PCM Career Options: 7 Exciting Paths for a Bright Future

November 26, 2024
PCM career options
Quick Summary

Quick Summary

  • Students who have their senior secondary (10+2) certification with science as their core course are referred to as being in the 12th PCM stream.
  • The best PCM career options after 12th in India are Chemical Engineer, Software Engineer, Aeronautical Engineer, Data Scientist, Mathematician, Pharmacist, and more.

Table of Contents

Introduction

PCM, which stands for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, serves as the cornerstone for numerous career options in today’s world. These three subjects, commonly studied together in high school, are crucial for students pursuing careers that demand a strong grasp of scientific principles and problem-solving skills. The significance of PCM in education and career growth is immense, as it unlocks a wealth of exciting and rewarding PCM career options across various industries.

What is PCM?

Students who completed their senior secondary (10+2) certification with science as their core courses (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) are referred to as being in the 12th PCM stream.

Since 12th grade is the last year of school and the start of their future profession, it is a pivotal year for kids. Knowing your possibilities for career options after 12th science PCM and choosing one that appeals to you can help you create a meaningful and fulfilling career.

Depending on their preferences, PCM students have various career options after the 12th PCM in the science sector. Following the PCM career options after 12th standard/grade, numerous professional paths concentrate on technology, healthcare, planning, multimedia, and infrastructure.

Courses You Can Choose After PCM

There are many courses after 12th science PCM that you can enrol in after your 12th PCM Career Options. This is the following list of courses after the 12th PCM.

Bachelor of Technology (Civil Engineering)
B.Tech Chemical Engineering
Bachelor of Technology (Mechanical Engineering)
B.Tech Information Technology
B.Tech Electronics & Communication Engineering
Bachelor of Technology Genetic Engineering
BTech Aeronautical Engineering
BCA
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
BBA Sales
BBA Entrepreneurship
BMS BBA Accounting
BBA Marketing
BA in Hotel Management
B.Com

1. Engineering and Technology:

  • Computer Science Engineering
  • Information Technology
  • Electronics and Communication Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Biotechnology Engineering
  • Automotive Engineering
  • Robotics Engineering

2. Commerce and Management:

  • Chartered Accountancy (CA)
  • Company Secretary (CS)
  • Cost and Management Accountancy (CMA)
  • Business Administration (BBA/MBA)
  • Marketing Management
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Human Resource Management
  • International Business
  • Investment Banking
  • Entrepreneurship

3.  Sciences and Research:

  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Statistics
  • Data Science
  • Computer Science
  • Astrophysics
  • Geology
  • Environmental Science
  • Biotechnology

4.  Architecture and Design:

  • Architecture
  • Interior Design
  • Product Design
  • Fashion Design
  • Graphic Design
  • Animation and Multimedia
  • Web Design and Development

5.  Media and Communication:

  • Journalism
  • Mass Communication
  • Advertising and Public Relations
  • Event Management
  • Filmmaking and Video Production
  • Radio Jockeying
  • Content Writing

6.  Law and Legal Studies:

  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
  • Corporate Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Intellectual Property Law
  • Environmental Law
  • International Law

7.   Arts and Humanities:

  • English Literature
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • Fine Arts
  • Performing Arts

8.  Aviation and Hospitality:

  • Aviation Management
  • Pilot Training
  • Hospitality Management
  • Hotel and Tourism Management
  • Event Management
  • Culinary Arts

9.   Banking and Finance:

  • Banking
  • Investment Banking
  • Financial Analysis
  • Stock Broker
  • Wealth Management
  • Financial Planning

10.   Government Services:

  • Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
  • Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
  • Indian Police Service (IPS)
  • Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
  • State Civil Services
  • Defence Services

11.  Teaching and Education:

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)
  • Master of Education (M.Ed.)
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Special Education
  • Educational Administration

12.  Other Careers:

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Digital Marketing
  • Social Work
  • Environmental Conservation
  • Human Rights and Social Justice
  • Non-Profit Organizations
  • Travel and Tourism

Career Options After PCM

We may all now agree that there are several questions about what to do after the 12th PCM. Many people still wonder about these questions: “What can I do after the 12th PCM?”, “After 12 science PCM what to do?”

After completing 12th-grade science with PCM, there are numerous career opportunities to explore. But which PCM career options are in the highest demand? Which ones offer lucrative salaries? In this section, we’ll answer these questions by listing the top PCM job choices along with their potential salaries.

Chemical Engineer

This job focuses on processing natural and synthetic chemicals into finished goods. They are employed across many sectors, particularly in manufacturing, energy, and research. Chemical engineers typically conduct research and experimentation to develop chemical products that are used in agriculture, medicine, food, fuel, and other industries.

Average base salary – ₹23,944 per month

Software Engineer

Making software, applications, and electronic solutions. Software engineers develop codes to find and fix mistakes as well as build, test and refine virtual solutions to accomplish business goals.

Average base salary – ₹61,557 per month

Data Scientist

They analyse data using numbers and algorithms, building models that categorize, predict, and cluster data. To make wise business decisions, data scientists also help validate organized and unstructured data and find trends.

Average annual salary – ₹10,58,906 per year

Machine Learning Engineer

ML engineers work closely with administrators, data scientists, analysts, and engineers. Their primary role in the PCM career options is to develop artificial intelligence systems that automate predictive models. Additionally, they design models, analyze, and evaluate various data sets to drive data-driven decisions and innovations.

Average annual salary – ₹10,28,034 per year

Mathematician

Their primary responsibility is to apply mathematical concepts and theorems across various fields such as business operations, computer graphics, and architecture. Additionally, they may develop new theorems and contribute to advancing academic research in mathematics. Pursuing a doctorate in mathematics can significantly enhance your employability and career prospects within the wide range of PCM career options.

Average annual salary – ₹11,85,224 per year

Pharmacist

A pharmacist is responsible for conducting research, developing medicines, and ensuring the quality of those medications. They may also pursue careers as lecturers or work in pharmacies, offering a variety of PCM career options in the healthcare and education sectors.

Average annual salary – ₹2,08,035 per year

Related: Jobs After A Diploma In Pharmacy

Aeronautical Engineer

The study, creation, and construction of aeroplanes, missiles, and spacecraft are the domains of aeronautical engineers. They do research and development to advance commercial aviation, defence technologies, and space exploration.

Average annual salary – ₹3,99,408 per year

Product Designer

A product designer analyzes consumer needs and trends to develop products that effectively meet consumer demands. They also oversee the quality of the products, offering exciting PCM career options in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and consumer goods.

Average annual salary – ₹3,56,663 per year

Animator

An animator uses computer programs to creatively design dynamic motion and sequences. They typically create both two- and three-dimensional setups for commercials, movies, and other media. Some animators may collaborate with creators to design characters and landscapes. To pursue a career in this field, animators often need a bachelor’s degree in animation, graphic design, or related PCM career options in the creative and tech industries.

Average annual salary: ₹ 2,66,115 per year

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Pilot

A pilot controls an aircraft to move cargo and passengers from one location to another. They may work for commercial or governmental airlines, and they are in charge of ensuring the security of the passengers, crew, and cargo. After passing a medical examination and completing their 12th grade with PCM as their subject, a pilot goes through extensive training.

Average annual salary: ₹35.6 Lakhs

Architecture

After completing 12th science PCM, one of the top career options is to enroll in a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) program. This five-year course is an excellent choice for students who aspire to pursue a career in architecture and design, opening up various PCM career options in the construction and design sectors.

There are several distinctive architectural wonders in the world, including the Petronas skyscraper and the Burj Khalifa. These Marvels were built after extensive planning and design, resulting in stunning constructions.

Average annual salary: ₹ 24 Lakhs

Aviation

This career path is perfect for students who dream of soaring above the clouds. Ideal for those who prefer not to work the typical 9-to-5 jobs or spend their days confined to a lab, it blends science, technology, and travel. By pursuing this PCM career options, students can eventually become commercial pilots, combining their passion for aviation with technical expertise.

Average annual salary: ₹ 4 Lakhs

Also Read: Career Options after 12th Non Medical

Tough Subjects Don't Exist Anymore with Chegg

Non-Engineering Career Options after PCM

B.Des in Product Design

The Bachelor of Design is a three-year undergraduate program that explores systems, products, and user experiences. If you have a scientific mindset combined with a creative flair, this PCM career options could be an ideal choice for you, allowing you to merge your analytical skills with innovative design thinking.

Average annual salary: INR 13,00,000

Bachelor of Architecture (BArch)

A Bachelor’s in Architecture is an excellent career choice for science students with a creative mindset. This five-year, full-time program combines both theoretical knowledge and practical training. With the booming construction industry, a BArch degree opens up numerous job opportunities, both in India and abroad, making it a promising PCM career options for aspiring architects.

To pursue BArch, you can take entrance exams like the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA), JEE Main, other state-level entrance exams, etc.

Average annual salary: ₹ 3.0 Lakhs

Merchant Navy

The merchant navy is not just a profession, but a lifestyle. For those with a passion for the sea and a love for travel, pursuing a career in the merchant navy can be a highly rewarding PCM career options, offering unique experiences aboard cruise ships while combining elements of science, technology, and exploration.

You can pursue a career in the merchant navy after completing your 12th grade in the PCM program. Students can pass several entry tests to enter this sector, including the JEE Entrance Test, the All-Indian Merchant Navy Entrance Test, and the Common Entrance Test (CET) by Indian Maritime University (IMU).

Average annual salary: ₹ 6.6 Lakhs

Commercial Pilot

Another job choice for you, if you have a scientific background and do not want to pursue engineering, is a commercial pilot. Commercial pilots have an interesting life since they see new areas, interact with various people, and learn about various cultures.

To become a commercial pilot, you can enrol in aviation schools’ training programs or complete a BSc in Aviation.

Average annual salary: ₹17.7 Lakhs

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

The second most sought-after career option after 12th-science PCM students, right behind engineering, is a Bachelor of Science (BSc). You can choose to specialize in a variety of subjects, including physics, chemistry, mathematics, agriculture, statistics, forensics, etc.

Average annual salary: ₹ 6.9 Lakhs

National Defence Academy

The National Defence Academy test is for you if you aspire to serve your country by enlisting in the military. It is administered by the Union Public Service Commission and serves as a recruitment process for individuals interested in joining the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

A student must have taken physics, chemistry, and mathematics as their three main disciplines to be eligible to join the Navy or Air Force.

Average annual salary: ₹673000

Business, Commerce, and Management

Even though you took PCM in your 12th-grade year, you soon concluded that science is not your passion. Don’t worry; one benefit of doing your 12th grade in the PCM stream is choosing a career in commerce or the arts in addition to science-related fields.

If you are interested in business and management, you might opt to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) or a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).

Additionally, you can enrol in professional programs like Chartered Accountancy (CA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and others.

Average annual salary: ₹ 4.83 Lakhs

Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC)

Bachelor of Journalism and Communication, also known as BJMC, may be the best career option after 12th PCM if you are interested in the hows and whys of the world’s events. It is a three-year degree, and to expand your skill set and take advantage of better chances, you can continue to a Master of Journalism and Mass Communication program after that.

Average annual salary:₹ 7.08 lakhs

Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)

You can pursue a Bachelor of Computer Applications if you are interested in the fields of computer science and information technology. It is a three-year course offered by numerous public and commercial organisations. After completing a BCA, you can work as a developer, programmer, etc.

Average annual salary: ₹ 2.5 lakh

BA LLB

A law degree might be a good choice for you if you have a strong sense of self and a strong persuasiveness. Immediately following the completion of your 12th grade, you can pursue a BA LLB degree.

BA LLB stands for Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Legislative Law. You study laws and legislatures in this integrated course along with subjects from the art stream, such as sociology, psychology, etc.

Average annual salary: ₹ 5.70 lakh

PCM Career Options and Chegg

After PCM, if you choose SME as your career, you can choose many subjects as a subject matter expert. Here are some of the subjects that you can opt for as subject matter experts.

  • Information Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • And many more other subjects which you like to choose as SME.
Get Paid for Your Knowledge

The major responsibility of an SME is to guarantee the accuracy of any content or information related to their area of expertise. To a project, they contribute their specialized knowledge. They can work as independent specialists and respond to questions from students about their fields.

Chegg employs subject-matter specialists in a variety of subjects. They serve as online tutors for learners all over the world. Chegg Study is a 24/7 portal where experts provide online answers to questions. According to their training and experience, they can become authorities on any subject.

Final Thoughts

Academically, Class 12 is seen as a significant turning point where a student’s destiny is largely shaped. Additionally, engineering is currently seen as the best course after 12 science PCM if you are a PCM student.

After 12 PCM career options are many in which a student is under so much financial and academic pressure that they give up on their interests and aspirations. Their peers have influenced the students’ admission to various engineering colleges. After the 12th courses list PCM students have many choices.

Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive in to our guide on Career Options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Which is Better- PCM or PCB?

Ans. Those who wish to pursue medical studies after class 12 should take PCB. Those who plan to study engineering after their 12th-grade year should take PCM. If you are uncertain about your post-secondary goals, take both (PCMB). Choose your preferred subjects, following whether you enjoy taking courses after the 12th PCM  in the basic sciences.

Q2. Is PCM good for the future?

Ans. With a PCM degree, you can pursue a wide range of careers, including those in engineering, architecture, industrial design, defence, forensic science, data science and analytics, ethical hacking, pharmacy, aviation, and several other fields.

Q3. What are the career options in the PCM stream?

Ans. PCM is a good option because people with this degree can pursue careers in a variety of fields. This includes engineering, architecture, industrial design, defence, forensic science, data science and analytics, ethical hacking, pharmacy, aviation, and a wide range of other fields.

Q4. Which course is best after the 12th PCM?

Ans. It depends on what you want to be after the 12th. The best course you can go for is machine learning. The best course after 12 science PCM you can opt for is what you choose and what is best for your future.

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