Dear Forum,

I was debating the pro's and con's of studying in the US vs studying in Europe. Maybe you guys could help me a bit?

So far I have compiled:
+ US: All programmes in English
- US: Most programmes extremely expansive
+ US: Well-known lecturers who lead the field in international issues
- US: Strict immigration policy, hard to find work afterwards (greencard etc.)

+EU: Many programmes much cheaper (apart from UK) because state-subsidised
- EU: Many programmes only available in the language of the country
+ EU: Extreme high standard of living (8 out of top 10 in Europe), easier for foreigners to work
- EU: Less harmonised, programmes hard to compare, different formats

Any more suggestions? I want to specify in business/ Commercial law, not sure whether trade, competition or IP or something similar...
Best,
Jenny121

Hi Jenny,

I’ve just commented on some of your bulleted points:

+ US: All programmes in English
Quite a comprehensive number of European programmes are in English also

+ US: Well-known lecturers who lead the field in international issues
This is also true in Europe. Look at MIDS for example.

- US: Strict immigration policy, hard to find work afterwards (greencard etc.)
+ EU: Extreme high standard of living (8 out of top 10 in Europe), easier for foreigners to work
I don’t agree. Unless you speak very good French, for example, you will not find work in France. In general, the labour market is more difficult in Europe for foreigners. In the US it’s pretty difficult, but if you can get a job at a professional level, you can get a visa. Followed by a green card.

+EU: Many programmes much cheaper (apart from UK) because state-subsidised
Often this is only the case for EU nationals.

The other factor is which country you would actually like to live in. I’m in the US at the moment (green card) but my wife and I spend much of our time in France. It’s far more civilised on many levels. Especially since the last US election. This is a big factor for us.

I’ve applied to a number of universities for the next autumn intake. None of them are in the US.

Good luck with your searches!

Hi Craig,

Thanks for your comments, I had a look at MIDS but they're almost as expansive as a US degree. Do you know whether there's a list of English-taught programmes in Europe?

Are there countries where it's easier for non-EU nationals to find work (preferrably in English)?

Thank you!