Welcome, bright minds, to CoursesAfter.com! Breaking out of the systematic grip of Class 12 Commerce opens before you a beautiful new world of choices. The choices that you make here for your higher studies will go a long way in determining your professional career. If you also get the rush of adrenaline and perhaps a touch of bewilderment provided by the humongous list of courses after 12th commerce that awaits them, then you are one among the many.
Most of the 12th Commerce pass-out batch are left with the do-or-die second in choosing the right option ahead of them. This article is attempting to be your constant guide that takes you through some of the most suitable career choices after 12th Commerce that you need to explore. We will take you on a ride through a range of professions, from the traditional pillars of finance and accounts to newer and unconventional streams, and give you the right information to choose your future.
Which course to select after Class 12 Commerce?
What to do after your 12th Commerce exams is a decision. It is not a question of taking a degree; it is a question of taking the kind of education that will best make you successful by maximising your interest, aptitude, and career aims with the kind of education that will be most effective. There are numerous things to consider in making this decision. Start by looking at your interest in commerce. Were you most drawn to accountancy, economics, business studies, or even mathematics? Knowing an idea about the subject of interest can provide you with hints on your probable career, which could be suitable for you.
Second, consider your strengths and capabilities. Are you an analytical, detail-oriented person? Do you possess math or problem-solving skills? Or do you possess communication, strategic thinking, and market analysis skills? Courses will try to accommodate varying sets of capabilities, so if you have some idea of what your strengths are, it will limit your options.
Third, explore career aspirations. Where would you like to be between 5 and 10 years? What type of job, business, or working environment interests you? Exploring possible professions linked with various courses will give valuable insight into future jobs and pay.
Finally, consider the pragmatics such as course duration, expense, and whether there are good places to study the course. Choose a course that is not only aligned with your interest and aim but also economical and of a reasonable duration. Keep in mind, it’s an investment in the future, so do not hurry, dig deep, and choose wisely.
Professional Courses after 12th Commerce
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
The Bachelor of Commerce is a foundational undergraduate program entailing extensive study of the subjects of commerce, accounting, finance, economics, and business law. It’s a general foundation for most professional professions and postgraduate studies.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (preferably commerce stream)
- Career Opportunities: Accountant, Auditor, Bank Teller, Business Analyst, Finance Officer, Tax Assistant
- Salary Range: ₹3 to 8 LPA (based on specialisation, talent, and company)
B.Com courses will likely provide specialisations such as Accounting and Finance, Banking and Insurance, Taxation, and E-commerce, so that the students can specialise in the field where they want to study. It is an extremely competitive course and gives an immense opportunity for entry into government services as well as private sector professions.
Also Read: Courses After B.Com: Top Options for Career Growth & High Salaries
Chartered Accountancy (CA)
CA is one of the most sought-after professional courses after 12th commerce. It is pursued by students interested in accountancy, auditing, and taxation. The CA course is regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
- Duration: 4 to 5 years
- Eligibility: Pass 12th (except commerce stream)
- Career Opportunities: Chartered Accountant, Tax Consultant, Auditor, CFO
- Salary Range: ₹10 to 30 LPA (experience and firm-dependent)
The three levels of the CA course are CA Foundation, CA Intermediate, and CA Final. The students also have to perform Article ship training in the course, where they are placed under the guidance of a practising CA. The rigorous syllabus and professional qualification render it one of the most valued qualifications for the finance sector.
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
The BBA course is meant to offer a clear knowledge of business management techniques. It encompasses marketing, finance, human resources, and operations. It is an appropriate course for students who desire to take leadership positions and start entrepreneurial activities.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Business Analyst, Marketing Executive, HR Manager, Operations Manager, Management Trainee
- Salary Range: ₹4 to 10 LPA (depending on specialisation and organisation)
BBA courses usually include case studies, presentations, and group projects to foster business skills and thinking abilities. Specialisation in marketing, finance, and human resource management enables career specialisation within diverse industries.
Also Read: Courses After BBA: Top Options for Career Growth & High Salaries
Company Secretary (CS)
The course of a Company Secretary is specialised in corporate laws, governance, and compliance. It is offered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). It is a perfect course for students who have an interest in the legal and regulatory side of businesses.
- Duration: 3 to 4 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Company Secretary, Legal Advisor, Corporate Governance Officer, Compliance Officer
- Salary Range: ₹6 to 20 LPA (depending on experience and organisation)
The CS course consists of three levels: CSEET (CS Executive Entrance Test), CS Executive, and CS Professional. Practice training is also an important part, which provides students with the proficiency to manoeuvre the regulatory and legal world for businesses.
Bachelor of Economics (B.A. Economics / B.Sc. Economics)
A Bachelor of Economics degree gives a solid grounding in economic principles, theories, and analytical methods. It gives students the skill to comprehend and analyse economic problems at the micro as well as macro levels.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream, mathematics often preferred)
- Career Options: Economist, Market Analyst, Financial Planner, Investment Analyst, Research Analyst
- Salary Range: ₹5 to 15 LPA (depending on specialisation and organisation)
Economics graduates get placed with government organisations, financial institutions, consulting companies, and research institutions. The analytical and problem-solving abilities honed from an economics degree are sought after in a wide range of industries.
Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (BAF) / Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance
The BAF course is individually tailored to impart detailed insight into financial principles, accounting procedures, and financial analysis. It’s a more specialised degree than a generic B.Com, for students who wish to specialise in the financial field.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (preference for commerce stream)
- Career Options: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager
- Salary Range: ₹6 to 18 LPA (based on specialisation and organisation)
The course usually involves topics such as financial accounting, management accounting, corporate finance, investment management, and taxation, which form a solid foundation for a career in the financial sector.
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
Although more of an IT-oriented degree, BCA can also be an option for Commerce students who want to pursue a career in applying technology to business. It deals with programming, database management, and software development.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream, mathematics preferred)
- Career Options: Software Developer, Web Developer, Database Administrator, IT Analyst
- Salary Range: ₹3.5 to 8 LPA (skills and organisation dependent)
For Commerce students, a BCA can pave the way for positions that straddle both business and technology, like business analysts or system administrators working in finance or commercial institutions.
Also Read: Courses After BCA: Top Options for Career Growth & High Salaries
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
A Bachelor of Laws degree is for candidates who are interested in pursuing a career in law. It imparts a detailed knowledge of the legal system, different laws, and procedures.
- Duration: 3 years (after graduation) or 5 years (integrated BA/BBA LLB after 12th)
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream) for integrated courses, Bachelor’s degree for the 3-year LLB
- Career Options: Lawyer, Advocate, Legal Advisor, Corporate Counsel
- Salary Range: ₹5 to 15 LPA (practice, specialisation, and company dependent)
An LLB for Commerce graduates can lead to specialisation in corporate law, taxation law, and other business legal domains.
Also Read: Courses After LLB: Top Options for Career Growth & High Salaries
Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS) / Bachelor of Business Management (BBM)
BMS or BBM courses provide a general overview of the principles and practices of management, just like BBA, but occasionally with even more theoretical frameworks and strategic thought. It is meant to foster managerial skills and business sense.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Opportunities: Management Trainee, Business Development Manager, Project Coordinator, Operations Analyst
- Salary Scale: ₹4 to 9 LPA (organisation and specialisation depending)
BMS/BBM programs usually provide specialisations in functional areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and HR, enabling students to specialise in areas of their choice.
Also Read: Courses After BBM: Top Options for Career Growth & High Salaries
Digital Marketing Courses / Certifications
In the current digital era, skills in digital marketing are in great demand. Digital marketing courses and certifications provide one with a skill set in SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, PPC advertising, and email marketing.
- Duration: Differing (from several months to one year for diplomas/degrees)
- Eligibility: 12th passed (any stream), a Bachelor’s degree is preferred for higher programs
- Career Options: Digital Marketing Executive, Social Media Manager, SEO Analyst, Content Marketing Specialist
- Salary Range: ₹3 to 7 LPA (based on experience and aptitude)
Though not necessarily a complete bachelor’s degree right after 12th, there are different diplomas and specialised degree courses in digital marketing offered, and becoming increasingly popular.
Financial Analyst (as a profession, commonly sought after completion of a relevant degree such as BAF, B.Com, Economics)
A Financial Analyst analyses financial information, offers investment advice, and assists companies in making sound financial decisions. This is usually a career sought after receiving an appropriate bachelor’s degree, as well as professional certifications such as CFA.
- Duration: Bachelor’s degree (3 years) + optional certifications (2-4 years)
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or related disciplines
- Career Opportunities: Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, Equity Research Analyst
- Salary Level: ₹6 to 20 LPA (based on experience, qualifications, and organisation)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The CMA certification targets the management accounting and financial management competencies. It is internationally recognised and awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The course is suitable for students who aspire to develop a career in corporate finance and financial strategy.
- Duration: Flexible (usually 1 to 2 years of studies and exams)
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree (commerce-oriented preferred)
- Career Opportunities: Management Accountant, Financial Analyst, Cost Accountant, Finance Manager
- Salary Range: ₹8 to 25 LPA (based on experience and organisation)
Although the eligibility standards state a bachelor’s degree, students can prepare for the CMA exams after the 12th and obtain the certification after graduation.
Cost Accounting (often pursued through professional bodies like ICAI (India) or ICMA)
Cost accounting is concerned with the identification, measurement, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of cost information to support managerial decision-making. This is usually a specialisation or professional certification done alongside or after a B.Com or equivalent degree.
- Duration: Varies based on the exact programme or certification
- Eligibility: 12th pass (for certain foundation programmes), a Bachelor’s degree is usually necessary for higher-level certifications
- Career Options: Cost Accountant, Management Accountant, Budget Analyst
- Salary Range: ₹4 to 12 LPA (based on experience and qualifications)
Bachelor’s in Foreign Trade / Bachelor of International Business
The courses specialise in the principles and practices of international trade, foreign exchange, export-import management, and global business operations.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Export/Import Manager, International Business Development Manager, Trade Analyst
- Salary Range: ₹4 to 8 LPA (skills and organisation depending)
Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Market (BFM) / Bachelor Of Financial Markets
Specialised B.Com degrees emphasising the dynamics of financial markets, such as stock markets, bond markets, derivatives, and investment strategies.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream, mathematics preferred)
- Career Options: Stockbroker, Investment Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Financial Planner
- Salary Range: ₹4.5 to 10 LPA (based on job and company)
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
The CFP certification deals with imparting detailed financial planning guidance to individuals and families, including investment planning, retirement planning, insurance, and estate planning.
- Duration: Varies based on the certifying institution and mode of study
- Eligibility: 12th pass (in some entry-level certifications), a Bachelor’s degree is usually preferred or required for full CFP certification
- Career Paths: Financial Planner, Wealth Manager, Investment Advisor
- Pay Scale: ₹5 to 15 LPA (experience and clientele depending)
Hospitality Management (BHM)
Not strictly commerce course related, but some commerce graduates interested in the service sector will choose hospitality management. It deals with hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other hospitality-related businesses’ management and operation.
- Duration: 3 to 4 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Travel Agency Manager, Tour Operator, Tourism Manager, Destination Manager
- Salary Range: ₹3 to 7 LPA (varies according to role and company)
Travel and Tourism Management (BTTM)
As with hospitality management, this course deals with the management of travel agencies, tour operations, and services in tourism. It encompasses elements of marketing, customer care, and destination management.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Opportunities: Tour Operator, Travel Agent, Tourism Manager, Destination Marketing Executive
- Salary Range: ₹3 to 6 LPA (based on the position and industry)
Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) / Bachelor of Mass Media (BMM)
For students who are interested in commerce but like the field of media and communications, BJMC or BMM courses provide training in mass communications, journalism, advertising, and public relations, among others.
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (any stream)
- Career Options: Journalist, Content Writer, Public Relations Officer, Advertising Executive
- Salary Range: ₹3 to 8 LPA (depending on the role and organisation)
Industry-Oriented Integrated Courses
A generic category that can encompass different integrated degree courses that mix a bachelor’s program with industry-specific training or certifications. The details change significantly based on the institution and the industry. Examples might be an integrated B.Com with ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) or professional certifications.
- Duration: Normally 3 to 4 years
- Eligibility: 12th pass (based on the particular program)
- Career Options: Varies depending on the specific integrated course
- Salary Range: Varies depending on the specific integrated course and resulting skills.
Also Read: Top Hotel Management Courses After 12th
Also Read: Top Paramedical Courses After 12th
Also Read: Best Fashion Designing Courses After 12th
Diploma courses after 12th commerce
Diploma in Accounting and Finance
An accounting diploma teaches the basics of accounting principles, financial reporting, and taxation. It would be a good starting point for those willing to take up entry-level positions in the accounting and finance areas.
- Duration: 1-2 years.
- Job prospects could be an Accounts Assistant, a Bookkeeper, Tax Assistant.
Diploma in Banking and Finance
This attempts to emphasise bank and financial institution operations and their principles. This includes topics such as bank operations, financial markets, and the basics of investment.
- Duration: 1-2 years.
- Job prospects include Bank Teller, Loan Officer, and Customer Service Representative in banks.
Diploma in Business Admin
A less intensive version of the BBA, this diploma introduces students to business management activities such as marketing, human resources, operational processes, and so on.
- Duration: 1 year.
- Job prospects include Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, and Sales Coordinator.
Diploma in Digital Marketing
As online presence gains much priority for businesses, a diploma in digital marketing equips students with skills in SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, and online advertising.
- Duration: 6 months – 1 year.
- Job prospects include Digital Marketing Executive, Social Media Manager, and SEO Analyst.
Diploma in Retail Management
This program is to help you understand the operations and management of retail businesses, as well as the various fields of retail, such as sales, customer service, stock management, and visual merchandising.
- Duration: 1 year.
- Possible career choices are Retail Manager, Store Supervisor, and Sales Associate.
Unique courses after 12th commerce
- Actuarial Science
- Business Analytics
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Foreign Trade and International Business
- Hotel Management
- Event Management
- Mass Communication and Journalism
- Law (LLB)
- Fashion Merchandising
- Graphic Design
Courses in finance after 12th commerce
- Bachelor of Finance and Accounting (BFA)
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with Finance specialisation
- Bachelor of Economics (B.A./B.Sc. Economics)
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) with Finance specialisation
- Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) (can start after 12th)
- Financial Risk Manager (FRM) (can start after 12th)
- Diploma in Banking and Finance
- Bachelor of Financial Markets (BFM)
List of courses after 12th commerce
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Bachelor of Economics (B.A./B.Sc. Economics)
- Bachelor of Finance and Accounting (BFA)
- Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS)
- Chartered Accountancy (CA)
- Company Secretary (CS)
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA) (can start after 12th)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) (can start after 12th)
- Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM)
- Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Event Management (BEM)
- Bachelor of Fashion Merchandising (BFM)
- Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (B.Sc. Actuarial Science)
- Bachelor of Business Analytics (BBA in Business Analytics)
- Bachelor of Logistics and Supply Chain Management (BLS)
- Bachelor of Foreign Trade (BFT)
- Diploma in Accounting and Finance
- Diploma in Banking and Finance
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Digital Marketing
- Diploma in Retail Management
List of courses after 12th commerce with Mathematics
- Bachelor of Economics (B.A./B.Sc. Economics)
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics (B.Sc. Statistics)
- Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (B.Sc. Actuarial Science)
- Bachelor of Business Analytics (BBA in Business Analytics)
- Bachelor of Financial Markets (BFM) (some institutions)
- Chartered Accountancy (CA) (basic math skills required)
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA) (quantitative skills essential)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) (strong quantitative aptitude needed)
List of courses after 12th commerce without Mathematics
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Bachelor of Finance and Accounting (BFA)
- Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS)
- Company Secretary (CS)
- Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM)
- Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Event Management (BEM)
- Bachelor of Fashion Merchandising (BFM)
- Bachelor of Logistics and Supply Chain Management (BLS)
- Bachelor of Foreign Trade (BFT)
- Diploma in Accounting and Finance
- Diploma in Banking and Finance
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Digital Marketing
- Diploma in Retail Management
Best Professional Courses After 12th Commerce with High Salary
- Chartered Accountancy (CA): ₹10 to 30 LPA (depending on experience and organisation)
- Company Secretary (CS): ₹6 to 20 LPA (depending on experience and organisation)
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA): ₹8 to 25 LPA (depending on experience and organisation)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): ₹12 to 40 LPA (depending on experience, role, and organisation)
- Bachelor of Finance and Accounting (BFA): ₹6 to 18 LPA (depending on specialisation and organisation)
- Bachelor of Business Analytics (BBA in Business Analytics): ₹6 to 15 LPA (depending on skills and organisation)
- Bachelor of Economics (B.A./B.Sc. Economics): ₹5 to 15 LPA (depending on specialisation and organisation)
Also Read: Top Journalism Courses After 12th
Also Read: Best IT Courses After 12th
Also Read: Top Psychology Courses After 12th
After 12th Commerce Courses List with Salary
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com): ₹3 to 8 LPA
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): ₹4 to 10 LPA
- Bachelor of Economics (B.A./B.Sc. Economics): ₹5 to 15 LPA
- Bachelor of Finance and Accounting (BFA): ₹6 to 18 LPA
- Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS): ₹4 to 9 LPA
- Chartered Accountancy (CA): ₹10 to 30 LPA
- Company Secretary (CS): ₹6 to 20 LPA
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA): ₹8 to 25 LPA
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): ₹12 to 40 LPA
- Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM): ₹3 to 7 LPA
- Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC): ₹3 to 8 LPA
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB): ₹5 to 15 LPA (depending on practice and firm)
- Bachelor of Event Management (BEM): ₹3 to 6 LPA
- Bachelor of Fashion Merchandising (BFM): ₹3 to 7 LPA
- Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (B.Sc. Actuarial Science): ₹6 to 20 LPA
- Bachelor of Business Analytics (BBA in Business Analytics): ₹6 to 15 LPA
- Bachelor of Logistics and Supply Chain Management (BLS): ₹4 to 9 LPA
- Bachelor of Foreign Trade (BFT): ₹4 to 8 LPA
- Diploma in Accounting and Finance: ₹2 to 4 LPA
- Diploma in Banking and Finance: ₹2.5 to 5 LPA
- Diploma in Business Administration: ₹3 to 6 LPA
- Diploma in Digital Marketing: ₹3 to 7 LPA
- Diploma in Retail Management: ₹2.5 to 5 LPA
IT Courses after 12th Commerce
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Information Technology
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
- Diploma in Digital Marketing
- Courses in Data Analytics
- E-commerce and Digital Business Programs
Conclusion
Choosing the right course after 12th Commerce is a significant step towards building a successful and fulfilling career. The options are diverse, ranging from established professional qualifications like CA and CS to dynamic fields like business analytics and digital marketing.
By carefully considering your interests, skills, and career aspirations, and by understanding the nuances of each course, you can make an informed decision that sets you on the path to achieving your professional goals. Remember to research the specific curriculum, faculty, and placement.