Charting New Horizons by Exploring High Demand Careers for Non-Science Stream After Class 12

About: MAHE Manipal is one of India's leading academic and research institutions and it has been granted Institution of Eminence status by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. MAHE offers 320+ career-centric specialisations in 29 disciplines and 12 programme levels through 39 institutions/ schools/ centres/ departments.

Q. What are the high-demand careers in the non-science stream after 12th in today’s world?

A: At MAHE Manipal, we recognise the diverse interests and career aspirations of students entering non-science streams after completing 12th grade. Today, there are several fields that offer promising career opportunities for such students. These include management, commerce, arts, humanities, design, and hospitality. Management programmes like Business Analytics, Financial Markets, Logistics & Supply Chain and Human Resource Management are highly sought-after due to their applicability across various industries.

Similarly, careers in commerce, such as Chartered Accountancy, Banking & Finance and Business Process Services provide lucrative prospects for individuals with strong numerical and financial skills. Media and Communications related specialisations like Journalism, Advertising, Marketing Communications and Public Relations are experiencing increased demand, fuelled by the expansion of digital media and communication platforms. Humanities and Liberal arts-based careers such as publishing, media and communication, education, arts, social and corporate sector appeal to those interested in making a positive impact on society.

Design disciplines like Graphic Design, Fashion Design and Interior Design are also gaining traction, reflecting the growing importance of creativity and aesthetics in different sectors. Additionally, the hospitality industry offers promising avenues through programmes in Hotel & Service Management, Culinary Arts and Tourism Management, catering to the rising need for skilled professionals in these areas. At MAHE Manipal, we are committed to providing comprehensive education and training in these high-demand fields, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen careers and contribute meaningfully to society.

Q. While science streams are still preferred, the new generation of students are ready to explore non-science streams. Please give a brief of some of the popular courses that students can look at.

A: At the undergraduate level, here are some programmes extremely popular in MAHE.

In MAHE Manipal campus:

• BA/ BA (Honors)

This is a carefully curated liberal arts degree that inculcates varied critical and creative skills across three years (BA) with the option of a fourth-year research track for a BA (Honors) degree.

• BA (Honours) in Media and Communication

This is a four-year graduate degree programme. The aim of the programme is to offer a universal understanding of the Media and Entertainment industry’s activities and equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills required to become expert media professionals ready to take on the challenges of the industry.

• BVoc in Graphics and Digital Media

This is a three-year undergraduate course that is highly skill-based powered by the Media and Entertainment Skills Council of India. Some of the multi-dimensional aspects of the course cover typography and type design, photography, illustration, graphic interface design, packaging, print design, corporate identity, branding and information and communication systems like signage. Successful candidates of the BVoc course could look for prospective jobs as Graphic designers, Social Media Executives, Social Media managers and Digital Marketing Managers.

• BA in Aesthetics & Peace Studies

This BA programme is a rare combination of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences with a broad framework of Aesthetics and Peace studies, homing certain skills suitable for art media and art of the media. The subjects include literature different arts, media, political science, international relations, sociology, psychology, history, and philosophy among others.

• B.Des (Fashion Design & Interior Design)

Both the B.Des specialisations span for 4 years. The fashion design programme aims at imparting professional fashion education that focuses on innovation for the sustainability of economical, ecological, and social values. The interior design programme is about creating beyond decoration which combines practicality, sustainability, and beauty to achieve the specific aims of a project. Interior design is an exciting, growing field where creative individuals with an eye for detail can influence human interaction and improve the quality of life in the built environment.

• BSc/ BSc (Hons) Culinary Science

This is a unique programme with a specialisation option integrating the artistic and scientific aspects of preparing food. It aims to provide aspiring culinary professionals with a global benchmark education experience and qualifications designed by top chefs from India. The programme imparts foundation techniques and skills, in-depth study of food processing technology, culinary nutrition & wellness, and restaurant operation management.

• BA/ BA (Hons) in Hospitality and Services Management

This programme is equipped with a specialisation in Real Estate, Retail, and Services Management and is a pioneer programme in India's Hospitality and Services Management domain. It aims to develop an overall understanding of the business dynamics of the hospitality and selected service industries such as real estate and retail. It tailors the curriculum to cover business fundamentals while incorporating specific knowledge and skills relevant to the Services Sector employment requirements.

• BHM (Bachelor of Hotel Management)

The BHM programme aims to provide students with a strong base of knowledge, skills and attitudes required for employability/ leadership roles in hospitality and restaurant operations/ management /entrepreneurship.

• BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)

The BBA programme is embedded with additional certifications like CIMA, UK and CMA, USA. At the end of the programme, students will be able to take up jobs in the corporate sector, and government sector in India and abroad in the areas of management, commerce, analytics, logistics and economics.

The BBA course comes with the following specialisations

• Banking

• Financial Markets

• Professional

• Logistics & Supply Chain Management

• Human Resource Management

• Marketing Management

• Insurance

• Family Business Management

• Business Analytics

• Economic Studies

• Sports Management

In MAHE Bengaluru campus:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) (Honours) Psychology

This programme offers a comprehensive and diverse approach as a social science discipline. It covers fundamental concepts in Psychology in terms of the biological bases of behaviour, sensation, attention, perception, memory, learning, decision-making, emotions, motivation, intelligence, thinking and reasoning, and personality, along with experiments.

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) (Honours) English

This is a remarkable amalgamation of literature, language, and communication skills. It uses a comprehensive curriculum where academic skills meet professional skills. The students are trained in analytical and interpretative communication. It is a holistic programme that can benefit anyone aiming to conquer both the professional and academic worlds with in-depth knowledge, practical communication skills, and confidence.

• Law programmes

Manipal Law School (MAHE) Bengaluru strives for a paradigm shift in the field of legal education. MLS focuses on enabling students to comprehend multi-dimensional legal systems with a clear objective of developing their abilities by persuasively enhancing their written and oral skills, anticipating outcomes, and using research and analytical skills in problem-solving. The UG programmes offered are:

• BA LLB (Hons)

• BBA LLB (Hons)

• LLB (Hons) in Technology Law

• Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com Hons)

The B.Com (Hons) programme at MAHE Bengaluru spans four years and offers specialisations in Corporate Accounting, Business Analytics, Banking and Finance, and Financial Technology. This programme stands out with its global accreditation: the Accounting & Finance specialisations are accredited by the ACCA, UK, and the Business Analytics specialisation is accredited by the IoA, UK. Students registered for the ACCA receive the highest level of exemption towards ACCA qualification, while those in Business Analytics are eligible for IoA membership. The programme also includes optional international study abroad and exchange programmes, providing opportunities to study at partner institutions worldwide. Additionally, students benefit from diverse internship opportunities in Fortune 500 companies and comprehensive career support, including networking with alumni.

Shrishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology

Shrishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bangalore ignites creative flames in its students. With avant-garde programmes and state-of-the-art facilities, it cultivates innovation and fosters artistic expression. Guided by industry stalwarts, it's a vibrant hub where imagination meets craftsmanship, shaping tomorrow's design visionaries.

Candidates can check the programmes at: srishtimanipalinstitute.in/index.htm

Q. A plethora of new-age career options have taken over traditional ones. Why do you think this shift has come about?

A: Several factors have been driving the increasing popularity of new-age career options over traditional. Firstly, there's a shift in societal values towards personal fulfilment and holistic well-being, leading individuals to seek careers that align with their values and offer a sense of purpose. Secondly, advancements in technology, particularly the internet, have made information about alternative practices more accessible. Mainstream acceptance of practices such as mindfulness has contributed to the growth of new-age professions. Young people are prioritising work-life balance and gravitating towards careers that offer flexibility and autonomy. Overall, the trend reflects a broader societal movement towards holistic lifestyles and alternative approaches to work and personal fulfilment.

Q. What factors should a student look at while exploring careers in non-science streams?

A: Students should primarily consider their personal interests and recognise their individual skills. Researching job markets helps understand demand and opportunities. It is also wise for them to investigate educational requirements and training paths. Lifestyle preferences are also crucial factors. Building a network of senior students, academicians and industry experts and seeking their insights can prove to be valuable. By evaluating these aspects, students can make informed decisions about their career paths in non-science fields.

Q. Students after class 12 are still pretty much unaware of the various options and the means to reach them. What measures do you think are needed to ensure students get the awareness?

A: At MAHE Manipal, we prioritise equipping students with career awareness beyond Class 12 through various initiatives. Our comprehensive school connect programmes with clear-cut career guidance sessions have been very well received by students, school counsellors and principals. Our programme-specific webinars, with dependency on most modern technology, wherein our faculty members are academic resources, give students an opportunity to learn about our programmes and prepare well in advance with processes. Our information centre works proactively to address student queries via phone calls and emails. Besides, we make our presence in genuine career fairs and events. We also have open days on campus, during which students and parents enjoy our state-of-the-art experience theatre and thereafter take a comprehensive tour of the campus, visit classrooms and labs and also take a sneak peek into our hostel rooms, food courts and sports arena. We leverage our alumni network for insights into diverse career paths. We emphasise diversity and inclusion and gather feedback to continuously improve our outreach activities. Through these efforts, MAHE Manipal ensures students are well-informed and empowered to make informed decisions about their futures.

Q. Its not about just choosing and pursuing a career. It's about charting new horizons. Please give insights on why and how.

A: It is important to actively encourage students to explore diverse interests and fields beyond their comfort zones. As a university, we foster innovation and creativity by providing research opportunities, project-based learning and collaborative endeavours. Our curriculum prepares students to adapt to change, embrace uncertainty and navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world. We promote leadership qualities through development programmes and experiential learning. Our global perspective empowers students to engage with diverse cultures and ideas, preparing them to thrive in an interconnected world. Through these initiatives, we empower students to chart new horizons, seize opportunities and make a meaningful impact in their careers and beyond.

Q. Every class and institution has a good number of students studying the same course. Multiply that by folds and that gives a good indication of the competition. What should be the steps taken by students for value addition to their role or career?

A: We strongly believe that students should actively pursue steps to add value to their roles and careers in a competitive environment. They must continuously learn beyond the classroom through workshops and online courses. Developing specialised skills relevant to their field and gaining hands-on experience through internships is crucial. Proactive students often network with peers, alumni and professionals for mentorship and career opportunities. They cultivate a strong personal brand through extracurricular activities and leadership roles. It is important they learn to adapt to new challenges with resilience and flexibility. These actions empower students to stand out, maximise their potential and achieve success in their careers.

Q. In addition to subject knowledge, more emphasis is now being on skill sets. Can you elaborate on what skill sets are to be developed and how?

A: Besides academic prowess, students must hone skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving. In MAHE Manipal, we have established pedagogies which help students cultivate their skills through interactive learning methods, practical exercises, group projects and real-world applications embedded within our curriculum. Additionally, experiential learning projects, clubs, extracurricular activities, internships, and industry collaborations provide avenues for skill development. We prioritise holistic education, ensuring our students graduate with a well-rounded skill set, poised to excel in diverse professional environments and make meaningful contributions to society.

Q. A career always evolves. So, what should students always keep in mind to ensure they are up to date with the trends and requirements?

A: Continuous learning and adaptability in navigating evolving careers are something we emphasise strongly in our university. Our faculty are trained to encourage students to be proactive in staying updated with industry trends, technological advancements and changing job requirements. Engaging in lifelong learning through workshops, seminars, online courses, and industry certifications is crucial. Additionally, cultivating a growth mindset is essential. By prioritising ongoing education and flexibility, students can stay relevant and thrive in dynamic professional landscapes throughout their careers.

Q. Any message to students?

A: As you embark on your journey towards higher education, remember that choosing the right stream, programme and university is a pivotal decision. Look beyond academic reputation to find a community that fosters growth, innovation, and inclusivity. Seek a place where you will be challenged to excel academically, supported to pursue your passion and empowered to make a difference. Prioritise values that resonate with you, whether it's diversity, sustainability or social responsibility. Choose a university that offers not just a degree, but a transformative experience that prepares students for a future of endless possibilities.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by MAHE Manipal and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.