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If you always thought that commerce is just about numbers, it’s time to change that thought pattern. The field of commerce holds immense potential to unlock advantageous paths that can shape both businesses and economies at large.
Students in the field of commerce stand a chance to make lucrative careers in a variety of fields— marketing, analytics, finance, and entrepreneurship, to name just a few. With the right skill sets and career choices, students with a professional degree in Commerce can witness significant career growth globally.
This blog sheds light on some of the top career options in Commerce for aspiring students, motivating them to make an informed choice for their future.
Why Choose Commerce as a Career Stream?
Commerce is increasingly popular among learners, both as a study stream and as a potential career path. The discipline offers a robust foundation across diverse fields—finance, business, and economics—unlocking rewarding career options after 12th Commerce in these areas and many more. Here are some more reasons why choosing Commerce at the 10+2 level is a wise choice:
- Varied career prospects in multiple roles, namely Chartered Accountant (CA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Financial Analyst, and more
- Lucrative salary packages and significant career growth in careers in finance and management
- Flexibility of choice in various academic courses after 12th Commerce with a high salary, such as B.Com, BBA, CA, CS, and the like
Scope of Commerce in Today’s Economy
Pursuing Commerce as a formal discipline is vital for students today, as the field has expanded far beyond the fundamental role of traditional bookkeeping. It now encompasses a technology-driven globalized ecosystem and thus serves as a crucial foundation for aspiring learners in the fields of:
- International trade, cross-border regulations, foreign exchange, and supply chain management globally
- Startups and entrepreneurship with emphasis on risk management, business planning, and venture capital
- Digital transformation, acquainting learners with the rapidly evolving technologies in blockchain, digital marketing, and data-based business analytics
Career Options in Commerce After 12th
In addition to the extensive learning the field offers across related domains, pursuing Commerce at the 10+2 level also offers students the apparent advantage of a rewarding career path. For your easy reference, we share below some of the top high-salary roles after 12th Commerce that students can apply for to kickstart a promising career:
1. Chartered Accountant (CA)
Pursuing a career as a Chartered Accountant is counted among the best career options after 12th Commerce. The role is highly regarded in auditing, accounting, financial management, and taxation. A Chartered Accountant after 12th Commerce plays a crucial role in ensuring financial compliance and accuracy and in making strategic decisions for individuals and businesses.
| Average Salary | INR 6 LPA – INR 10.2 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 from a recognized board and clearance of the Foundation exam |
| Duration | 4.5-5 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Banking & Financial Services ManufacturingBusiness Consulting |
| Skills Developed | Offer Financial expertise Problem-solving ability Attention to detail |
Source: Glassdoor
2. Company Secretary (CS)
A Company Secretary is responsible for ensuring the adherence of a company to all legal and regulatory requirements. They handle corporate law, corporate governance, and other legal affairs for an organization.
| Average Salary | INR 5 LPA – INR 10 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 in any stream (except Fine Arts), and the CSEET entrance exam is mandatory |
| Duration | 3-5 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Legal sector Corporate sector Government and PSUs |
| Skills Developed | Legal expertise Effective written and verbal communication Ethical judgement |
Source: Glassdoor
3. Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts are professionals who evaluate financial data, market trends, and economic reports to help businesses make informed investment decisions.
| Average Salary | INR 4 LPA – INR 8 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 in the Commerce stream with Math preferred |
| Duration | 3-4 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | IT ServicesFinTechInsurance |
| Skills Developed | Financial analysis Accounting Data visualization and reporting |
Source: Glassdoor
4. Insurance Brokers
This is yet another of the best options to consider to step up your career path after 12th Commerce. Insurance brokers play a critical role in lowering financial risks for individuals and businesses alike.
| Average Salary | INR 3 LPA – INR 9 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 at 18 years of age, mandatory 50-hour training from an IRDAI-approved institution, and a pre-licensing exam after completion of training |
| Duration | 3 months – 3 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Insurance broking firms General insurance and life insurance firms Banking and financial service companies |
| Skills Developed | Technical knowledge in insurance Numerical and analytical skills Sales and negotiation ability |
Source: Glassdoor
5. Cost and Management Accountant (CMA)
They are experts in budgeting, assessing cost structures, and planning finances to optimize an organization’s profitability. A CMA, however, is different from a CA, as the former focuses more on performance assessment, internal cost control, and strategic business decisions, rather than solely on external audits.
| Average Salary | INR 3 LPA – INR 9 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or equivalent from all streams |
| Duration | 3-4 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | IT and ITESAutomotive FMCG |
| Skills Developed | Inventory management Tax planning and adherence Cost accounting and control |
Source: Glassdoor
Check out our career oriented Online BCom Degree courses.
Career Options in Commerce After Graduation
Completing a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce unlocks a wide range of lucrative career options as well. While the above section highlighted the path of career after 12th Commerce for students, listed below are some top roles to apply for after completing graduation in the discipline:
1. Bank PO
A Bank Probationary Officer (PO) is an entry-level managerial role in public- and private-sector banks in India. They are responsible for supervising loan grants, managing cash flow, and handling customer relations.
| Average Salary | INR 8.3 LPA – INR 9.1 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | B.Com, BA, B.Tech, or BSc |
| Duration | 3-12 months (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Private sector banksPSUsFinancial institutions and NBFCs |
| Skills Developed | Operational skills Analytical ability Team collaboration |
Source: AmbitionBox
2. Marketing Executive / Assistant Marketing Manager
There is a broad scope for Commerce students after 12th and B.Com degree programs. With the knowledge gained at the Bachelor’s level, students can expand their entry into not only commerce but also other business-related fields, such as marketing or human resources. Marketing Executives are responsible for directing, planning, and coordinating marketing programs to promote products/services.
| Average Salary | INR 8 LPA – INR 20 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | B.Com, BBM, BBA, or BA/BSc in Marketing |
| Duration | 6 months-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Digital marketing agenciesE-commerceIT & Technology |
| Skills Developed | Proficiency in digital media Strategic brand management Team leadership |
Source: Glassdoor
3. Investment Banker
This is yet another top career option after 12th Commerce offering a high salary. Students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce or a related field are eligible to apply for this role, in which professionals assist governments, corporations, and financial institutions in raising capital, facilitating mergers and acquisitions, and offering expert financial advice.
| Average Salary | INR 6 LPA – INR 18.3 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | B.Com, BSc Finance, or BBA |
| Duration | 3-12 months (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Domestic financial institutions International investment banks Specialized advisory and consulting firms |
| Skills Developed | Data analytics Financial modeling High-stakes negotiation |
Source: Glassdoor
4. Operations Manager
As the name suggests, these professionals are entrusted with ensuring the smooth running of a company’s overall processes—from production to the supply chain. Operations Managers are in high demand across various sectors after completing a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce.
| Average Salary | INR 6 LPA – INR 15 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | B.Com or Bachelor’s in a Business-related domain with at least 50% aggregate and 3-5 years of work experience at an entry-level role |
| Duration | 1-2 years (average) for PG programs6 months for certificate courses (approx) |
| Hiring Industries | Supply chain and logistics E-commerce and retail Manufacturing |
| Skills Developed | Quality management Inventory control Financial acumen in operations |
Source: Glassdoor
5. Tax Advisor
They are financial experts with specialized, advanced skills and knowledge in tax laws, tax accounting, and related areas. They are renowned for providing expert advice to organizations on tax matters and ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
| Average Salary | INR 3 LPA – INR 15.8 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | B.Com, BBA, or LLB |
| Duration | 3-12 months (average) |
| Hiring Industries | BFSIBig 4 accounting firmsFinTech |
| Skills Developed | Deep learning in tax laws Tax accounting and documentation Problem-solving and critical analysis |
Source: Glassdoor
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Career Options in Commerce After Post-Graduation
Completing a post-graduate degree in Commerce further paves the way to more rewarding and promising career paths for graduates. With advanced knowledge and skills in the domain, graduates are now eligible to apply for senior management positions, such as those shared below:
1. Financial Risk Manager
A certified professional responsible for detecting, analyzing, and reducing the incidence of risks in an organization, they play a crucial role in ensuring the company’s financial stability.
| Average Salary | INR 23.1 LPA – INR 25.5 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | Completion of Part I and Part II FRM exams and 2 years’ full-time experience in FRM or related field |
| Duration | 9 months-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | FinTech Insurance firms Corporate finance departments |
| Skills Developed | Proficiency in financial technology Scenario analysis Ethical decision-making |
Source: AmbitionBox
2. Management Consultant
Management Consultants are external advisors to companies, helping them solve complex problems, improve overall performance, and achieve organizational goals.
| Average Salary | INR 15 LPA – INR 29 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | M.Com or MIB/MFC |
| Duration | 6 months-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Management consulting and advisory firms BFSI Retail |
| Skills Developed | Hypothesis-driven thinking and analysis Data interpretation Stakeholder management |
Source: Glassdoor
3. Economist
They are experts in commerce—researching, evaluating, and interpreting economic data to better how resources are produced, distributed, and consumed in an economy.
| Average Salary | INR 8 LPA – INR 21 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | M.Com with emphasis on Managerial Economics, Financial Management, etc. |
| Duration | 1-5 years (average), depending on the program pursued |
| Hiring Industries | Technology sector Large corporates/conglomerates Academia and research |
| Skills Developed | Advanced analytical and quantitative skills Economic reasoning Market research |
Source: Glassdoor
4. Stock Broker
They are licensed financial professionals who serve as intermediaries between individuals or businesses and the stock exchange, buying and selling stocks and other securities on their behalf.
| Average Salary | INR 7 LPA – INR 15.7 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | M.Com or Master’s in Finance, Management, or Economics21 years of age |
| Duration | 1-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Stockbroking firms AMCs Stock market training institutes |
| Skills Developed | Technical analysis Real-world market exposure Client relationship management |
Source: Salary Expert
5. Investment Manager
One of the popular career options in Commerce for postgraduate students, this role involves managing investment portfolios for individuals, institutions, and businesses to help them meet their overall financial objectives.
| Average Salary | INR 6.9 LPA – INR 7.7 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | M.Com or MBA in Finance |
| Duration | 1-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | BanksAsset Management Companies (AMCs)FinTech firms |
| Skills Developed | Asset management Equity research Financial storytelling |
Source: AmbitionBox
Career Options in Commerce Without Maths
We discussed a variety of career options after 12th Commerce, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees in the sections above. Although a strong background in Maths may be preferred for some Commerce courses, it is not mandatory for all programs.
Many Commerce courses allow students to opt out of Math. Students completing such programs in Commerce without Math can pursue rewarding careers, some of which are:
1. Retail Banker
Retail Bankers are professionals who work in a bank’s branch or office, helping people manage their personal finances. This includes assisting in opening bank accounts, processing transactions, and advising on mortgages, loans, and savings.
| Average Salary | INR 5 LPA – INR 9 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s in Finance, Business, or related field |
| Duration | 6 weeks-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Private banks FinTech companies Financial consulting |
| Skills Developed | Digital proficiency Customer relationship management Interpersonal skills |
Source: Glassdoor
2. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
A top-end and widely recognized designation assigned to financial advisors who are responsible for the complete planning of finances for their clients—from investments and insurance to taxes and retirement.
| Average Salary | INR 4.6 LPA – INR 5.2 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 completion Clearance of all 3 specialist exams + the Integrated Financial Planning exam 3 years of work experience |
| Duration | 6 months-2 years (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Banking Insurance Customer Service Management |
| Skills Developed | Technical financial planning Client communication and relationship Data analysis and interpretation |
Source: AmbitionBox
Government Job Opportunities for Commerce Students
Among the best career options after 12th Commerce is a government job. It ensures financial stability, job security, and career growth prospects for graduates.
1. RBI Grade B Officer
In reputable managerial roles at the Reserve Bank of India, officials are responsible for managing foreign exchange and overseeing monetary policy and the entire banking system in India.
| Average Salary | INR 22.3 LPA – INR 29.9 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s in any discipline with an average 60% aggregate |
| Duration | 10-15 weeks (average) |
| Hiring Industries | Regulatory firms Consulting organizations Big FinTech companies |
| Skills Developed | Quantitative analytical skills Handling pressure Economic analysis |
Source: AmbitionBox
2. Internal Auditor / Audit Executive
They are entrusted with the key responsibility of verifying an organization’s financial records and ensuring compliance with legal standards. These experts are sought for their transparent evaluation of a company’s financial health.
| Average Salary | INR 4 LPA – INR 10 LPA (approx) |
| Eligibility | Practicing CA and 3 years of work experience |
| Duration | 6-12 months (average) |
| Hiring Industries | IT and Software BFSI Industrial and Manufacturing sectors |
| Skills Developed | Know-how of audit processes Attention to detail Time management |
Source: Glassdoor
Career Options in Commerce vs Science vs Arts
We learned in detail about the careers students can pursue after the 12th Commerce stream, across various domains. For a better understanding and to make an informed decision (the most critical of your academic journey ahead), let’s take a quick look at the comparison of career options between the three popular streams – Commerce, Science, and Arts (Humanities) in India:
| Key Parameters | Commerce | Science | Arts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Career options | Chartered Accountant Company Secretary Investment Banker | Doctor Engineer Research Scientist | Journalist Civil Servant Psychologist |
| Primary focus areas | Finance Business Economics | Science Research Technology | Creativity Culture Society |
| Top skills required | Numerical ability Critical thinking Quantitative analysis | Technical proficiency Problem-solving ability Attention to detail | Out-of-the-box thinking Effective communication Creative expression |
| Flexibility in career choice | Relatively higher (broad scope in corporate and entrepreneurial roles) | Specialization-based roles only | High (good scope in creative industries, education sector, and PSUs) |
| Earning potential | Increases with professional certifications earned | Higher in medical and technical roles | Earnings are dependent on the role |
How to Choose the Right Career in Commerce?
With so many career options after 12th Commerce that offer high salaries, it’s only natural to feel confused about which path best aligns with your interests and goals, while also offering substantial financial rewards. Here are some pointers to help:
| Key Questions to Ask Yourself | Why They Matter |
|---|---|
| What are my long-term career goals? Do I want to pursue a corporate job or professional practice, or does entrepreneurship appeal to me more? | Early clarity on your goals helps provide the proper sense of direction, pointing to the career path that best aligns with those objectives. |
| What interests me more—numbers, business strategies, or finances? | A glimpse into your interests helps ensure long-term career satisfaction and prevents boredom/monotony. |
| What is the future scope of this career option? Will it have long-term demand? | Ensures lasting career stability and growth over the long term, paving the way for career advancement. |
Future Scope of Commerce Careers in India
As shown in the table above, one key factor driving career choices in the field of Commerce in India is its future scope and growth prospects. Let’s take a quick look at what the future holds for Commerce-related career paths in the country to help you make a wise decision for your own future.
| Key Growth Areas in Commerce | Top Demand Drivers |
|---|---|
| Data and Business Analytics | Growing demand for data-driven strategic decision-making across industries |
| Digital Finance/FinTech | Increasing use of online payments, UPI, and financial inclusion of remote areas in the country |
| Corporate Governance | Strict adherence to GST, adoption of regulatory reforms, and global expansion of businesses |
Conclusion
The scope for Commerce students after the 12th class seems strong. There is a growing demand to blend business acumen with modern technology in finance and economics to create flexible, versatile career paths for students.
It is thus an excellent career move to take up Commerce at the 10+2 level to build a stable and rewarding future for yourself. Make the perfect first start with Online BCom courses on the Online Manipal platform. Move on to advancing your knowledge in the field with an Online MCom and lay the perfect foundation for high-paying careers in Commerce.
References:
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/chartered-accountant-salary-SRCH_KO0,20.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/financial-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/company-secretary-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/insurance-broker-salary-SRCH_KO0,16.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/cost-management-accountant-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/tax-advisor-salary-SRCH_KO0,11.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/investment-banker-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/probationary-officer-salary
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/operations-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/marketing-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/financial-risk-management-manager-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/investment-manager-salary
https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/stock-broker/india/bangalore
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/management-consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,21.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/economist-salary-SRCH_KO0,9.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/retail-banker-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/financial-planner-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/salaries/reserve-bank-of-india-salaries/officer?campaign=CS_desig_table
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/auditor-salary-SRCH_KO0,7.htm
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