If you are in Class 12th or have completed it, you may wonder which professional course to choose. Picking the right course matters more than enrolling in any option. From science to the arts, there are several course options available for students based on their stream.
In this blog, we will discuss the best professional courses after 12th that students can choose based on their career goals and budget. We will also cover short-term and diploma professional courses, including career scope, salary, and key factors to consider before choosing a professional course.
Table of Contents:
What are Professional Courses?
Professional courses are advanced educational programs that help build specialized knowledge and practical skills in students, which are required for particular professions or careers. Unlike traditional courses that focus on general academic knowledge, professional courses prioritize practical application of skills, often leading to a diploma, degree, or certification necessary to practice in a particular field. In short, they focus on equipping students with the necessary skills that employers are seeking.
Types of Professional Courses After 12th
Professional courses after 12th are job-training programs that offer a degree, diploma, or certification.
Let’s understand each type in detail:
1. Degree Courses: These are full-time programs that provide in-depth, theoretical, and practical knowledge, often leading to a bachelor’s degree. Most of these courses are offered offline due to the extensive practical knowledge involved. Examples include BBA, B.Com, MBBS, and more.
2. Diploma Courses: These are usually short-term, skill-based, and more job-oriented programs that focus on providing specialized, practical, and hands-on training for a particular skill or a career. They are usually more affordable than degree courses and have a shorter duration, ranging between 6 months – 2 years. Examples include Diploma in Digital Marketing, Diploma in Engineering, Diploma in Hotel Management, and more.
3. Certification Courses: These are short-term programs designed to provide expertise in specific skills or a narrow subject. Students can earn standalone certificates or combine them with degree or diploma courses. These certificates can help to switch careers, gain industry-specific knowledge, or improve a professional profile, and are more affordable and quicker to complete in comparison to courses.
Best Professional Courses After 12th Science Stream
Choosing the best professional course after 12th science depends largely on your main subjects. These include Physics, Chemistry, and Maths (PCM) or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Today, fields like AI, data science, and specialized healthcare are seeing the highest demand and salary growth.
The following table shows the best-performing career paths for PCM and PCB streams:
| Course Name With Duration | Eligibility | Approximate Total Fees | Key Career Roles | Annual Average Salary (Freshers) |
| Minimum 45-50% marks in PCB/M + Minimum 17 years of age + Entrance Exams (like CUET, NEET) or University Specific Test (like MHT CET, KEAM) or Merit-Based Admission | Minimum 45%-60% marks in 12th PCM + JEE or University Specific Test Scores | Government Colleges: ₹2-₹8 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹4-₹24 lakhs | Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer, Software Architect | ₹4-₹12 LPA |
| MBBS (5.5 Years) | Minimum 50% marks in 12th PCB + English as Core Subject + Qualify NEET-UG Exam + Minimum 17 years age | Government Medical Colleges: ₹50,000-₹5 lakhs
Private Medical Colleges: ₹25 lakhs-₹1crore | General Physician, Surgeon, Specialist, Medical Officer | ₹4-₹7.5 LPA |
| B.Sc. Data Science (3 Years) | Minimum 50%-60% marks in 12th PCM + CUET/IIMB Entrance Exam Score or Direct Admission in some university program | Government Colleges: ₹15,000-₹90,000
Private Colleges: ₹1-₹9 lakhs | Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst | ₹3.5-₹8 LPA |
| B.Arch (5 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th PCM + English Subject + Qualify NATA or JEE Main Paper 2 | Government Colleges: ₹1-₹10 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹4-₹18 lakhs | Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer, Project Manager, Landscape Architect | ₹2-₹10 LPA |
| BDS (Dental Surgery) (5 Years) | Minimum 50% marks in 12th PCB + English Subject + Qualify NEET-UG + Minimum 17 Year age | Government Colleges: ₹1-₹3 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹7-₹50 lakhs | General Dentist, Oral Surgeon, Orthodontist, Dental Researcher/Scientist | ₹2.5-₹6 LPA |
| B.Pharma (Pharmacy) (4 Years) | Minimum 45% marks in PCB + English Subject + Minimum 17 years of age + Entrance Exam Score like NEET or State-Specific Tests | Government Colleges: ₹60,000-₹5 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹4-₹20 lakhs | Clinical Researcher, Pharmacist, Drug Inspector | ₹2.5-₹5.5 LPA |
| Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) (3 Years) | Minimum 45% marks in PCB + English Subject + Minimum 17 years of age + Entrance Exam Score like NEET or State-Specific Tests | Government Colleges: ₹30,000-₹2.1 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹1.2-₹8.5 lakhs | Software Developer, Software Engineer, Web Developer, System Analyst | ₹3-₹6 LPA |
| B.Sc. Nursing (4 Years) | Minimum 40-50% marks in PCM/B + English Subject + Minimum 17 years of age + Entrance Exam Tests (like CUET, IPU CET) or require merit-based admission | Government Colleges: ₹40,000-₹3 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹4-₹12 lakhs | Nursing Officer, ICU Nurse, Staff Nurse, Pediatric Nurse, and Psychiatric Nurse | ₹2.5-₹4 LPA |
| B.Tech in Civil Engineering (4 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in PCM + Qualifying scores in national exams like JEE Main or state-level exams (KCET, or MHT CET) | Government Colleges: ₹2-₹12 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹8-₹30 lakhs | Structural Engineer, Site/Construction Engineer, Transportation Engineer | ₹2.5-₹12 LPA |
| B.Sc. in Forensic Science (3 Years) | Minimum 50-60% marks in PCM/B + Entrance Exam like CUET or University Specific Test Score | Government Colleges: ₹30,000-₹1.5 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹2-₹10 lakhs | Forensic Scientist, Crime Scene Investigator, DNA Analyst, Digital Forensics Expert, and Toxicologist | ₹3-₹5 LPA |
In 2026, AI and Machine Learning rank among the most future-ready tech degrees. Industries now widely use robotics and automation. For PCB students, Allied Health Sciences like Optometry and Radiology offer strong career options beyond traditional medicine.
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Tech degrees also see rising demand as industries work toward India’s net-zero goals.
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Best Professional Courses After 12th Commerce Stream
The commerce stream offers high-paying professional paths that increasingly bridge traditional finance with digital innovation. The following table highlights the best professional courses after 12th commerce, categorized by their course fees, duration, and average potential salary.
| Course Name | Eligibility | Approximate Total Fees | Key Career Roles | Annual Average Salary (Freshers) |
| Chartered Accountancy (CA) (4.5-5 Years) | Minimum 55% marks in 12th + Register and Clear CA Foundation and Intermediate + 2.5 Years of Articleship + CA Final Level | Registration and Exam Fees:
CA Foundation = ₹10,500
CA Intermediate = ₹20,700
CA Final = ₹25,300
Total ICAI Fees = ₹56,500 (excluding training/articleship)
Total Estimated Cost (Including Coaching): ₹1.5-₹4 lakhs | Tax Consultant, Auditor, Financial Controller, CFO | ₹6-₹15 LPA |
| Investment Banking | A Bachelor’s Degree In Finance Or Any Relevant Field | Short Courses & Certifications: ₹75,000-₹3,50,000 lakhs
MBA in Investment Banking: ₹5.10 lakhs | Investment Banker, IB Analyst/Associate, Investment Consultant, · Investment Strategist, · Asset Manager | ₹6-₹27 LPA |
| Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) (2-4 Years) | Hold a Bachelor’s Degree or be in the Final Year of your Degree + Have 4,000 hours of relevant work experience over a minimum of 36 months + Pass all 3 Levels for CFA Charter | Enrollment Fee: $350 (around ₹29,000)
Early Registration Fee: $900-$1,140 (₹78,000-₹94,000+)
Standard Registration Fee: $1,200-$1,490 (₹1-₹1.2 lakhs+)
Coaching: ₹1.2-₹2 lakhs+ for all levels
Total Estimated Cost (Including Coaching): ₹3.5-₹4 lakhs | Portfolio Manager, Research Analyst, CIO, Private Equity Analyst | ₹6-₹12 LPA |
| Integrated BBA + MBA (5 Years) | Minimum 50-60% marks in 12th + clear entrance exams (like IPMAT, CUET, or college-specific tests) and interviews | Government Colleges: ₹1-₹11 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹3.5-₹30 lakhs | Business/Financial Analyst, Brand Manager, Operations Manager, HR Manager | ₹4-₹12 LPA |
| Company Secretary (CS) (3-4 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th for the CSEET, then graduate for Executive, and pass Executive for CS Professional | Registration and Exam Fees:
CSEET (Foundation): ₹1,000 – ₹1,200
CS Executive: ₹8,000 – ₹10,600; Exams: ₹1,200 per module.
CS Professional: ₹12,000 – ₹15,000; Exams per group.
Total Fees = ₹1-₹1.5 lakhs
(Additional fees for mandatory training programs.) | Compliance Officer, Legal Advisor, Corporate Governance Head | ₹4-₹10 LPA |
| Cost and Management Accountant (CMA) (3-4 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th for the Foundation, then graduate for Intermediate, and pass Intermediate for Final | Registration and Exam Fees:
CMA Foundation = ₹6,000
CMA Intermediate = ₹23,100
CMA Final = ₹25,000
Total Fees = ₹50,000-₹60,000 for all three levels
Total Estimated Cost (Including Coaching): ₹1.5-₹2.5 lakhs or more | Management Accountant, Financial Analyst, Cost Controller, and CFO | ₹4-₹12 LPA |
| Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) (3 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th | Government Colleges: ₹2,000-₹80,000
Private Colleges: ₹1-₹11 lakhs | Accountant, Bank PO, Junior Financial Analyst, Junior Auditor | ₹2.5-₹5 LPA |
| Bachelor of Economics (Honors) (3 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + Qualify CUET Entrance Exam or Specific University Cut-Offs | Government Colleges: ₹30,000-₹1 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹1.5-₹8 lakhs | Policy Analyst, Economist, Economic Advisor | ₹3-₹9 LPA |
| Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) (2-4 Years) | Minimum 65% in Mathematics/Accounts & English, and 50% in other subjects in 12th | Registration: ₹8,000-₹10,000
Annual Subscription: ₹10,000-₹16,400 per year
Exam Fees: ₹1.8-₹2.2 lakhs for 13 papers
Coaching Fees: ₹1.5-₹3 lakhs
Total Cost: ₹2.8-₹5.5 lakhs | Corporate Treasurer, Financial Controller, Management Accountant, Auditor | ₹3-₹8 LPA |
| BBA LLB (5 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + Entrance Exam like CLAT, AILET | Government Colleges: ₹1-₹7 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹3-₹17 lakhs | Corporate Lawyer, Legal Counsel, Compliance Officer | ₹3-₹9 LPA |
Commerce students see strong demand in Fintech and Blockchain. They move into roles like Compliance Officers and FinTech Analysts as digital payments grow. Sustainability creates new jobs in ESG Consulting.
Analysts handle environmental and social reporting for large firms. Many commerce students also succeed in Product Management for e-commerce and fintech. They combine business logic with user experience skills.
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Best Professional Courses After 12th Arts/Humanities Stream
In 2026, the Arts and Humanities now offer several high-paying career paths when combined with specialized skills. This is driven by the digital economy, creative tech, and corporate law. Modern arts graduates are entering high-growth roles in User Experience (UX), Corporate Strategy, and Social Impact.
| Course Name | Eligibility | Approximate Total Fees | Key Career Roles | Annual Average Salary (Freshers) |
| BA LLB (5 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + Entrance Exams like CLAT, AILET, or MH CET Law | Government Colleges: ₹10,000-₹25 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹5-₹15 lakhs and above | Corporate Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Judicial Officer, Litigation Lawyer | ₹3-₹12 LPA |
| Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC) (3 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + Entrance Exams like CUET or Direct Merit-Based Entry | Government Colleges: ₹10,000-₹1 lakh
Private Colleges: ₹2-₹7 lakhs | Journalist, News Anchor, Editor, Corporate Communication Specialist | ₹2-₹6 LPA |
| Psychology Assistant, Research Assistant, Counsellor Trainee | Minimum 50% marks in 12th + BBA-Specific Entrance Exams (like CUET, IPMAT, SET) or Direct Merit-Based Entry | Government Colleges: ₹10,000-₹70,000
Private Colleges: ₹1-₹10 lakhs | Marketing Executive, Growth Marketer, HR Analyst, Brand Manager | ₹2.5-₹6 LPA |
| B.A. Psychology (3 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + University-Specific Entrance Exam | Government Colleges: ₹20,000-₹80,000
Private Colleges: ₹1.5-₹6 lakhs | Psychology Assistant, Research Assistant, Counselor Trainee | ₹2.8-₹7 LPA |
| B.Des in Fashion (4 Years) | Minimum 45-55% marks in 12th + Entrance Exam like NIFT or University-Specific Aptitude Tests + Portfolio Review/Interview | Government Colleges: ₹3.5-₹17.5 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹5-₹30 lakhs | Fashion Designer, Textile Designer, Fashion Consultant | ₹2.5-₹6 LPA |
| Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) (3 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + Entrance Exam like CUET, AIMA UGAT or University-Specific Aptitude Tests+ English compulsory subject + Personal Interview | Government Colleges: ₹50,000-₹3 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹3-₹10 lakhs | Luxury Operations Manager, Cruise Manager, Food Stylist | ₹2.15-₹4.5 LPA |
| Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) (3 Years) | Minimum 50% marks in 12th + University-Specific Entrance Exam | Government Colleges: ₹30,000-₹2 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹1-₹10 lakhs | Graphic Designer, Animator, Illustrator, Art Director | ₹2.5-₹9 LPA |
| BA in Arts (Fine/Visual/Performing) (3 Years) | Minimum 45-60% marks in 12th + University-Specific Entrance Exam | Government Colleges: ₹10,000-₹1 lakh
Private Colleges: ₹1-₹14 lakhs | Fine Artist, Video Editor, UI/UX Designer, Web Designer | ₹2.5-₹5 LPA |
| BA in Animation (3 Years) | Minimum 40-50% marks in 12th + Entrance Exam (like NID DAT, CUET, SEED) | Government Colleges: ₹45,000-₹1.5 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹3-₹13 lakhs | 2D/3D Animator, Visual Effects (VFX) Artist, Motion Graphics Designer | ₹2.5-₹8 LPA |
| BA B.Ed (4 Years) | Minimum 45-50% marks in 12th + University-Specific Entrance Exam | Government Colleges: ₹20,000-₹1 lakhs
Private Colleges: ₹50,000-₹2 lakhs | Teacher, Academic Coordinator, Administrator | ₹2.5-₹4.5 LPA |
The Creative Economy has turned roles like UX Design and Animation into high-tech careers. These roles now offer salaries similar to traditional engineering jobs.
The global startup boom has increased demand for Corporate Lawyers. Companies need legal experts in compliance and intellectual property. Psychology and Wellness have grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry. Professional counsellors and Corporate Wellness Coaches now play a key role in the modern workforce.
Also, Checkout: Top Career Options After 12th
Short-Term and Diploma Professional Courses
Short-term and diploma courses help you gain practical skills to start or grow your career faster. They are popular in fields like technology, business, creative arts, and healthcare.
Short-Term Professional Courses (3-12 months)
These courses teach job-ready skills and often include certification.
| Course Name | Learn | Average Fees |
| Digital Marketing | SEO, social media, content creation, and analytics | ₹10,000-₹40,000 |
| Data Analytics/Data Science (Basics) | Cleaning, analyzing, and visualizing data using tools like Excel, Power BI, Tableau, or Python | ₹25,000-₹1,00,000 |
| Web Development & Design | Front-end (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and basic back-end skills, plus UI/UX design concepts | ₹5,000-₹1,50,000 |
| Financial Modeling & Valuation | Excel-based modeling, business valuation, and financial analysis | ₹20,000-₹50,000 |
| Tally ERP & GST Training | Practical accounting and tax-filing skills | ₹3,000-₹10,000 |
| Cybersecurity & Ethical Hacking | Network protection, data privacy, and vulnerability testing | ₹15,000-₹20,000 |
| Project Management | Planning, organizing, and managing projects in different industries | ₹10,000-₹80,000 |
| Content Writing & Copywriting | Writing for digital platforms, blogs, and ads | ₹10,000-₹60,000 |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | Emergency medical care and support in hospitals or ambulances | ₹15,000-₹55,000 |
Some of the popular short courses with strong job prospects are Graphic Design, Cloud Computing, Excel for Professionals, and AI/ML Fundamentals.
Diploma Professional Courses (1-3 years)
Diploma programs offer deeper, more structured training than short-term courses.
| Course Name | Learn | Average Fees |
| Diploma in Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Science) | Technical knowledge with real-world applications | ₹8,000-₹1,50,000 |
| Diploma in Business Administration/Management | Marketing, finance, HR, and operations for entry-level management roles | ₹15,000-₹2,00,000 |
| Diploma in Hotel Management | Hospitality operations, customer service, and food & beverage management | ₹30,000-₹1,20,000 |
| Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT) | Diagnostic work in labs and hospitals | ₹15,000-₹1,50,000 |
| Diploma in Animation & Multimedia | 2D/3D animation, video editing, and graphic design | ₹70,000-₹2,50,000 |
| Diploma in Interior Design | Design principles, color theory, and CAD software | ₹50,000-₹2,50,000 |
| Post Graduate Diplomas (PGDM/PGDBA) | Specialize in fields like Business Analytics, HR, Marketing, or Supply Chain Management | ₹50,000-₹12,00,000 |
Top 10 Colleges Offering the Best Professional Courses After 12th
Here are some of the top colleges and universities in India offering the best professional degree courses after class 12th, known for their quality education and strong placement records:
| College Name | Key Professional Courses Offered | Location |
| Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) | B.Tech, B.E., B.Des, Integrated M.Sc. | Present in multiple cities, for example, IIT Bombay, IIT Roorkee |
| All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) | MBBS, B.Sc. Nursing, Paramedical courses | Present in multiple cities, for example, New Delhi, Bhopal, Patna, and Manipal |
| National Institutes of Fashion Technology (NIFT) | B.Des (Fashion Design), BFTech | Present in multiple cities, for example, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai |
| Symbiosis International University | BBA, LLB (Integrated Law), BHM, Design, Journalism | Present in multiple cities, for example, Pune, Hyderabad, and Noida |
| University of Delhi (DU) | B.Com (Hons), BBA, BA (Hons) in Economics, Journalism, etc. | New Delhi |
| National Law Universities (NLUs) | BA LLB, BBA LLB (Integrated Law) | Present in multiple cities, for example, NLU Delhi, NLU Jodhpur, NLU Assam, NALSAR Hyderabad |
| Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) | B.E., B.Pharm, M.Sc. | Present in multiple cities, for example, BITS Pilani, BITS Mumbai, BITS Hyderabad |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | BBA, B.Tech, B.Des, BHM, Integrated Law | Phagwara, Punjab |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) | B.Tech, Allied Health Sciences, Medicine, Design, Management | Present in multiple cities, for example, Manipal, Bengaluru, Mangaluru |
| Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) | B.Tech in Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, etc. | Present in multiple cities, for example, Vellore, Chennai, and Bhopal |
How to Choose the Right Professional Course After 12th
Here are simple steps to help you pick the right professional course in India:
- Career Goals: You should choose a course that fits your future job plans.
- Industry Demand: Pick a field where there is a good demand for skilled workers, like tech or trades.
- Practical Training: Go for programs that offer real-world projects and hands-on learning.
- Accreditation & Reputation: Make sure the course is from a trusted and well-known institute.
- Placement Support: Always choose an institute that helps with job placements.
- Flexibility: Look for online or part-time options if you are working or studying already.
- Cost and Return on Investment (ROI): Think about the fees and whether the course will help you earn more later.
The Bottom Line
Professional courses help students build job-ready skills and start their careers faster. With options like online, distance, and regular learning, they are now easier and more affordable to access. These courses bridge the gap between theory and real-world skills, helping you stay updated and stand out in a competitive job market.
Explore top online professional courses that offer hands-on projects, mentorship, and placement support, a great way to start your journey right after 12th grade.
Professional Courses After 12th – FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between professional and regular courses?
The main difference is that professional courses are career-oriented and focus on practical, job-ready skills, while regular courses are typically theory-oriented and provide a broader, general education.
Q2. What is the best professional course after 12th?
There is no single best professional course after 12th grade. The ideal choice depends entirely on your stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts), personal interests, academic strengths, and long-term career aspirations.
Q3. How can I determine the return on investment (ROI) of a professional course?
You can calculate the ROI by weighing the total cost against the potential increase in your earning potential and career advancement opportunities. Checking average pay ranges and job placement rates can help estimate the value.
Q4. Is an online course as effective as an in-person course?
It depends on your learning style. Online courses offer great flexibility but demand self-discipline, while in-person classes provide a structured, interactive environment. Both can be equally effective with the right structure.
Q5. How important is accreditation when choosing a course?
Accreditation is important because it ensures the course meets specific, recognized industry and educational standards. It validates the quality of your training and certification in the eyes of employers and professional bodies. This recognition significantly boosts your credibility and job prospects when applying for jobs.