Which Are The Best Courses For Arts Students After 12th?
After passing 12th standard with arts subjects, a common question students have is – what next? With different interests from social sciences to performing arts, liberal arts students have extensive course options to choose from for undergraduate studies and professional training.
In this guide I have shared the top courses arts stream students can join after 12th.
Know Your Interests and Aptitudes
The first step is reflecting on interests and natural strengths. Arts students can have varied talents and inclinations across-
Social Sciences
Are you interested in psychology, sociology, history, politics and economics? If so, consider degrees in these disciplines and careers in research, academia, policy-making, think tanks and related areas.
Languages & Writing
Those strong in native languages, literature, communication and creative writing can explore media, journalism, publishing, content creation and advertising.
Top Bachelor Degree Programs
Here are some of the best undergraduate degree choices after 12th arts.
BA General
Bachelor of Arts general program allows students to gain multi-disciplinary knowledge sampling courses across the humanities and liberal arts.
BA Honours/Specializations
Students certain of their interests can directly enrol in BA Honours/Specialization degrees focused intensively on one subject like BA Economics Hons, BA History Hons, BA Sociology Hons etc.
BA Liberal Arts
BA Liberal Arts has emerged as a popular interdisciplinary degree combining science, social science and humanities electives. It develops broad-based analytical, communication and problem-solving skills.
B.Com/BBA/Management
Art students strong in quantitative skills can also undertake management degrees like B.Com, BBA, and Integrated MBA. This widens career prospects in corporate roles leveraging language, psychology and social science abilities.
Bachelor of Mass Communication
For media-inclined students, a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, Journalism or Broadcasting equips them for careers in news, TV, advertising etc.
Bachelor of Social Work
To work in social service, a Bachelor of Social Work teaches counselling skills, human rights, social policy and fieldwork in NGOs. Ideal for sociology enthusiasts keen to help communities.
Design Degrees
B.Des/B.Sc Design degrees in fashion, product or interior design teach creative processes, technology applications, and business sides of design industries.
Fine/Performing Arts Degrees
BFA/BPA degrees in visual/performing arts like painting, sculpting, theatre, music, and dance offer technical skill refinement in different artistic disciplines and styles.
Professional Certification Courses
Alongside a Bachelor’s degree, arts students can boost employability by pursuing professional certifications in specific domains such as:
Digital Marketing
Learn SEO, social media marketing, email campaigns, web analytics etc to enter the rapidly growing online marketing field.
Graphic Design
Develop creative software skills for graphic design roles in print and digital media like websites, advertising, and publishing.
Content Writing
Hone fiction/non-fiction writing prowess through courses in creative writing, blogging, technical writing etc.
Event Management
Train in conceptualizing, budgeting, organizing and executing events like conferences, weddings, festivals etc.
Foreign Languages
Master different languages like French, German, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese by enrolling in part-time or online language classes.
Key Considerations for Selection
Career Prospects
Research what career trajectories and job roles the program can potentially lead to. Align with interests but also consider economic viability.
Skills Development
Scan syllabus and coursework details to check if they will sufficiently develop theoretical knowledge, technical abilities, soft skills and hands-on experience needed for the career path.
Specializations vs General Degrees
Specializations get you deep expertise but general degrees allow experimenting before choosing an area. Choose based on certitude of interests and postgraduate plans.
Program Reputation
For degrees like journalism, design, and performing arts – the institute’s brand name and quality matter greatly. Audit faculty, campus facilities, and industry partnerships before applying.
Costs and Affordability
Compare program fees across universities offering the same degree. Factor in potential scholarships, education loans and expected future earnings.
Location Flexibility
Consider if you are open to relocating or prefer to study near home. Research colleges accordingly.
Alternative Routes
Alongside full-time degrees, arts students can also gain qualifications through the following alternative routes:
Distance Learning Degrees
Reputed universities offer distance learning degree programs in arts and humanities subjects. This allows those who can’t attend regular college due to financial/family constraints to still earn a degree.
Online Certificates
Enroll in online certificate courses from international platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Shaw Academy etc. to build skills in writing, digital media, psychology, history etc. at low cost.
YouTube Channels
Leverage the plethora of educational YouTube channels to get quality instruction in music, dance, photography, foreign languages etc. This provides structured learning minus high fees.
Work Experience
Hands-on work experience through internships, volunteering and entry-level jobs can equip students with tangible skills too.
Concluding Words
Audit interests, career goals and financial position before deciding. Aim to build specialized expertise but also cultivate transferable soft skills. With an open-minded and strategic approach, arts students can gain a world-class education and thrive in diverse career directions.
FAQs on Courses After 12th Arts
Which are the best courses after 12th arts?
Top courses are BA degrees in chosen disciplines like economics, history, psychology, languages or B.Des, mass communication, social work, integrated MBA.
What are the career options after 12th arts?
Diverse options include journalists, psychologists, educators, designers, writers, social workers, lawyers, human resources executives, political analysts, government administrators, and digital marketers among others.
Which degree has the highest scope after 12th arts?
Currently, degrees integrating technology like digital marketing, data analytics, and UX design have very high demand. Traditional degrees like psychology, economics, and languages continue to have relevance.
Is BA a useless degree in India?
No, a Bachelor of Arts opens up opportunities in fields like academia, research, policymaking, media, HR, social work etc. Pursue a BA in specialized disciplines matching interests for good prospects.
Which course is best for getting a government job after 12th arts?
BA in sociology, public administration, and political science helps qualify for civil service, administrative and embassy roles. A Master’s degree boosts chances further.
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