The Majority of students with a PCM combination in class XII aspire to pursue engineering, and often struggle with the thought, “If not engineering, then what?”

Many PCM students naturally drift towards engineering after 12^th, partially because they never actually stop to evaluate their options, and partially because they have been led by their parents/friends/the society to believe that engineering is the end-all, be-all of a PCM student. Now, what if you know that engineering is not the one for you, or were unable to clear the JEE and other engineering entrance exams?

Do you have any good career options open?

Well, popular belief would tell you there are not, and that’s exactly why you need to read this article.

Here are promising career options for PCM students after class 12th with Engineering and Non-Engineering, possible courses you can pursue, and many more.

Let us start with what the 12th PCM combination is.

 

This article is a part of our series on career options with each stream combination. Read more: Top Career Options for PCB Students | 9 Emerging Careers for Science Students

What is Class 12th PCM combination:

12th PCM refers to the disciplines studied in the Science stream by students in the 12th grade. It is an abbreviation for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Consider yourself on an exciting trip to discover the realm of science! You will discover how things function in 12th PCM, from the tiniest particles to the big cosmos. 

Physics teaches you about motion, forces, and energy, which may help you comprehend anything from a rocket’s flight to the speed of a race automobile. Chemistry exposes you to the intriguing world of atoms and molecules, where you may make potions, comprehend reactions, and learn about the mysteries of colours,  fragrances and materials. Mathematics is a wonderful language that assists you in solving problems and unravelling the secrets of numbers, forms, and patterns.

You may pursue intriguing fields like engineering, architecture, space exploration, computer science, and more with a 12th PCM.  So, buckle up and prepare for a fantastic trip of discovery with the 12th PCM!

Non-Engineering courses for PCM Students (In a brief):

1.       BSc Physics: Learn about the basic laws of matter, energy, and motion.
2.       BSc Chemistry: Learn about chemicals, processes, and molecular structures.
3.       BSc Maths: Expand your understanding of mathematical principles, theories, and applications.
4.       BSc Economics: Learn about the production, distribution, and consumption of commodities and services.
5.       BSc aircraft: Develop your knowledge of aircraft operations, management, and safety.
6.       BSc Home Science: Learn about home administration, nutrition, and human development.
7.       BSc Robotics: Concentration on the design, programming, and operation of robots and automation systems.
8.       BSc Applied Mathematics: Apply mathematical principles to real-world issues and industries.
9.       BSc Statistics: It allows you to analyse data, perform surveys, and draw statistical conclusions.
10.   BSc in Nautical Sciences: Prepare for a career in the merchant navy and marine sector with a BSc in Nautical Sciences.
11.   BSc in Data Science: Develop abilities in data analysis, visualisation, and machine learning with a BSc in Data Science/Data Analytics.
12.   BSc Actuarial Sciences: Study risk assessment, probability, and mathematical modelling for insurance and finance with a BSc in Actuarial Sciences.
13.   BSc Finance: Learn about financial markets, investments, and corporate finance with a BSc in Finance.
14.   Bachelor of Computer Science: Concentration on programming, software development, and computer applications.
15.   Bachelor of Corporate Administration (BBA): Gain management abilities and a thorough understanding of corporate processes.
16.   BBA Sales/Marketing/Entrepreneurship: Concentrate your studies on sales, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
17.   BMS BBA Accounting: Develop your knowledge of accounting concepts, financial analysis, and auditing.
18.   B.Com: Study disciplines connected to commerce, such as accounting, finance, and business management.
19.   BHM: Learn about hotel operations, hospitality services, and event management with a bachelor’s degree in hotel management.
20.   Bachelor of Retail Management: Learn about retail operations, merchandising, and customer service with a bachelor’s degree in retail management.
21.   BA Fashion Merchandising and Marketing: Explore the fashion industry, branding, and marketing tactics with a BA in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing.
22.   BA Travel and Tourism Management: A bachelor’s degree in travel and tourist management focuses on travel planning, tourism operations, and destination management.
23.   Bachelor of Business Economics: Learn about economic fundamentals, policy analysis, and market dynamics.
24.   Bachelor of International Business and Finance: Learn about worldwide company operations, finance, and international commerce with a Bachelor of International Company and Finance degree.
25.   Bachelor of Fashion Technology: Learn about fashion design, garment manufacturing, and textile technology.
26.   Management Studies: Gain leadership and management abilities for a variety of sectors.
27.   Banking and Insurance: Develop your knowledge of banking operations, insurance policies, and risk management.
28.   Chartered Accountancy (CA): Achieve a professional certification in accounting, auditing, and financial management by pursuing a Chartered Accountancy (CA) qualification.
29.   Company Secretary (CS): Advance your career as a corporate governance specialist and legal counsel to businesses.
30.   BSc Environmental Studies: Environmental conservation, sustainability, and natural resource management will be emphasised.
31.   Bachelor of Architecture: Study the art and science of building and structural design.
32.   B.Des: Explore the world of product design and development with a BDes in Product Design/Industrial Design/Vehicle Design.
33.   B. Planning: Learn about urban design, infrastructure development, and spatial design.
34.   Commercial Pilot Licence: Work as a professional pilot in commercial aircraft.
35.   Nautical Science/Merchant Navy Training: Prepare for a career as a deck officer or marine engineer in the merchant navy.
36. Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA): Learn programming languages, database management, software development, computer networking, and other foundational skills related to computer science.

Career options other than engineering:

1. Architecture

Architectural marvels such as the Burj Khalifa, The Louvre, Petronas Towers,  and other buildings of the modern world don’t just pop out of thin air. These projects are intensive on planning, designing and architects do just that. They work closely with their clients to customise designs according to specifications and are involved in the creation and restoration of buildings, such as residential complexes, malls, commercial spaces, restaurants, etc. A career in architecture requires you to have keen observational skills, aesthetic sensitivity, critical thinking, a knack for efficient use of space, and an eye-for-detail.

Career Opportunities in Architecture: You can choose to specialise in numerous sub-fields, such as Urban Planning, Urban Design, Sustainable Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Architectural Conservation, Interior Design, Industrial Design, etc.

Some Top Colleges for Architecture: IIT Roorkee; Sir JJ College of Architecture; IIT Kharagpur; National Institute of Technology, Thiruchirapalli; School of Planning & Architecture, New Delhi; Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT), Gujarat; Department of Architecture; NIT, Calicut

Read More: Architecture as a Career in India

 

2. Physics

Right from the credit card we use to shop for clothes, to the smartphones we chat for hours on, every single object around us is governed by the laws of Physics. With the pervasive influence of Physics all around us, it is not hard to fathom that a career in Physics can provide one with countless opportunities. Physicists study a wide range of physical phenomena, such as matter, energy, magnetism, etc., and apply their understanding to advance research in various fields. A career in Physics requires one to have strong logical thinking skills, problem-solving capability, a methodical approach, and most importantly, an undying love for Physics!

Career Opportunities in Physics: With a Physics major, you develop skills that are applicable to various fields such as Econophysics, Defense, Aerospace, Healthcare, Computational Physics, Geophysics, High Energy Physics, Medical Physics, Biophysics, Nuclear Physics, and Data Science. You can also go for research or teaching in these areas.

Some Top Colleges for Physics: IISc, Bangalore; IISER (Multiple Locations); St. Stephen’s College, Delhi; Hansraj College, Delhi; Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata; St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai; Presidency University, Kolkata; Fergusson College, Pune; NISER, Odisha

 

3. Chemistry

Do you have the periodic table at your fingertips? Does learning about the various chemical reactions and structures that govern matter get you going? If yes, then this could probably be the field for you. Chemists study the properties, structure, composition, reactions and changes in matter. The remarkable thing about a career in Chemistry is its wide applicability, especially if you look forward to entering the field of research. But that is not to say that all Chemistry graduates end up wearing lab coats, as they can explore opportunities across Pharmaceuticals, Petroleum, Chemical, Healthcare, and Educational organizations.

Career Opportunities in Chemistry: There are also various specialised sub-fields in Chemistry you can explore, namely, Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Flavour Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Metallurgy, Surface Chemistry, etc.

Some Top Colleges for Chemistry: St. Stephen’s College, Delhi; Loyola College, Chennai; Hansraj College, Delhi; Fergusson College, Pune; Madras Christian College, Chennai; St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai; St. Joseph’s College, Bangalore; Christ University, Bangalore

Read More: Chemistry as a Career in India

 

4. Mathematics

While it is true that most students prefer to stay at least a few miles away from the much-feared subject of Mathematics, those with a genuine love for it can build a satisfying and lucrative career in the domain. Mathematics forms an excellent base for fields involving computation, numbers and data. Thus, a degree in mathematics can be a stepping stone for a wide range of careers. During your course, you would gain a thorough understanding of mathematical principles and their origins, mathematical models, and their applications to real-world problems. Go for this field if you have superior analytical and logical abilities, a love for numbers, and an ability to deal with complex problems.

Career Opportunities in Mathematics: Mathematics graduates can look forward to careers in the domains of Actuarial Science, Data Science, Banking, Insurance, Finance, Meteorology, Stock Market, etc. They can be hired for various roles, including Market Research, Project Development, Numerical Analysis, Research Operations, and Financial Analyst, to name a few.

Some Top Colleges for Mathematics: Indian Statistical Institute (Multiple Locations); IIT Bombay; IIT Kharagpur; IIT Guwahati; IISc, Bangalore; IISER (Multiple Locations); Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Chennai; St. Stephen’s College, Delhi; NISER, Odisha; Delhi Technological University (DTU), Delhi

Read More: Mathematics as a Career in India

 

Recommended Read: Life Beyond IITs: 4 Premier Institutes in India for Pure Science & Research

 

5. Statistics

Statistics is yet another go-to field for those with a penchant for numbers and data. While a course in Mathematics deals more with theories and principles, Statistics aims to apply them in practice to analyse trends and make predictions. Statisticians blend their knowledge of Statistics and Maths to build data models for solving problems. Due to this very reason, Statistics majors are well-qualified to apply their skills to virtually any field requiring the analysis of data. If you possess analytical abilities, strong quantitative reasoning, are self-motivated, and do not mind spending your day crunching numbers, you can find yourself at home in this field.

Career Opportunities in Statistics: Statistics majors are actively hired in various fields such as Banking, Insurance, Actuarial Science, Investment, Healthcare, Pharmacology, Manufacturing, Data Science, Public Health and Policy, Education, Agriculture, etc. A statistics graduate can expect to hold various roles such as Market Researcher, Data Analyst, Insurance Underwriter, Social Scientist, Financial Analyst, Algorithm Designer, etc.

Some Top Colleges for Statistics: Indian Statistical Institute (Multiple Locations); Hindu College, Delhi; Ramjas College, Delhi; Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi; St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai; IIT Kanpur; IIT Bombay; Fergusson College, Pune; St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata

Read More: Statistics as a Career in India

 

6. Aviation

While the previously-mentioned fields were mostly associated with research or desk jobs, Aviation would take you on a sky-high ride. A perfect mix of science, technology and travel, a career in Aviation can top your list if you are looking for a career to skip the 9-to-5.  Being a Commercial Pilot would require you to take command of a flight’s controls, and ensure that passengers and cargo are carried safely around the globe. Yet, the field of Aviation is not only limited to being a pilot

Career Opportunities in Aviation: As a Commercial Pilot, you can work with major international or regional airlines, fly cargo planes to transport goods/cargo, work as a corporate pilot to fly corporate jets, and also operate medical or air emergency planes. As an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, you can find opportunities with major international and domestic airlines, airport authorities and aircraft manufacturing firms.

Some Top Colleges for Aviation: Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Academy (IGRUA), Rae Bareilly; Rajiv Gandhi Academy of Aviation Technology, Kerala; National Flying Training Institute, Gondia; Bombay Flying Club, Mumbai; Indian Institute of Aeronautics, Delhi/Patna

Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics students! Are you ready to take your understanding of the natural world to new heights? Our Virtual Internship Program in Aeronautical Engineering is designed to give students like you a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of designing, building, and maintaining aircraft and their systems. You will learn from industry experts and build a portfolio to showcase to potential employers.

Recommended Read: Get Ready to Fly! Your All-in-One Guide to Becoming a Pilot in India

 

7. Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking, by its very name, sounds like an exciting and off-beat career, and it indeed is. A career with a new-age flair, Ethical Hacking is fast becoming a popular career option for students due to advancements in the technology space. Ethical Hackers, as opposed to their malicious counterparts, attempt to breach the security of a computer system, to find faults in the system’s defences. They bring to light any vulnerabilities in a company’s network security, so as to prevent a leak of sensitive information. It is not just a career for computer geeks and you can think about Ethical Hacking as a full-time career option if you have the right logical thinking and technical skills.

Career Opportunities in Ethical Hacking: As organizations are becoming increasingly concerned about their network security, they are hiring ethical hackers to protect themselves from cyber attacks. As an ethical hacker, you can work in various roles, such as Network Security Engineer, Network Security Administrator, Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, etc.

Some Top Colleges for Ethical Hacking: There are no degree programs in Ethical Hacking, only certification courses. Some top certification bodies include Indian School of Ethical Hacking (ISOEH), Kolkata; EC Council (Online); Ankit Fadia Certified Ethical Hacker (Multiple Locations/Online); NIIT Ethical Hacking (Multiple Locations); Arizona Infotech, Pune

Read More: Ethical Hacking as a Career in India

8. AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Artificial Intelligence is a branch of computer science that deals with the development of intelligent machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. This includes tasks like speech recognition, problem-solving, learning, planning, and decision-making. AI involves the study and creation of algorithms, neural networks, and machine learning models to enable machines to process and analyze data, make predictions, and adapt their actions based on experience.

Career Opportunities in AI: AI Research scientist, machine learning engineer, natural language processing engineer, robotics engineer, AI product manager

Some Top Colleges for AI: IIT, IISC, IIIT, Amity University, VIT, Jain University, SRM Insititute of Science and Technology

9. Data Science

Data Science is an interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data. Data scientists collect, clean, and analyze large datasets, employing statistical techniques, data mining, and machine learning to extract valuable information. Data science encompasses data visualization, predictive modelling, and data-driven decision-making to solve complex problems and provide actionable insights.

Career opportunities in Data Science:

Data scientist, data analyst, data engineer, business intelligence analyst, data consultant

Some Top Colleges for Data Science: IIT, BITS Pilani, ABES Institute of Technology, ACS College of Engineering

10. Merchant Navy

Would you like a career that would take you all around the world? Would you like a job where you would be at sea for months on end? A career in Merchant Navy gives you exactly that and more. Unlike the Indian Navy, which defends the nation at sea, the Merchant Navy serves to facilitate international trade, by transporting cargo, goods, and commercial items across the globe. If you are resilient enough to handle being on a ship for prolonged periods with intermittent contact with family, this can be a highly rewarding career for you, both professionally and monetarily.

 Career Opportunities in Merchant Navy: You can work across the various departments of a merchant ship, including, the engine department, deck department, architecture department, and catering department. The job specifications and educational requirements for each department are different.

Some Top Colleges for Merchant Navy: Indian Maritime University (Multiple Locations); International Maritime Institute, Delhi NCR; Coimbatore Marine College, Coimbatore; International Maritime Academy, Chennai; Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Cochin; Vels University, Chennai

Read More: Merchant Navy as a Career in India

 

11. Industrial Design

What does science have to do with design? Quite a lot, actually. As opposed to the traditional fields of design, such as fashion and apparel design, which a student from any stream can pursue, there are certain sub-fields of design that require the technical expertise of a science student. Product Designers (a sub-field of Industrial Design) are involved in the design and manufacture of products, ranging from mobile phones, Bluetooth headphones, smart watches, to wheelchairs, furniture, and home appliances. Yet another application of industrial design – Automobile Design deals with the design and manufacture of automobiles, such as cars, bikes, and even buses.

Career Opportunities in Industrial Design: You can explore opportunities as a Product Designer or Industrial Design Researcher in the manufacturing sector, research institutes, information technology companies, and with companies that deal with the design of innovative products. Opportunities for Automobile Designers are in abundance in the R&D departments of various automotive firms, such as General Motors, Honda, Tata Motors, etc.

Some Top Colleges for Industrial Design: IIT Bombay; IIT Guwahati; IIITDM, Jabalpur; National Institute of Design (Multiple Locations); Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bangalore; Indian School of Design & Innovation, Mumbai; Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune

 

Recommended Read: Sky Is The Limit: 11 Careers For The Love Of Design

 

12. Forensic Science

Many of us find investigative crime shows and movies fascinating, yet have you ever considered that it could be your full-time career option? A relatively new field in India, Forensic Science is rapidly creating a space for itself, owing to an increase in crime, and the need for a scientific, methodical approach to solving cases. Forensic Scientists scientifically collect evidence, document it, and analyse it in the laboratory. Forensic Science is an applied field, and utilises knowledge from various fields of science, including Chemistry, Physics, Anthropology, Biology, and even Computer Science. In order to pursue a career in this field, you need to be detail-oriented and have good observational and investigative skills.

Career Opportunities in Forensic Science: There are numerous applications of Forensic Science, and you can work as a Forensic Scientist, Forensic Toxicologist, Crime Scene Investigator, Forensic Anthropologist, Forensic Ballistics Expert, Polygraph Examiner, Digital Forensics Expert, etc.

Some Top Colleges for Forensic Science*: Delhi University; Gujarat Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar; Panjab University, Chandigarh; Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology & Forensic Science, Delhi; University of Madras, Chennai; Osmania University, Hyderabad

*Please note that most institutes offer this course at the PG level only.

Read More: Forensic Science as a Career in India

 

13. Computer Applications & IT

Those with a love for computers, programming languages and coding, yet unable /unwilling to pursue engineering, can find the field of computer applications to be a boon. Professionals in this field hold immense knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, programming languages and software concepts.  In order to build a successful career in this field, you need to have good command over programming languages, be up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and have strong logical capabilities.

Career Opportunities in Computer Applications: Pursuing education in this field would equip you with knowledge and skills to work at both Indian and global organizations as a Software Developer, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, Technical Writer, System Analyst, Web Designer, App Developer, etc. 

Some Top Colleges for Computer Applications: Christ University, Bangalore; St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai; St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata; SRM University, Chennai; Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies and Research (SICSR); Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU), Delhi; Madras Christian College, Chennai

Read More: Computer Applications & IT as a Career in India

 

14. Fashion Technology

You could be shying away from engineering for a number of reasons, but what if we tell you, there is an application of technology in the world of Fashion too? Fashion Technology seeks to amalgamate the principles of manufacturing and technology, with those of design. People in this career, thus, work on the design and development of fabrics, and the manufacturing process to ensure quality and efficiency of fabrics and garments. During your course, you learn about textile fibres, fabrics, garment manufacture, and garment design through Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. Those with a flair for fashion and a love for technology can look forward to an exciting and rewarding career in this field.

Career Opportunities in Fashion Technology: After graduating from this field, you can work with various branded fashion houses, retail chains, boutiques, garment manufacturing industries, fashion magazines, and in the television and film industry.

Some Top Colleges for Fashion Technology: National Institute of Fashion Technology (Multiple Locations)

Read More: Fashion Technology as a Career in India

 

15. Defense

Oodles of patriotism, the zeal to serve the nation, and the drive to deal with challenges, all point towards a single career, Defense. Considered to be one of the most prestigious and awe-inspiring careers, Defense forms the backbone of a country’s security against external threats. Defense personnel are responsible for supporting peace-keeping operations and humanitarian work. There are three primary branches of any country’s defense, namely, the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. You can choose to serve in any of the three and would have to undergo varying entry and training procedures, depending upon your choice.

Career Opportunities in Defense: Your career opportunities would vary, depending upon the particular Defense force you enter. The Indian Army offers the opportunity to work in various areas, such as Air Defense, Combat Unit, Engineering & IT Unit, Army Services Corp, Education, etc. The Navy allows one to work in the Executive, Engineering, Medical, Electrical and Educational branches. Opportunities in the Air Force include working in the Flying Branch, Technical Branch, or the Ground Duty Branch.

Some Top Colleges for Defense: There are no colleges for defense services, you join the NDA (National Defense Academy) after clearing its entrance exam after class 12th.

Read More: Careers in Defense

 

16. Animation & Graphics

The Animation sector in India is growing exponentially, owing to an increase in demand for VFX, post-production, and CGI. While the Indian television & film industry has a long history of outsourcing such technologies to professionals from overseas, the need for home-grown content is being felt. The resulting demand for talented and competent professionals in the field of Animation & Graphics has resulted in a rise in popularity for this career. Professionals in this field are knowledgeable about 3D Animation, Digital Film-Making, Animation, VFX, Multimedia Production, Graphic Design, etc. You can also build a thrilling career in this field if you possess strong creative skills, aesthetic sense, ability to work with computers and technology, and a love for design and multimedia.

Career Opportunities in Animation & Graphics: There is a vast range of opportunities available, including, Graphic Design, Game Design, Digital Art, Web Design, 3D Modelling, Flash Design, Storyboarding, Texturing, Cartoon Design, VFX, Composition & Story Writing, Character Animation etc. 

Some Top Colleges for Animation & Graphics: National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad; IIT Bombay; Indian Institute of Digital Arts and Animation, Kolkata; Birla Institute of Technology, Noida; Arena Animation (Multiple Locations); Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics (MAAC), Multiple Locations; Whistling Woods International, Mumbai

Read More: Careers in Animation & Graphics

 

17. Physical Science

This is a very broad domain and refers to the study of inorganic materials, such as the earth, space, and atmosphere. This domain encompasses various fields including Astronomy, Geology, Meteorology, Cartography, Disaster Management, etc., where practitioners analyze scientific phenomena on the basis of the experiments and complex instrumentations. Your career path, opportunities, and work profile will vary significantly depending on the specific field you choose in this domain.

Career Opportunities in Physical Science: Since these are individual careers, the opportunities are also quite diverse. A common element to all is that the prime avenue for employment is research. Professionals in Astronomy can work in the fields of astrometeorology, astrobiology, astrometry, astrochemistry, etc. Geology professionals typically work in fields such as marine geology, geohydrology, seismology, mineralogy, etc. Meteorology is the study of the atmosphere, and professionals work in the fields of climatology, aviation meteorology, etc., to predict climatic and weather conditions. Cartographers develop maps to represent geography and work in digital cartography, town planning, construction companies, etc. Disaster Management professionals work in disaster prevention, relief, recovery, and preparedness.

Some Top Colleges for Physical Science:

• Astronomy: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Multiple Locations
• Geology: IIT Bombay, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi
• Cartography: IIT Bombay, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad
• Disaster Management: Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), Delhi
• Economics: Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata.
• Law Management: National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore, National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Hyderabad, The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata
• Psychology: Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai; University of Delhi, Delhi; Christ University, Bangalore; Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

 Read More: Careers in Physical Science

18. Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes, aiming to understand the complexities of the human mind and the factors influencing individual and group behaviours. It explores various aspects such as cognition, emotions, personality, social interactions, and mental health. Through research, observation, and analysis, psychology seeks to unravel the intricacies of human thought and behaviour.

Career opportunities in psychology:

Clinical Psychologist, Counseling Psychologist, Industrial-Organizational Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Research Psychologist etc

Top colleges for psychology:

 Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai; University of Delhi, Delhi; Christ University, Bangalore; Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi; Amity University, Noida

19. Law

Law is a vast and dynamic field that encompasses the study and practice of legal principles and regulations to maintain order in society, uphold justice, and resolve disputes. Law graduates are trained to interpret laws, draft legal documents, and represent clients in various legal matters. The study of law includes subjects like constitutional law, criminal law, corporate law, family law, and more. Lawyers can specialize in different areas, such as litigation, corporate law, intellectual property, or human rights, and work in law firms, courts, government agencies, corporations, or as legal advisors.

Career opportunities in law:

Advocate, legal consultant, corporate counsel, Judge/Magistrate, Legal Analyst, Legal Researcher, Public Prosecutor, Legal Advisor etc

Top colleges for law:

National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore; National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Hyderabad; Faculty of Law, University of Delhi; Faculty of Law, University of Delhi; The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata; National Law University (NLU), Delhi

20. Mass Communications

Mass Communications involves the study of various forms of media and communication, including journalism, advertising, public relations, broadcasting, and digital media. Students learn how to create and disseminate information to a large audience effectively. Mass communications professionals play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, reporting news, promoting brands, and managing public image. Graduates can work in news organizations, advertising agencies, PR firms, TV and radio stations, or digital media companies.

Career opportunities in Mass Communications:

Journalist/Reporter, Media Planner, Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Executive, Content Creator, Broadcast Journalist, Social Media Manager, Media Analyst etc.

Top colleges for Mass Communications:

Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi; Xavier Institute of Communication (XIC), Mumbai; Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication (SIMC), Pune; Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi; Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA), Ahmedabad.

21. Fine Arts:

Fine Arts is a creative field that encompasses various visual art forms, including painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, and more. Students learn various techniques and explore their artistic expression to create meaningful and innovative works of art. Fine Arts graduates can pursue careers as professional artists, art educators, illustrators, and designers, or work in galleries, museums, and creative industries.

Career opportunities in Fine Arts:

Visual Artist, Sculptor, Illustrator, Art Educator/Teacher, Graphic Designer, Art Director, Museum/ Gallery Curator, Creative Director etc

Top Colleges for Fine Arts:

Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai; College of Art, Delhi; Faculty of Fine Arts, Maharaja Sayajirao University, Baroda; Kala Bhavana, Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan; College of Art, University of Hyderabad

22. Performing Arts:

Performing Arts encompasses various disciplines like music, dance, theatre, and drama. Students in this field learn to express themselves through performance, whether it’s through music compositions, dance movements, acting, or theatrical productions. Graduates can become professional musicians, dancers, actors, and choreographers, or work in production and event management.

Career opportunities in Performing Arts:

Musician/Compose, Dancer/Choreographer, Actor/Actress, Theatre Director, Dance/Music Teacher, Production Manager, Event Coordinator, Stage Manager

Top Colleges for Performing Arts: 

National School of Drama (NSD), Delhi; Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai; Shiamak Davar Institute of Performing Arts, Mumbai; Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi; Nalanda Dance Research Centre, Mumbai

Explore the world beyond engineering for a fulfilling career. Embrace your passion and strengths to make a meaningful impact. Choose a fulfilling and purpose-driven journey to shape your future.

Agnostic careers that are stream independent:

Software Engineers: Software engineers are in charge of the design, development, and testing of software programmes. They must be fluent in a number of programming languages and have good problem-solving abilities. Agnostic software developers may work with a wide range of technologies and are not restricted to a single programming language or platform.

Data Scientist: Data scientists gather, analyse, and interpret data to assist organisations in making more informed choices. They must be able to deal with massive datasets and have good mathematics and statistical abilities. Agnostic data scientists may employ a wide range of data analysis methods and are not restricted to a single business or field.

Web Developer: Websites are created and maintained by web developers. They must be fluent in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as understand web design and development concepts. Agnostic web developers may work with a wide range of web development platforms and are not restricted to a single programming language or framework.

Cyber security analyst: Analysts in cyber security safeguard computer systems and networks against harmful intrusions. They must be able to think critically and solve issues, as well as having good technical abilities. Agnostic cybersecurity analysts may work with a wide range of security products and are not restricted to a single business or area.

Technical writer: Documentation for software, hardware, and other technical items is written by technical writers. They must be able to communicate and write well, as well as explain complicated technological topics in a clear and straightforward manner. Agnostic technical writers may deal with a wide range of technical goods and are not restricted to a single business or field.

These are only a few instances of stream-independent agnostic occupations. There are many alternative jobs that might be a suitable match for agnostics, as long as they have the necessary skills and expertise.

 

FAQs:

Q: Which course is best after the 12th PCM?

A: Depending on your interests, you may choose from a variety of courses. Popular majors include engineering, architecture, computer science, mathematics, economics, and other science-related subjects. Some of them include Engineering (B.Tech), Architecture (B.Arch), Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physics, Mathematics, or Chemistry, Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)

Q: Which courses are best after the 12th PCM with a high salary?

A: Engineering disciplines such as computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and chemical engineering, as well as courses such as information technology and data science, can provide profitable employment prospects with high compensation potential.

Q: Which career is best for PCM?

A: Depending on your interests and ability, PCM may lead to careers in Engineering, Architecture, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Economics, Actuarial Science, Aviation, and other professions.

Q: Can a PCM student become a doctor?

A: In order to become a doctor, students must study PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in 12th grade. Some alternate courses in Allied medicines, however, enable PCM students to follow medical-related areas such as Biotechnology or Pharmaceutical Sciences (radiology technology)

Q: Is PCM a good option?

A: PCM gives a solid foundation in Science, Mathematics, and problem-solving abilities, which may lead to a variety of careers in engineering, technology, research, and other related sectors. If you are interested in these topics, this is a fantastic alternative.

Q: Which is better: PCM or PCB?

A: It all depends on your interests and inclinations and career goals. PCM is more suited to those interested in Engineering, Technology, or Physical Sciences, while PCB is better suited to those interested in Medical, Dental, or Life Sciences. 

Q: Can PCM students give NEET?

A: No, NEET is just for those who completed PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in the 12th grade. NEET, the admission test for medical and dental colleges, is not ineligible for PCM students.

Q: Can PCM students give JEE?

A: Yes, PCM students are eligible to take the JEE (Joint Entrance Examination), which is the entrance test for several engineering institutions in India. JEE Main is held for undergraduate engineering programmes, whilst JEE Advanced is held for admission to famous IITs. 

Q: Is Bsc a 3-year or a 4-year course?

A: Bachelor Of Science is a 3 years course in India.

Q: What is the duration to complete Btech?

A: It takes 4 years to complete B. Tech which includes 8 semesters.

It must be clear to you by now that Engineering is NOT the only career option available to you as a PCM student. Be it something adventure-driven like Aviation or Defense, to something grounded in research like Chemistry or Forensic Science, the possibilities are endless!

 

With so many options to explore now, which one would you choose? Share with us in the comments!