Best Career Options After 12th Science [Guidance 2024]

05 March,2024  |  By Brainwonders

After 12th board, a common query arises in the minds of many young individuals: "What should I do after boards?" This question becomes particularly challenging since students have already chosen a major stream of study by the end of their school education, shaping their academic path towards relevant college courses.

For students who have completed their 12th education in the science stream, this is the ideal resource to explore. Here, you will discover comprehensive information and facts about the top courses and potential career paths available after completing your schooling in the science stream.

To make informed decisions about your future education after the class 12th boards, explore the sought-after career options for science students. This guide details various job opportunities, courses, and other essential information, empowering you to make the right choices for your educational journey beyond the 12th grade.

What is Science Stream?

Before delving into the specific fields available to those with a background in the science stream, it's crucial to understand the essence of science.

In India, the science stream stands out as one of the students' most favoured options for higher education. Individuals commonly make this choice with aspirations in professional medical or non-medical fields.

As an academic stream, science comprises a blend of subjects that delve into the scientific study of related disciplines, including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, and Mathematics. These subjects encompass scientific theories and practical concepts, fostering an analytical approach to learning.

Why Choose the Science Stream? 

While the popularity of the science stream among students post-class 10th has consistently remained high, there is often a lingering question: What factors have contributed to this enduring popularity over the decades? In other words, what makes the science stream a compelling choice for higher education?

The subjects and concepts encompassed in the study of the science stream provide a stimulating and intellectually rewarding space for students with curious and analytical insight. Furthermore, there are several additional advantages associated with pursuing higher studies in the science stream, as outlined below:

1. The science stream includes captivating subjects such as biology, physics, chemistry, and mathematics, catering to learners with a curious, critical, and analytical mindset.
2. Career domains within the science stream, such as medicine and surgery, engineering, research and development, are well-established and highly esteemed in India. The breadth and maturity of these available career options contribute significantly to the stream's enduring popularity.
3. The career paths within the science stream offer lucrative remuneration and ample opportunities for career development.
4. Importantly, students with a science background possess the flexibility to transition into fields related to commerce and humanities, flexibility not readily available to students from commerce and humanities backgrounds.

The science stream's appeal to students is underscored by numerous advantages, including engaging subjects, well-established career domains, lucrative opportunities, and the versatility to shift into diverse career paths beyond the science domain.

What are the Qualities a Science Student Should Have?

The science stream offers lucrative career opportunities in medicine, IT, engineering, pharmacy, research, data science, and more. The range of career options for science students is extensive. However, to excel in education and pursue a successful career in the science stream, students must possess specific key skills and abilities, some of which are outlined below:

1. Technical Aptitude
2. Creativity and Innovation
3. Experimental and Open-minded Approach
4. Application and Analytical Skills
5. Critical Thinking
6. Research and Data Analysis Proficiency
7. Adaptability

Now, let's delve into a detailed exploration of the numerous career options available to science students within their respective science streams.

Subjects included in Science Stream

Engaging in the science stream involves delving into subjects such as:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Mathematics

Additionally, within these broader disciplines, there are other popular subjects, including but not limited to geography, geology, environmental studies, computer studies, statistics, psychology, botany, and zoology. These subjects are commonly associated with the science field. Now, let's look at the various career options within the science stream.

Career Options After 12th in PCB Stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

Within the expansive realm known as the "science stream," there are two primary subdomains commonly referred to as PCB (physics, chemistry, biology) and PCM (physics, chemistry, mathematics). For students with a keen interest in biology, particularly those aspiring to enter the medical field, numerous career pathways exist to explore. To pursue a medical career, students must study Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) at the 10+1 and 10+2 levels. The study of PCB subjects not only paves the way for careers in the medical field but also opens doors to non-medical fields within various life sciences disciplines.

Career Counselling

Career Options in the Medical Field with NEET Entrance Exam

1. MBBS - Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery: MBBS stands out as one of the most sought-after and well-compensated courses, both in India and internationally. It is a preferred choice for many science students upon completing their 12th board examinations. Those with aspirations to become doctors or surgeons can pursue this course to shape their careers after the 12th grade.

• Duration: 5 to 9 Years
• Fees: INR 3 lakhs – INR 20 lakhs
• Entrance Exam: National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)

2. BHMS - Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine & Surgery: BHMS focuses on the study of Homoeopathic Medicine. This medical system uses highly diluted remedies in pill or liquid form to treat human ailments. Pursuing BHMS is a popular career choice for students interested in medical studies after completing their 12th grade.

• Duration: 5.5 to 6 Years
• Fees: INR 1.5 lakhs - INR 10 lakhs
• Entrance Exams: NEET, CET, BVP, CET, KEAM, PUCET, IPU CET

3. BDS - Bachelor of Dental Sciences: Pursuing the BDS course is an option for students interested in orthodontics or prosthodontics within the science stream. This program focuses on studying dental organs and preparing individuals to become dentists or dental surgeons. Completing this course is mandatory for medical aspirants seeking to practice as dentists in India.

• Duration: 5 Years (4 Years + 1 Year Internship Period)
• Fees: INR 5 lakhs – INR 30 lakhs
• Entrance Exam: NEET

4. B.Pharm - Bachelor of Pharmacy: Individuals interested in the pharmaceutical field or those aspiring to establish their pharmacies can opt for this course. It involves studying the process of pharmaceutical creation and the science of chemicals and medical salts.

• Duration: 4 to 5 Years
• Fees: INR 1 lakh – INR 15 lakh
• Entrance Exams: NEET, BITSAT, TS EAMCET, BVP CET, AP EAMCET, IPU CET, WBJEE, MHT CET

5. BAMS - Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery: BAMS is an undergraduate degree program that aims to acquaint students with the principles of Ayurveda and apply them in patient treatment. The curriculum of the BAMS course integrates Ayurveda with modern medical concepts, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of both disciplines.Candidates are required to have completed Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects, securing a minimum of 50% to 60%. Additionally, candidates must have successfully cleared the NEET examination as it is the accepted standard for admission to BAMS courses. NEET scores are a mandatory requirement for BAMS admission.

• Duration: 5.5 Years (4.5 Years+1 Year internship Period)
• Fees: INR 5lakhs - INR 6 lakhs
• Entrance Exam : NEET

6. BYNS - Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Science: BNYS is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to impart knowledge in diverse facets of Ayurvedic studies and Yogic science. The curriculum encompasses specialized subjects like yoga therapy, hydrotherapy, and acupuncture. Students undertaking this course gain a profound understanding of human anatomy, pharmacology, and engage in community service, aiming to nurture well-rounded professionals in the field.

• Duration : 5.5 Years
• Fees: INR 50K - 2 lakhs
• Entrance Exam - NEET

7. BUMS - Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery: The BUMS degree curriculum integrates traditional medical practices with a contemporary approach that incorporates the use of modern equipment. The Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), a statutory authority operating under the Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), is responsible for regulating BUMS courses and training in India.

• Duration : 5.5 Years
• Fees: INR 50K -INR 6.5 lakhs
• Entrance Exam - NEET

8. BSMS - Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery: BSMS is a discipline within the AYUSH systems of medication. It involves the study of medicine centered around seven essential elements, namely plasma, blood, muscle, fat, bone, nerve, and semen.

• Duration : 5 Years 
• Fees : INR 20K - INR 60K
• Entrance Exam - NEET

9. BVsc & AH - Bachelor of Veterinary science and Animal Husbandry : B.VSc. & A.H is a branch of medical science that deals with the medical application & diagnostic and therapeutic principles to various types of animals. 

• Duration : 5.6 Years ( 5 Years+ 6 months internship Period)
• Fees : 15k -1 Lakh
• Entrance Exam - NEET

10. BSc Nursing: Nursing involves caring for and attending to patients. This course is structured to equip learners with fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for assisting medical professionals, including doctors and surgeons, in medical procedures conducted in settings such as the ICU, ER, CCU, and OT, among others, along with providing patient care.

• Duration: 4 to 5 Years
• Fees: INR 20,000 – INR 2 lakhs
• Entrance Exam - NEET

11. Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT): A 5-year undergraduate course in physiotherapeutic sciences, BPT is ideal for candidates aspiring to understand rehabilitative medicine and utilize various techniques such as exercise, heat, and pressure to heal the body naturally.

• Duration: 4.5 to 5 Years
• Fees: INR 50,000 to INR 3,00,000
• Entrance Exams: IPU CET, NEET, IEMJEE, etc.

Career Options in the Medical Field without the NEET Entrance Exam

1. BMLT - Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology: This program instructs students to work on the back end to produce medicines or medical instruments in hospitals, medical centres, or laboratories. It suits aspirants interested in mastering basic and advanced medical laboratory procedures. The course spans 3 years and is available in private and government colleges.

• Duration: 3 to 4 years
• Fees: INR 50 thousand – 5 lakhs
• Entrance Exams: AFMC, PMT, KEAM, SAAT, GUJCET, OJEE Medical, NEET (Not Compulsory).

4. Non-Medical Fields in PCB Stream

Apart from pursuing a career in the medical field, there are several alternative options for students who have studied PCB in classes 11th and 12th. These alternatives extend beyond the medical domain and encompass general fields related to life sciences, including biotechnology, botany, zoology, agricultural studies, and forensic sciences.

These courses typically manifest as a 3-year Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) undergraduate program within the selected specialization. Here are some of the noteworthy specializations available in a B.Sc degree that PCB students can pursue:

B. Sc Agriculture	B. Sc Anthropology	B. Sc Biochemistry
B. Sc Biostatistics	B. Sc Botany	B. Sc Biology
B. Sc Anatomy	B. Sc in Food Technology	B. Sc in Food Science
B. Sc Biotechnology	B.Sc Zoology	B. Sc in Forensics
B. Sc Genetics	B. Sc Geology	B. Sc Life Sciences
B. Sc Neuroscience	B. Sc Nursing	B. Sc Physiotherapy
B. Sc Psychology	B. Sc Nutrition and Dietetics	B. Sc Physical Education

Career Options After 12th PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths)

The second prevalent domain within the science stream at the higher secondary level involves the combination of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, commonly known as PCM. This domain focuses on the study of natural and mechanical sciences, serving as a prerequisite for disciplines related to engineering, software design, information technology, chemistry, mathematics, physical sciences, and more. The following outlines some of the most sought-after career paths individuals can pursue after studying PCM in classes 11th and 12th.

Career Options in Engineering after Class 12th PCM

Engineering stands out as the most prevalent career path selected by students in the science stream (PCM) after completing their 12th boards. With numerous specialised domains that are highly esteemed and generously remunerated, engineering remains a top choice for recent high school graduates. The engineering field involves the study of mechanics, operations, and the physical and scientific foundations underlying the functioning of machines and devices.

In India, engineering education can be pursued through a four-year degree program, either Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech). These undergraduate degrees allow students to select from in-demand specialisations, enabling them to enhance their knowledge and skills in alignment with the latest industry trends.

• Duration: 4 years
• Fees: INR 1 Lakh to INR 20 Lakhs
• Entrance Examinations: JEE (Mains and Advanced), BITSAT, WBJEE, VITEE, etc.

The top course specialisations available in the B.Tech or B.E. courses have been enlisted here. 

• Civil Engineering: Specialising in the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of buildings, roads, and large-scale structures, civil engineering encompasses various infrastructural aspects.
• Electrical Engineering: Electrical engineering, a popular specialisation within the engineering domain, is centred on comprehending electrical circuits, systems, and energy and power systems.
• Mechanical and Automobile Engineering: This specialisation involves the study of machinery, encompassing their creation, construction, operations, and the scientific principles underlying their functionality. Mechanical engineering applies physics and mathematical principles to operating machinery and automobiles.
• Computer Science Engineering: Widely known as CSE or CS, computer science engineering involves the study of computer software creation, design, and applications. It is currently one of the most sought-after and well-compensated specialisations in engineering, offering attractive job opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
• Electronics and Communications Engineering: As ECE, electronics and communications engineering studies communication systems, electronic systems, power circuits, power systems, and electronic devices. This specialisation involves design, creation, maintenance, and functioning and is also a lucrative engineering area with ample career development opportunities.

Some of the other common specialisations available to pursue in the field of engineering include:

B.Tech in Information Technology (IT)	B.Tech in Mining Engineering	B.Tech in Biotechnology Engineering
B.Tech in Nuclear Engineering	B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering	B.Tech in Marine Engineering
B.Tech in Chemical Engineering	B.Tech in Robotics Engineering	B.Tech in Instrumentation and Control Engineering
B.Tech in Materials Engineering	B.Tech in Environmental Engineering	B.Tech in Petroleum Engineering
B.Tech in Transportation Engineering	B.Tech in Textile Engineering	B.Tech in Construction Engineering

Some of the top colleges and institutes in India in both the private and public sector for engineering education have been enlisted below: 

Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)	Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs)
Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT)	BITS Pilani
SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMISC)	Lingaya’s Vidyapeeth
Sri Venkateswara University (SVU)	Indian Institute of Science Bangalore (IISB)
Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata	Vellore Institute of Technology
College of Engineering Pune	Amity University Noida
Delhi Technological University (DTU)	Lovely Professional University
Sikkim Manipal University	Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar

Non-Engineering Career Options after Class 12th PCM

1. Data Science: A highly sought-after professional field in India and internationally, Data Science revolves around science and data management. The role of a data scientist primarily involves analytical expertise, encompassing the collection, processing, analysis, and interpretation of vast datasets. Students interested in this field can pursue a B.Sc in Data Science, a B.Tech in Data Science, a BCA in Data Science, or even a BBA in Data Science.

• Duration of Course: 3 to 5 Years
• Fee: INR 1 Lakh to INR 10 Lakh Entrance
• Exams: JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITS-HD, GATE, etc.

2. Architecture: For those intrigued by the study of architecture, the Bachelor of Architecture or B. Arch is a five-year undergraduate program that delves into architecture's foundational concepts and principles. Students who have studied PCM in class 12th are eligible for this course, provided they have a background in physics and mathematics.

• Duration of Course: 5 Years
• Fee: INR 3 Lakhs to INR 10 Lakhs
• Entrance Exams: JEE Mains, NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture)

3. Bachelor of Computer Applications: This three-year undergraduate course is tailored for computer science enthusiasts, providing a pathway for those aspiring for a career in CS and software development without the necessity of qualifying for B.Tech admission. The course offers various specialisations based on the student's interests and aptitude.

• Duration of Course: 3 Years
• Fee: INR 50,000 to INR 3 Lakhs
• Entrance: Based on General Eligibility

The popularly chosen specialisations in the BCA course include: 

BCA in Data Analytics	BCA in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI and ML)	BCA in Big Data Analytics
BCA in Cloud Computing	BCA in Cybersecurity	BCA in Computer Science and IT
BCA in Database Management System	BCA in Multimedia and Animation	BCA in Graphic Designing
BCA in Blockchain Development	BCA in Data Science	BCA in Game Development

4. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc): The Bachelor of Science, a 3-year undergraduate degree, is open to graduates with a PCM background from class 12th. This versatile program offers various specialisations, including physics, chemistry, technology, IT, forensic sciences, aviation, mathematics, and more.

• Duration of Course: 3 Years
• Fee: INR 20,000 to INR 5 Lakhs
• Entrance Exam: CUET-UG, Based on Minimum Eligibility Criteria

The common specialisations in B.Sc that students from the PCM background can take up include:

B.Sc in Mathematics	B.Sc in Physics	B.Sc in Chemistry
B.Sc in Hospitality and Tourism Studies	B.Sc in Sport Science	B.Sc in Computer Application Information
B.Sc in Multimedia Animation Graphics	B.Sc in Aviation	BSc in Statistics
BSc in Renewable Energy	BSc in Geology	BSc in Astrophysics

Career Options in Management After 12th Science

As mentioned earlier, students studying Science, regardless of their specific stream (PCM or PCB), can enrol in management and business administration courses—a field open to students from all backgrounds and streams.

The most suitable course for science stream students aspiring to build a career in business or management is a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). BBA is a 3-year undergraduate degree program that encompasses the fundamentals of business management, administration, and development while also allowing students to specialise in various specific domains.

• Course Duration: 3 Years 
• Fees: INR 30,000 to INR 3 Lakhs 
• Entrance: CUET, Institutional Entrances, Minimum Eligibility

The major specialisations in BBA that science students can go for include:

BBA in Marketing Management	BBA in Human Resource Management	BBA in Finance Management
BBA in Operations Management	BBA in International Business Management	BBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
BBA in Digital Marketing Management	BBA in International Business Management	BBA in Business Analytics
BBA in Banking and Finance Management	BBA in Data Science	BBA in IT & Systems Management
BBA in Aviation Management	BBA in Travel and Tourism Management	BBA in Strategy and Leadership Management

A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) can be undertaken through either a traditional full-time offline degree program or a full-time online degree program. While conventional higher education typically involves in-person classroom lectures and regular visits to the college campus, an online BBA replicates the learning experience of an on-campus program while offering students the flexibility to pursue other interests, such as internships and jobs alongside their studies.

An online BBA holds the same value as a traditional BBA when earned from a college or university approved for online education by the UGC-DEB. This option is available through reputable online colleges and institutes at a more affordable fee range, with the added advantage of placements in esteemed institutions. Therefore, students can pursue either an offline regular BBA or an online regular BBA.

Career Options in Humanities & Allied Fields After 12th Science 

Students interested in changing careers or those aspiring to delve into subjects within the realm of humanities, arts, or related fields can easily do so, even if they come from a science background. This implies that those pursuing Science in class 12th have many higher education options.

Among the popular courses within the humanities spectrum that they can opt for, a few are outlined below:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A)
• Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC)
• Bachelor of Arts in Photography

These courses typically have 3 years and are undergraduate degree programs. Both private and public institutions offer these courses, as they represent some of the most favoured choices for higher education among students in humanities and other streams. Students can choose from various common specializations, such as:

History	Political Science	Psychology
Sociology	Anthropology	Philosophy
Journalism and Mass Communication	Fashion and Designing	Hospitality Management
Photography	Culinary Arts	Labour Studies
Linguistics	Public Health	International Relations
Health Administration	Education	Public Administration

The Future of Higher Education After Class 12th Science

With the diverse array of career options outlined here, a common concern that may arise is how to choose the right path, especially when torn between multiple options.

An effective solution introduced by the UGC is the provision to pursue dual degrees at the undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) levels. Suppose you're a student who has recently completed class 12th education in the science stream. In that case, you now have the opportunity to embark on dual degrees—meaning you can enrol in two undergraduate degree courses simultaneously.

This option allows you to select two Bachelor's degree courses in science or other subjects of your choice after completing class 12th education. Particularly advantageous is the recent surge in full-time online degrees, which carry equivalent weight and value to their regular offline counterparts.

With an online degree, you can seamlessly pursue a full-time regular degree alongside a full-time online degree, effectively investing your time and efforts in two-degree courses simultaneously. This approach enables you to acquire a broader repertoire of knowledge, skills, and expertise.

Conclusion

As explored earlier, the science stream offers many opportunities for continued education and professional growth following the completion of class 12th. Science encompasses a broad spectrum, providing numerous career trajectories and opportunities after the 12th board exams. Students can pursue advanced studies in science at the Master's, Ph.D., or professional levels based on their interests. This blog has addressed any uncertainties regarding the career options available after the 12th board in the science stream. With Brainwonders as a trusted partner, students can make informed decisions, unlocking their potential and achieving their career aspirations.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. What can a student pursue after completing 12th boards from the science stream?

Ans: After finishing their 12th boards in the science stream, a student with a science background has the opportunity to delve into a diverse array of career options, including fields such as medicine, engineering, pharmaceutical studies, as well as IT and computer science-related studies and job opportunities, along with data science,

Q2. Which Science jobs are the highest-paying in the Science field?

Ans: Some of the highest-paying career profiles in science are doctors, surgeons, software engineers, nuclear engineers, psychologists, etc. 

Q3. Is science a good field to make a future career in the respective stream?

Ans: Science has a vast range of career options in medical, non-medical, engineering, IT and other streams. These highly paid career options provide numerous opportunities for career growth and escalation. 

Q4. Which is better, medical or engineering, after class 12th?

Ans: Both medicine and engineering are two of the most popular career fields in the science stream. The medical field is better for those learners interested in life sciences and dealing with human ailments and their treatment. Engineering as a career option is better for individuals with a technical aptitude and are more interested in mechanical sciences and mathematics. Both fields are well-paid and provide job opportunities in the public and private sectors. 

Q5. What is the future after 12th science?

Ans: The future in career development after science is quite vast and diverse. There are career options not only in pure science but also in management, commerce and humanities. Fields like medicine, engineering, IT, data science, pharmaceutical studies, research and development are well-paid and provide appealing career options with lucrative salaries.

Q6. Can I pursue a commerce course after completing class 12th in science?

Ans: A student completing education in the science stream in class 12th can go for a commerce (or humanities) course provided they meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the course in the particular college/higher education institution.