Top courses to pursue after a BA

One of the most popular courses students pursue is the Bachelor of Arts (BA) program. A BA allows you to study various areas, such as languages, artistic fields, behavioral sciences, and humanities. Numerous job paths in education, media, public relations, marketing, business, government, non-profits, and other fields become available upon completing a BA. 

Furthermore, a BA’s flexibility frequently enables graduates to seek additional specialization through professional certificates or advanced degrees. Thus, if you have already completed your BA and are on the lookout for high-paying courses after BA, then we have got you covered. In this blog, we will dive deep into some of the best courses after BA in detail.

Top courses to consider after BA

Below is a list of potential top degrees after BA, divided into master’s degrees, diplomas, and professional certificates, along with the job roles graduates can pursue after each.

Master’s degree	Diploma	Certification
Master of Arts (MA)	Diploma in International Relations	TEFL/TESOL Certification Course
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	Diploma in Event Management	Google Analytics Certification
Masters in Journalism and Mass Communication	Postgraduate Diploma in Management
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Master’s degree

A master’s degree, usually lasting one to two years, enables graduates to expand their knowledge in a particular field. Here are some common master’s programs students take up after a BA:

1. Master of Arts (MA)

A Master of Arts (MA) usually takes one to two years to complete, depending on the program, and can involve coursework, research, and a thesis. In some fields, such as history, literature, political science, sociology, philosophy, or fine arts, an MA offers a deeper expertise and knowledge. Once you pursue a Master of Arts, some of the job roles you can explore include:

• Teacher/Professor: In schools or universities
• Researchers: In academic or think tank institutions
• Writer/Editor: For publishing houses, media outlets, or content-creation firms
• Policy Analyst: For government agencies or NGOs
• Cultural Consultant or Museum Curator: For arts and heritage organizations

2. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

One of the most well-liked postgraduate degrees that gives students a wide range of business and management skills is the Master of Business Administration (MBA). Leadership, finance, marketing, operations, human resources, and strategic planning are among the commonly covered topics in an MBA. The degree prepares students for taking challenging job roles, including:

• Marketing Manager: Oversees initiatives related to branding and marketing activities.
• Human Resources Manager: Leads recruitment strategies and collaborates with different departments to understand their personnel requirements. 
• Operations Manager: Supervises daily business operations, logistics, and project management.
• Consultant: Advises companies on management practices and efficiency improvements.

3. Masters in Journalism and Mass Communication

A Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication (MA JMC) is an advanced degree designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in the fields of journalism, media, communication, public relations, and broadcasting. Its job roles include:

• Journalist: Covers news stories, writes articles, and conducts interviews.
• News Anchor: Presents news stories on television or online platforms, often delivering live updates or special reports.
• Editor: Oversees and edits content as per guidelines.
• Media Analyst: Assesses media coverage, audience engagement, and content effectiveness.

4. Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program is a great choice for students aspiring to pursue a career in fine arts, focusing on theater, writing, painting, and sculpture. Graduates can pursue creative, educational, and entrepreneurial roles like the following:

• Art Director: Leads the visual direction for advertising campaigns, magazines, movies, video games, and more.
• Museum Educator: Designs educational programs and exhibitions. 
• Choreographer: Creates dance performances and collaborates with dancers and other creatives.
• Filmmaker: Produces, directs, and makes short films, documentary films, or movies.

Diplomas

You can also go for diploma courses after your BA. These can be ideal for those looking to shift careers or develop expertise in a specific area. A few popular options are as follows:

1. Diploma in International Relations

A Diploma in International Relations provides valuable foundational knowledge for those interested in global politics. It opens up diverse career opportunities in diplomacy, NGOs, foreign policy, international business, and more. Some common job roles are:

• Diplomat: Represents a country’s interests abroad and manages foreign relations.
• International Relations Analyst: Researches and analyzes global political trends.
• NGO Program Coordinator: Manages international development or humanitarian programs.
• Human Rights Officer: Monitors human rights violations, conducts research, and writes reports for safeguarding human rights.

2. Diploma in Event Management

A Diploma in Event Management is a program that equips students with the skills to plan, organize, and execute various events, including corporate meetings, weddings, conferences, festivals, trade shows, and entertainment. Some roles you can take up include:

• Event Planner: Plans and coordinates celebrations, including conferences, weddings, and business gatherings.
• Venue Coordinator: Manages event spaces, ensuring smooth operations and logistics.
• Corporate Event Manager: Handles corporate meetings, trade shows, and product launches.

3. Postgraduate Diploma in Management

A Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) is a shorter, specialized, and more focused business management program designed for graduates with a bachelor’s degree to enhance managerial skills and knowledge. It aims to fast-track their careers in management, entrepreneurship, or other business-related fields. Common roles include:

• Business Consultant: Advises businesses on operations, strategy, and growth.
• Project Manager: Oversees specific projects from initiation to completion.
• HR Manager: Manages employee relations, recruitment, and training programs.

Professional certificates

Professional certifications typically focus on skills-based learning and offer quicker, more practical paths to enhancing employability or advancing in your current career. Some of the best certifications and top degrees after BA include:

1. TEFL/TESOL Certification Course

A TEFL/TESOL certification opens the door to a rewarding career in teaching English to non-native speakers. For anyone wishing to teach English overseas, the globally recognized TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certifications are essential. Some roles you can take up after this certification include:

• EFL Teacher (English as a Foreign Language Teacher): Teaches English where it is not a native language and focuses on speaking, reading, and writing skills. 
• IELTS/TOEFL/ESL Exam Preparation Teacher: Teaches or prepares students for standardized English proficiency exams and improves their test-taking strategies.
• Curriculum Developer: Develops the English language curriculum and creates educational resources.

2. Google Analytics Certification

Google Analytics Certification is a professional credential for those proficient in using the platform for website performance tracking and analysis. Common roles after completing the course include:

• Digital Marketing Specialist: Measures digital marketing campaigns across various channels, tracks KPIs, and works with cross-functional teams.
• SEO Specialist: Analyzes the effectiveness of SEO strategies, tracks website performance, and monitors organic search rankings.
• Content Marketing Manager: Measures the effectiveness of content marketing, tracks the user journey, and optimizes content strategy accordingly.

Check out what you can do with a BA.

Why you should choose Online Manipal after your BA

Online Manipal offers a wide range of postgraduate and professional programs that can enhance your career prospects after completing your BA. As the world becomes more digitally connected, the need for flexible and accessible learning options has grown. Online Manipal meets this demand by offering high-quality, accredited programs delivered through an online platform. Some of the best courses post BA offered by Online Manipal include:

• MBA (Manipal University Jaipur)

The program provides access to case studies, live industry projects, and internships with top organizations. Its strong focus on global business, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation makes it ideal for those looking to advance in the corporate world or start their businesses.

• MA in Journalism and Mass Communication (Manipal University Jaipur)

This program provides advanced knowledge of media, journalism, broadcasting, and digital content creation, ideal for those looking to break into the media or communications industry. Students can gain expertise in digital media management, public relations, media law, video creation, and journalism.

• MA in English (Sikkim Manipal University)

This is a great option for those passionate about literature, writing, and linguistic studies. The program enhances communication, analysis, and critical thinking skills. Graduates can explore careers in education, content creation, publishing, and research.

Online Manipal offers a comprehensive curriculum, practical learning, and industry connections for students interested in management, technology, digital marketing, finance, arts, and communications. It serves as a valuable next step after a BA, equipping students with the necessary skills for success.

Conclusion

Your career path can be greatly impacted by the course you take after earning your Bachelor of Arts. You will have a better chance of success if you choose a program that not only fits your interests but also helps you develop the skills that you lack. The courses listed above, along with their job descriptions, will help you find high-paying courses after your BA, whether your goal is to progress in your current field, explore a new industry, or acquire specialized expertise.