Choosing the right career path after completing 12th grade can be a daunting task, especially for students who have just completed their science stream. The science stream offers students a strong foundation in subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and computer science. This opens up a plethora of career opportunities for students to explore career options after 12th. From engineering and medicine to pure science and design, there are several career options available for science students.
It is crucial for students to have a clear understanding of their interests, skills, and aptitude to choose a career path that aligns with their goals and aspirations. This article will delve into the various career options after 12th science stream and provide insights on how to make an informed decision about their career path. By the end of this article, students will have a better understanding of the different career options available to them and the skills required to excel in their chosen field.
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Career Options After 12th
After completing 12th grade, students often find themselves at a crossroads, deciding which career path to take. With the science stream, students have a wide range of options available to them. The science stream provides a strong foundation in technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and practical knowledge, which can be applied in various industries.
Students can choose from a range of options such as engineering, medicine, pure sciences, design, architecture, aviation, agriculture, and many more. It is essential for students to have a clear understanding of their interests, skills, and aptitude to make an informed decision about their career path.
Career Options After 12th Science PCB
Students who opt for the science stream with a focus on PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) have a range of career options available to them. These students can pursue careers in the healthcare industry by opting for medical courses such as MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, and many more. They can also opt for top courses after 12th in PCB or choose to study allied healthcare courses such as nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, or medical lab technology.
With a strong foundation in science and math, students can also opt for research-based careers in various fields of biology and biotechnology. It is essential for students to explore their interests, skills, and aptitude to make an informed decision about their career path.
Here is a list of the top 10 biology career options available to students after completing 12th grade with a science stream, focusing on PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology):
Career Options | Eligibility | Salary Range |
Doctor/Physician | MBBS/BDS Degree | INR 06-25 LPA |
Nurse | B.Sc. in Nursing | INR 04-08 LPA |
Biomedical Scientist | B.Sc./M.Sc. in Biotechnology | INR 05-10 LPA |
Pharmacist | B. Pharm Degree | INR 04-08 LPA |
Physiotherapist | BPT Degree | INR 04-08 LPA |
Medical Lab Technologist | B.Sc. Medical Laboratory Technology | INR 03-07 LPA |
Nutritionist/Dietician | B.Sc. Nutrition and Dietetics | INR 03-09 LPA |
Biotechnologist | B.Sc. Biotechnology | INR 04-10 LPA |
Medical Writer | B. Sc. Life Sciences/Biotechnology | INR 04-08 LPA |
Research Scientist | M.Sc. Life Sciences/Biotechnology | INR 04-12 LPA |
Career Options After 12th Science PCM
Students who opt for the science stream with a focus on PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) have a wide range of career options available to them. These students can pursue careers in engineering, architecture, computer science, pure science, research, and many other fields.
With a strong foundation in math and science, students can excel in technical and analytical fields. They can also opt for careers in the field of aviation, defense, or join the civil services. It is crucial for students to explore their interests, skills, and aptitude to make an informed decision about their career path.
Want to know about the top courses? Visit Best Career Options after 12th Science PCM for more details.
Here’s a list of the top 10 career options available to students after completing 12th grade with a science stream, focusing on PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics):
Career Options | Eligibility | Salary Range |
Engineer | B.E./ B. Tech Degree | INR 04-15 LPA |
Architecture | B. Arch Degree | INR 04-10 LPA |
Computer Science Engineer | B.Sc./B.Tech in Computer Science | INR 05-20 LPA |
Commercial Pilot | B.Sc./M.Sc. Mathematics | INR 03-30 LPA |
Data Scientist | B.Sc./B.Tech in Data Science | INR 06-25 LPA |
Mathematician | B.Sc./M.Sc. Mathematics | INR 03-15 LPA |
Statistician | B.Sc./M.Sc. Statistics | INR 04-15 LPA |
Defense Officer | NDA/CDS | INR 06-15 LPA |
Civil Services | UPSC Civil Services Exam | INR 05-20 LPA |
Research Scientist | M.Sc. Mathematics/Physics/Chemistry | INR 04-15 LPA |
(Note: The above-mentioned average salary range varies depending on several factors like location, work experience, and the company in which you are working.)
About the Top 10 Career Options After 12th Science
Now, in this section, we will see the top 10 career options in the science stream in detail. We will be looking at the entrance exams and their top colleges. We shall also be looking at the job opportunities and average package offered.
Doctor/Physician
One of the top career options after 12th science is a career as a doctor/physician. Becoming a Doctor in India requires hard work and dedication, but it is a highly rewarding career. Doctors can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, research institutes, NGOs, and private practice. They can choose from various specializations, such as cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, dermatology, and more.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | To pursue a career in medicine, a student must clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) or other relevant medical entrance exams. |
Top Colleges | Some of the top medical colleges in India include All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Christian Medical College (CMC), Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), and JIPMER. |
Job Opportunities | Doctors/Physicians can work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, research institutes, NGOs, and private practice. They can choose from various specializations such as cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, dermatology, and more. |
Engineer
Engineering is a highly rewarding career that requires a strong foundation in math and science. Engineers work in various fields, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. They design, develop, and test systems, structures, and machines to make a positive impact on society.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | To pursue a career in engineering, a student must clear relevant entrance exams such as JEE Main, JEE Advanced, or state-level engineering entrance exams. |
Top Colleges | Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), and Delhi Technological University (DTU). |
Job Opportunities | Engineers can work in various sectors, including aerospace, automobile, construction, electronics, and software. They can choose from various specializations such as civil, mechanical, electrical, computer, and more. |
Biomedical Scientist
A career as a Biomedical Scientist requires a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and medical science. Biomedical scientists conduct research, analyze samples, and develop new treatments and medicines. They work in hospitals, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies, making a significant contribution to the healthcare industry.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | To pursue a career in Biomedical Science, a student can appear for relevant entrance exams such as NEET. However, some institutes may have their own entrance exams. |
Top Colleges | Some of the top institutes for Biomedical Science in India include the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Christian Medical College (CMC), Tata Memorial Centre, and the National Institute of Immunology. |
Job Opportunities | Biomedical Scientists can work in hospitals, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies. They can specialize in various fields such as molecular biology, genetics, pathology, and more. |
Commercial Pilot
A career as a Commercial Pilot requires rigorous training, including obtaining a commercial pilot license and accumulating flight hours. Commercial Pilots operate aircraft for airlines, corporations, and other organizations, transporting passengers and cargo. It is a highly challenging and rewarding career, offering opportunities to travel and work in different parts of the world.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | To pursue a career in aviation, a student must appear for relevant entrance exams such as the All India Entrance Examination for Admission to Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Course or the Joint Entrance Examination (Advanced). |
Top Colleges | Some of the top flight training institutes in India include Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), National Flying Training Institute (NFTI), and Gujarat Flying Club. |
Job Opportunities | Commercial Pilots can work for airlines, corporations, and other organizations, transporting passengers and cargo. They can also specialize in various fields such as military aviation, helicopter aviation, and more. |
Biotechnologist
A career as a Biotechnologist involves using biological processes and living organisms to develop new products and technologies. Biotechnologists work in research, development, and manufacturing, and can specialize in fields such as genetic engineering, bioprocessing, and more. It is a dynamic and growing field with many opportunities for innovation and discovery.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Biology as a compulsory subject, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | To pursue a career in biotechnology, a student must appear for relevant entrance exams such as the All India Biotechnology Entrance Examination (AIBEE), the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), or the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). |
Top Colleges | Some of the top biotechnology institutes in India include the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Warangal, and the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) Mumbai. |
Job Opportunities | Biotechnologists can work in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, agriculture, and more. They can also pursue careers in research and development, teaching, and government organizations. |
Defense Officer
A career as a Defense Officer involves serving in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force and involves various roles such as combat operations, administration, logistics, and more. It is a challenging and prestigious career with opportunities for personal and professional growth and development.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | To pursue a career in the Defense forces, a student must appear for the National Defense Academy (NDA) or the Combined Defense Services (CDS) examination. |
Top Colleges | The top Defense academies in India include the National Defense Academy (NDA), the Indian Military Academy (IMA), and the Indian Naval Academy (INA). |
Job Opportunities | Defense Officers can work in various roles such as combat operations, administration, logistics, and more. They can also pursue careers in government organizations, law enforcement agencies, and security services. |
Nutritionist/Dietician
A career as a Nutritionist/Dietician involves helping people to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent diseases by providing personalized dietary plans. It is a rewarding career with excellent job opportunities and growth potential in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and research.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Biology as a compulsory subject, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | There are no specific entrance exams required to pursue a career in Nutrition and Dietetics. However, some colleges and universities may conduct their own entrance tests. |
Top Colleges | The top colleges and universities offering courses in Nutrition and Dietetics in India include AIIMS, SNDT Women’s University, Lady Irwin College, and Amity University. |
Job Opportunities | Nutritionists/Dieticians can work in various sectors such as healthcare, education, research, and food service management. They can also work as consultants, and freelancers, or start their own clinics. |
If you want to become a nutritionist, click How to Become a Nutritionist in India for more details.
Statistician
A career as a Statistician involves analyzing and interpreting numerical data to help organizations make informed decisions. It is a challenging and rewarding career with excellent job opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and research.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Mathematics as a compulsory subject, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | Students can appear for various entrance exams such as JAM, ISI Admission Test, and IIT JAM to pursue a degree in Statistics. |
Top Colleges | The top colleges and universities offering courses in Statistics in India include ISI Kolkata, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, and Delhi University. |
Job Opportunities | Statisticians can work in various sectors such as healthcare, finance, marketing, and research. They can work as data analysts, research scientists, statisticians, or consultants. |
Pharmacist
A career as a Pharmacist involves dispensing medication, advising patients on the use of drugs, and ensuring that medicines are safe and effective. It is a challenging and rewarding career with excellent job opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry, hospitals, and clinics.
Eligibility Criteria | A student must have completed 12th grade in the Science stream, with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics as compulsory subjects, and must have scored at least 50% marks in aggregate. |
Entrance Exam Required | Students can appear for various entrance exams such as NEET, MHT CET, and GPAT to pursue a degree in Pharmacy. |
Top Colleges | The top colleges and universities offering courses in Pharmacy in India include Jamia Hamdard University, the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, and Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences. |
Job Opportunities | Pharmacists can work in various sectors such as the pharmaceutical industry, hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. They can work as community pharmacists, hospital pharmacists, research pharmacists, or drug safety associates. |
Data Scientist
A career as a Data Scientist involves analyzing and interpreting complex data using statistical and computational techniques to derive meaningful insights and solve business problems. It requires skills in programming, statistics, data visualization, and machine learning.
Eligibility Criteria | To pursue a career as a Data Scientist after 12th Science, one must complete a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field. |
Entrance Exam Required | Some popular entrance exams for data science courses include JEE Main, BITSAT, and VITEEE. |
Top Colleges | Top colleges for Data Science in India include IITs, BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, and ISI Kolkata. |
Job Opportunities | Data Scientists can work in various industries such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. Job opportunities for Data Scientists are expected to grow in the coming years due to the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making in organizations. |
Check How to Become a Data Scientist in India for more details.
These were the top 10 career options after 12th in the science stream. These top career options will earn you a better lifestyle. So, do not wait! Start your preparations now!
Summing It Up!
The career options after 12th Science are vast and diverse, catering to the varied interests and aspirations of students. Whether one chooses to pursue a career in medicine, engineering, data science, or any other field, the key to success lies in having a strong academic foundation, continuous learning, and dedication toward the chosen profession.
With the availability of quality education and training programs, coupled with the growing demand for skilled professionals in various industries, students can explore and make informed decisions about their career paths.
iDreamCareer provides a detailed list of the best colleges in India for those who are passionate about having a bright career. The information includes admission procedures, course offerings, fees, and other relevant details. Aspiring students can use this page to make an informed decision about their future. Don’t hesitate any longer! Check out iDreamCareer’s College Selection Program and take the first step toward your dream career after 12th science.
Also Read:
- List of Top 10 Courses After 12th PCMB
- What to do after 12th?
- Courses After 12th Computer Science
- High Salary Courses After 12th Arts
- Best courses after 12th science and its duration
- Know All About The Courses After 12th PCM
- Top 10 Medical Courses Without NEET in 2023
Career Options after 12th Science: FAQs
Some popular career options after 12th science include engineering, medicine, architecture, biotechnology, data science, and defense services.
To pursue a career in medicine, one must have completed 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. One must also qualify for entrance exams like NEET.
The average package for a career in engineering varies from college to college and depends on factors like specialization and job location. However, the starting salary for a fresher can range from 3 to 6 lakhs per annum
Yes, you can pursue a career in data science after 12th science PCM. However, you would need to acquire additional qualifications like a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in data science or related fields.
The eligibility criteria for pursuing a career in defense services include age limit, educational qualifications, physical fitness, and passing the selection process, which includes written exams, physical tests, and interviews.
A career in biotechnology offers job opportunities in areas like research and development, clinical research, manufacturing, and quality control. Some popular job roles include biotech engineer, research scientist, quality control analyst, and clinical research associate.

Sushant has been writing since his early days of childhood and currently, heβs serving as a Content Writer with iDreamCareer. Sushant has two start-ups of his own and he has been writing content for them since their inception. Apart from that he is passionate about writing which is why he is following his passion for writing with iDreamCareer.