Complete Guide After 12th (Science, Commerce & Arts)
After completing Intermediate (Class 12), one of the biggest questions students face is:
“Which course should I choose next?”
Your career direction mainly depends on:
- Your 12th subject stream
- Your interest
- Career goals (job, business, government exam, higher studies)
In this article, we will explain all possible courses after 12th in a stream-wise and subject-wise manner, so you can make the right career decision.
Table of Contents
Courses After Intermediate – Stream Wise Overview
After 12th, students generally belong to one of these streams:
- Science (PCM / PCB)
- Commerce
- Arts / Humanities
- Vocational & Skill-Based Courses
Let’s understand each stream in detail.
1. Courses After 12th Science (PCM – Physics, Chemistry, Maths)
If you have studied Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, you have maximum career options.
🔹 Engineering Courses
Engineering is the most popular option after PCM.
Top Engineering Courses:
- B.Tech / B.E (Bachelor of Technology/Engineering)
- Computer Science Engineering (CSE)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics & Communication Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
Duration: 4 Years
Career Options: Engineer, Software Developer, Government Jobs, PSU Jobs
🔹 Architecture & Design
- Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
- Bachelor of Planning (B.Plan)
- Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
Career Options: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer
🔹 Science & Mathematics Courses
- B.Sc Physics
- B.Sc Mathematics
- B.Sc Chemistry
- B.Sc Statistics
- B.Sc Computer Science
Career Options: Research, Teaching, Data Analyst, Scientist (after higher studies)
🔹 Computer & IT Courses
- BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications)
- B.Sc IT
- B.Sc Data Science
Career Options: Software Developer, Web Developer, IT Professional
🔹 Defence & Government Exams
- NDA (National Defence Academy)
- Indian Navy Technical Entry
- Air Force Technical Branch
2. Courses After 12th Science (PCB – Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
If you studied Biology, medical and health-related fields are best for you.
🔹 Medical Courses
- MBBS (Doctor)
- BDS (Dental)
- BAMS (Ayurveda)
- BHMS (Homeopathy)
- BUMS (Unani)
Career Options: Doctor, Medical Officer, Private Practice
🔹 Paramedical Courses
- B.Sc Nursing
- GNM (Nursing)
- BPT (Physiotherapy)
- BMLT (Medical Lab Technology)
- Radiology & Imaging
Career Options: Nurse, Lab Technician, Therapist
🔹 Life Science Courses
- B.Sc Biotechnology
- B.Sc Microbiology
- B.Sc Biochemistry
- B.Sc Zoology / Botany
Career Options: Research, Pharma Industry, Lab Scientist
🔹 Pharmacy Courses
- B.Pharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy)
- D.Pharm (Diploma)
Career Options: Pharmacist, Medical Sales, Drug Inspector
3. Courses After 12th Commerce
Commerce students have excellent career and business opportunities.
🔹 Degree Courses
- B.Com (General)
- B.Com Honours
- BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
- BBM (Bachelor of Business Management)
Career Options: Accountant, Manager, Business Executive
🔹 Professional Courses
These courses offer high salary and prestige.
- CA (Chartered Accountant)
- CS (Company Secretary)
- CMA (Cost & Management Accountant)
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
Career Options: Auditor, Financial Advisor, Corporate Manager
🔹 Banking & Finance Courses
- BBA in Banking & Finance
- B.Com in Banking
- BFM (Bachelor of Financial Markets)
Career Options: Banker, Investment Analyst, Finance Executive
🔹 Economics & Statistics
- B.A / B.Sc Economics
- B.Sc Statistics
Career Options: Economist, Data Analyst, Policy Analyst
4. Courses After 12th Arts / Humanities
Arts students also have diverse and powerful career options.
🔹 Degree Courses
- B.A (History, Geography, Political Science, Sociology)
- B.A English / Hindi
- B.A Psychology
- B.A Economics
Career Options: Teacher, Civil Services, Content Writer
🔹 Law Courses
- BA LLB (5 Years)
- BBA LLB
Career Options: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Advisor
🔹 Media & Communication
- BJMC (Journalism & Mass Communication)
- B.A in Journalism
- Digital Media & Content Creation
Career Options: Journalist, News Anchor, Content Creator
🔹 Social Work & Public Service
- BSW (Bachelor of Social Work)
- B.A Public Administration
Career Options: NGO Worker, Social Officer, Government Jobs
5. Skill-Based & Vocational Courses After 12th (Any Stream)
If you want quick job-oriented courses, these are best.
🔹 Diploma Courses
- Polytechnic Diploma
- ITI Courses
- Hotel Management Diploma
- Fashion Designing
🔹 Digital & Online Skill Courses
- Digital Marketing
- Graphic Designing
- Web Development
- Data Analytics
- Cyber Security
Career Options: Freelancer, Startup Jobs, Remote Work
6. Government Job Preparation After 12th
You can directly prepare for:
- SSC CHSL
- SSC GD
- Indian Army (GD, Clerk)
- Police Constable
- Railway Group D
- Banking Exams (Clerk Level)
How to Choose the Right Course After Intermediate?
Ask yourself:
- What subjects do I enjoy?
- Do I want a job, business, or government service?
- Am I ready for long-term studies or short-term skills?
Choose interest + scope, not pressure.
Final Words
After Intermediate, there is no single best course, but there is a best course for YOU.
Whether you are from Science, Commerce, or Arts, opportunities are endless if you choose wisely.
If you want:
- High salary → Professional or Tech Courses
- Job security → Government Exams
- Early income → Skill-based courses
- Knowledge & research → Degree + Higher Studies