Are you about to choose a stream after Class 10, or have you completed Class 12 with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) and are now exploring the best career options? If you belong to either category, this blog is a must-read for you. Here, we will discuss everything about Best PCM career options after 12th Grade. While most of us are familiar with common paths like engineering, very few are aware of the lesser-known yet equally rewarding career options. So, get ready for an exciting journey through various career possibilities! But before we go any further, let us discuss what is the meaning of PCM.

What does PCM mean?

The full form of PCM is Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics

PCM is a combination of subjects “Physics, Chemistry & Maths” often opted by students after 10th grade. Students pursuing class 12th with respective subjects face difficulty finding the right career after giving the final board exams. Hence, to know what are the career options with the respective subjects and PCM career options with salary, please read the information given below:

1. Engineering (The Classic Choice, But Still Awesome!)

If you enjoy constructing things, learning about how machines operate, or resolving practical issues, engineering may be your first choice. Among the top branches are:

• Computer Science Engineering (CSE): You have interest in coding, superior analytical skills and you love to work on software development, and cybersecurity then this field is for you. Not to forget, this field of engineering has the highest demand when it comes to jobs.

• Mechanical Engineering: Perfect for those who love designing machines, automobiles, and robotics.

• Electrical & Electronics Engineering: If circuits, electrical systems, and power generation excite you, this is your field.

• Civil Engineering: For those passionate about infrastructure, construction, and architecture.

• Aerospace Engineering: Love airplanes and space? This one’s for you!

Eligibility: You may take entrance tests such as JEE Main, JEE Advanced, or state-level entrance exams if you want to pursue engineering. The majority of schools demand that students in Class 12 take at least 50% of PCM courses. However, many private universities take admissions without entrance exams. In this case, you need to secure at least 60 percent in PCM or above. The eligibility varies. You need to check the official website of the respective website.

Salary- 2.3 Lakhs to 11.6 Lakhs in an year

2. Architecture (Designing the Future)

A career in architecture can be a great option if you have an artistic mind and a keen sense of style. You will create rooms, buildings, and other constructions that blend science with art.

Eligibility: The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) or JEE Main (Paper 2) must be passed in order to become an architect. It is necessary to have at least 50% in PCM in Class 12

Salary- 2.10 to 40.2 Lakhs Per Annum

3. Merchant Navy (For the Adventurous Souls)

Do you want to see the world and make a lot of money? Being a deck officer or marine engineer in the Merchant Navy may be an exciting and fulfilling job. It is important to remember that you need to be good at Maths, Physics & English in order to crack this exam.

Eligibility: The minimum qualification is often a high school diploma however if you are aiming for an officer's role, a degree or diploma in marine engineering or nautical science is required. On the other hand, the minimum age limit is 17 to 18 years old.

Salary- 4.80 to 6 LPA

4. Data Science & Artificial Intelligence (The Future is Here!)

Linear Algebra, Calculus, Discreet Mathematics, probability and statistics, knowledge of programming languages and machine learning algorithms should be your forte if you are aiming for a career in data science and artificial intelligence.

Eligibility: A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or Data Science is required. Some top institutes offer specialized courses in AI and ML, and knowledge of Python, R, and SQL is a plus.

Salary- 3.7 to 25.8 LPA

5. Aviation (Become a Pilot!)

Dream of flying high? Studying PCM in class 12th can pave the way for a career in aviation. Admission to a B.Sc. in Aeronautical Science requires a strong foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) at the 10+2 level. These subjects are crucial for understanding propulsion, aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and aircraft construction.

• Physics helps grasp motion, forces, and energy, essential for airplane dynamics.

• Mathematics is key to solving engineering challenges.

• Chemistry plays a vital role in materials science and fuel technology.

PCM is essential for this field, as it builds the technical knowledge needed to navigate its complex curriculum.

Eligibility: You must complete a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) training program, for which a minimum of 50% in PCM is needed. Entrance exams like IGRUA are conducted for pilot training institutes.

Salary- 2 LPA INR to 35 LPA INR


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6. Defense Services (Serve the Nation)

You can join the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force through exams like NDA (National Defence Academy). If you have the passion, discipline, and physical fitness, this could be your path.

While maths is not required for all who want to get into Defence Academy, Naval forces and Air Force makes maths as a compulsory subject in class 12th grade.

Eligibility: You need to clear the NDA exam conducted by UPSC. Minimum educational qualification is Class 12th PCM for Air Force and Navy, and Class 12th (any stream) for the Army.

Salary- 3 LPA to 12 LPA

7. Mathematics & Statistics (For Number Crunchers!)

Love numbers and analysis? A degree in Mathematics, Actuarial Science, or Statistics can open doors to careers in finance, research, and even data analysis.

Eligibility: A Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or Statistics is required. Some fields, like Actuarial Science, require clearing exams from actuarial societies like IAI.

Salary- 5 LPA to 18 LPA

8. Game Development & Animation (Turn Your Passion into a Career)

Now your parents will not ask you to give up on your dreams and pursue a career because now you can easily turn your passion into a full-time career. Yes, you heard it right!

Game Development and Animation can become a child’s play with your sharp maths abilities. You need extensive use of geometry, algebra for graphics programming, trigonometry for rotations & movement, and physics for realistic game mechanics. Hence, if you are from a maths background, make a hurrah because you can really carve a niche in the respective field.

Eligibility: A degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or Animation is required. Proficiency in languages like C++, Unity, and Unreal Engine is beneficial.

Salary- 1 LPA to 19 LPA

9. Research & Academia (For Curious Minds)

You can do research in any subject, be it Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Sanskrit, or English, and pursue higher research by doing a Ph.D or D.M. For those who want to discover something new in the science world, they should get into academics. After or during the research period, you can become a professor, go to foreign countries for research opportunities with full-on scholarship support

Eligibility: A Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in the respective subject is required, followed by a PhD. Competitive exams like CSIR-NET and GATE help in securing research positions.

Salary- 10 LPA to 80 LPA

10. Robotics & Mechatronics (Build the Future)

Lucky are those who know the value of Artificial Intelligence and more lucky are those who have decided to pursue a career in the respective field. Robotic and Mechatronic are the world’s future and only a fool can turn his head away from the future.

Eligibility: A B.Tech degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, or Mechanical Engineering is required. Some institutes offer specialized courses in automation and AI.

Salary- 6 LPA to 11 LPA

Conclusion

PCM students have a vast ocean of opportunities to explore! Your career path depends on your interests, skills, and passion. Whether you want to code, build, design, analyze, or even fly, exciting possibilities await. From engineering marvels to AI innovations, from piloting to serving the nation, the future is yours to shape.

With countless options, confusion is natural. That’s why career counselling is essential. Expert counsellors assess your strengths through a psychometric career test, helping you choose the right path. Make an informed decision, follow your passion with dedication, and unlock a successful future!