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What To Do After a PhD: Exciting Career Options for PhD Graduates

Choosing what to do after your PhD isn’t always easy, particularly when you’re not sure if you want to work in academia. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of career opportunities that come with a PhD – and a good chance it’ll increase your earning potential.

Weve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

Will a PhD help you get a job or earn a better salary? And what are your career prospects in and outside of academia?

Everything you need to know about part-time and full-time work as a student or recent graduate in the USA.

Everything you need to know about part-time and full-time work in Germany as a student or recent graduate in Germany.

If you’re completing or applying for a PhD, it’s likely that at some point you’ll consider working in academia. Academia is the career path of researchers who work to advance teaching and research in institutes of education. While most academics are employed by universities, institutes could include government-funded experiments or sites of historical preservation, for example.

The main objective of academia is to produce original research. Though not all academics work in university, this page shall focus mainly on the university progression path.

Earning a PhD is a huge accomplishment that requires years of intense study and research. But once you’ve completed your doctoral degree, an important question arises – what’s next? Your PhD has equipped you with highly transferable skills, opening doors to diverse career opportunities. This article explores the many exciting options available for PhD graduates within and beyond academia.

Completing a PhD demonstrates your expertise in a specialized field through rigorous research and analysis. It also cultivates critical soft skills like project management communication, critical thinking and perseverance. With such versatile capabilities, there are diverse possibilities for stimulating post-PhD careers.

Common PhD graduate roles include teaching professionals, natural and social science professionals, research and development professionals, therapy professionals, and business/administrative professionals. But your options expand far beyond these traditional pathways. Whether you desire to stay in academia, transition to industry, or explore unconventional alternatives, this guide outlines promising directions to take your career after PhD graduation.

Academic Careers

For many, a PhD serves as preparation for an academic career centered on research and teaching. Academic environments allow you to utilize your subject-matter expertise and passion for discovery on a daily basis.

Postdoctoral Positions

After earning a PhD, one of the most common next steps is completing one or more postdoctoral appointments. Postdocs involve temporary research positions usually 1-3 years, under the guidance of senior academics. Postdocs build your skills, network, and publications to boost competitiveness for permanent faculty roles.

Research and Teaching Faculty

With postdoctoral experience, you can attain full-time academic positions like lecturer, professor, or researcher. Faculty spearhead courseloads, pursue grants, publish studies, mentor students, and more. Your PhD equips you to shape minds and advance knowledge within your discipline.

University Leadership

Further along your career, you may transition into academic administration as a dean, provost, or university president. These roles oversee university operations, formulate strategic plans, and represent the institution. Your PhD demonstrates the research background necessary to guide universities.

Research-Focused Careers

For those passionate about research numerous career paths allow you to apply your analytical acumen beyond academia. Your advanced methodological skills combined with deep subject-matter expertise make you an asset to research teams and think tanks.

Research and Development (R&D)

R&D drives innovation in various industries and companies by creating new technologies and products. Fields like engineering, computer science, life sciences, and more hire PhDs to lead complex R&D initiatives.

Government Research

Government entities like the CIA, Census Bureau, NIH, and Department of Defense house research divisions that benefit from PhDs’ expertise. Projects can cover wide-ranging topics from public health to national security.

Think Tanks

Think tanks are organizations that undertake in-depth research on policy issues to advise government, academia, businesses, and the public. PhDs often direct projects and author publications for think tanks.

Science and Health Careers

For PhDs in science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), and health fields, your advanced knowledge equips you for specialized technical roles improving society and lives.

Scientific Research and Consulting

PhDs enter private research firms analyzing chemicals, materials, agricultural products, and more to advance innovation. Consultants apply scientific expertise to advise companies on meeting lab standards, regulations, and safety.

Health Care

With a PhD in fields like microbiology, neuroscience, clinical psychology, and public health, you can take on vital health care roles. Options include epidemiology, lab management, hospital administration, and leading research/technical teams.

Business Careers

While less traditional, PhDs also thrive in business settings by leveraging their analytical abilities and mastery of complex concepts. Companies value PhDs for solving problems with critical thinking.

Data Science and Analytics

With expertise in statistical analysis and computational methods from your PhD research, data science roles allow you to uncover game-changing business insights from vast datasets.

Management Consulting

Strategy consulting firms like McKinsey, Bain, and BCG recruit PhDs to tackle multifaceted business challenges like operations optimization, growth strategy, and risk management.

Investment Banking and Finance

PhDs have the quantitative chops to excel in finance, whether analyzing economic trends, developing trading algorithms and risk models, or advising clients on investments as an advisor or portfolio manager.

Policy and Writing Careers

For PhDs in social sciences and humanities, your advanced writing and analytical skills open doors to careers shaping policy, public perception, and discussion through writing.

Policy Research and Analysis

Government entities hire PhDs to research and evaluate policies on topics like economics, education, transportation, and more to optimize effectiveness and outcomes.

Journalism and Publishing

PhDs are equipped for journalism with training in compelling writing and ability to explain complex issues to general audiences. Options include books, newspapers, magazines, websites, and more.

Also mentioned in research careers, think tanks utilize PhDs in social sciences and humanities for policy-focused writing and advising on domestic/foreign affairs, economics, education, and more.

Entrepreneurship

The critical thinking, perseverance, and passion cultivated during your PhD also prime you for entrepreneurship in wide-ranging fields. Your expertise and research skills give you an edge.

Academic Entrepreneurship

Commercialize your research through academic entrepreneurship. Options include starting spinoff companies, patenting/licensing inventions, or joining startups translating research into real-world tech and products.

Mission-Driven Ventures

Bring your PhD experience to mission-driven startups innovating in areas like health, environment, government services, and more. Lead teams applying technology to benefit society.

Start an independent consulting practice offering your specialized expertise to help companies solve complex problems in your field through strategic advising.

A PhD is incredibly versatile, preparing you for diverse, stimulating careers improving companies, societies, and lives. While academia is a common path, roles in research, science, business, policy, writing, entrepreneurship, and more allow you to apply your advanced expertise. Assess your skills, interests and values to determine the best direction for your post-PhD journey. With an open mind, you can land your dream career capitalizing on your PhD capabilities.

What is a fellowship?

Research fellowships are competitive and prestigious positions. Unlike postdocs, you will be funded to complete your own research project. Some positions will also guarantee a permanent academic role after completion. To successfully achieve a fellowship, you’ll need an interesting and viable research project, a history of academic excellence, and experience in writing successful funding or grant applications.

The other type is a teaching fellowship . These roles are not always for early career academics and will be offered to senior researchers so make sure you check the job description.

Non-academic PhD graduate jobs in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

If your PhD is in an Arts, Humanities or Social Science (AHSS) discipline, the skills you have to offer differ from STEM PhD holders.

Your aptitudes as a AHSS PhD graduate are likely to be suited for industries where communication skills are necessary. The ability to research and write about complex topics will be in-demand across any number of leading companies and sectors. Also, creative thinking will be highly valued by employers in strategic planning or industries such as marketing.

After a PhD what next? | 6 popular options

What is the next stage after PhD?

What comes after a PhD?

What happens after I get my PhD?

What can I do with a PhD?

Writing, lecturing and advocating a business all help market each other, and doing all three in tandem can help build a stable career with your Ph.D. Gaining a Ph.D. means you gain verified proof of your expertise on a subject. With this expertise, you can become a consultant in your field of study.

What can I do after getting a PhD?

Related: 38 Careers That Require a Doctoral Degree After getting a Ph.D., you have multiple options for what you can do next, including: Once you study and complete a Ph.D., you have expert knowledge in a focused portion of the field. As an expert, you can begin writing publications concerning the industry as an authority in the field.

How can I live a better life after a PhD?

If your goal is to live a better life after attaining your PhD in comparison to the one you had during your research, pick a career path that meets two requirements: Choose something you’re passionate about. Make sure the job is well-suited to your lifestyle. For example, consider three people with the same degree.

What can a postdoc do after a PhD?

A postdoc can be a crucial stepping stone to a successful career after completing a PhD. Find out what they are, what they involve and much more. From communication to time management, you will gain a large variety of transferable skills from completing a PhD. Learn what these are and how to use them in your CV. Life After a PhD: What Can You Do?

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What to do after getting your phd: 5 next steps, published by steve tippins on february 11, 2019 february 11, 2019.

Last Updated on: 5th June 2024, 03:08 am

What to do after finishing your PhD is a surprisingly common challenge for students who have recently graduated. So if you’re asking this question, you’re not alone.

After years of hard work and passing on enjoyable opportunities to get your writing done, you have finished your dissertation. This is quite an accomplishment. But what do you do now that you’ve finished?

This is something that few doctoral programs prepare you for. How do you take what you have learned and capitalize on it? How do you start your new career or use your PhD to take the next step in your existing one?

What to Do After Getting Your PhD

Based on my own experience and my experience coaching countless recent graduates, I’ve come up with an answer. Here is what to do after PhD is officially part of your title.

Step 1: Take a Breath

It may be tempting to rush right into the next thing. You finally have your PhD, now you get to use it! Apply for a thousand jobs, become a postdoctoral fellow, take a research trip to Indonesia with your favorite professor, launch a consulting firm, and publish a Nobel-Prize-worthy paper in an academic journal. All before breakfast.

Or not. In fact, my advice is to slow down. Not for too long–of course you have to take the next steps in your career. But once you start your career, it’s that much more difficult to take a break. Relax for a moment, and then take a good long deep breath. You are at the summit of one of the largest (proverbial) mountains you’ve ever climbed. Take a moment to appreciate the view. Then, get back to work.

Step 2: Set your Goals

After taking a break, the first thing you need to do is figure out what your goals are . You employed a great deal of discipline to get to this point. Use that skill to determine how you want to move forward. Your doctoral degree is an asset, so try to maximize the return that you get. Getting clear on your goals will determine your next steps and provide a map of what to do after completing your PhD.

When setting your career goals, it’s important to remember your life goals. Remember why you started this journey in the first place. How have you changed? How have your goals changed? What is most important in your life, and how will your next steps support this? Considering how your career fits into your life as a whole will help you make decisions about how to move forward.

Here are some of your options:

Do you want to publish? Think hard about this. You are now an expert on your topic, it would be great if you shared that expertise with the world. Think about your goal in publishing. Is your goal to see your name in print so that your mother can brag about her child being a published author? Do you want to spread the findings of your dissertation across the world to help humanity? Different goals will lead you in different publishing directions.

What a noble profession. Many people want to use their degree to help shape the future by teaching. If this is a path for you, think about the following questions: Do you want to teach full time or part time? Would you prefer to teach online or in a traditional classroom setting? Are you bound to one geographic location or are you willing to go anywhere? Do you want to prioritize teaching over research or vice-versa? Each choice offers various, but different, opportunities.

Outside of Academia

Are there non-academic alternatives available to you? Are you looking for a promotion at your current job? Do you want to speak at conferences? How about a new job? Maybe consulting is the path that you want to take. Your degree puts you in a very small group outside of academia; use it as best you can, remembering that you will be seen as the expert in most settings.

There are many things that you might want to do with your degree. Stop and take the time to determine your goals and then you can see how all of the hard work that you put in to get your degree can get you there. If you find yourself stuck, or want support realizing your full potential, career coaching can help.

Step 3: Prepare your Material

No matter what you choose to do after getting your PhD, you will have to put together a package of material that represents you. This is true whether you want to apply for academic jobs, work outside academia, or start your own business as a consultant. This is the first thing that most employers or potential clients will see of you, so make sure it represents the best of who you are.

You will need a resume and to be ready to answer all kinds of questions. It’s important to update your resume after finishing your PhD, adding relevant accomplishments and experience besides your new degree.

Prepare to answer common questions (for example, “Why did you get a PhD?” “Can you tell me about a situation where you worked well with others?” and “Can you tell me about a situation where you were able to work with someone who was difficult to work with?”).

Also, remember to highlight the unique strengths and skills that you have as a newly minted PhD. Having spent the past few years in the company of other people who either already have PhDs or are trying to get them, it’s easy to lose sight of your uniqueness. Remember the grit and persistence you’ve shown, the critical thinking skills you’ve had to cultivate, and the balanced ability to simultaneously take direction from committee members and forge your own unique research path.

Remember that you are a member of a small group of people with an exceptionally useful skill set, and a degree to prove it. You have proven your capacity to innovate, learn, and work with others. Take a look at Catherine Sorbara’s excellent article on this subject.

Inside of Academia

Work on creating a CV (curriculum vitae) that fits the standards of your discipline. You will probably need to submit documents that cover your teaching philosophy, a list of references, a research agenda, and copies of teaching evaluations, if available.

If you get a campus visit interview, you will need to prepare a presentation about your research and may be asked to teach a class or give a seminar to interested students. Do not take these two steps lightly, as the search committee will get feedback from everyone who participates in these sessions about your suitability for the position.

Find research interest connections at prospective universities. Look within the department you are applying for professors who share your research interests, but also look more widely — to the college and to other colleges within the university — for others doing related studies that may dovetail with your work. The potential for collaborative research and interdisciplinary studies will catch the attention of university administrators and may well give you an edge.

Seek advice. Make sure you are prepared for all of this and get well-acquainted with norms. Your professors and advisors are an excellent resource to help you prepare for this, as are my career coaching services .

Step 4: Search for a Job

When people ask what to do after PhD completion, they’re usually trying to skip ahead to this step–but it’s vital to take the time to set your goals and prepare your material before looking for a job . Now that you’ve done that, you can set your sights on your new (or improved) career. Many people use their PhD as a springboard to an exciting new career path. Here are some insights to help you do that.

The Chronicle of Higher Education is a great place to start. The Chronicle posts jobs daily online for most disciplines. You can also look at HigherEdJobs which tends to have jobs that may not make it to the chronicle.

Conferences within your discipline are a very good place to find out about jobs. Also, the professors within your program may be a good source of contacts who may know about jobs. Remember, most academic jobs start in August/September and postings may come out as much as 11 months before a job starts.

Some professions specifically recruit PhDs. If you are in the sciences this may be the case. Consultancy firms also seek PhDs. Outside of these areas the job search may include networking, sending out resumes, and using the services of recruiters. Your committee chair may be able to connect you with former students in your field who would be willing to make introductions. Most universities have career centers that offer assistance with networking and other job-seeking skills.

Step 5: Stay on Track

Periodically reevaluate your goals–both whether you’re meeting them and whether the goals themselves need to change. Perhaps you started out wanting to pursue research but have fallen in love with teaching. Or maybe you started off teaching but found that consulting is much more enjoyable. Whatever your goals are, they’re subject to change as you learn and grow.

However, if your goal was to teach but you find yourself getting bogged down in research projects due to the pressure to publish, take some time to reflect on how you can better achieve the goals that are most fulfilling to you. Would you prefer an instructor’s position? Or perhaps looking at universities that emphasize teaching over research would be your solution.

What to Do After PhD Completion: A Summary

Getting your PhD is a huge accomplishment. However, if you’re wondering what to do after your PhD is complete, you’re not alone. Once you finish your PhD, take a breath and allow some space in your life. Next, determine your goals and create a plan for how to proceed. Once you are clear on your goals, prepare your materials and apply for jobs. Finally, periodically re-evaluate your goals to see whether you’re meeting them and whether they’re still relevant.

Many recent graduates use a career coach to help them in this process. If you are interested in this kind of coaching, feel free to take a look at my services page or get in touch.

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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Your PhD, what next?

Those who've completed a Doctorate are finding more opportunities to work outside of academia than ever before - discover the types of jobs available and what other PhD graduates go on to do

What job opportunities are available for PhD graduates?

According to HESA's Graduate Outcomes 2021/22 survey, the most common roles for PhD graduates are:

• higher education teaching professionals
• other researchers, unspecified discipline
• clinical psychologists
• biological scientists
• natural and social science professionals.

Although academic careers are a natural step for many PhD graduates, a greater number of opportunities exist outside of teaching and education .

For instance, a significant amount of PhD graduates work in healthcare (14.5%), and construction , engineering and research and development (11.9%). This has perhaps been helped by private sector companies becoming more research-orientated in recent years.

As well as the medical profession, research scientists can also specialise in life sciences , maths and physical sciences .

If you've aspirations to become a clinical or educational psychologist , you'll need to have studied a specific taught Doctorate in either clinical (DClinPsy or ClinPsyD) or educational (DEdPsy) psychology.

How do I get started in academia?

Those graduating with a PhD often struggle to secure a permanent academic job immediately. To give yourself the best chance, contact as many academics as possible in your specialist field.

You may then be presented with the opportunity to become a teaching or research fellow, though this is likely to be on a short-term contract with a view to permanent employment.

Jobs for PhD graduates are regularly advertised on university websites as well as specialist higher education recruitment sites such as Jobs.ac.uk or Academic Positions .

Visit getting an academic job for more information and advice.

Can I get a non-academic job?

There are many ways to boost your chances of landing non-academic PhD jobs. You should:

• build a network of contacts to help you unearth 'hidden' job vacancies
• gain relevant work experience in your chosen field
• search for graduate jobs
• use social media to join in discussions with like-minded academics and share your research and opinions.

It's also worth regularly checking sector-specific websites and publications for job adverts, such as:

• Nature Careers
• New Scientist Jobs
• Science Careers
• Technojobs - PhD jobs
• The British Psychological Society Jobs
• The Economist Jobs Board
• Times Higher Education - Unijobs

How do I sell my PhD to employers?

When applying for non-academic PhD jobs, you must demonstrate how your knowledge and expertise will benefit the employer. Focus on the transferable skills that the PhD has helped to enhance, such as:

• communication skills - you'll have given many presentations , lectures or seminars
• creative thinking - PhD students are often asked to think outside the box
• management ability - as well as managing your own time and workload, you may have managed a small team of research assistants or mentored undergraduate students
• problem-solving skills - during your PhD, you'll have tackled and solved numerous research problems.

For more guidance, see applying for jobs .

What do other PhD graduates do?

Just over a fifth (20.4%) of the PhD graduates in employment 15 months after graduation in 2021/22 found work in education - as higher and secondary education teaching professionals. The majority therefore chose to pursue non-academic careers.

PhD destinations data from HESA.

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Guide to Graduate Studies

The PhD Program The Ph.D. program of the Harvard Department of Mathematics is designed to help motivated students develop their understanding and enjoyment of mathematics. Enjoyment and understanding of the subject, as well as enthusiasm in teaching it, are greater when one is actively thinking about mathematics in one’s own way. For this reason, a Ph.D. dissertation involving some original research is a fundamental part of the program. The stages in this program may be described as follows:

• Acquiring a broad basic knowledge of mathematics on which to build a future mathematical culture and more detailed knowledge of a field of specialization.
• Choosing a field of specialization within mathematics and obtaining enough knowledge of this specialized field to arrive at the point of current thinking.
• Making a first original contribution to mathematics within this chosen special area.

Students are expected to take the initiative in pacing themselves through the Ph.D. program. In theory, a future research mathematician should be able to go through all three stages with the help of only a good library. In practice, many of the more subtle aspects of mathematics, such as a sense of taste or relative importance and feeling for a particular subject, are primarily communicated by personal contact. In addition, it is not at all trivial to find one’s way through the ever-burgeoning literature of mathematics, and one can go through the stages outlined above with much less lost motion if one has some access to a group of older and more experienced mathematicians who can guide one’s reading, supplement it with seminars and courses, and evaluate one’s first attempts at research. The presence of other graduate students of comparable ability and level of enthusiasm is also very helpful.

University Requirements

The University requires a minimum of two years of academic residence (16 half-courses) for the Ph.D. degree. On the other hand, five years in residence is the maximum usually allowed by the department. Most students complete the Ph.D. in four or five years. Please review the program requirements timeline .

There is no prescribed set of course requirements, but students are required to register and enroll in four courses each term to maintain full-time status with the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Qualifying Exam

The department gives the qualifying examination at the beginning of the fall and spring terms. The qualifying examination covers algebra, algebraic geometry, algebraic topology, complex analysis, differential geometry, and real analysis. Students are required to take the exam at the beginning of the first term. More details about the qualifying exams can be found here .

Students are expected to pass the qualifying exam before the end of their second year. After passing the qualifying exam students are expected to find a Ph.D. dissertation advisor.

Minor Thesis

The minor thesis is complementary to the qualifying exam. In the course of mathematical research, students will inevitably encounter areas in which they have gaps in knowledge. The minor thesis is an exercise in confronting those gaps to learn what is necessary to understand a specific area of math. Students choose a topic outside their area of expertise and, working independently, learns it well and produces a written exposition of the subject.

The topic is selected in consultation with a faculty member, other than the student’s Ph.D. dissertation advisor, chosen by the student. The topic should not be in the area of the student’s Ph.D. dissertation. For example, students working in number theory might do a minor thesis in analysis or geometry. At the end of three weeks time (four if teaching), students submit to the faculty member a written account of the subject and are prepared to answer questions on the topic.

The minor thesis must be completed before the start of the third year in residence.

Language Exam

Mathematics is an international subject in which the principal languages are English, French, German, and Russian. Almost all important work is published in one of these four languages. Accordingly, students are required to demonstrate the ability to read mathematics in French, German, or Russian by passing a two-hour, written language examination. Students are asked to translate one page of mathematics into English with the help of a dictionary. Students may request to substitute the Italian language exam if it is relevant to their area of mathematics. The language requirement should be fulfilled by the end of the second year. For more information on the graduate program requirements, a timeline can be viewed at here .

Non-native English speakers who have received a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics from an institution where classes are taught in a language other than English may request to waive the language requirement.

Upon completion of the language exam and eight upper-level math courses, students can apply for a continuing Master’s Degree.

Teaching Requirement

Most research mathematicians are also university teachers. In preparation for this role, all students are required to participate in the department’s teaching apprenticeship program and to complete two semesters of classroom teaching experience, usually as a teaching fellow. During the teaching apprenticeship, students are paired with a member of the department’s teaching staff. Students attend some of the advisor’s classes and then prepare (with help) and present their own class, which will be videotaped. Apprentices will receive feedback both from the advisor and from members of the class.

Teaching fellows are responsible for teaching calculus to a class of about 25 undergraduates. They meet with their class three hours a week. They have a course assistant (an advanced undergraduate) to grade homework and to take a weekly problem session. Usually, there are several classes following the same syllabus and with common exams. A course head (a member of the department teaching staff) coordinates the various classes following the same syllabus and is available to advise teaching fellows. Other teaching options are available: graduate course assistantships for advanced math courses and tutorials for advanced undergraduate math concentrators.

Final Stages

How students proceed through the second and third stages of the program varies considerably among individuals. While preparing for the qualifying examination or immediately after, students should begin taking more advanced courses to help with choosing a field of specialization. Unless prepared to work independently, students should choose a field that falls within the interests of a member of the faculty who is willing to serve as dissertation advisor. Members of the faculty vary in the way that they go about dissertation supervision; some faculty members expect more initiative and independence than others and some variation in how busy they are with current advisees. Students should consider their own advising needs as well as the faculty member’s field when choosing an advisor. Students must take the initiative to ask a professor if she or he will act as a dissertation advisor. Students having difficulty deciding under whom to work, may want to spend a term reading under the direction of two or more faculty members simultaneously. The sooner students choose an advisor, the sooner they can begin research. Students should have a provisional advisor by the second year.

It is important to keep in mind that there is no technique for teaching students to have ideas. All that faculty can do is to provide an ambiance in which one’s nascent abilities and insights can blossom. Ph.D. dissertations vary enormously in quality, from hard exercises to highly original advances. Many good research mathematicians begin very slowly, and their dissertations and first few papers could be of minor interest. The ideal attitude is: (1) a love of the subject for its own sake, accompanied by inquisitiveness about things which aren’t known; and (2) a somewhat fatalistic attitude concerning “creative ability” and recognition that hard work is, in the end, much more important.

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25+ Best Courses After Graduation to be Pursued in 2024

Studies have reported that the employability of individuals increases tremendously when they pursue courses that align with current industry demands and emerging market trends. To stay relevant and adapt to the ever-evolving professional landscape, you can pursue postgraduate courses. These provide you with the in-depth knowledge and expertise required to remain competitive and valuable in the job market.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best courses after graduation that can enhance your career prospects and enable you to achieve a rewarding career.

Table of Contents

Best Courses After Graduation in Science

Many courses are available for those who graduate in the science stream. The following are the best courses to consider after graduation:

1. Master of Science (MSc)

Pursuing an M.Sc. degree offers individuals the chance to explore any subject of science, such as the following:

• M.Sc. Chemistry
• M.Sc. Biology
• M.Sc. Physics
• M.Sc. Microbiology
• M.Sc. Mathematics
• M.Sc. Botany/Zoology
• M.Sc. Food Science
• M.Sc. Statistics/Computer Science
• M.Sc. Biotechnology/Bioinformatics
• M.Sc. Nursing

These subject-oriented M.Sc. courses build upon the knowledge gained during your undergraduate studies This means that students can specialize in a specific area within their chosen discipline.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in science (BSc) in a relevant discipline from a recognized college or university with an aggregate of 50% to 60% marks. Additionally, you may have to clear entrance examinations like CUET PG, IIT JAM, BHU PET, ICAR AIEEA, etc. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After MSc

Worried about the job after graduation? Pursue our best short term courses after graduation and get placed in the top companies.

2. Master of Technology (M.Tech)

An M.Tech degree is a program that focuses on technology and engineering, making it a popular choice for engineering graduates. This course lasts two years and requires students to complete their BTech degree in any discipline. Some popular M.Tech. courses are as follows:

• M.Tech. Computer Science
• M.Tech. Civil Engineering
• M.Tech. Mechanical Engineering
• M.Tech. Electrical Engineering
• M.Tech. Chemical Engineering
• M.Tech. Data Science
• M.Tech. Robotic Engineering

Eligibility: Bachelor of engineering or technology degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks. Additionally, you have to qualify the GATE entrance examination.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After M.Tech

3. Master of Computer Applications (MCA)

By enrolling in a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) program, individuals can increase their chances of securing corporate sector IT jobs. There are many career options available for those with an MCA degree, such as software developer, database administrator, IT consultant, systems analyst, etc.  A master’s degree in computer applications equips individuals with essential skills for designing and creating tools used in both the hardware and software industries. It also helps master the programming languages necessary for various IT career options.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field with mathematics as a subject and 55% minimum aggregate marks. For admission to some colleges, you may be required to clear entrance exams like NIMCET, CUET PG, MAH MCA CET, TANCET, etc.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After MCA

Courses After Graduation in Commerce

Being a graduate in the commerce stream, whether B.Com., BBA, etc., opens the path for higher study options in banking, finance, and analytics fields. Here are the best courses after graduation in commerce you can pursue.

1. Financial Modeling

The financial modeling course focuses on building a comprehensive financial statement model, which is important for conducting effective financial analysis. Through this course, you will be able to provide valuable solutions to companies and develop expertise in investment strategies, credit management, profit maximization techniques, and equity evaluation. 

Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree in commerce or a related field. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Financial Modeling Course

2. Financial Risk Management

This is one of the best courses after commerce graduation. The role of a financial risk analyst/manager is crucial for any company, which makes it one of the most in-demand positions. This profession provides insights into potential financial difficulties and equips individuals with knowledge about risk management in finance. 

Eligibility: You can pursue this course after completing a B.Com., Bachelor in Banking and Finance/Business Analytics/ Business Economics/ Business Management, and other related fields.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Financial Risk Management Course

3. Postgraduate Diploma in Banking

You should consider enrolling in a PG diploma in banking course to expand your knowledge of the banking industry. This PGDB program will equip you with practical skills and insights into banking by enhancing your understanding of this field. With a PGDB qualification, you can look forward to a fulfilling career in commerce after graduation.

Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.  

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGDB

4. PG Diploma in Business Analytics

This is one of the best courses after graduation that has revolutionized how organizations operate by using data to inform decision-making processes. Business analytics allows companies to gain a deeper understanding of their customers, competitors, and overall market trends.

Essential skills that companies look for in a candidate include knowledge of Excel and SQL. You can gain these skills through an advanced Excel course and SQL for data analytics course . 

Business analysts may use data science techniques to preprocess data and extract insights. To gain an in-depth understanding of the field, consider pursuing a data science course with placement .

Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGD in Business Analytics

5. PG Diploma in Hospital Management/Hospital Administration

Healthcare management professionals have the important task of overseeing non-clinical operations in a healthcare facility. Candidates with a PG diploma in healthcare and hospital management have various career options available to them, including working for private clinics, multi-specialty hospitals, consulting firms, NGOs, and insurance companies. 

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in management, hospital management, hospital administration, or a relevant field with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGD in Hospital Management/Administration

6. MBA (Master of Business Administration)

Earning an MBA degree equips you with a diverse set of skills in management, problem-solving, communication, and leadership. Some popular specializations to explore within the MBA program include the following: 

• MBA in Marketing
• MBA in Human Resources Management
• MBA in International Business
• MBA in Business Analytics
• MBA in Finance
• MBA in Operations Management
• MBA in Management Accounting

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks from a recognized university. Some colleges require students to clear an entrance exam like CAT, MAT, XAT, Symbiosis National Aptitude Test, etc.  

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After MBA

Best Courses After Graduation in Arts

Here are the best courses to consider after graduation in arts:

1. Master of Arts (M.A.) 

After completion of a bachelor of arts degree in any subject, a student can opt for the same discipline as the bachelor subject or any other. The following are a few of the two-year master’s degree options:

• M.A. English
• M.A. Political Science
• M.A. Sociology
• M.A. Social Work
• M.A. International Relations
• M.A. Geography
• M.A. Psychology
• M.A. Economics
• M.A. Linguistics
• M.A. Philosophy

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with 45% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After M.A.

2. Master of Mass Communication/Journalism

With the emergence of new forms of entertainment, traditional broadcast media such as TV and radio are no longer the only platforms in this field. There is a rise in the popularity of online streaming, digital journalism, podcasts, blogs, and advertising websites. These mediums are now an integral part of broadcast media. Therefore, a master’s degree in mass communication/journalism is one of the best courses after a degree.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After MJMC

3. Bachelor in Education (B.Ed.)

This is one of the best courses after graduation. The Bachelor of Education (BEd) program is a professional degree lasting three to four years. It aims to enhance the capabilities and abilities required for teaching through both on-campus instruction and field study. 

Upon completion, graduates can pursue further education in special education courses or obtain an M.Ed/M.A. in Education if they wish to continue their careers as teachers. 

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university with minimum aggregate marks of 50%. Some universities or colleges require you to clear any B.Ed entrance exams like CTET, REET, PSTET, KTET, WB TET, Bihar STET, MP TET, etc. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After B.Ed

4. Foreign Language Certifications

By enrolling in foreign language certificate courses, you can take up jobs as a translator, teacher, interpreter, etc. Some popular foreign languages include German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Russian. To explore global opportunities, you can enroll in a French language course or a Spanish language course .

Eligibility: The minimum requirement to pursue any foreign language certification is 45% marks in class 10+2. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Foreign Language Certifications

Individuals who wish to pursue further education after completing their B.A./B.Sc. or any other bachelor’s degree often opt for the Bachelor of Laws, also known as the LLB. This is a three-year program that covers various subjects such as legal reasoning, environmental law, arbitration, insurance law, and the Consumer Protection Act. 

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any field with 50% to 60% minimum aggregate marks depending on the college or university you are applying to. Several institutions conduct law entrance exams like CLAT, LSAT, SLS AIAT, AILET, etc. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After LLB

Best Professional Certificate Courses After Graduation

Explore the best professional courses after graduation in this section.

1. Digital Marketing

Organizations and companies are seeking ways to use digital platforms to enhance and sustain brand recognition. Enrolling in a digital marketing course with placement can equip you with the essential knowledge needed to effectively navigate various channels of digital marketing and build a professional career.

Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized college or university in any discipline. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Digital Marketing Certification Course

2. Android App Development

To pursue a career as an Android developer, earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, management information systems (MIS), information technology (IT), or any related field is necessary. Aspiring developers should also acquire proficiency in XML and Kotlin languages with the help of an Android app development course . 

Eligibility: 10+2 from a recognized board in any discipline. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Android App Development Certification Course

3. Machine Learning

This is one of the best courses after graduation in science. Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence and deep learning. It involves training systems to analyze data, recognize patterns, and make decisions with little or no human involvement. 

By taking a course on machine learning , you will familiarize yourself with Python and master the art of constructing machine-learning algorithms and powerful predictive models.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Machine Learning Certification Course

4. Business Analytics

The business analytics course is an important tool for enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing revenue. This program will equip you with the necessary knowledge of the  following concepts:

• Business models
• Probability distribution
• Linear programming
• Predictive analytics 
• Data analysis

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Business Analytics Certification Course

5. Full Stack Development

By studying a full-stack development course with placement, a learner will gain adequate proficiency in the following:

• Programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and Ruby. 
• Front-end development process
• Back-end development process

It will lead to future successes in related fields like data science, cybersecurity, or machine learning and enable students to get exciting full-stack development internship opportunities.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Full-Stack Development Course

6. Investment Banking

Pursuing a career in investment banking after completing your B.Com. or a bachelor in banking and finance degree is a popular choice among students. To excel in this field, one needs to possess exceptional analytical and mathematical capabilities, along with effective communication skills.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Investment Banking Certification Course

7. Product Management

Product management connects different departments in a company to create and launch products that align with customer demands and business objectives. Taking a product management course with placement will help a learner apply for a job in this field. This course teaches about the development of product vision, market segmentation, product analytics, and experimentation models.

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Product Management Certification Course

Best Diploma Courses After Graduation

Here is a list of the best diploma courses to consider after graduation.

1. Diploma in UI/ UX Design

A diploma in UI/ UX design teaches the fundamentals of user interface and user experience design. This course is suitable for students who are interested in designing digital products and services. Additionally, you can pursue a UI/UX design course with placement to expedite your career advancement and transition from a novice to a pro in just six months. After completing this course can apply for various UI/UX internship opportunities.

Eligibility: 10+2 examination from a recognized institution with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Diploma in UI/UX Design

2. Diploma in Graphic Design

A diploma in graphic design course is ideal for those who are interested in graphic design and visual communication. It covers topics such as typography, design principles, image manipulation, and digital illustration. Students who have a creative eye and an interest in graphic design can pursue this course. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After Diploma in Graphic Design

3. PGD in Hotel Management

This advanced program provides a comprehensive understanding of hospitality management techniques. Students are equipped with innovative skills in areas such as hotel and hospitality operations, food and beverage preparation, resource allocation, and personnel supervision.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized college or university. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGD in Hotel Management

4. PGD in Data Science

Pursuing a postgraduate degree in data science is highly recommended for recent computer science or related subject graduates. With the rise of big data, data science has become one of the most demanding fields in the tech industry. There are numerous online options available to advance one’s career through a data science course and get exciting data science internship opportunities.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in science or computer science from a recognized college or university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGD in Data Science

Do you dream of building your own ChatGPT? Enroll in our Generative AI course and take the first step towards making it a reality!

5. PGD in Human Resource Management

With a PG diploma course in human resource management, a learner will be equipped with the concepts of manpower planning, recruitment, selection, training, and development to acquire expertise in human resource management.  To get well-versed in basic and advanced concepts of HRM, consider taking an HR course or advanced human resource management course .

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized college or university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGD in HRM

6. PGD in Event Management

PGD in Event Management is a course that covers topics such as event marketing, budgeting, operations, and risk management. This course is suitable for recent graduates who are interested in the event planning and management industry.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. 

Popular Job Roles and Salaries After PGD in Event Management

Now that we have seen the best courses after graduation, it is important for graduates to carefully research their options and choose a course that aligns with their aspirations for long-term success. However, courses such as MBAs, specialized master’s degrees in STEM fields (an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and math), and professional certifications have been shown to enhance job prospects and earning potential. Check out our blogs on job tips for the best advice if you are thinking of applying for jobs.

Answer: Master of science, computer application, mass communication and journalism, hotel management, and business administration are some of the best courses after graduation.

Answer: Diploma in human resource management, digital marketing, graphic designing, data science, and culinary arts are some 1-year courses after graduation.

Answer: You can explore a range of opportunities after your graduation. Some of them are listed below: – Pursue higher education and enroll in master’s or diploma programs. – Get an internship to gain industry experience and develop skills. – Search and apply for volunteer opportunities to build credentials for your resume. – Enroll in a certificate course to learn a new skill. – Apply for entry-level jobs.

Answer: Web development, digital marketing, business administration, chartered accountancy, hotel management, and interior designing are some of the best fields to work in after graduation.

Answer: Yes, you can change careers after graduation. A degree course provides skills and knowledge that can be adapted to multiple industries. Therefore, you can utilize these transferable skills in your new career. Additionally, you can pursue online certification courses from trusted platforms like Internshala Trainings to upskill yourself and develop new skills.

Answer: Yes, you can pursue professional diploma courses after graduation. If you wish to enroll in a diploma for a technical field, ensure that you possess basic knowledge about the subject. Refer to online resources to prepare yourself.

Answer: Business management, nursing, psychology, travel and tourism, graphic designing, financial accounting, and software engineering are some of the best diploma courses after graduation .

Answer: Data science, machine learning, robotics, ethical hacking, digital art, business analytics, and Power BI are some of the best short-term courses for the future that you can do after graduation.

Answer: Software development, Java, Python, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing (AWS) are some of the best short-term courses after graduation in science. If you wish to build a career in information technology, check out the best computer courses to get a job .

Answer: Excel, financial modeling and valuation, stock market trading, and SQL for data analytics are some of the best short-term courses after graduation in commerce. Further, you can check out the best business courses .

Answer: Creative writing, WordPress, digital art, language, digital marketing, and social media marketing are some short-term courses that you can pursue after graduation in arts. 

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Shadab Alam is a founding member of Internshala and an entrepreneurial genius. A master of multiple domains, Shadab leads the Certification Training department at Internshala. His expertise in building ed-techs & recruitment businesses has made him an industry stalwart. With over a decade of experience in the job search arena, he is the ultimate career guru.

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