Career Options
12th Grade
Process
Right Choice

How to find the right Career Option after 12th Standard - A Process by Eduberance

By Niraj Harlalka, Priya Sontakke
Published on 26-Jan-2026
Hero image for How to find the right Career Option after 12th Standard - A Process by Eduberance

How to find the right Career Option after 12th - A Process by Eduberance
ERA - Explore Realise Achieve Your True Potential

In a student’s life, transitioning from a school to a college is a momentous occasion which he/she eagerly awaits. While the excitement is at an all-time high, there is palpable apprehension and anxiety that surrounds the question “What next?”. The opportunities are plenty as a number of avenues have opened up for the students. This leads to a lot of confusion as well. In this article, we try to break down the different careers based on the streams for easy understanding that will help you make an informed decision.

  1. Science without Biology (PCM)
    Let’s begin with the opportunities that the Science (without Biology) stream offers.

A student opting for the science stream with core subjects Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics can pursue Engineering, Architecture or any graduate degree in science such as B.Sc Mathematics, B.Sc Computer Science etc. The most popular degrees are:

  • B.E/B.Tech  
    
  • B.Arch  
    
  • Integrated M.Tech  
    
  • B.Sc (any science discipline)  
    
  • BCA
    

A student can also choose to join the National Defence Academy, Pune.

  1. Science with Biology (PCB/PCMB)
    Students who have opted the Science stream with Biology along with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics have the option of pursuing Medical Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentistry etc. Students can also do microbiology or pursue research in any of the medical fields. Needless to say they can pursue any graduate degree in Science such as B.Sc Physics, B.Sc Chemistry etc. Some of the degree courses are:
  • MBBS
  • BDS
  • B.Sc Post Basic Nursing
  • Paramedical
  • B.Pharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy)
  1. Arts/Humanities Group
    Students who have chosen the Arts / Humanities stream have the following options to choose from:
  • Law

  • Mass Communication

  • Journalism

  • Hospitality Management

  • Graphic Designing

  • Fashion Designing

  • Animation

  • Travel & Tourism Management

    The degree courses are

  • B.A (Bachelor of Arts) in any discipline

  • B.A in Arts (Fine/Visual/Performing) - depending on the choice of subject in classes 11 & 12.

  • B.Des in Animation

  • BA LLB

  • Bachelors in Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC)

  • BHM (Hospitality & Travel)

  • Bachelor of Journalism (BJ)

  • B.A in Animation

  • Diploma in Education

  • BCA (IT & Software)

  • BFA (Bachelor of FIne Arts)

  1. Commerce Group
    For students who have chosen the Commerce discipline the options are courses in Banking, Finance, Taxation, Accounts etc.
  • BCom
  • BCom (Hons)
  • BBA LLB
  • BCom LLB
  • BBA/BMS
  • BBA/MBA
  • BCA
  • CA (Chartered Accountant)
  • CS (Company Secretary)

What are the various entrance exams conducted at the national level?
In order to get admission into the top colleges of the country, national level exams are conducted annually. The most common ones are listed below:

  1. Engineering Entrance Exams - JEE Main, JEE Advanced
  2. Medical Entrance Exams - NEET(UG), NEET(PG), AIIMS (MBBS)
  3. Science Entrance Exams - NEST, IIT JAM, JEST
  4. Law Entrance Exams - CLAT, AILET, LSAT
  5. Hospitality Entrance Exams - NCHMCT JEE
  6. MassComm Entrance Exams - IIMC Entrance Exam, XIC-OET, JMI Entrance Exam
  7. Design Entrance Exam - NID, NIFT
  8. Humanities Entrance Exam - JNUEE, CUET, DUET, PUBDET

What are the various career options after completing class 12?

  1. ENGINEERING
  • Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) Mechanical Engineering

  • Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) Computer Science & Information Technology

  • Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) Civil Engineering

  • Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) Mechanical Engineering

  • Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) Civil Engineering

  • Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) Computer Science

  • Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) Electronics & Communication
    The primary difference between B.Tech & B.E. courses, is that B.Tech is more skill oriented whereas B.E. courses are knowledge-based.
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing Engineering?
    Problem solving, structural analysis, team work, communication, time management, attention to detail, industry related skills, data modelling, and leadership skills.

             **What are the pros and cons of pursuing engineering?**  
             Pros \- Engineers are always in demand, there is no dearth of jobs, good salary.   
    

Cons - Imbalance in supply and demand i.e. too many engineers vying for the same position, long working hours.

  1. HUMANITIES / ARTS
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) English

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Economics

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) History

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Political Science

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Sociology

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Hindi

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Geography

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) English (Hons.)

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Psychology (Hons.)

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) Sanskrit
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing the Humanities / Arts stream?
    Collaboration, critical thinking, communication, thorough subject knowledge, presentation skills, networking skills, creative thinking, passion, and unique style.

                **What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in the humanities / arts field?**  
                 Pros \- Multiple career options, many opportunities to freelance  
    

Cons - Salary may be relatively low as compared to other fields, it is not considered at par with other streams such as science

  1. SCIENCE
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Physics

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Chemistry

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Botany

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Computer Science

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Mathematics

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Zoology

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Biotechnology

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Microbiology

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Information Technology

    What are the skills required for a student pursuing the Science stream? Interpretation skills, communication, research skills, writing skills, teamwork, scientific knowledge, and presentation skills.

                      **What are the pros and cons of pursuing the science stream?**  
                      Pros \- Lot of opportunities, in demand all the time, lot of options  
                      Cons \- Vast field, continuous study is required to stay updated.  
                       
    
  1. MANAGEMENT
  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

  • Bachelor of Business Management (BBM)

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Marketing

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Human Resources Management

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Finance

  • Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS)

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Hons.

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) International Business

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Computer Applications

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Digital Marketing
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing management studies? Communication, verbal & non-verbal skills, listening skills, delegation, transparency, teamwork, problem resolution, decision making, strategic thinking, change management, appreciation, and employee retention.

              **What are the pros and cons of pursuing management as a career?**  
    

Pros - Good pay esp if you acquire a PG from a reputed institute, good career growth
Cons - Lot of stress esp in fields such as sales & marketing, uncertainty as failure to deliver could lead to undesirable consequences

  1. COMMERCE
  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Computer Applications

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Hons.

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Accounting & Finance

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Banking & insurance

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Corporate Secretaryship

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Taxation

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Accountancy Hons.

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Finance

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Hons. Accounting & Finance.

    What are the skills required for a student pursuing Commerce?

      Should be good at case studies, expert at calculations, presentation skills, basic business skills, communication, and proficiency in numbers, 
    
      **What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in commerce?**
    
      Pros \- Lot of opportunities for entrepreneurship, good pay
    
     Cons \- Stress in jobs that especially involves financial dealings as a lot is at stake
    
  1. MEDICAL
  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

  • Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Medical Laboratory Technology

  • Diploma in Medical Laboratory (DMLT)

  • Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine & Surgery (BAMS)

  • Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine & Surgery (BHMS)

  • Bachelor of Science B.Sc. (Optometry)

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Operation Theatre Technology

  • Diploma in Physiotherapy

    What are the skills required for a student pursuing medical studies? Communication skills, time management, collaboration skills, empathy, technical skills, service oriented, cultural competence, teamwork, ethical responsibility to self and others, resilience, adaptability, reliability, social skills, and quick thinking.

What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in the medical field?
Pros - Prestigious and well respected career, excellent pay, can set up on clinic/hospital
Cons- Accountability, lot of stress, long working hours

  1. EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) English

  • Bachelor of Physical Education (B.P.Ed.)

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Physical Science

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Mathematics

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) History

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Tamil

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Biological Sciences

    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in teaching / education?

    Communication skills, approachability, build trust & relationships, community building skills, listening skills, strong work ethics, excellent organisation skills, presentation skills, critical thinking skills, patience, leadership skills, time management, conflict resolution skills,

                      **What are the pros and cons of pursuing  a career in education?**  
    

Pros - Lot of opportunities as there is no dearth of availability of jobs, can work as a freelancer and set up own teaching institute, convenient working hours
Cons- Comparatively less pay, lack of support from parents/guardians can be a hindrance, may be burdened with multiple roles
8. DESIGN

  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des) Fashion Design
  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des) Interior Design
  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des) Textile Design
  • Diploma in Fashion Design
  • Diploma in interior Design
  • Diploma in Textile Design
  • Advanced Diploma in Fashion Design

What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in design?

Problem solving ability, marketing, print knowledge, social media & networking, flexibility, time management, communication, spatial skills, budgeting skills, ability to visualise, creativity, and attention to detail.

                     **What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in design?**  

Pros - Opportunities to express the creative self, good pay, freelance opportunities
Cons- Highly competitive field that comes with a lot of stress, difficult to establish a good name and reputation,

9. PARAMEDICAL

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Nursing     
    
  • Post Basic Bachelor of Science ( P.B.B.Sc.) Nursing   
    
  • Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT)  
    
  • General Nursing & Midwifery (GNM)  
    
  • Diploma in Gynaecology & Obstetrics (DGO)  
    
  • Diploma in Child Health (DCH)  
    
  • Diploma in Optometry  
    
  • Diploma in Operation Theatre Technology  
    
  • Diploma in Orthopaedics   
    
  • Diploma in Ophthalmology  
    
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Cardiac Technology  
    
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Physician Assistant.  
    
  • Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy (DDVL)  
    
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Anaesthesia Technology  
    
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Hons. Nursing.  
    
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Nuclear Medicine Technology  
    
  • Bachelor of Paramedical Technology (BPMT)  
    
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Neurophysiology Technology  
    
  • Diploma in Dermatology  
    
  • Diploma in Clinical Research  
    

    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in paramedical services?
    Problem solving skills, interpersonal skills, physical strength, ability to learn from mistakes, team player, mentally tough, and ability to adapt to working for long hours.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in the paramedical services?
    Pros - Job satisfaction as you help those in need, Career diversification opportunities, good career growth
    Cons - Stressful job, huge responsibility, dealing with lot of emotional issues, health risk that comes with the job

    10. COMPUTER APPLICATIONS

  • Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)

  • Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) Hons.

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Computer Technology

  • Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA) Data Science

  • Diploma in Computer Application (DCA)
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in computer studies / applications?
    Document writing, editing skills, coding skills, presentation skills, computer typing skills, photo editing, graphic designing, basic computer hardware and maintenance skills, internet research and online learning skills, data management, social media skills, and digital communication skills.

What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in computer sciences?
Pros - Good pay, plenty of placement opportunities, lot of scope to study online
Cons - stiff competition from peers as many opt for this fast growing field, continuous learning process as new developments and upgrades are the norm

  11\. **HOTEL MANAGEMENT**
  • Bachelor of Hotel Management & Catering Technology (BHMCT)

  • Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM)

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Hospitality & Hotel Administration

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Catering Science & Hotel Management

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Hospitality Studies

  • Diploma in Bakery & Confectionery

  • Diploma in Hospitality Management

  • Diploma in Hotel Management & Catering Technology

  • Diploma in Food & Beverage Service
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in hospitality? Interpersonal skills, communication skills, detail-oriented, operation knowledge, team building, financial management, flexibility, customer service skills, multitasking skills, language skills, and cultural knowledge and awareness.

         **What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in the hospitality industry?**  
    

Pros - Lot of demand for this field as the hotel and tourism industry is always thriving, pay is also good, if you are a social person then this field will bring opportunities to meet a lot of new people
Cons - Long working hours, you have to put up with a lot of bickering from customers, can be stressful at times with a lot of internal tensions and expectations

12. LAW

  • Bachelor of Law (L.L.B)
  • Bachelor of Arts + Bachelor of Law (B.A. L.L.B.)
  • Bachelor of Business Administration + Bachelor of Law (B.B.A. L.L.B.)
  • Bachelor of Commerce + Bachelor of Law (B.Com. L.L.B)
  • Bachelor of Science + Bachelor of Law (B.Sc. L.L.B)
  • Bachelor of Law (L.L.B.) Hons.
  • Diploma in Taxation Law (DTL)
  • Diploma in Labour Laws & Labour Welfare
  • Diploma in Criminology
  • Bachelor of law (L.L.B.) Intellectual Property Rights
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in Law?
    Critical thinking, analytical thinking, communication skills, research skills, organisation skills, managerial skills, teamwork, interpretation skills, public speaking skills, and time management.
    What are the pros and cons of becoming a lawyer?
    Pros - Wide variety of options to choose from right from tax law, criminal law to cyber security laws etc., you can choose to set up your own practice, financially rewarding career option
    Cons - High levels of stress comes with this job, long working hours, you may not have the option of choosing your own clients

13. Mass Communication

  • Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC)
  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Journalism & Mass Communication
  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Hons. Journalism & Mass Communication
  • Bachelor of Mass Media (B.M.M.)
  • Bachelor of Mass Communication (B.M.C.)
  • Diploma in Photography
  • Diploma in Journalism & Mass Communication
  • Diploma in Multimedia (DMM)
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in mass communication?
    Public speaking, visual design, problem solving, media relations, conflict resolution, interpersonal communications, research and analysis, leadership, and decision making skills.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in mass communication?
    Pros - Opportunity to work on exciting and challenging projects, meet a lot of interesting people on the job
    Cons - Long working hours, pay not be at par with the hard work, there is always stress and risk depending on the work profile

14. AGRICULTURE

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Agriculture
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Hons. Agriculture
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Horticulture Science
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Fisheries
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Agronomy
  • Diploma in Agriculture
  • Diploma in Horticulture
  • Diploma in Animal Husbandry
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in agricultural sciences?
    Adaptability, time management, organisational skills, tech-savvy, basic budgeting skills, marketing skills, interpersonal skills, financial management, natural resource management, sustainability innovative methods, and group management skills.
    What are the pros and cons of a career in agriculture?
    Pros - Exciting career option which can bring about revolutionary changes, feel good factor, you enjoy the work you do
    Cons - Not many opportunities for career growth, pay may not as good

15. ANIMATION

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Animation
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Animation & Multimedia
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Animation & VFX
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Animation & Visual Effect
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Multimedia (Animation & Graphics)
  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) Animation
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Animation Film Making
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Animation
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in animation?
    Creativity, team work, attention to fine detail, organisation skills, ability to challenge oneself, emotive communication, self-motivation, practical know-how, software-savvy, and social media skills.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in animation?
    Pros - Opportunity to express your creativity, you can earn well depending on your talent
    Cons - Finding opportunities can be a challenge, you may not get the creative freedom to express yourself

16. PHARMACY

  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm)
  • Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm)
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) Ayurveda
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) Pharmaceuticals
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) Pharmaceuticals Chemistry
  • Diploma in Ayurvedic Pharmacy
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) + Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Bachelor of pharmacy (B.Pharm) Pharmacology
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in pharmaceutical sciences?
    Multi-tasking, diligence, critical thinking skills, effective communication, proficiency in prioritising tasks, patience, active listening, compassion, physical stamina, and reading comprehension.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in pharmaceutical sciences?
    Pros - Flexible work options, opportunity to help, meet lot of people socially
    Cons - Repetitive nature of work, you may need recertifications, nature of job can be stressful
    17. Veterinary Sciences
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) & A.H.
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) Animal Nutrition
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) Livestock Production & Management
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) Veterinary Pathology
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) Veterinary Microbiology
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) Animal Genetics & Breeding
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSC) Veterinary Surgery & Radiology
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in veterinary sciences?
    Compassion, analytical skills, interpersonal skills, problem-solving, scientific aptitude, critical thinking, management skills, manual dexterity, observation, behavioural and social attributes.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in the veterinary sciences?
    Pros - Tremendous job satisfaction, plenty of job opportunities, you can even set up your own clinic
    Cons - You need to put in a lot of years of study, you will on call at all times for emergencies, work is both physically and mentally demanding
    18. AVIATION
  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Aviation
  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Airport Management
  • Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) Mechanical Stream
  • Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Avionics Stream
  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Aviation
  • Diploma in Aviation
  • Private Pilot Licence
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in aviation?
    Excellent communication, situational awareness, spatial skills, team-working skills, decisiveness, quick thinking, ability to be calm at stressful situations, confidence, self-confidence, leadership skills, technically sound, excellent mathematical skills, and creative skills.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in aviation?
    Pros - Enjoyable work experience, flexible work schedules, excellent salary
    Cons - Constant travellin can get tiring, irregular work hours, stressful job as it comes with a lot of responsibility

19. ARCHITECTURE

  • Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
  • Bachelor of Planning
  • Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) Interior Design
  • Diploma in Construction Management (DCM)
  • Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) Landscape Architecture
  • Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) Building Construction Technology
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing a career in architecture?
    Attention to detail, analytical mind, good with numbers, excellent drawing and design skills, creativity, leadership skills, critical thinking, effective communication, and organisation skills.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in architecture?
    Pros - Opportunities to express your creativity, freelance jobs, you can set up your own company, excellent salary
    Cons - Takes time to establish a good name and reputation, very competitive field, uncertainty in times of recession

20. DENTAL

  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) General Surgery
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Prosthodontics
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Orthodontics
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Oral Medicine & Radiology
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing dental sciences?
    Interpersonal skills, hand-eye coordination, good work ethics, entrepreneurship skills, attention to detail, leadership skills, research skills, manual dexterity, good communication skills, research skills, and compassion.
    What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career in dental sciences?
    Pros - Opportunity to help people, can set up own practice, excellent pay, job security
    Cons - Have to spend many years to acquire a degree, can be physically tiring, very competitive field

21. VOCATIONAL COURSES

  • Bachelor of Vocational Studies (B.Voc.) Software Development
  • Bachelor of Vocational Studies (B.Voc.)
  • Bachelor of Vocational Studies (B.Voc.) Automobiles
  • Diploma in Secretarial Practice
  • Diploma in Visual Merchandising
    What are the skills required for a student pursuing vocational courses? Communication skills, adaptive thinking, critical thinking, problem solving, soft skills , perspective, inquiry skills, technology skills, and collaboration skills.

Promotion

NP

About the Authors

Niraj Harlalka is the Co-Founder and CEO of Eduberance. He has found his IKIGAI which is in helping others find their IKIGAI. Priya is a trained and registered psychologist with over a year of focused experience, including six months in private practice as a freelance psychologist and another five months working with a mental health startup MoodAhead. Her work has primarily involved clients aged between 18 and 35 years, supporting them through a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns.