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Five In-Demand Business Programs in the US for International Students

Are you aspiring to pursue a rewarding career in business, marketing, economics, sustainability, or project management? Enrolling in business programs in the United States can be an excellent step forward in your academic and professional journey. Business courses are not only popular among international students, but they also equip graduates with essential practical skills and hands-on experiences that enhance employability in the global job market. This article outlines five prominent business programs in the US tailored for international students and helps you determine if any of these options align with your academic and career aspirations.

1. Bachelor of Business Administration – Business Data Analytics

If you’re interested in a career in data analytics, the Bachelor of Business Administration – Business Data Analytics program at Utica University is an ideal program for you. The World Economic Forum’s 2023 Future of Jobs Report predicts a remarkable surge in demand for data analysts and scientists, with projections suggesting a 30% to 35% increase by 2027. Graduates from this four-year degree program can anticipate strong job prospects across various industries.

Utica University, located in New York, offers an engaging campus experience where students benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of just 11:1. This intimate setting fosters meaningful connections with instructors and peers, enhancing both academic and social experiences. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, featuring collaborative projects, internships, and community service opportunities. By the end of this program, students will have developed vital interpersonal skills such as problem-solving and effective communication, alongside technical expertise in SQL, statistics, mathematics, and computer science.

2. Bachelor of Science – Business Economics

Another great option for those interested in economics is the Business Economics program at the University of Iowa. This comprehensive four-year undergraduate program not only imparts a solid understanding of market forces but also includes optional internship opportunities that allow students to gain practical experience before graduation. The curriculum exposes students to various subjects, including mathematics, law, psychology, and statistics, helping them develop strategies to address economic challenges like inflation and unemployment.

Many graduates of the Business Economics program pursue rewarding careers in the private sector or progress to a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. The University of Iowa boasts a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring smaller class sizes that promote interactive discussions and closer relationships with instructors. Positioned within the top 100 research universities according to U.S. News & World Report, the campus is located in Iowa City, a vibrant college town rich in cultural and athletic activities.

3. Bachelor of Science – Digital and Integrated Marketing

Are you looking to hone your branding and public relations skills? The Bachelor of Science – Marketing – Digital and Integrated Marketing program at Southeast Missouri State University (SMSU) offers an immersive experience that prepares students for success in the fast-paced world of marketing. By focusing on digital marketing, the four-year program provides dedicated courses ranging from social media management to internet marketing.

At SMSU, all students are encouraged to participate in internships and experiential learning opportunities, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings while enhancing their competencies and interpersonal skills. The university is recognized as one of the top 25 public schools in the Midwestern US, boasting a commendable 98% graduate engagement rate just six months after graduation.

4. Bachelor of Arts – Business and Sustainability

For those who prioritize sustainability alongside business practices, consider the Business and Sustainability program at Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington. This program merges effective business methodologies with sustainable practices, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious students. Bellingham’s location between Vancouver, Canada, and Seattle, Washington, offers the best of both urban lifestyles and scenic nature.

Students in this program engage with faculty from the Department of Management and Huxley College of the Environment, gaining knowledge across economics, environmental science and policy, and business management. The curriculum emphasizes internships, student clubs, and interactive projects that deepen connections with the campus community and broader business environment, paving the way for a successful career in sustainable business practices.

5. Bachelor of Science – Business Administration – Operations and Project Management

The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a specialization in Operations and Project Management at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a perfect fit for those with strong organizational and communication skills. Operations and project managers are crucial in both the service and manufacturing sectors and work on diverse tasks, including production planning and supply chain management.

This four-year program at SNHU is designed to develop management skills while covering essential business operations, such as accounting, human resources, and marketing. Internships are included, providing students with valuable hands-on experience. Nestled on a sprawling 300-acre campus in Manchester, the university has been frequently recognized as one of the most innovative universities in northern the US by U.S. News & World Report.

Conclusion

As an international student, choosing the right business programs in the United States can significantly influence your career trajectory and personal growth. With a myriad of options available, including programs in data analytics, economics, digital marketing, sustainability, and operations management, you’re sure to find a path that aligns with your interests and ambitions.

For more information email us at hello@bisonimmigration.com

Canada Introduces New Rural Community Immigration Pilot Pathway

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP), a new initiative aimed at attracting foreign nationals to Canada’s rural areas. This announcement includes the unveiling of the 14 participating communities that will be part of this pilot. The RCIP offers a route for foreign nationals who can fill job vacancies in these rural locations (excluding Quebec) and are interested in making these areas their long-term homes.

Participating Communities in the RCIP

On January 30, IRCC revealed the selected communities for the pilot. These include:

• Pictou County, Nova Scotia
• North Bay, Ontario
• Sudbury, Ontario
• Timmins, Ontario
• Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
• Thunder Bay, Ontario
• Steinbach, Manitoba
• Altona/Rhineland, Manitoba
• Brandon, Manitoba
• Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
• Claresholm, Alberta
• West Kootenay, British Columbia
• North Okanagan Shuswap, British Columbia
• Peace Liard, British Columbia

Each community will have a local economic development organization working alongside IRCC. These organizations will be responsible for identifying labor shortages, nominating reputable employers, and recommending candidates for permanent residence to IRCC. Both employers and prospective candidates will soon receive more information regarding the application process and timelines.

Eligibility Criteria for the RCIP

The RCIP is an employer-centric, community-specific pathway. Interested candidates must possess a genuine job offer from an approved employer. Eligibility requirements include:

• Work Experience: Candidates need to meet specific work experience criteria, though certain international graduates may be exempt.
• Employment Offer: A legitimate offer from a designated employer is required.
• Language Proficiency: Depending on the NOC TEER of the job, specific Canadian Language Benchmark levels must be met.
• Education: Applicants should have at least a secondary school education.
• Proof of Funds: Applicants must demonstrate enough funds to support themselves and their family for one year.
• Intent to Reside: Applicants need to show an intent to live in their designated community.
• Certificate of Recommendation: A valid certificate from an economic development organization is needed at the application time.

Moreover, applicants already in Canada must maintain valid temporary resident status throughout the application process until they receive permanent residency.

Conclusion

Replacing the earlier Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program (RNIP), which ceased accepting applications in August 2024, the RCIP offers a new opportunity for skilled workers to settle in Canada’s rural communities. This pilot program signifies Canada’s commitment to addressing labor shortages and promoting growth in less-populated areas. With successful implementation, RCIP could transform into a permanent immigration pathway, contributing to Canada’s diverse and skilled workforce expansion.

Canada Sets Launch Date for New Permanent Residence Programs for Home Care Workers

In a significant move to address Canada’s growing need for healthcare workers while creating more straightforward paths to permanent residency, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled its newest initiative: the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots. Set to launch on March 31, 2025, these innovative programs mark a fresh chapter in Canada’s immigration policy.

What makes these pilots particularly noteworthy is their “permanent residence upon arrival” approach. Unlike previous programs that required caregivers to work in Canada before applying for permanent residence, these new pathways offer eligible home care workers and their families the security of permanent resident status from day one.

The qualification requirements reflect Canada’s commitment to maintaining high professional standards while making the process more accessible. Candidates need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4, hold educational credentials equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma, and secure a full-time job offer in the home care sector. The program also considers previous work experience, building on the more flexible requirements introduced in June 2024, when the experience threshold was adjusted to just six months.

This transformation of Canada’s caregiver immigration system comes at a crucial time, as the previous permanent residence pathways have reached their conclusion. While the IRCC is still fine-tuning some aspects of the program and additional eligibility criteria are forthcoming, this announcement signals Canada’s renewed commitment to supporting both the home care sector and the dedicated workers who keep it running.

For potential applicants and employers alike, these new pilots represent an exciting opportunity to contribute to Canada’s healthcare system while building a new life in one of the world’s most welcoming nations. As we await further details from IRCC, this program already promises to be a significant step forward in addressing Canada’s caregiving needs while offering meaningful immigration opportunities to qualified professionals.

For more information please email us at hello@bisonimmigration.com

Express Entry: Canada Extends 4,000 ITAs to CEC Candidates in Latest Draw

In the third January draw of 2025, the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has successfully issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates through the Express Entry system, targeting the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Applicants required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 527 and had to submit their Express Entry profiles before 7:06:43 am UTC on July 23, 2024, to be considered for this invitation round.

This recent CEC draw follows two previous draws earlier in January: one focused on the Canadian Experience Class on January 8 and another geared towards the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) on January 7. In line with the “In-Canada Focus” allocation outlined in the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC has set a goal of welcoming 82,890 new immigrants to Canada via CEC pathways in 2025.

Express Entry Draw Summary for 2025

• January 23: Canadian Experience Class, 4,000 ITAs, CRS cut-off score of 527
• January 8: Canadian Experience Class, 1,350 ITAs, CRS cut-off score of 542
• January 7: Provincial Nominee Program, 471 ITAs, CRS cut-off score of 793

For individuals aiming to enhance their chances of securing an ITA, improving their CRS score is key. Factors such as higher education credentials, language proficiency in English and French, additional work experience (either Canadian or foreign), provincial nominations, or trade qualifications significantly contribute to CRS score improvements. Candidates should consider using a CRS calculator to better evaluate and optimize their potential scores, especially as point allocations can vary based on whether they apply with a spouse or common-law partner.

Continued Focus on Express Entry

Originally predicted to be overtaken by PNP allocations in 2024, the Express Entry programs have maintained dominance as a vital immigration pathway in Canada. As per the latest 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, there is an increase in landings targeted via the Express Entry system from 110,770 in 2024 to 124,590 in 2025, while PNP allocations have been reduced significantly to 55,000.

With increased landings allocations for Express Entry in 2025, this route remains a critical avenue for skilled workers aiming to immigrate to Canada. As the demand for Canadian Experience Class and other Express Entry pathways increases, prospective immigrants should be vigilant in optimizing their application profiles.

In conclusion, the rising importance of the EE system, especially the Canadian Experience Class, emphasizes the need for candidates to focus on strategies to enhance their CRS scores. Keeping informed about these draws and adjustments is essential for those wishing to immigrate to Canada through these economic pathways.

For more information email us at hello@bisonimmigration.com