​A Guide for Students After Graduation

Graduating is a significant milestone, but for many Indian students, it marks the beginning of crucial decisions that shape their professional journey. Whether to pursue higher studies, gain work experience, prepare for government exams, or explore entrepreneurial ventures, the choices are vast. With India’s evolving job market, selecting the right course or career path after graduation is more important than ever. From traditional fields like law and management to emerging areas such as data science and digital marketing, there are abundant opportunities that cater to various interests and strengths.

Whether you want to continue in your field or explore a new one, courses and career options are available that align with your goals and the growing demands of the Indian job market. In this article, we will explore some courses and career paths you can consider after graduation.

List of Courses After Graduation

Here are some courses that you can consider after graduation:

Science Stream

1. Master of Science (M.Sc.)

   A 2-year postgraduate degree focusing on advanced concepts in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Environmental Science, and more. This course helps students build a strong foundation in scientific research and subject-specific knowledge.

   • Eligibility:B.Sc. with 50-55% marks; some require entrance exams.
   • Fees: ₹10,000 – ₹2,00,000 per year.
   • Careers: Research Scientist (₹4-8 LPA), Data Analyst (₹3-6 LPA), Science Teacher (₹3-5 LPA).
   • Top Institutes:Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), University of Delhi (DU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
2. Master of Technology (M.Tech)

   A 2-year professional degree focused on advanced engineering and technology skills in specialisations like Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering.

   • Eligibility: B.Tech/B.E. with 60%; GATE required.
   • Fees: ₹20,000 – ₹5,00,000 per year.
   • Careers: R&D Engineer (₹5-12 LPA), Software Architect (₹8-20 LPA), Project Manager (₹10-20 LPA).
   • Top Institutes:Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS)
3. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

   A 2-year postgraduate program that prepares students for leadership and managerial roles in diverse industries, including finance, marketing, operations, and HR.

   • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50%; CAT, XAT, GMAT required.
   • Fees: ₹5,00,000 – ₹40,00,000.
   • Careers: Marketing Manager (₹8-15 LPA), Financial Analyst (₹6-12 LPA), Consultant (₹10-20 LPA).
   • Top Institutes:Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Indian School of Business (ISB), Faculty of Management Studies (FMS).

Commerce Stream

1. Master of Commerce (M.Com)

   A 2-year postgraduate degree focusing on advanced concepts in commerce, finance, accounting, economics, and business management.

   • Eligibility: B.Com/BBA with 50% marks.
   • Fees: ₹10,000 – ₹1,00,000 per year.
   • Careers: Accountant (₹3-6 LPA), Financial Analyst (₹4-8 LPA), Tax Consultant (₹5-10 LPA).
   • Top Institutes:University of Delhi (DU), University of Mumbai (MU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Christ University.


2. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

   A 2-year postgraduate program designed to develop leadership, strategic thinking, and management skills across various industries. Specialisations include Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, and more.

   • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50%; CAT, XAT, GMAT required.
   • Fees: ₹5,00,000 – ₹40,00,000.
   • Careers: Marketing Manager (₹8-15 LPA), Investment Banker (₹10-30 LPA), HR Manager (₹6-12 LPA).
   • Top Institutes:Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Xavier School of Management (XLRI), Indian School of Business (ISB), Faculty of Management Studies (FMS).
3. Chartered Accountancy (CA)

   A highly respected professional qualification in accounting, taxation, auditing, and financial management, regulated by the ICAI.

   • Eligibility: 10+2 or graduation; clear CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final.
   • Fees: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 (total).
   • Careers: Chartered Accountant (₹8-25 LPA), Auditor (₹6-15 LPA), CFO (₹20-50 LPA).
   • Top Institutes:ICAI (The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India).

Arts Stream

1. Master of Arts (M.A.)
   

   A 2-year postgraduate degree in humanities, focusing on various subjects such as English, History, Sociology, Political Science, and more.

   • Eligibility: B.A. with 50%.
   • Fees: ₹5,000 – ₹1,50,000 per year.
   • Careers: Content Writer (₹3-6 LPA), Journalist (₹4-10 LPA), Professor (₹6-15 LPA).
   • Top Institutes: Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).
2. Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
   

   A 3-year professional degree in law, focusing on subjects like constitutional law, criminal law, family law, and legal ethics.

   • Eligibility:Bachelor’s degree with 45-50%.
   • Fees: ₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 (total).
   • Careers: Lawyer (₹5-12 LPA), Legal Advisor (₹6-15 LPA), Judge (₹15-30 LPA).
   • Top Institutes: DNational Law School of India University (NLSIU), National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Delhi University (DU), Symbiosis Law School.
3. Master of Social Work (MSW)
   

   A 2-year postgraduate degree in social work, focusing on topics like community development, mental health, and social justice. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to support vulnerable populations.

   • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any field with 50%.
   • Fees: ₹20,000 – ₹2,00,000 per year.
   • Careers: Social Worker (₹3-6 LPA), NGO Manager (₹5-10 LPA), Policy Analyst (₹6-12 LPA).
   • Top Institutes: Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Delhi University (DU), Christ University, Banaras Hindu University (BHU).

Consider Government Opportunities

After graduation, you can apply for different government jobs by taking special exams. Some of the main exams include:

Government Exams

• Civil Services Examination (CSE): For IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS roles. Requires graduation; age 21-32.
• SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL): For administrative posts in government offices. Requires graduation.
• Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) NTPC: For jobs in Indian Railways. Graduates and 12th-pass students can apply.
• Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE): For joining the Indian Armed Forces. Requires graduation and age 19-24.

Eligibility

• SSC CGL: You must have a college degree from a recognised university.
• Civil Services Examination (CSE): You must be a college graduate and between 21 and 32 years old.

Study Abroad

Studying overseas is a great way to learn new things and face new challenges. You will meet students from different backgrounds and improve your networking skills.

Credila supports students by offering a student education loan for study abroad. With flexible repayment options, Credila makes it easier for students to achieve their dreams of studying at universities worldwide.

Exploring Career Opportunities

Knowing what to do after you graduate is important, as many new graduates focus on finding a job. While the job market can feel challenging, careful planning may help you find a job that matches your skills and interests.

Here are some basic steps to help you get hired:

• Prepare a strong resume.
• Create an account on social media to network with professionals, attend job fairs and industry events.
• Access job portals and recruitment agencies' websites for job listings.
• Prepare for interviews by studying your prospective employer and practicing standard questions while improving overall communication.

Entrepreneurship and Startups

If you're unsure about which courses to pursue after graduation and you have creative ideas, starting your own business might be an interesting option.

Here are some ways to begin your business journey:

• Develop a solid business plan outlining your goals, target customers, and financial needs.
• Look into funding options such as bank loans, government grants, or investments from venture capitalists.
• Build a strong network of contacts who can provide advice and mentorship.
• Use digital platforms for marketing to help grow your business's visibility.

Acquiring Work Experience through Internships

Internships are an excellent means of acquiring actual work experience and new skills. They provide you with the opportunity to apply what you've learned in school to real jobs and assist you in trying out various career options. Through an internship, you can establish a professional network by interacting with individuals in your industry, which can open doors to future employment opportunities. Internships will also prepare you better for interviewing for full-time positions once you graduate. For the most part, they're a necessary progression toward career construction.

Conclusion

Post-graduation life is filled with challenges and opportunities. With the right planning and knowledge, you can build a secure future. Remaining flexible, learning all the time, and making good financial and career decisions will make you confident in handling this new phase of your life. Continue to explore, remain in touch with peers and mentors, and be open to new experiences to establish a fulfilling career and personal life.

As of March 31, 2024. T&C apply.

Credila Financial Services Limited (Formerly known as HDFC Credila Financial Services Limited)

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