Top Career Options After Class 12th Science PCB That Maybe More Exciting than MBBS!

13 mins read

The underlying reason for taking medical science may vary from person to person, but for most of them. There are common reasons which dictate their choices. Some of these reasons are job stability, status, and money. For other science students, it's their aversion to mathematics that directs them toward biology, physics, and chemistry. However, it cannot be denied that students are seldom aware of the career options after the 12th Science PCB. 

Each year, lakhs of students appear for the NEET examination which has a success rate of around 6 to 7 percent. Keeping these figures in mind, it makes the most sense to keep a backup plan ready. We bring to you some interesting career opportunities that you can consider apart from becoming a doctor.

Best PCB Career Options After 12th

MBBS

MBBS is a popular career option for students with PCB. Pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) opens up a wide range of opportunities in the medical field. With a strong foundation in science and a passion for helping others, a career in MBBS can be incredibly rewarding. It requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning, but the potential to make a positive impact on people's lives is immense. Graduates can pursue various specializations and work in hospitals, clinics, research institutions, or even start their own practice.

A fresh MBBS graduate can earn anywhere between INR 40k to 70k per month.

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Dentistry

Dentistry is a promising career option. It offers a challenging and fulfilling profession that allows individuals to improve people's oral health and overall well-being. After completing the required education and training, dentists can work in private practices, hospitals, and research institutions or even pursue teaching opportunities. The field of dentistry also provides the opportunity for specialization in areas such as orthodontics, oral surgery, and pediatric dentistry. With a growing demand for dental services, pursuing dentistry as a career after 12th science PCB can be a rewarding choice.

After BDS, one can expect a salary of INR 4 to 6 LPA. The earning goes higher as experience increases.

Looking Beyond MBBS and BDS

There are different ways to make a successful career after 12th PCB. Hence, don't lose hope if you are a 12th Science PCB student and failed to get a good score in NEET, or changed your mind about becoming a doctor.

Give yourself a new start with the following career paths:

Botany

It is one of the most sought-after career options after 12th Science PCB. Botany is included as one of the subjects in the course structure of class 11th and class 12th PCB courses. A well-established branch of biology, botany involves the study of plants, their biochemical processes, structure, etc. It is basically a research-based subject and could be a rewarding career for those who are deeply interested in the subject and wish to explore the plant kingdom.

To start with, students can enroll themselves in B.Sc. in Botany, which is an undergraduate course of three years (some universities may offer a four-year course too). The syllabus includes a broad range of topics that give a detailed idea of the plant world to the students. Following are some core topics covered in Botany.

• Plant Cell Biology
• Plant Physiology
• Plant Anatomy
• Plant Genetics
• Palaeo-Botany
• Bacteriology

Post a Bachelor's Degree, one can proceed to a Master's Degree in a specialized field and later higher studies in Botany in the field of choice.

The annual average salary of a botanist ranges from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA.

Zoology

Zoology is slowly becoming a popular career options after 12th Science PCB for students. The branch of zoology studies the animal kingdom that analyzes genetics, evolution, life processes, classification, physiology, and classification, etc. of various species of animals. Hence, it provides good career options after 12th Science PCB.

With a degree in zoology, you can work as a researcher, wildlife educator, rehabilitator, teacher, professor, environmental consultant, and wildlife journalist. Some core topics covered in Zoology are:

• Biomedical Science
• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
• Animal Neurobiology
• Marine Biology
• Genetics
• Cell and Developmental Biology

It is a very good career option for biology students who want to earn somewhere between INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA.

Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of organisms such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, etc., and how these organisms interact with animals, plants, or other elements in the environment. The advancement of sciences is responsible for attracting more people to seek career options after 12th science PCB in the field of microbiology. A degree in microbiology after class 12th PCB can help you become a research scientist, quality control analyst, clinical researcher, and lab technician. Along with this, there are various positions in the health sector, distilleries, food industries, agriculture, breweries, etc. which require a degree in microbiology. Fields such as food technology also require knowledge of microbiology. Following are the core subfields of microbiology:

• Bacteriology: Study of bacteria
• Mycology: Study of fungi
• Microbial morphology: Detailed study of the structure of microorganisms.
• Microbial taxonomy: Study of classification, naming, and identification of microorganisms.
• Microbial Physiology: Studying metabolism of microbes at cellular and molecular levels.
• Protozoology: Study of protozoans (animals like single-celled eukaryotic organisms).
• Virology: Study of viruses and viral diseases.
• Phycology: Study of algae.
• Parasitology: Study of parasitism and parasites.
• Microbial ecology: Study of interrelationships between microbes and environment.
• Molecular Biology: Study of biological activities at a molecular level.

Fields of Applied Microbiology

• Industrial Microbiology
• Agricultural Microbiology
• Food Microbiology
• Dairy Microbiology
• Aquatic Microbiology
• Air Microbiology
• Exo-microbiology
• Medical Microbiology
• Immunology
• Public Health Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Those who want to study microbiology to enhance their career options after 12th science PCB can expect a salary of INR 2 LPA to 8 LPA. 

Environmental Science

Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates geography, biology, ecology, molecular biology, botany, chemistry, etc. There are several career options after 12th Science PCB with a degree in Environmental Sciences. The aim of studies in Environmental Sciences is to find solutions to environmental problems. It deals with various issues, such as environmental conservation, waste management, soil pollution, ozone depletion, global warming, water pollution, agriculture, and food science. 

Environmental scientists can be hired for research roles by industries or government agencies or other organizations involved with environmental conservation.

An annual salary of INR 3 LPA to 10 LPA can be expected in this career after 12th PCB. 

Genetics

Those looking for career options after 12th Science PCB should consider studying genetics. A course in genetics involves the study of genes and their functions, genetic variations, and the heredity of organisms. Genetic engineers are involved in the study of genetic diseases, genetic traits, mutations, the transmission of genes, and their interactions with their environment. Genetics can be applied in medical treatments, diagnosis, development of pharmaceutical products, etc. as well. 

With an undergraduate degree in genetics, one can become a research scientist, cytogeneticist, geneticist, medical technologist, clinical research associate, or may even go into forensic science, etc.

The annual average expected salary of a professional in the field of genetics ranges between INR 4 LPA to 12 LPA.

There are many universities in India that offer courses in genetics under the life science stream, such as Delhi University and Panjab University, and many private colleges also have courses in genetics. However, for better career prospects, pursuing education abroad is better for students.

Veterinary Science

Those who love animals would like to have veterinary sciences as a part of their career options after 12th Science PCB.  Veterinarians are involved with the diagnosis, treatment, and research of medical conditions of livestock, pets, and stray animals. They work towards the improvement and restoration of animal health. Veterinarians can also get involved in research work. Plus, veterinarians can start their private practice and earn well.

In order to enhance their career options after 12th Science PCB, students can pursue an undergraduate degree in Veterinary Science. Subsequently Master's in Veterinary Science (MVSc) to pursue a career in veterinary science. Colleges generally conduct entrance exams to test the abilities of students who want to make a career in veterinary sciences.

The annual average salary range of a veterinarian in India is about INR 4 LPA to 10 LPA.

Marine Biology

Marine biology is the study of organisms in the sea. Career options after 12th Science PCB allow students to study the marine ecosystem. The Students of marine biology learn about the behavior and interaction of marine organisms with the environment. Hence, it offers a wide range of career options after 12th Science PCB. 

A related field to marine biology is fishery science which is a multidisciplinary course that involves managing and understanding fisheries.

Students can pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. degrees in marine biology or fishery science. A graduate in this field can work as a researcher, fishery biologist, environment consultant, and aqua-culturist.

The career options after 12th in Science PCB in marine biology can provide an annual salary of INR 6 LPA. 

Biotechnology

Biotechnology is one of the innovative careers after 12th PCB. As the name suggests, it is a combination of biology and technology. Students seeking to make careers in biotechnology can take admission to various Biotechnology courses such as:

Undergraduate courses: (B.Sc.) Biotechnology (3 years course) or B. Tech Biotechnology (4 years course). Students with mathematics in the higher secondary can also opt for Biotechnology.

Postgraduate courses: (M.Sc.) Biotechnology, M.Sc. in Agriculture Biotechnology, M.Sc. in Marine Biotechnology, M. Tech in Biotechnology

A biotechnologist can go into research organizations, government jobs or private industries, pharmaceutical companies, agriculture and food science, forensic science, molecular biology, dairy technology, nutrition & dietetics, or even become a clinical research associate etc. This stream is also suitable for a student willing to become a food technologist.

The annual salary range for career options after the 12th Science PCB in biotechnology is INR 1 LPA to 7 LPA.

Biomedical Science

Biomedical Science is an applied science that combines biology and chemistry with healthcare. It offers plenty of opportunities to students who wish to make a career in the healthcare sector and would like to work in the field of clinical virology, epidemiology, biomedical engineering, medical microbiology, medical lab technology, etc. A graduate in this field can work as a clinical researcher, immunologist, biomedical scientist, toxicologist, forensic scientist, toxicologist, etc.

The annual salary range of a biomedical scientist in India is INR 5 LPA to 12 LPA.

Allied Medicine

This field is the best career option for students who are not willing to pursue an M.B.B.S. but are keen on taking up a career in the medical field. Allied medicine professionals are an integral part of health management. They work in the smooth functioning of the healthcare sector. The surge in the range of communicable and non-communicable diseases and the subsequent demand for wide-ranging treatment has opened doors for experts and paramedical professionals to provide quality healthcare to patients. Following are the specialized fields of allied medicine:

• Ayurveda (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine Surgery)
• Homeopathy (Bachelor of Homeopathy medicine and surgery)
• Pharmacy
• Radiology
• Physiotherapy
• Speech Therapy
• Audiology
• Optometry
• Occupational Therapy
• Orthotic and Prosthetic Technology
• Renal Dialysis Technology
• Forensic Science

The average annual salary of an allied medical professional is about INR 4 LPA.

Tips for Class 12th Science PCB students

A career in the medical stream demands deep knowledge of the key subjects i.e. biology, physics, chemistry, a good hand at practical work, and a deep interest in research. These skills are required for any of the medical courses that a 12th-science student would like to pursue. Some PCB streams like hospital management, nutrition, and dietetics, and especially those that have scope in private companies, require business administration skills too. Following are some tips that will help a class 12th PCB student to prepare well for a career in biology.

• Subject knowledge: Biology is a vast subject and requires deep knowledge of the basic concepts of 11th and 12th PCB. Hence, a good grasp of the subject is a must for a biology student.
• Regular practice: Biology involves good and regular practice with the help of class 11th and 12th PCB mock tests, sample papers, assessments, etc. The more you practice the more confident you would be in the subject. Since PCB involves biology, physics, and chemistry, these subjects demand a good amount of practice regularly.
• Self-discipline: If you have decided to do 11th and 12th with PCB, it demands self-discipline for effective learning. Hence, attentiveness and regular revision is a must in this stream. Even if you don't intend to become a doctor, other fields in biology also require a good amount of regular effort.
• Creativity skills: Creativity and science go hand in hand. Hence, to handle the subjects in 12th well, being creative will certainly prove to be helpful.
• Self-motivational skills: Because of the magnitude of study in the 12th PCB stream, it is important that the student remains self-motivated. Hence, whether it is enrolling in some extra-curricular activities or spending quality time with family and friends, it is important to find your means of self-motivation to make your journey smooth and positive.
• Good interpersonal skills: Sometimes, the students neglect interpersonal skills while they study science subjects in 12th. However, it needs to be remembered that such skills are an important part of one's personality. Good communication skills and positive body language provide confidence and help to leave a good impression on others. It helps a student in socializing well with others. So whether it's raising and clearing your doubts effectively from your teacher or having productive group discussions with your classmates, good interpersonal skills always come in handy.
• Take regular constructive feedback: As you prepare well for getting into science courses after the 12th, be open to constructive feedback from your teachers, friends, and family. Honest feedback about your academic performance will help you improve your scores and get you help wherever possible. Regular feedback also boosts your morale, makes you understand your strengths and weaknesses, and motivates you to achieve more.

Some good universities where courses in biology can be taken up are the Indian Institute of Technology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Mount Carmel College, Loyola College, CRI (Himachal Pradesh), Fergusson College, Jamia Hamdard, Delhi University (various colleges) and Panjab University, etc.

Biology is an interesting and vast subject that requires deep interest and curiosity. Hence, in order to brace yourself to take it up as a career, you must ask yourself if this is the subject that would be able to hold your interest. As research is an integral part of biology, patience and deep knowledge are key to taking up biology for further studies.

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