Popular Degree Courses After 12th

Choosing the right degree after Class 12 is one of the biggest decisions in a student’s academic journey. With countless options available across Science, Commerce, and Arts, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or confused about which path to follow. The key is to understand your strengths, interests, and long-term career goals before selecting a course.

From professional programs like BTech, MBBS, BCom, and BBA to creative and emerging fields such as Design, Digital Marketing, Cyber Security, and Liberal Arts, today’s students have more opportunities than ever. This guide highlights the most popular and high-demand degree courses after 12th, helping you explore options, compare specializations, and make an informed choice with confidence.

What Are the Top Degree Courses After 12th?

The various degree courses after 12th may seem overwhelming, but focusing on high-demand degree courses in a particular stream, be it Arts, Science, or Commerce stream, ensures long-term success.

From engineering to business, we have a curated list of degree courses that are popular for your academic rigor and global job opportunities in the following table:

Course	Specializations
B.Tech / B.E.	Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical etc.
MBBS	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
BDS	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
B.Pharm	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
BSc Nursing	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
BSc	Physics, Chemistry, Biology, IT
BSc (Specialized)	IT, Forensic Science, Environmental Science
B.Com	Accounting, Finance, and Business Careers
BBA	Business Analytics, Human Resources, Digital Marketing, International Business, Hospitality Management
BMS	Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain Management
BA	History, Literature, Psychology, Journalism
BFA	Painting, Music, Performing Arts, Digital Arts, Applied Arts
BJMC	Journalism, Digital Media, Advertising, Public Relations, or Film and TV Production
BA LLB	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
Bachelor of Hotel Management	Hotel Operations Management, Event Management, Travel and Tourism Management, Front Desk Management etc.
Bachelor in Interior Designing	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
BCA	AI & ML, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Cloud Computing etc.
BArch	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
BPT	Specialisations begin at master’s level; however, electives/clinical rotations vary by college
Digital Marketing	Tech-focused emerging field
Cyber Security	Tech-focused emerging field
Cloud Computing	Tech-focused emerging field

Degree Courses by Academic Stream

Now, you have seen various popular degree courses after the 12th. Let’s see and understand degree courses for Arts, Commerce, Science, and Engineering streams, one by one:

Degree Courses for Arts Stream Students

With options ranging from Law and Hospital Management to Journalism and Fashion Designing, Arts or Humanities is the most suitable option for those who want to explore courses spanning various fields. After the 12th, you can choose from an array of degree courses in the Arts stream, some of which have been tabulated below. 

• Bachelor of Journalism – Focuses on news reporting and media writing, preparing you for jobs in newspapers, TV, and digital journalism.
• Bachelor of Performing Arts – A degree for those passionate about dance, drama, or music, helping you turn performance into a career.
• Bachelor of Business Studies – Similar to BBA, but with more emphasis on business theory, economics, and management principles.
• Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication – Broader than journalism, covering PR, advertising, filmmaking, and communication alongside reporting.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts – For creative students interested in painting, sculpture, or visual arts.
• BSc/BDes in Fashion Design’, depending on institute – Combines science and art to teach fabric technology, fashion trends, and clothing design.
• Bachelor of Event Management – Teaches planning of weddings, concerts, corporate events, and large-scale functions.
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – A practical business degree focusing on leadership, marketing, HR, and entrepreneurship.
• Bachelor of Travel and Tourism Management – Prepares you for careers in airlines, travel agencies, and hospitality by teaching tourism operations.
• BA (Hons) – A subject-specific honours degree (like English or Political Science) that dives deep into one subject area.
• BA History – Focuses on past events, civilizations, and historical analysis, useful for research, teaching, or civil services.
• ‘BA in Theology/Religious Studies – Studies different religions, beliefs, and philosophy, often chosen by students interested in cultural or spiritual studies.
• BA/BA (Hons) in Geography/Political Science/English/Sociology, etc. – General or honours degrees where you specialise in a chosen subject like Geography or English.
• Integrated Law Course (BBA LLB / BA LLB) – A 5-year course combining arts or business studies with law, ideal if you want to become a lawyer.
• Bachelor of Social Work – Focuses on community service, social change, and welfare work, preparing you for NGO or development jobs.
• Aviation Courses – Train you for roles like cabin crew, ground staff, or airline management in the aviation industry.
• Bachelor of Design (BDes) – A creative course that teaches product, graphic, interior, or industrial design.
• BA Apparel Design & Merchandising – Focuses specifically on clothing design, fashion retail, and merchandising strategies.
• Religious Studies – Explores world religions, traditions, and practices from an academic perspective.

Degree Courses for Commerce Stream Students

Commerce or Management has become one of the sought-after fields of study in contemporary times. The multidisciplinary courses like B.Com and Integrated Law programmes are fetching the highest salary jobs for commerce students. There is also a plethora of courses offered at the postgraduate level with immense scope.

Since you are familiar with commerce subjects in Class 12, let’s take a look at the popular degree courses after 12th in the Commerce stream.

• International Business Management – Prepares you for global trade, exports, and multinational careers by teaching international markets and cross-border strategies.
• Bachelor in Business Management – Builds leadership and management skills for careers in corporate roles or entrepreneurship.
• Chartered Accountancy (CA) – A professional course for those interested in accounting, auditing, taxation, and high-demand finance roles.
• B.Com (Hons.) – Gives you a strong foundation in commerce, economics, and business—ideal for careers in finance, banking, or higher studies.
• BA (Hons.) in Economics – A great choice if you enjoy numbers and analysis, leading to careers in research, policy-making, or financial consulting.
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)/BCom (Hons.) – The most popular commerce degree offering wide exposure to finance, accounting, and business law.
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – A practical, career-oriented degree that opens doors to jobs in management, marketing, and HR.
• Integrated Law Program – BBA LLB – Combines business knowledge with law, making it ideal for corporate lawyers or legal advisors.
• Integrated Law Program – B.Com LLB – Focuses more on commerce subjects alongside law, suitable for tax, finance, or business law specialists.
• Company Secretary (CS) – Prepares you for corporate governance, compliance, and company law, making you indispensable in business operations.
• Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) – Similar to BBA but with deeper focus on theory and strategic business concepts.
• Bachelor of Design (Accessory Design, Fashion Design, Ceramic Design, etc.) – A creative option for commerce students inclined toward design with a commercial edge.
• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) – A globally recognized course for students aspiring to careers in investment banking, equity research, or portfolio management.
• Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS) – Offers in-depth study of management, organizational behavior, and decision-making for future managers.

Also Read:

• Diploma Courses After 12th Commerce: Duration, Top Colleges, Jobs
• Career Options in Commerce Without Maths

Degree Courses for Science Stream Students

Considered one of the sought career options after 12th, you can choose from a wide range of high-salary courses after 12th Science. Tabulated below are some of the popular degree programs for both Medical and Non-medical stream students.

Open to Both PCM & PCB Students

• Integrated M.Sc – A good choice if you want to build on your Class 12 science foundation and move into research in Physics, Chemistry, or Biology.
• BA/ B.Sc. Liberal Arts – Lets science students explore subjects beyond pure science while still keeping options open in tech, environment, or psychology.
• BA in Sociology – A way for science students who like analytical reasoning to shift into studying society, social behavior, and policies.
• BSc Environmental Science – BSc Environmental Science accepts both PCB and PCM depending on university
• Bachelor in Computer Applications (BCA) – An IT-focused course that teaches computer programming and software development, ideal if you like technology.

Exclusive for PCM Students

• BSc IT – Best suited if you enjoyed Mathematics in 12th, as it applies logical problem-solving and coding.
• BSc Mathematics – For students who loved Math, this degree opens pathways into data science, actuarial science, or higher research.
• Bachelor in Construction Management – Ideal for students with PCM since it uses Physics and Math concepts in construction planning and project management.
• BSc/BTech in Sound Engineering or Audio Technology – A good pick if Physics was your strength, as it applies sound wave theories and acoustics to music and media technology.
• BTech Biotechnology – Though biology-heavy, it also requires strong Chemistry and Math for lab calculations, making it suitable for PCM students with interest in life sciences.
• BTech–MTech Dual Degree Courses – A long-term option for PCM students who want advanced technical knowledge in engineering without doing separate courses.
• Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) – Uses Geometry, Physics, and Math skills to design safe and creative buildings.
• Bachelor in Engineering – The natural route for PCM students, applying Physics, Chemistry, and Math to real-world technologies.
• Commercial Pilot Training – Requires Physics and Mathematics as subjects; PCB students can qualify if they add Math through NIOS or equivalent

Exclusive for PCB Students

• BSc Nutrition & Dietetics – Directly uses your Biology knowledge to understand human metabolism, food science, and diet planning.
• BHMS course – Fits PCB students as it uses Anatomy, Physiology, and Biology for training in homeopathy medicine.
• Bachelor of Medical Lab Technology (BMLT) – A natural extension of Biology and Chemistry, preparing you for lab testing and diagnostics.
• General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) – Best for students who liked Biology, as it involves anatomy and patient care practices.
• Bachelor of Naturopathy & Yogic Science (BNYS) – Combines Biology and human anatomy with yoga-based treatments and natural therapies.
• Bachelor of Occupational Therapy – Uses Biology and Psychology to help patients with recovery and rehabilitation after injury or illness.
• Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) – Applies Physics (motion, mechanics) and Biology (anatomy) to help patients regain strength and movement.
• Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) – Directly builds on your PCB base, focusing on oral anatomy, surgery, and dental care.
• Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) – A Chemistry-heavy course for PCB students interested in drugs, medicines, and the pharma industry.
• Bachelor of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry (B.VSc AH) – A Biology-focused course that trains you to diagnose and treat animals.
• MBBS – The most direct and prestigious use of your PCB background, preparing you to become a medical doctor.
• BUMS (Unani) – Uses Biology and traditional medical knowledge, suited for those interested in Unani healing systems.
• BSc Nursing – Applies Biology and Anatomy to train you in advanced nursing care in hospitals and clinics.
• BAMS (Ayurvedic) – Based on Biology and Chemistry, this degree focuses on Ayurvedic medicine and herbal sciences.
• BA Anthropology – Relevant for biology students interested in human evolution and genetics, but also valuable for PCM students curious about cultures and societies.

Degree Courses for Engineering 

With massive success in scientific innovation and experiments, the Engineering field has been a student’s favourable study option. From Automobile Engineering to Telecommunications Engineering, top-notch universities around the world have been offering scores of degree courses in the form of Bachelor of Engineering and BTech. 

• Power Engineering
• Robotics Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Textile Engineering 
• Construction Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electronic and Communication Engineering
• Transportation Engineering
• Ceramic Engineering
• Petrochemical Engineering
• Automobile Engineering
• Aeronautical Engineering
• Computer Science Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Instrumentation Engineering
• Structural Engineering

Also Read

• Best Engineering Courses after 12th in India
• Future Courses To Study Abroad After 12th Science

Short-Term Courses after 12th

One question occupies the minds of students who are about to enter or complete the 12th grade: “Which course should they choose after they complete their 12th standard?” There are a number of short-term courses after 12th available for students who want help in pursuing their preferred field of study.

Whether you have a clear goal like preparing for CA, NEET, or JEE exams or are still exploring your interests, there’s a course for you. Popular options include:

• Certificate Courses: Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, Web Development, Data Analytics (6 months–1 year).
• Diploma Courses: Fashion Designing, Interior Design, Hotel Management, Animation (1–3 years).
• Professional Courses: Tally, Financial Modeling, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing.
• Skill-Based Courses: Foreign Language, Photography, Creative Writing.

Students will gain multiple benefits from taking a short course because they will have the opportunity to explore their interests and, if they don’t find a career in it, can quickly and easily change their minds.

How to Choose the Right Course after 12th Grade?

Making the appropriate choice after your 12th-grade year is essential if you want to have a prosperous and fulfilling career. After the 12th grade, picking the correct course requires a lot of thought and research.

To make sure you pick the best course of action, consider the following tips while choosing the right course after 12th grade:

• Understand and find out your subject/field-specific interests.
• Do some research about the institutions offering courses related to your interests.
• Compare and consider the factors like ratings, rankings, and fee structure.
• Explore the subject matter and structure of the course.
• Discover the best employment options available to you.

Eligibility Criteria for Degree Courses After 12th

Students who have completed their 12th grade and wish to continue their education must meet certain eligibility requirements that have been designated as mandatory by the institutions. Depending on the discipline and area of specialisation a student chooses for admission, different eligibility requirements apply.

The following is a list of some of the key prerequisites for enrollment in courses after the 12th grade:

• The class 12th grade must have been completed at an accredited institution.
• Mathematics should be the applicant’s primary subject for engineering programmes, and biology is required for medical careers.
• A passing grade of at least 55% in the commerce stream is required for banking courses.
• No course after the 12th grade has an upper age limit for enrollment.
• Institutions grant students in the reserved category a 5% score relaxation.

Choosing the right degree course after 12th grade is a transformative decision that shapes your academic and professional future. Whether you’re drawn to the creative avenues of the Arts, the financial prospects of Commerce, or the innovative fields of Science, the options outlined in this guide offer a starting point to align your passions with rewarding career paths. By assessing your interests, researching institutions, and exploring both degree and short-term courses, you can make an informed choice that sets you up for success.

FAQs on Degree Course

Also Read:

Branches of Anthropology	Career Options After 12th
Top Courses after 12th to Get a Job Abroad	Future Courses To Study Abroad After 12th Science

Confused abut what to do after 12th? Drop a comment below to start a conversation with us. To study abroad, call 806901201 and talk to a counsellor today.