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Technology in all its various fields is a dominant phenomenon that has captured the youth's interest and attention. Because of this, computer science—often seen as the core of technology—stands out among college majors with bright futures in the various and diverse branches of the job market, as indicated by several studies and experts. This science focuses on the study of computer hardware and software, data analysis, systems, and algorithms. Also, its growth rate is projected to reach 22% by 2030.
All computer science programs and future-focused courses are offered by the Higher Colleges of Technology in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These programs prepare students for careers in information systems fields that keep up with technological changes. Graduates of the computer information science program are targeted by various esteemed employers in the country.
As the awareness of technology's increasing importance grows daily, it is no surprise that many top majors are related to it. Among the leading fields is information technology (IT), which involves processing, storing, and analysing data. This major encompasses several subdivisions that will hold significance in the coming years.
The UAE has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to the successful integration of technology across various sectors. This commitment has remained strong, considering the continued efforts to make technology an integral component of various aspects of life. This demonstrates why the IT major is among the best and has a promising future. In this field, the UAE has achieved the top ranking in the Arab world and the 26th position worldwide in the 2016 Network Readiness Index (NRI), which measures certain economies' capacity to harness communication and information technology.
Another leading branch in this field is what is known as health information technology, which involves managing, coordinating, and controlling the healthcare system's data. It is projected to increase to 32% by 2030.
Since its implementation and integration into various fields has begun, artificial intelligence (AI)—which is the use of technology to execute tasks in a way that mimics the human mind—has attracted a great deal of attention from young individuals. Today's world of rapid advancements indicates a growing demand for specialists in this field, which is why AI made the list of the most sought-after college majors in the years to come. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that AI will experience a growth rate of 6.5% until 2029.
Therefore, AI has become an essential part of many sectors in the UAE. By 2031, the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence aims to establish the nation as a leader in the world of AI and employ it in vitality-related sectors.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum affirmed this by stating, "We have launched a national strategy for artificial intelligence to make an integral part of our business, our lives and our government services." He further emphasised that today's UAE is more prepared for the future, more optimistic about future generations, and seeks to achieve a smart and easy life.
Amid the massive technological revolution seen in several aspects of life, there is a rising need to preserve information and data security due to the growing rate of theft and digital violations in all institutions and organisations. As a result, the demand for cybersecurity experts is on the rise, prompting many young individuals to pursue this major in search of future job prospects, a rapidly evolving professional field, and opportunities for continuous growth and career development.
Electronic video games attract a large percentage of children and youth. With the growing market, there is a demand for substantial efforts in graphic design and the integration of various details to engage players and deliver an entertaining and exhilarating experience. The widespread popularity of video games is evident in statistics, which estimated the global video game market to approximately $217 billion in 2022 alone. According to Grand View Research, a research and analytics website, growth rates are projected to reach 13.4% from 2023 to 2030.
The management information systems (MIS) major blends technological and administrative knowledge; it is highly valued by many institutions and organisations that seek to optimise their operations and develop customised administrative systems. The University of Arizona has stated that in order for this major to be compatible, a student must have an interest in technology and a desire to use it to improve people's lives. Studies indicate that MIS is predicted to increase by 7% by 2030.
It is evident that the number of people using social media and the internet is constantly rising, which has significantly influenced how marketing tactics and strategies have adapted. Given how common and extensive internet-based marketing has become, possessing a certificate in this major and understanding its keys and secrets will be incredibly beneficial in the future.
To maintain their upward trajectory, companies and organisations must carefully study plans and strategies that align with their resources, visions, and current trends and demands. This is what business administration aims to accomplish; therefore, if one has the required skills for it—like leadership and creative thinking, for example—then it is highly recommended to pursue this major, given its expected growth rate of 8% by 2030.
The UAE provides a nurturing environment for many businesses and projects across different sectors, making business administration one of the sought-after majors in the country.
While technological majors may take precedence in the list of promising fields, engineering fields should not be overlooked. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that there will be more employment prospects in engineering in the near future. Among these majors are:
After taking a brief look at the many tools used daily, it is noticeable that most of them are electricity-dependent and indispensable. This fact alone makes electrical engineering an attractive pursuit for many young individuals. This major encompasses the management of power networks, generators, and their maintenance.
Considering the advancements the UAE has made in all sectors and at all levels, electrical engineering is regarded as one of the country's most established, reliable, and promising majors. Graduates of this program can find employment in power distribution stations for construction projects and in the development of electronic services. Additionally, they can specialise in radar and communication antennas, sensors, optical instruments, and precision electronic tools. They can also specialise in designing robotic, self-controlled, and wireless control systems.
Given the essential role of petroleum in various aspects of human life and the significant dependence of many industries on it, the future prospects for this sector seem promising, potentially leading to adequate income opportunities. Petroleum engineering studies the methods of discovering gas, oil, and fossil fuels, extracting them from the underground, and refining them until they are usable.
The UAE ranks 12th among the largest producers of liquefied natural gas, underscoring the need for specialists to efficiently manage this reserve in alignment with the country's economic visions. This major is highly sought-after in the UAE, where national oil and gas companies have utilised technological innovations to create numerous job opportunities and support economic growth.
[1] u.ae, Business incubators
[2] bls.gov. Architecture and Engineering Occupations
[3] sharjah.ac.ae, Graduate Career Opportunities
[4] crimsoneducation.org, Top 10 Degrees in Demand for the Future
[5] bachelorsdegreecenter.org, 30 best college majors for the future
[6] thecollegepost.com, 14 Best College Majors for the Future to Put You in High Demand
[7] studyinternational.com, A look ahead: The top 10 degrees poised for future growth and opportunity
[8] mydegreeguide.com, 30 Best College Majors for the Future [2024 Top Majors, Salary, and Rankings]