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 .
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.
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.
Another strong career choice after PCM is joining the defence services.
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.
If you have a creative side along with a love for math, architecture could be a good option.
It’s a stable career, but again, it requires patience because it takes years before you get to design big projects.
PCM students can also step into the world of technology.
This field pays well but also requires constant learning because technology changes fast.
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.
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.
| 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 |
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.
Apart from the ones above, PCM students can also look into:
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.
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.
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.
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