Rethink Career Choices: Why Nursing and Architecture Aren’t Professional in India

For many Indian students heading to the U.S., enrolling in fields like nursing, architecture, accounting, teaching, or social work once meant long-term career security. These degrees were traditionally seen as “professional”—offering licensure, clear job paths, and stable returns. However, a recent shift in how the U.S. defines “professional degrees” has changed that assumption.

Under new federal definitions, only certain doctoral-level fields—like medicine, law, and pharmacy—are now officially classified as professional degrees. This means fields like nursing or architecture, although still in high demand, no longer carry the same federal designation. For international students who already face high tuition without federal aid, this change can indirectly impact cost, scholarships, and perceived value.

The biggest impact may be a shift in perception. Students are now unsure if employers or visa officers will view these degrees differently. While actual job demand remains high, especially in areas like nursing and social work, the clarity surrounding the path ahead has diminished.

In response, universities are adapting—renaming programmes, adding more clinical hours, or offering licensure support to strengthen their academic appeal. Indian students planning to study in 2025–26 should now ask crucial questions: Will my degree lead to licensure? What is its CIP code? What’s the return on investment?

Comparisons with other countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK—where professional degree classifications are more stable—are becoming more common. As U.S. universities adapt and definitions evolve, students must stay informed and proactive. A U.S. degree still holds value, but now more than ever, students must do the research to make sure they’re investing wisely.

professional degrees, Indian students, U.S. education, nursing programs, international students