Different Career Options After Class 12th
- Kritika Daryani
- Sep 21, 2024
- 6 min read

After completing Class 12, students are at a crucial juncture in their lives, as they must choose a career path that will shape their future. With numerous fields available, selecting the right career can be overwhelming. The choice of career often depends on the stream you chose in Class 12, be it Science, Commerce, or Humanities. Each stream offers unique opportunities, ranging from traditional careers like medicine, engineering, and law to modern fields such as data science, digital marketing, and design.
This guide will explore the various career options available to students after Class 12, across different streams, so that you can make an informed decision.
Career Options for Science Students
1. Engineering
Engineering remains one of the most popular career choices for students with a Science background, especially those who opted for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in Class 12. There are various branches of engineering, such as Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Science, and Information Technology, among others.
Key Entrance Exams: JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITSAT, VITEEE
Top Institutes: Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), and other state engineering colleges.
2. Medical
Students with a background in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) can opt for medical careers such as becoming a doctor, dentist, or veterinarian. Medicine is a highly rewarding career, offering opportunities in various specialties, including surgery, pediatrics, and cardiology.
Key Entrance Exams: NEET-UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), AIIMS MBBS, JIPMER MBBS
Top Institutes: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC).
3. Pharmacy
Pharmacy is another popular career option for students who have completed Class 12 with PCB. Pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by managing medication distribution and advising patients on drug use.
Key Entrance Exams: GPAT, BITS Pharmacy Entrance Exam
Top Institutes: National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS).
4. Architecture
Architecture is a creative career option that combines science and art. It involves designing and planning buildings and other infrastructure projects. Students who have completed Class 12 with PCM are eligible for this course.
Key Entrance Exams: NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture), JEE Main Paper 2
Top Institutes: School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs).
5. Pure Sciences
Students passionate about subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Biology can pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in their chosen field. Pure science graduates can work in research, academia, or various industries, including pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
Popular Fields: B.Sc in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Microbiology
Top Institutes: Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), St. Stephen’s College.
6. Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
The growing field of data science and artificial intelligence (AI) is attracting a lot of attention from science students. These fields involve working with large datasets, programming, and machine learning to create intelligent systems.
Top Institutes: IITs, IIITs, NITs, Indian Statistical Institute (ISI).
Read: CLAT kya hota hai
Career Options for Commerce Students
1. Chartered Accountancy (CA)
Chartered Accountancy is one of the most sought-after career options for Commerce students. CAs handle financial management, tax compliance, auditing, and business strategy.
Key Exams: CA Foundation, CA Intermediate, CA Final (conducted by ICAI)
Top Institutes: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
2. Company Secretary (CS)
A Company Secretary is responsible for ensuring that a company adheres to legal and regulatory requirements. They play a vital role in corporate governance and compliance.
Key Exams: Foundation, Executive, Professional (conducted by ICSI)
Top Institutes: The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).
3. Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
A B.Com degree is a popular choice for Commerce students who want to gain a broad understanding of business, finance, and economics. It opens up opportunities in sectors such as banking, insurance, and accounting.
Top Institutes: Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), St. Xavier’s College, Christ University.
4. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
The BBA course is designed to equip students with skills in management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. It provides a foundation for those who wish to pursue an MBA in the future.
Top Institutes: Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies (SCMS), Christ University, NMIMS.
5. Economics (Hons)
A degree in Economics is ideal for students interested in economic theory, statistical analysis, and policy-making. Graduates often work in financial institutions, research organizations, or government agencies.
Top Institutes: Delhi School of Economics, St. Stephen’s College, Presidency University.
6. Cost and Management Accountancy (CMA)
CMAs focus on cost management, budgeting, and performance evaluation within organizations. It is a highly specialized field that requires an understanding of both finance and management.
Key Exams: Foundation, Intermediate, Final (conducted by ICMAI)
Top Institutes: The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI).
Read: How to prepare for CLAT?
Career Options for Humanities Students
1. Law
Law is a popular career choice for Humanities students. After Class 12, students can pursue a five-year integrated law program such as BA LLB, BBA LLB, or B.Sc LLB. The study of law opens up various career paths, including practicing as a lawyer, working as a legal advisor, or joining the judiciary.
Key Entrance Exams: CLAT Exam, AILET, LSAT India
Top Institutes: National Law Universities (NLUs), Symbiosis Law School, Jindal Global Law School.
2. Psychology
Psychology involves studying human behavior, mental processes, and emotions. Students who are interested in understanding the human mind can pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and specialize in clinical, counseling, or industrial psychology.
Top Institutes: Lady Shri Ram College, Christ University, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).
3. Journalism and Mass Communication
Students interested in media, writing, and communication can opt for a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. This career path opens doors to roles in print, digital, and broadcast media, including journalism, advertising, and public relations.
Top Institutes: Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication (SIMC), Xavier Institute of Communications.
4. Designing (Fashion, Interior, Product)
Designing is a creative career option for students passionate about fashion, interiors, or product design. With the rise of e-commerce and digital platforms, designers are in high demand across industries.
Key Entrance Exams: NID DAT, UCEED, NIFT Entrance Exam
Top Institutes: National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), National Institute of Design (NID), Pearl Academy.
5. Sociology and Anthropology
Sociology and Anthropology are fields that study human societies, cultures, and social behavior. Graduates in these fields can pursue careers in research, policy-making, and social services.
Top Institutes: Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), University of Delhi, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).
6. Hotel Management
The hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally. A degree in Hotel Management opens up opportunities in hotel operations, event management, and food and beverage services.
Key Entrance Exams: NCHMCT JEE, IIHM Entrance Exam
Top Institutes: Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration.
Read: What is CLAT?
Other Emerging Career Options
1. Digital Marketing
As businesses shift online, digital marketing has become one of the most in-demand careers. Digital marketers use strategies such as SEO, social media marketing, and content creation to promote products and services online.
Popular Courses: Certification in Digital Marketing, BBA in Digital Marketing
Top Institutes: Digital Vidya, NIIT, Manipal ProLearn.
2. Event Management
Event Management involves planning, organizing, and executing events such as weddings, corporate meetings, and concerts. It is a dynamic field that requires creativity, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
Popular Courses: Diploma in Event Management, BBA in Event Management
Top Institutes: National Academy of Event Management and Development (NAEMD), EMDI Institute of Media & Communication.
3. Animation and Multimedia
Animation and Multimedia have grown in popularity with the rise of the entertainment and gaming industries. Students interested in creating digital content, animations, and visual effects can pursue a degree or diploma in animation.
Popular Courses: B.Sc. in Animation, Diploma in Multimedia
Top Institutes: National Institute of Design (NID), Arena Animation, Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics (MAAC).
4. Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity
With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, ethical hacking has emerged as a lucrative career option. Ethical hackers help organizations protect their systems from cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
Popular Certifications: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Top Institutes: Indian School of Ethical Hacking (ISOEH), Institute of Information Security (IIS).
Conclusion
When it comes to making the right career choice after Class 12, the possibilities are vast and varied. Whether you are inclined towards science, commerce, humanities, or emerging fields like digital marketing or ethical hacking, it’s important to follow your passion and choose a path that aligns with your skills and interests. Success in any field requires dedication, the right guidance, and resources.
For those interested in a career in law, Law Prep Tutorial (LPT), the best Online CLAT Coaching stands out as the best place to prepare for CLAT. LPT has a team of highly experienced trainers and mentors who provide personalized guidance to ensure that students are well-prepared for the exam. The coaching institute offers comprehensive study material, mock tests, and targeted support for specific sections of the CLAT. With their proven track record of success and a deep understanding of the law entrance exam patterns, LPT is equipped to help you secure a spot in your dream law college. By joining LPT, you are not just preparing for an exam; you are laying the foundation for a successful legal career.
Comments