right Course Matters for PR?

Australia operates a point-based immigration system where factors like age, English proficiency, educational qualifications, and work experience contribute to your overall score. However, one of the key eligibility factors for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa is having an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).

Choosing a course that leads to one of these in-demand occupations increases your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.

Top Courses in Australia for PR in 2025

1. Nursing

Why Nursing?

Australia has an ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly registered nurses. With an ageing population and increased healthcare needs, nursing remains one of the most PR-friendly courses.

Popular Specializations:

  • Aged Care Nursing

  • Mental Health Nursing

  • Critical Care and Emergency Nursing

Relevant Occupation on MLTSSL:

  • Registered Nurse (Aged Care, Medical, Surgical, etc.)

Institutions Offering Nursing:

  • University of Sydney

  • Monash University

  • University of Queensland

2. Information Technology (IT)

Why IT?

Study in Australia tech sector is growing, and the demand for skilled IT professionals like software engineers, cybersecurity analysts, and system analysts is consistently high.

Popular IT Courses:

  • Bachelor/Master of Information Technology

  • Cyber Security

  • Data Science

  • Software Engineering

Relevant Occupation on MLTSSL:

  • Software Engineer

  • ICT Business Analyst

  • Systems Analyst

Top Universities for IT:

  • Australian National University (ANU)

  • University of Melbourne

  • RMIT University

3. Engineering

Why Engineering?

Various engineering disciplines are listed on Australia's MLTSSL, making this a favorable option for PR seekers. The country faces a shortage of skilled engineers in infrastructure, mining, and energy sectors.

Popular Engineering Courses:

  • Civil Engineering

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Mining Engineering

Relevant Occupations on MLTSSL:

  • Civil Engineer

  • Electrical Engineer

  • Mechanical Engineer

Top Universities for Engineering:

  • University of New South Wales (UNSW)

  • University of Queensland (UQ)

  • University of Adelaide

4. Education and Teaching

Why Education?

Australia needs qualified teachers, especially in regional areas and for subjects like mathematics, science, and special education. If you're passionate about teaching, this can be a PR-friendly path.

Popular Courses:

  • Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary)

  • Bachelor of Education

Relevant Occupations on MLTSSL:

  • Early Childhood (Pre-primary) Teacher

  • Secondary School Teacher

  • Special Needs Teacher

Top Universities for Teaching:

  • Deakin University

  • University of Melbourne

  • University of Sydney

5. Accounting and Finance

Why Accounting?

Accountants have been a long-time staple on Australia's skilled occupation lists. However, competition is high, so choosing a course with CPA/CA accreditation and gaining work experience is vital.

Popular Courses:

  • Bachelor of Accounting

  • Master of Professional Accounting (MPA)

Relevant Occupations on MLTSSL:

  • Accountant (General)

  • External Auditor

  • Management Accountant

Top Universities for Accounting:

  • Macquarie University

  • University of New South Wales (UNSW)

  • University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

6. Social Work

Why Social Work?

Social workers are increasingly important in Australia due to growing demand in community services, aged care, and mental health. It's also one of the courses with a high chance of PR if combined with regional education and work experience.

Popular Courses:

  • Bachelor of Social Work

  • Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

Relevant Occupations on MLTSSL:

  • Social Worker

  • Welfare Worker

Top Universities for Social Work:

  • University of Western Australia

  • Griffith University

  • La Trobe University

7. Trades and Vocational Education (VET Courses)

Why Trade Courses?

Skilled trade workers are in high demand, and many VET courses lead directly to PR pathways. These are also great for students seeking faster and cost-effective routes to employment and residency.

Popular VET Courses:

  • Carpentry

  • Automotive Technology

  • Plumbing

  • Painting and Decorating

  • Commercial Cookery

Relevant Occupations on MLTSSL/STSOL:

  • Carpenter

  • Chef

  • Automotive Mechanic

  • Electrician

Institutions Offering Trade Courses:

  • TAFE institutions across Australia

  • Holmesglen Institute

  • Box Hill Institute

Tips to Maximize PR Chances After Studying in Australia

  1. Choose a Course Aligned with the Skill List:

    Always refer to the latest MLTSSL or STSOL before selecting your course.

  2. Study in Regional Areas:

    Studying in regional Australia gives you extra PR points and access to additional visa pathways.

  3. Complete a Professional Year (PY):

    PY programs in fields like Accounting, IT, and Engineering add points to your PR application and provide local work experience.

  4. Improve English Proficiency:

    Higher IELTS/PTE scores can significantly boost your points for PR.

  5. Gain Relevant Work Experience:

    Post-study work experience in your nominated occupation increases employability and PR points.

Conclusion

Pursuing the right course in Australia can open doors not just to a world-class education but also to permanent residency and long-term career growth. Fields such as nursing, IT, engineering, social work, teaching, accounting, and trades are highly in demand and offer strong PR prospects.

Before making a decision, consult a registered migration agent or conduct thorough research to align your career goals with Australia's immigration policies. With the right planning, Australia can truly become your second home.