Commerce Stream 2024: 10 Best Careers & Courses After 12th

Are you concerned about your job options and whether the commerce stream is the best choice for you?

If you’re looking to discover what’s best for your future in commerce and whether this field is right for you, you’re in the right place. Here, you can explore various aspects of commerce, including different career paths, courses, and opportunities available in this field. By gaining insights and information, you can make informed decisions about your studies and career. Whether you’re just starting or considering your options, we’re here to help you understand the potential and benefits of a commerce education.

Today’s students are choosing the commerce stream over the more popular science courses. The enrolment in the commerce stream rose gradually from 28.9 lahks to 43.2 lakhs respectively during 2012-13 to 2020-21. Their success has demonstrated that anyone can be prosperous and that running an effective business may help one make a significant difference in the lives of others.

The insights in this article will allow you to make educated choices regarding your potential in the commerce stream.

1. What is the Commerce Stream?

The commerce stream is an academic pathway that primarily focuses on business, finance, economics, and related subjects. It includes subjects such as accounting, economics, business studies, mathematics, and English. Students who choose commerce as their stream of study generally aspire to pursue careers in fields such as finance, banking, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, and management. The commerce stream provides students with practical knowledge and skills related to the business world, which can help them in their future professional endeavors.

Also Read About: Commerce vs Science: What to Choose and Why?

Why Choose Commerce Stream?

Commerce offers a diverse range of degree and professional choices. Commerce students can pursue rewarding careers in fields such as Chartered Accountancy (CA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and banking.

If you enjoy working with statistics and data, and you are interested in money and economics, Commerce may be a good fit for you. Accountancy, Economics, and Business Studies are all subjects that provide significant insights into the business world and prepare students for interesting career prospects in a variety of industries.

2. Subjects in Commerce Stream

Subjects that are included in the commerce stream are as follows:

1. Economics

One of the most important and sought-after topics in commerce is economics. Having a comprehensive understanding of the production, transport, and consumption of products and services is the basic goal of studying economics.

Economics is a field of social science that examines resource allocation and best use as well as the creation, exchange, and use of commodities and services within a society. In contrast to macroeconomics, which examines how the economy responds to issues like rising prices, GDP, the equitable distribution of assets, and global economies, microeconomics examines independent choices and customer behavior on a local scale.

Read about: Exploring the Contrasts Between Microeconomics and Macroeconomics

2. Business Studies

For students majoring in commerce, business studies are one of the more intriguing and captivating courses. Regardless of whether you chose the commerce stream with or without math, there is still a need for the syllabus and CBSE Courses for Class 11. Business Studies covers all the essential ideas for people who desire to learn more about the activities of Entrepreneurship, from their inception through their management.

The coursework for this subject seeks to provide students with a fundamental knowledge of the different principles and practices prevalent in industries and businesses and to specifics their interactions with society because the study of business enterprises and how they operate is a key component of the Commerce stream.

Also Read:- Commerce without Maths Scope

3. Accountancy

Accounting is one of the most popular choices for those interested in a career in the commerce field. It deals with the recording, categorization, and reporting of commercial transactions for a firm or an individual. Briefly said, knowing accounting makes it possible to control a company’s costs and revenue, giving management feedback on an organization’s financial activities and performance. Along with monitoring the company’s financial situation, the key tasks associated with accounting are issuing invoices, tracking funds, and paying workers.

4. Informatics Practices

There is a branch of software-related study called Informatics Practices. The main topics of the course include coding, networking, and software. In contrast to computer science, this field does not include hardware notions. More than computer science, networking topics are the primary focus.

5. Mathematics

Since all economic processes are based on numbers, mathematics plays a significant role in commerce. An individual or organization will be able to grasp their financial status both now and, in the future, if they have a basic understanding of mathematical concepts. Most businesses utilize mathematics for sales forecasting, marketing, accounting, and inventory management

3. Commerce Stream After Class 10th

Many youngsters choose a career in commerce stream after grade 10. So, commerce is the major for you if you want to pursue a profession in a sector like advertising, banking, or business management.

Core and optional courses in commerce are available to help you learn more about the way businesses function. After class 10, you can select a math-based or math-free commerce course. Business administration and management studies are two examples of commerce courses that don’t require math.

5. Career in Commerce Stream After Class 12th

The commerce stream is the most dynamic stream. The vast range of career options in the commerce stream is exposed to students after the 12th. A plethora of courses and career paths are there in the commerce domain where students can develop an astounding career. The career paths mainly focus on fields like finance, marketing, business administration, accounting, taxation, and auditing. It offers you opportunities to work in various top-notch industries.

Suggested Read:
25+ Best Free Online Courses in India After 10th/12th
List of Best Diploma Courses After 10th for All Streams

6. Courses You Can Pursue in Commerce Stream

Following is a list of the best courses for commerce students after 12th: 

Course	Eligibility	Duration	University
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)	10+2 exam or an exam from an equivalent level from a recognized board is qualified to enroll in a BBA program	3 years	DU, University of Madras, Gargi College
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)	Candidates must graduate from a recognized school with a Class 12 diploma in any stream	3 years	Christ University IP University
Bachelor of Law (LLB)	Passed the senior secondary (10+2) examination or any other exam that is equivalent from a board or institution that is recognised. And must have passed the ICAI’s intermediate-level test.	3 years	Hindu University, LJ University
Chartered Accountancy (CA)	10+2 with an average minimum of 60%	5 years	Christ University Bangalore University
Bachelor of Economics	Students must pass their class 12 board exams with at least a 50% overall grade point average or an equivalent CGPA from an approved board.	3 years	University of Mumbai, Loyola College
Cost and Management Accountant	Passed the senior secondary (10+2) examination or any other exam that is equivalent from a board or institution that is recognized. And must have passed the ICAI’s intermediate-level test.	3 years	Chandigarh University
Company Secretary	Must have completed 10+2 or its equivalent examination from a recognized board or institution.	3-5 years	University of Mumbai, IIS University
Bachelor of Accounting and Finance	A minimum aggregate of 50% and above in the class 12 board exams is required.	3 years	Christ University, Jai Hind College

1. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)

Most students want to choose BCom after completing their 12th. This is an undergraduate course focusing on subjects like accountancy, statistics, management, human resources, economics, computer, etc. This is one of the most demanding courses after completing 12th, also many job opportunities are available after completing the BCom degree. The BCom degree can be in both honors and general levels. This is one of the best commerce courses available. There are diverse career opportunities after BCom.

Career Options After BCom

• Accountant
• Business Executive
• Accounts Manager
• HR Manager
• Account Executive

2. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

If you are interested in pursuing a career in commerce business, then BBA can be the right degree. It is a professional program at the undergraduate level. BBA is one of the most fascinating and best degrees to follow your career in the commerce stream. If you are interested in working in a company or gaining detailed knowledge about business and its administration, BBA is the right one.

Career Options After BBA

• Retail Manager
• Branch Manager
• HR Manager
• Commodities Trader
• Marketing Executive

Explore about:
BBA vs BCOM – Which Should You Opt For?

3. Bachelor of Law (LLB)

If you are interested in gaining more knowledge about the constitution and other laws, LLB can be the best career option in commerce. Especially if you want to become a Lawyer or pursue Law as a profession in the future, then this is the main degree. Here you will study different laws like family law, constitutional law, property law, company law, administrative law, etc. This is one of the best courses to pursue in a career in the commerce stream. 

Career Options After LLB

• Advocate
• Corporate Counsellor
• Litigation Lawyer
• Legal Advisor
• Judicial Officer

4. Chartered Accountancy (CA) 

Chartered Accountancy is a professional course to pursue after completing 12th. CA is one of the toughest but most rewarding career options. It is one of the highest-paying jobs in India and one of the best careers in commerce to pursue. You will learn about accounting and financial management, advanced accounting, auditing and assurance, business Laws, information technology, corporate & other Laws, etc. 

Career Options After CA

• Chartered Accountant
• Internal Auditor
• Taxation Officer
• Finance Manager
• Forensic Auditor

5. Bachelor of Economics

Many commerce students choose BA/BSc Economics as a career option. This course enables students to learn economics in detail, financial concepts, political economy, statistics, etc. This is one of the prominent courses for commerce students. Also, there are many job opportunities available after completing a Bachelor of Economics.

Career Options After BE

• Economist
• Financial Consultant 
• Economic Researcher
• Actuarial Analyst
• Investment Analyst

6. Cost and Management Accountant

This is also one of the best professional courses for commerce students. It is offered by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI). Students need to clear different exams to gain this title. You can learn about cost and management accounting, fundamentals, basic principles, etc. There are many highly demanding jobs available after completing this degree.  

Career Options After CMA

• Chief Accounting Officer
• Investment Banker
• Audit Manager
• Forensic Accountant
• Investment Analyst 

7. Company Secretary

CS is another professional course regulated by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). It involves expertise in corporate laws, governance, and secretarial practices. The students have to take the CSEET exam for this course. The course is divided into three levels- foundation, executive, and professional.

Career Options After CS

• Company Secretary
• Legal Advisor
• Business Consultant
• Risk Manager
• Chief Administrator Officer

8. Bachelor of Accounting and Finance

Bachelor of Accounting and Finance is a three-year undergraduate program that includes subjects such as financial accounting, business analysis, taxation, and auditing. Students with a strong interest in accounting and finance can pursue this course.

Career Options After BAF

• Accountant
• Financial Analyst
• Auditor
• Tax Consultant
• Investment Banker

9. Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS)

Bachelor of Management Studies is an undergraduate program focusing on management principles and practices. It covers subjects like marketing, finance, human resources, and operations management. This course is ideal for those looking to develop managerial skills and pursue a career in business administration.

Career Options After BMS

• Management Consultant
• Marketing Manager
• Operations Manager
• Business Analyst
• Project Manager

10. Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM)

Bachelor of Hotel Management is a professional degree that prepares students for careers in the hospitality industry. The curriculum includes subjects like food and beverage management, hotel operations, and tourism management. This course is perfect for those who want to excel in the dynamic field of hospitality.

Career Options After BHM

• Hotel Manager
• Event Manager
• Food and Beverage Manager
• Front Office Manager
• Travel Consultant

7. Best Paying Jobs for Commerce Stream Students

Selecting a commerce major can help students land the highest-paying jobs after their 12th. The list of occupations available to students who completed their degree in the commerce stream is provided below.

Job Prospect	Skills Required	Avg Salary
Chartered Accountant	Financial reporting, Taxation, Financial analysis, Audit, Communication Skills	10.5 LPA
Investment Banker	Financial analysis, Valuation, Market research, Negotiation skills, Project management	11 LPA
Management Consultant	Analytical Skills, Communication Skills, Project Management Skills, Strategic Thinking, Business Acumen	24 LPA
Marketing Manager	Legal Knowledge, Communication Skills, Analytical Skills, and Problem Solving Skills	12.5 LPA
Human Resource Manager	Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Organizational Skills, Recruitment and Retention Skills, Technological Skills	10 LPA
Company Secretary	Legal Knowledge, Communication Skills, Analytical Skills, and Problem-Solving Skills	7 LPA
Certified Public Accountant	Analytical Skills, Accounting Knowledge, Problem-Solving Skills, Communication Skills, Client Relationship Management Skills	6.8 LPA
Chartered Financial Analyst	Financial analysis, Statistical Skills, Decision-making Skills, Communication Skills	10 LPA

Read about:
Complete List of Highest Paying Commerce Stream Jobs
Guide to Choosing the Best Career Option for Commerce Students

1. Chartered Accountant

One of the better job alternatives for those with a foundation in commerce is becoming a chartered accountant. By achieving three tiers of tests, an internship, and extra certifications, students can quickly land this position. Manage the accounts and finances of the company in this position. Additionally, one of the highest-paid professions in India is chartered accountant.

Get to know about the Salary of a Chartered Accountant in India.

2. Investment Banker

The most significant role in a company organization is held by an investment banker. As a result, it is among the greatest and highest paying employment in India. Students in the commerce stream can advise and make suggestions to the organization on investments and savings because they are familiar with accounting and finance. The primary responsibility of an investment banker is to support financial recommendations made by a corporation to maximize resource use.

3. Management Consultant

A management consultant is a professional who provides expert advice to organizations on how to improve their performance and achieve their goals. They analyze problems, develop solutions, and advise on strategy, operations, and organizational structure. They work with clients across various industries and may specialize in specific areas such as finance, marketing, or technology.

4. Marketing Manager

A marketing manager has one of the most in-demand professions and one of the greatest salaries for students of commerce. He or she is required to oversee a company’s product marketing division and consumer behavior. They organize, advertise, plan, and estimate enterprises. Public relations and advertising are two strategies used by marketing managers to increase sales and the company they work for market visibility. A career in marketing management offers a wealth of lucrative and exciting options because there are many different marketing specialties to select from.

5. Human Resource Manager

HR manager is a well-known profession in the industry therefore it is one of the best career options to pursue after graduation. Human resource managers search, screen, and hire new employees as well as administer employee benefit plans and other employment-related incentives. Due to people’s growing interest in working in the management and business sectors, there is a wide range of opportunities in this industry.

6. Company Secretary

Company Secretary is an excellent career option for students interested in corporate governance, legal compliance, and company administration. After completing the company secretary course, individuals go under training conducted by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). With an increase in the number of companies, the role of a company secretary is in high demand.

7. Certified Public Accountant

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a profession that involves performing various accounting, auditing, taxation, and advisory tasks to help individuals, businesses, and organizations manage their finances effectively. Overall, pursuing this career option in the commerce stream offers numerous benefits, including career advancement, global recognition, job security and high earning potential.

8. Chartered Financial Analyst

The job role of a chartered financial analyst is to work on investment management and financial analysis of any organization. CFAs conduct in-depth analyses of financial statements, economic data, and market trends to evaluate investment opportunities and assess the financial health of companies. The eligibility criteria to become a CFA is that the candidate must have a bachelor’s degree be in the final year of their degree, or have about 4000 hours of work experience in three years. The students should also pass the three levels of the CFA program to get this designation.

9. Financial Planner

A financial planner helps individuals and businesses create strategies to manage their finances effectively. They assess clients’ financial goals and develop tailored plans involving investments, savings, and retirement. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential in this role, as planners need to explain complex financial concepts clearly.

10. Tax Consultant

A tax consultant specializes in tax planning and compliance, helping clients navigate complex tax regulations. They prepare tax returns, provide advice on tax strategies, and ensure that clients are meeting their legal obligations. This role requires a deep understanding of tax laws and regulations, making it a vital position for both individuals and businesses.

8. Become a Chegg Expert in Your Favourite Commerce Subject

Want to become a subject-matter expert? Chegg can let you start making extra money while you learn. One of the biggest e-learning platforms, Chegg offers students all over the world a wide range of learning solutions.

You may sign up for Chegg as a Q&A expert and start making money by responding to questions that students post on the Chegg platform. There are several subjects accessible, including accountancy, economics, business studies, mathematics, etc. According to your area of knowledge, you can choose the topics. Sign up right away.

9. Commerce Stream – In a Nutshell

Plenty of opportunities for a career in commerce stream are available in India as well as abroad. We are pleased to have helped you better grasp the primary career paths you could choose in the commerce field.

The time when occupations just required science or a few other art disciplines is long past. After completing a commerce education, you can now obtain a high-paying position.

Students will learn everything they need to know about commerce as a subject from this page, including its advantages, suitable career in the commerce stream, etc.

Your career is very important, so, make sure you carefully consider all your professional possibilities. Explore career advice with us before making the appropriate choice.

10. Frequently Asked Questions