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Courses After 12th Science (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)

You must have finished your matriculation by now and would have decided to choose Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. If you’re trying to figure out what to do next, you’re at the correct place to figure it out.

The truth is, PCM opens a lot of doors. You can go for engineering, defence, teaching, research, or even new-age fields like data science and artificial intelligence. But there is this one career which students usually overlook and want to do something interesting i.e. Merchant Navy .

1. Engineering – The Popular Choice

After Class 12, you have the option to take entrance tests like JEE Main or JEE Advanced to get into IITs, NITs, or private schools.

  • You’ll find many fields to choose from: Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and more.
  • If you enjoy solving problems and working with machines, you might find engineering a good match.
  • Engineering graduates can work in IT firms, factories building sites, or even government positions.

But here’s the thing: hundreds of thousands of students sit for these tests each year, and a small number make it to top schools. The rest still study engineering, but finding jobs can be tough and sometimes the pay doesn’t meet expectations.

2. Defence – Serving the Nation

Another strong career choice after PCM is joining the defence services.

  • You can prepare for competitive exams like National Defence Academy (NDA) after completing your class 12th.
  • If you pass, you could become an officer in the Army, Navy, or Air Force. 

This career path gives you a lot of respect, pride, and discipline. But here’s a catch – you’ve to be highly mentally and physically prepared to join indian forces. Also similar to merchant Navy it demand sacrifices.

3. Architecture – Designing the Future

If you have a creative side along with a love for math, architecture could be a good option.

  • You’ll design buildings, homes, and spaces.
  • To get into architecture, you need to clear NATA or JEE Paper 2.
  • It’s a blend of science and art.

It’s a stable career, but again, it requires patience because it takes years before you get to design big projects.

4. Data Science and AI

PCM students can also step into the world of technology.

  • Careers in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and robotics are booming.
  • These usually require engineering or graduation in computer-related fields first.

This field pays well but also requires constant learning because technology changes fast.

5. Pure Sciences

If you’re more into research and academic activities and want to study further, you can choose B.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, or Mathematics which will give you various options for research and innovation.

  • Later, you can do research, teaching, or higher studies like MSc and PhD.
  • This path is more for students who love studying and don’t mind a slower career build-up.

6. Merchant Navy

Now, let’s talk about something different: the Merchant Navy.

Many students don’t know much about it. They think it’s the same as the Indian Navy, but it’s not. The Indian Navy is for defence. The Merchant Navy is about ships which carry our daily essential things from one country to other via ocean. Eg: cargo ships, oil tankers, container ships, etc. They transport goods across the world.

Table of Contents

So, why consider the Merchant Navy after PCM?

  • Adventure: You get to travel the world while working.
  • High Salary: Compared to many other careers, merchant navy officers earn in dollars. Even at a young age, the pay is attractive.
  • Quick Start: You don’t always need to spend 4 years like in engineering. There are courses like GP Rating and DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) that help you join faster.
Career Growth: With experience, you rise in ranks (like from cadet to captain or chief engineer).

Quick Comparison: Merchant Navy vs Other PCM Careers

Field Time to Start Earning Salary (Starting) Growth Lifestyle
Engineering 4+ years (after BTech) ₹3–6 LPA Depends on branch & job market Office-based
Defence After NDA training ₹7–10 LPA + perks Strong, with respect Strict, disciplined
Architecture 5 years (B.Arch) ₹3–5 LPA Good after experience Office + site work
Data Science/AI 4+ years (after degree) ₹6–10 LPA Fast-growing Mostly office-based
Merchant Navy 1–3 years (after course) ₹25,000–1 lakh per month (in USD terms) Very high with rank Travel + sea life

Why You Might Like Merchant Navy

  • If you don’t want to sit in an office 9 to 5.
  • If you dream of travelling to different countries.
  • If you want financial independence at a young age.
  • If you like machines, ships, or the sea.
  • You want financial independence at early age.

But remember, life is not always easy , if you’re in merchant Navy means staying away from family for months, working hard on board, no holidays, extreme working conditions and being disciplined. But many people find it worth it for the adventure and pay.

Other Career Options After PCM

  1. Apart from the ones above, PCM students can also look into:

    • Pilot training (if you’re fascinated by flying)

    • UPSC or government exams after graduation

    • Entrepreneurial paths like startups

    But again, if you want a career that gives you all travel, adventure, and money at the same time, Merchant Navy is worth thinking about.

Conclusion

  1. At the end of the day, no career is “best.” It depends on what really adventure finds you, what kind of lifestyle you want, and how much risk you’re ready to take.

    If you’re someone who dreams beyond the usual office job, the Merchant Navy can be a fantastic choice. It’s not the only option after PCM, but it’s definitely one of the most unique ones out there.

FAQs

 No. Both boys and girls can join. There are many women officers sailing today.

 Not always. Some courses like DNS,BE and BSc. may need good marks atleast 70%PCM, but GP Rating and other diploma courses have lower requirements.

Yes, usually 6–9 months at a time. But you also get long holidays after contracts.

Basic swimming skills help, but training institutes teach you if you don’t know already.

 Most people adjust after a few days. Plus, medicines and training help manage it.

Disclaimer :- The opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author and may not necessarily reflect those of Merchant Navy Decoded. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and disclaim any responsibility for it. Data and visuals used are sourced from publicly available information and may not be authenticated by any regulatory body. Reviews and comments appearing on our blogs represent the opinions of individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Merchant Navy Decoded. We are not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on these reviews or comments.

Reproduction, copying, sharing, or use of the article or images in any form is strictly prohibited without prior permission from both the author and Merchant Navy Decoded.

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