Top 10 Career Options After 12th in India (With & Without a Degree)
Choosing a career after the 12th grade is one of the most crucial decisions in a student’s life. Many students opt for traditional degree programs, while others prefer skill-based courses that provide immediate employment opportunities. Whether you aim for a professional career requiring a degree or a skill-based job that doesn’t mandate formal higher education, India offers numerous options.
In this blog, we will explore the top 10 career options after the 12th in India for students with and without a degree.
Career Options That Require a Degree
1. Engineering
Engineering is one of the most sought-after careers in India. With diverse fields such as Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and AI & Data Science, engineering provides multiple job opportunities in India and abroad.
Eligibility: Science stream (PCM)
Popular Entrance Exams: JEE Main, JEE Advanced, State-level exams
Job Roles: Software Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Civil Engineer
Average Salary: INR 4-12 LPA (varies by specialization)
2. Medical & Healthcare
A career in medicine is highly rewarding. Apart from MBBS, students can opt for fields like BDS (Dentistry), BAMS (Ayurveda), BHMS (Homeopathy), and Pharmacy.
Eligibility: Science stream (PCB)
Popular Entrance Exams: NEET-UG
Job Roles: Doctor, Dentist, Pharmacist, Physiotherapist
Average Salary: INR 6-20 LPA (varies by specialization)
3. Law
For students with a keen interest in legal studies, pursuing law can be a great option. A career in law provides opportunities in corporate firms, judiciary services, and independent practice.
Eligibility: Any stream
Popular Entrance Exams: CLAT, AILET, LSAT India
Job Roles: Lawyer, Legal Advisor, Judge, Public Prosecutor
Average Salary: INR 3-10 LPA
4. Management (BBA & MBA)
If you have strong leadership and analytical skills, a career in management is ideal. A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) followed by an MBA can lead to high-paying roles in corporate sectors.
Eligibility: Any stream
Popular Entrance Exams: IPMAT, SET, DU JAT (for BBA), CAT, XAT, GMAT (for MBA)
Job Roles: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, HR Manager
Average Salary: INR 5-15 LPA
5. Journalism & Mass Communication
Students interested in media, public relations, and content creation can pursue a career in journalism and mass communication.
Eligibility: Any stream
Popular Entrance Exams: CUET, IPU CET, SET
Job Roles: Journalist, Content Writer, News Anchor, Public Relations Officer
Average Salary: INR 3-8 LPA
Read more...Career Options Without a Degree
6. Digital Marketing
With the rise of the internet, digital marketing has become a lucrative field. You can start a career in SEO, social media marketing, or content creation without a formal degree.
Skills Required: SEO, social media management, content writing
Job Roles: Digital Marketer, Social Media Manager, SEO Analyst
Average Salary: INR 3-10 LPA
7. Graphic Designing & UI/UX Design
If you have a creative mindset, graphic design and UI/UX design are promising fields. Online courses and certifications can help you gain expertise.
Skills Required: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Figma
Job Roles: Graphic Designer, UI/UX Designer
Average Salary: INR 3-8 LPA
8. Data Science & AI
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence are booming fields that don’t always require a formal degree. Certification courses from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Simplilearn can help.
Skills Required: Python, Machine Learning, Statistics
Job Roles: Data Analyst, AI Engineer, Machine Learning Expert
Average Salary: INR 6-20 LPA
9. Freelancing & Content Creation
If you enjoy writing, video production, or social media, freelancing and content creation can be an excellent career choice.
Skills Required: Blogging, Video Editing, Copywriting
Job Roles: Blogger, YouTuber, Copywriter
Average Salary: INR 3-15 LPA (depends on projects)
10. Photography & Videography
For those passionate about capturing moments, photography and videography offer exciting opportunities. Professional courses and self-learning can help you build a strong portfolio.
Skills Required: Photography techniques, Video editing
Job Roles: Photographer, Cinematographer
Average Salary: INR 3-12 LPA
Conclusion
Choosing the right career after the 12th depends on your interests, skills, and future goals. While traditional degree courses open doors to stable job opportunities, skill-based careers provide flexibility and quicker entry into the workforce.
By exploring different career paths, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations. Which career path interests you the most? Let us know in the comments!