International students and career development: Human capital in the global skills race

Abstract

Views of international students have shifted from considering them as temporary learners seeking international education to positioning them as a valuable source of human capital. These views form a context from which to consider international students’ career development needs while living and learning in higher educational settings and in considering their career options post-graduation. Influences on international students’ career decision-making to stay in the destination country are discussed. Targeted areas for career services are outlined to support the transition from education to employment in the destination country and for international students returning to their home countries.