Those of you who are preparing for the 10th standard board exams are most likely surrounded by questions like which stream to choose. Whether to take a road less travelled or study subjects opted by many? And what are the career prospects in different fields? Self-introspection is the key to unlocking the box of your queries! As you are aware, you can opt for either the Science, Commerce, or Arts stream after the 10th standard. Before choosing a stream, you should conduct an in-depth analysis of your strengths and weaknesses and then select a stream that aligns with your interests and professional goals. While the Commerce and Arts stream subjects have their own advantages, methodologies, and career prospects, we, in this blog, will shed light on various Science stream subjects. But before that, let us try to understand the reasons for choosing this stream.
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Why Pursue the Science Stream?
As Edward Teller famously said, ‘The science of today is the technology of tomorrow.’ The subjects in the Science stream blend theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering deep insights into the physical, chemical, and biological workings of the universe. They also help students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills while understanding the impact of natural and human-made processes on the world.
Because of this broad foundation, Science students have access to a wide array of career opportunities. Fields such as bioinformatics, dental science, space research, computer science, metallurgy, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, nanotechnology, mechanical engineering, and forensic science are just a few of the many paths available after studying Science.
Science Stream Subjects: Overview
The Science stream is divided into two branches: the Non-Medical stream (PCM) and the Medical stream (PCB). While Physics and Chemistry are common to both, the distinction lies in the third subject. Students who choose Mathematics typically aim for careers in fields such as Engineering, Architecture, or Commercial Aviation, whereas those who select Biology usually pursue careers in Medical or Life Sciences.
In addition to these core subjects, students must also study English or Hindi along with an elective. Popular elective options include Informatics Practices, Physical Education, Computer Science, Engineering Drawing, Economics, Home Science, and Psychology.
Welcome To The World Of Periodic Tables!
Chemistry is simply the study of the building blocks of life, i.e., atoms and matter. This Science stream subject imparts in-depth knowledge of the properties, composition, and structure of matter. With the advancement in technologies, new areas have started emerging in the field of Chemistry, Biomolecules, Synthetic Materials, Industrial Chemistry, and Natural Resources. The theoretical concepts are accompanied by practical experiments to make the concepts easy. With Organic and Inorganic Chemistry as the main subdivisions, the subjects cover various concepts through topics like Surface Chemistry, Atomic Structure, Chemical Kinetics, and Chemical Bonding.
Also Read: Are NCERT Books Enough for JEE Mains?
Work, Energy, and Power
Considered one of the oldest academic fields, Physics is the study of motion, force, matter, and energy. With the advancement in technologies as well in areas like Nuclear Physics and Mechanics, studying these Science stream subjects will help you develop analytical, decision-making, investigatory, and observational skills. Some of the topics taught in this subject include the Laws of Motion, Electrostatics, Electronic Devices, Thermodynamics, and Kinematics.
Let’s Coordinate Reasoning With Geometry
Mathematics, or what is also referred to as the study of numbers, imparts knowledge and clears concepts of quantity, structure, and space. In this Science stream subject, you are taught to identify the flow of reason when solving a problem, understand the principles of underlying skills and processes, and prove the results through the application of different methods. Calculus, Mathematical Reasoning, Algebra, Probability, and Linear Programming are some of the topics covered in this subject.
Study About The Living Organisms
Biology is one of the most famous Science stream subjects involved in the study of all living organisms. It imparts extensive knowledge of the different facets of organisms, such as physiological mechanisms, molecular interactions, physical structures, evolution, and development. Some of the topics covered in this subject include Cell Structure and Functions, Structural Organisation in Plants and Animals, Human Physiology, and Plant Physiology.
Learn the language of Computers
Another popular Science stream subject is Computer Science, which is very popular among students willing to pursue Engineering or make a career in technical fields. In class 11 Science, the Computer Science subject focuses on a particular language like C++, C, JAVA, Python, etc. Students are taught the language over a span of 2 year,s ranging from basic to advanced levels. They are expected to submit a working code at the end of class 12th as a project.
Additional Subjects
In case a student fails to score well in any main subject, he/she can count the marks of the additional subject can take admission. Many schools have a mandatory additional/optional subject to choose from. After an additional subject, the total no. of science stream subjects in classes 11 & 12 is 6. In the non-medical and medical streams, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology are mandatory. Here are the optional subjects students can opt for:
Physical Education
Physical education is an optional subject and quite scoring. There is a 30-marks practical and 70 marks theory subject. The subject was introduced to bring changes and improvements to human bodies with regular exercise. The physical education practical included project work, track races, long jump, etc
Economics
Economics is a mandatory subject in the commerce stream but also a popular choice in the science stream as an optional subject. Economics is an interesting subject and focuses on national GDP, National incomes, micro, and macroeconomics, demand, supply chain, etc. Economics is a great choice as a science stream subject optional.
Also Read: Popular Degree Courses After 12th
Top 10 Science Colleges in India by NIRF
Below, we have provided the list of top-10 science colleges in India.
| NIRF Ranking | College Name |
| 1 | St Stephen’s College, New Delhi |
| 2 | Hindu College, New Delhi |
| 3 | LSR, New Delhi |
| 4 | Miranda House, New Delhi |
| 5 | Loyola College, Chennai |
| 6 | MCC Chennai, Chennai |
| 7 | HRC, New Delhi |
| 8 | Presidency College, Chennai |
| 9 | Fergusson College, Pune |
| 10 | SXC Kolkata |
Advantages of Science Stream Subjects
Science stream subjects are not just about balancing a balance sheet every day. The science stream is about discovery and learning — from the human body to the entire universe. It involves scientific discoveries and understanding how the world works, including the plants and animals around us.
After choosing science stream subjects, your career options are not restricted to engineering and MBBS. There are plenty of opportunities in related fields such as research and development, architecture, data science, and more.
One major advantage of choosing science stream subjects is that if you later want to switch to business management, journalism, or even law, you will still be eligible to apply for those courses. However, a student from the arts stream is typically not eligible to pursue MBBS because of subject prerequisites.
There is nothing scary or boring about science subjects if you have an interest in learning and growing every day. The skills developed through science help students become more progressive and capable individuals.
By choosing science stream subjects, you have the opportunity to contribute to humankind through inventions. Science students can develop cures, treat various diseases, and achieve much more.
FAQs
The Science stream normally has two main tracks: PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) and PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology). In addition, students study a language (English/Hindi) and one elective (e.g., Computer Science, Physical Education, Economics, Informatics Practices), so the total subjects is usually six.
A wide range: engineering, medicine (MBBS/BDS), pure sciences, computer science/data science, biotechnology, pharmacy, architecture, forensic science, aerospace, and more. Science also keeps doors open for later entry into business, law, or journalism.
Yes — students who studied Science can usually apply for Commerce/Arts or professional courses (MBA, law, journalism).
Difficulty depends on interest and study habits. Key tips: focus on conceptual clarity, practice numerical problems regularly (for Physics/Maths), complete practicals, make short revision notes, and ask teachers/tutors for help early. Consistent daily practice beats last-minute cramming.
Base your choice on your strengths and career leanings: PCM is better if you like problem-solving and want engineering, CS, or maths; PCB is ideal if you want medicine, dentistry, or biology research. If truly undecided, consider electives like Computer Science or Biology as options, consult teachers/ career counsellors, and research entrance requirements for courses you’re interested in.
Hopefully, this blog has given you an in-depth analysis of the Science stream subjects. If you want to pursue a career in this field but are confused about how to get started with it then the export mentors at Leverage Edu can lend a helping hand. Not only will the counsellors help you choose a career using our AI-enabled platform, but they will help in completing the admission formalities.
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Pls. help me to selecting the subject in class 11.I am confused that what subject I will choose.
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Hi Sakshi,
If you wish to venture into engineering or other sciences, science subjects should be chosen. And if you wish to make a career in business, management, commerce or economics, you should choose the commerce subjects.
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The information was really good
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Thank you for your feedback!
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I want to became MBBS doctor
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7 comments
Pls. help me to selecting the subject in class 11.I am confused that what subject I will choose.
Hi Sakshi,
If you wish to venture into engineering or other sciences, science subjects should be chosen. And if you wish to make a career in business, management, commerce or economics, you should choose the commerce subjects.
The information was really good
Thank you for your feedback!
I want to became MBBS doctor
So, if i want to do science stream
I need to do maths, phy, chem.
And optional physical education.
Can u please help me as I’m planning to take science.
I’m also interested in engineering. So can you share me your thoughts?