Short Term Courses in USA: Top Programs, Duration & Cost

Want to improve your knowledge and skills without spending years stuck in school? Short term courses in USA are specialized programs designed to provide practical skills and knowledge in a condensed timeframe, typically ranging from a few weeks to 12 months. 

These courses are ideal for international students who want to study abroad without committing to a full degree. Popular options include 6-month courses, certificate courses, and diploma courses in USA across fields like IT, Business, Healthcare, and Design.

Top 7 Short Term Courses in USA

From vocational courses in USA to short term computer courses in USA, these programs are practical, job-oriented, and even budget-friendly. Here’s a closer look:

1. Business Analytics

Business Analytics is the art of turning raw data into meaningful insights that drive smart business decisions. It includes tools and techniques like data management, visualization, predictive modeling, and optimization. 

If you're a working professional or graduate aiming to upskill, this is one of the best short courses in USA for international students. With top employers like Deloitte, PwC, IBM, and Accenture hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• Business Analyst – INR 68L ($85,000)
• Data Analyst – INR 64L ($80,000)
• Management Consultant – INR 80L ($100,000)

2. Project Management

Project Management courses are designed to help professionals lead projects effectively from start to finish. These programs cover essential topics like budgeting, scheduling, and risk management. 

They also prepare students for globally recognized certifications such as PMP, making them a valuable option among short term business courses in USA. With top employers like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Boeing hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• Project Manager – INR 76L ($95,000)
• Program Manager – INR 88L ($110,000)
• Operations Manager – INR 84L ($105,000)

3. Data Science

Data Science is a booming field that blends machine learning and statistical analysis to uncover insights and make predictions. It’s among the most in-demand job oriented short term courses in USA, ideal for tech-savvy professionals and recent graduates. 

These programs teach skills like data manipulation, coding, and predictive modeling, preparing you for high-paying roles in finance, healthcare, and technology. With top employers like Facebook, Google, Carelon, and Amex hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• Data Scientist – INR 96L ($120,000)
• Machine Learning Engineer – INR 1Cr ($125,000)
• Data Engineer – INR 88L ($110,000)

In case you’re willing to commit to a long-term course, check out our guide on MS Data Science in the USA. 

4. Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing has become essential for businesses looking to grow their online presence. As one of the top online short term courses in USA, it equips students with skills in SEO, social media marketing, content strategy, and data analytics. 

These skills are vital for roles in today’s digital economy and open doors to high-growth careers across industries. With top employers like HubSpot, Adobe, IBM, and Salesforce hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• Digital Marketing Manager – INR 72L ($90,000)
• SEO Specialist – INR 56L ($70,000)
• Content Strategist – INR 60L ($75,000)

5. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)

If you're passionate about teaching and exploring the world, a TEFL course can open exciting career paths. As one of the most flexible job oriented short term courses in USA, TEFL equips you with skills to teach English to non-native speakers—both online and abroad. It covers key areas like lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching techniques.

Additionally, for those on a budget, TEFL is among the cheapest short term courses in USA, with tuition starting from just INR 82,000 ($1,000). With top employers like Berlitz, EF Education First, and VIPKid hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• ESL Teacher – INR 40L ($50,000)
• Language Instructor – INR 36L ($45,000)
• Curriculum Developer – INR 48L ($60,000)

1. Cybersecurity

With the rising number of digital threats, cybersecurity has become a critical field across industries. These online short term courses in USA are designed to prepare IT professionals to protect networks, systems, and sensitive data from cyberattacks. 

In addition to private firms, governments, and legal institutions are also key employers of cybersecurity experts. These certificate courses in USA typically run for 3–12 months and focus on areas like ethical hacking, network defense, and risk assessment. 

With top employers like Cisco, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, and Symantec hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• Information Security Analyst – INR 80L ($100,000)
• Cybersecurity Specialist – INR 88L ($110,000)
• IT Security Consultant – INR 96L ($120,000)

6. Human Resources Management

Human Resources Management short-term courses equip students with essential skills to manage workplace dynamics, talent acquisition, and employee engagement. These job oriented short term courses in USA are designed for aspiring HR professionals and managers looking to build or elevate their careers in organizational development.

Spanning 6–9 months, these programs delve into topics like organizational behavior, employee relations, and HR analytics. With top employers like Google, Amazon, Johnson & Johnson, and PepsiCo hiring, here are the most popular career opportunities and their corresponding salaries:

• HR Manager – INR 7.2 L ($9,000) per year
• Recruitment Specialist – INR 7.6L ($9,500)
• Employee Relations Manager – INR 6.8L ($8,500)

Best Universities in America for Short-Term Courses

Short term courses in USA offer a fast-track route to professional growth, delivered by some of the world’s most prestigious universities. Here’s a quick look:

Check out student housing in the USA near top universities!

Eligibility and Application Process for Short Term Courses in USA

Planning to enrol in short term courses in USA? Here’s a quick guide to help you meet the basic entry requirements:

• Education: High school diploma or undergraduate degree (for advanced courses).
• English Proficiency: TOEFL (70–90), IELTS (6.0–7.0), or Duolingo (above 110).
• Visa: F-1 visa for full-time; B-2 for less intensive courses.
• Age: Minimum 18 years (exceptions with parental consent).
• Experience: Needed for specialized or executive programs.
• Portfolio: Required for creative fields.

Worried about what’s true and what’s not in college admissions? Read our guide on 6 common college admission myths and get the facts straight before you apply.

Visa Requirements for Short Term Courses in USA for International Students

International students applying for short term business courses in USA need either an F or M visa, based on their course type:

• F Visa: For academic programs at accredited institutions. Requires Form I-20 and full-time enrollment. Duration is based on program length.
  
  • Fees: INR 15,443
  • Processing Time: 10–11 months
• M Visa: For vocational/non-academic courses like short term medical courses in USA. Requires Form I-20M-N.
  
  • Fees: INR 15,443
  • Processing Time: 10–11 months

Confused about the US student visa process? Read our guide on the USA student visa to get all the answers you need!

Short term courses in USA offer a valuable opportunity for international students to enhance their skills, gain specialized knowledge, and boost their career prospects. Whether you're pursuing short-term business courses or short term medical courses in USA, the application process and visa requirements are straightforward, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

Looking for the perfect accommodation in the US? Amber offers a wide range of safe, affordable, and fully-furnished student housing options near top universities. Book your home away from home today and enjoy hassle-free living with 24/7 support, flexible booking, and unbeatable prices.