A new report has shown that Nigerian students are increasingly aligning their academic interests with high-demand career sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and science, especially in Canada, United Kingdom and the United States.
With shifting policies and a changing global landscape, Nigerian students are increasingly aligning their academic interests with high-demand career sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and science.
Key Insights
Healthcare Surge in Canada and the US
In Canada, Nigerian student interest in healthcare programs grew significantly, aligning with the country’s increasing demand for healthcare professionals, with projected shortages in doctors and nurses.
For the US, health-related searches from Nigerian students rose dramatically by seven percentage points in 2024, now accounting for 20% of searches. This shift is reflective of the growing global focus on healthcare careers.
The UK also witnessed increased interest in healthcare programs from Nigerian students, a trend that mirrors broader workforce demands.
STEM Dominates in the US
Nigerian students remain committed to STEM fields, with 62% of the total number of Nigerian students in the US pursuing science, technology, engineering, and math courses.
Science-related searches surged in 2024, with 18% of Nigerian students searching for science programs, indicating a growing preference for this field.
Engineering and technology, despite a slight overall decline, remain key areas of interest for Nigerian students, with 17% exploring this sector, highlighting the global demand for STEM professionals.
Nigeria | ApplyBoard Search Data
Growing Interest in UK Programs
Interest in UK programs from Nigerian students rose substantially in 2024, with healthcare, engineering, and science fields becoming increasingly popular.
Nigerian students’ searches for health-related programs in the UK saw a notable increase, up by five percentage points compared to the previous year, reflecting the sector’s growing demand in the UK’s expanding healthcare system.
As the UK experiences positive momentum in early 2025, Nigerian students are likely to play a central role in this recovery.
These insights underscore how Nigerian students are adapting their study choices to meet global job market demands, positioning themselves for careers in high-growth sectors.
As institutions in Canada, the US, and the UK look to recruit top international talent, focusing on these fields can help align student interests with workforce needs.
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