Class 12 Arts - Best Courses After 12th Arts, Top Colleges, and Career Options
Class 12 Arts: The Arts & Humanities stream is defined as the study of human development, communities, traditions & culture. Courses after 12th Arts include the study of art, music, theatre, history, sociology, literature, and basically, anything that is related to human experience. One crucial decision for every Class 12 Arts student is to make a suitable choice for top Arts courses after 12th and align it with a prospective career option after 12th Arts.
Here, we will briefly discuss all the details related to class 12 Arts & courses after 12th Arts to equip students with adequate and appropriate knowledge.
Arts stream subjects
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Class 12 Arts encompasses subjects like History, Geography, Pol Science, Sociology, etc. All the subjects offer a great learning curve and offer lucrative academic and career prospects. With a plethora of options available, the task of identifying and choosing often becomes challenging. Here, we will briefly discuss various high-salary courses after 12th Arts, including distinguished career options after 12th Arts, and a list of top colleges and universities for Arts in India.
Table of Contents
Class 12th Arts Subject
The Class 12th Arts & Humanities stream is particularly ideal for students who are aware of their surroundings and are eager to learn about world affairs, social issues, historical events, and society. The stream offers a plethora of 12th-class arts subject choices, including:
List of Class 12 Arts subjects & their CUET syllabus
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Economics |
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In addition to these, a few other optional subject choices from the Class 12th Humanities include:
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Physical Education |
Home Science |
Legal Studies |
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Fine Arts |
Media Studies |
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Among Class 12th Arts subjects, Humanities with Maths is increasingly becoming a popular choice, as it opens the door to multiple scopes. With the introduction of CUET, it has become even more important to have mathematics as one of the optional subjects if any student wants to pursue courses after 12th Arts in Business, Economics, or Finance.
Follow this article to get detailed information regarding the best Arts courses after 12th, lucrative career options after 12th Arts, best universities & colleges for Humanities in India, top DU colleges for Arts, etc.
Best Courses After 12th Arts & Humanities
There are numerous high-salary courses after 12th Arts, which offer a great learning curve and open doors to various distinguished career options after 12th Arts. However, making the right choice requires a thorough awareness of all the available options.
To choose an appropriate and best courses after 12th Arts, let's first discuss the course list and some crucial details about them.
Arts & Humanities Courses After 12th
This branch of undergraduate degree courses after 12th Humanities is offered by universities for Psychology enthusiasts. It focuses on the study of human behavior and the mind. It introduces students to different branches of psychology like criminal psychology, social, counseling, behavioral, group, etc. It opens various doors of scope for humanities job opportunities after your UG.
One of the popular courses after 12th Humanities, - BA Hons (Political Science), is a study of social science concerned with the state, government, and politics; it deals extensively with the theory and practice of politics and the analysis of political systems and political behavior. The scopes and humanities job opportunities in this subject are interesting and are talked about in detail in the table later. Explore and enroll in a UG course in this subject from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India to boost your career.
One of the popular courses after 12th Humanities, - BA Hons (Political Science), is a study of social science concerned with the state, government, and politics; it deals extensively with the theory and practice of politics and the analysis of political systems and political behavior. The scopes and humanities job opportunities in this subject are interesting and are talked about in detail in the table later. Explore and enroll in a UG course in this subject from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India to boost your career.
Among many available options for courses after 12th Humanities, a UG degree in sociology from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India is a popular choice. It is a 3-year undergraduate program that aims to understand how social structures, human relations, and the behavior of individuals influence civilizations and their cultures.
Bachelor degree courses after 12th humanities has to be a decision derived from your interest in and passion for the subject. BA (honours) in geography is a 3-year undergraduate course that spans 6 semesters. It deals with the earth and its different phenomena, features, and inhabitants. Check the list of top 10 arts colleges in India in the table below to understand the scopes and opportunities of getting a UG degree in geography from a top college.
It focuses on the key concepts of economics. Economics degree courses after 12th humanities are full of lucrative career options and opportunities. The course covers subjects like microeconomics, statistics, Indian economics, foreign trade, legal studies, money and banking, the economic history of India, money and financial markets, etc. DSE and SRCC are among the top 10 arts colleges in India, and pursuing an economics degree from these colleges will surely boost your career.
BHM subjects include food and beverage management, front office operations, housekeeping, event management, and marketing.
BA LLB subjects include history, sociology, administrative law, criminology, family law, corporate law, human rights, and other legal topics.
The BJMC degree is about learning the ropes of journalism and opens up many career opportunities. A BJMC degree is the key to a career in the media and communication industry.
The hospitality and tourism industry is a vast sector that includes all the economic activities which directly or indirectly contribute to or depend upon travel and tourism.
The BPEd course deals with techniques that are useful for maintaining the fitness of the human body.
Any Class 12th Arts students who aspire to pursue any courses after 12th Arts must appear in CUET UG to secure admission to any of India's top colleges or universities. Over 210 universities (like DU, BHU, JNU, and Jamia) will accept only CUET scores for UG admission to the programs they offer.
CUET Free Preparation Resources
CUET Eligibility Criteria | CUET Exam Pattern | CUET 2026 Syllabus
High-Salary Career Options After 12th Arts
Students are always curious to know the career opportunities a stream has in store for them before making the final choice. Contrary to popular belief, high-salary courses after 12th Arts are plenty. It opens up various lucrative career options after 12th Arts in multiple fields for students. A few of them are mentioned below.
High-salary career options after 12th Arts
| Course name | Career options | Best colleges | Salary Range |
| BA (H) Psychology | Research Analysts | University of Delhi (New Delhi) | INR 3 to 5 LPA |
| Clinical Psychologists | Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi) | ||
| Human Resource Specialists | Jamia Millia Islamia (New Delhi) | ||
| Forensic Psychologists | Ambedkar University (New Delhi) | ||
| Life Coaches | Panjab University (Chandigarh) | ||
| Lecturer/Professors | |||
| Career Counselors | |||
| BA (H) History | Historian | St. Stephen's College (New Delhi) | INR 2 to 10 LPA |
| Lecturer | Hindu College (New Delhi) | ||
| News Reporters | Lady Shri Ram College (New Delhi) | ||
| Archivist | Ashoka University (Haryana) | ||
| Editors | St. Xavier's College (Mumbai) | ||
| Analyst | Loyola College (Chennai) | ||
| Columnist | Presidency College (Chennai) | ||
| Archaeology | Numismatist (studying old currency) | Institute of Archaeology (New Delhi) | INR 3.5 to 6 LPA |
| Epigraphist (studying inscriptions or manuscripts) | Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi) | ||
| Archivist | University of Madras (Chennai) | ||
| Museologist | Delhi Institute of Heritage Research and Management | ||
| BA (H) Political Science | Political Analyst | Hindu College (New Delhi) | INR 3 to 5 LPA |
| Research Assistant | Lady Shri Ram College for Women (New Delhi) | ||
| Diplomat | St. Xavier's College (Kolkata/ Mumbai) | ||
| Lobbyist | Jawaharlal Nehru University (New Delhi) | ||
| Intelligence Specialist | |||
| Economics | Risk Advisory Associate | Delhi School of Economics (New Delhi) | INR 5 to 40 LPA |
| Research Assistant | Shri Ram College of Commerce (New Delhi) | ||
| Policy Maker | St. Stephen's College (New Delhi) | ||
| Analyst | Ashoka University (Sonepat) | ||
| Presidency College (Kolkata) | |||
| Loyola College (Chennai) | |||
| Sociology | Media Strategist | Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi) | INR 3 to 6 LPA |
| Public Relations Professional | Jamia Millia Islamia University (New Delhi) | ||
| Policy Analyst | University of Calcutta (Kolkata) | ||
| Market Research Analyst | University of Madras (Chennai) | ||
| Guidance Counsellor in the area of family conflicts | Jesus & Mary College (New Delhi) | ||
| Lady Shri Ram College (New Delhi) | |||
| Hindu College (New Delhi) | |||
| Bachelor of Legislative Law (BBA + L.L.B) - 5 years | Legal Advisor | National Law School of India University | INR 4 to 18 LPA |
| Solicitor | National Law University, Delhi (NLU Delhi) | ||
| Advocate | Symbiosis Law School, Pune | ||
| Lawyer | Jindal Global Law School (JGLS) | ||
| Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) | Front Office Manager | Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Pusa | INR 5 to 8 LPA |
| Restaurant Manager | Amity School of Hospitality, Noida | ||
| Event Manager | Christ University, Bangalore | ||
| Hotel Manager | Chandigarh University | ||
| Fashion and Designing Courses | Brand Manager | National Institute of Fashion Technology | INR 4 to 20 LPA |
| Interior Designer | National Institute of Design | ||
| Exhibition Designer | Symbiosis Institute of Design | ||
| Fashion Designer | JD Institute of Fashion Technology | ||
| Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication | Correspondent Reporter | Jamia Millia Islamia | INR 5 to 18 LPA |
| Media Manager | Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication | ||
| Creative Director | Christ University | ||
| Journalist & Sub-Editor | Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media | ||
| Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) | Art Director | University of Delhi | INR 4 to 8 LPA |
| Maharaja Sayajirao University | |||
| Banaras Hindu University | |||
| Advertising Art Director | Jamia Millia Islamia | ||
| Fine Artist | Rabindra Bharti University | ||
| Bachelor of Hospitality Management (BHM) | Hotel and Resort Manager | Institute of Hotel Management | INR 3 to 15 LPA |
| Cruise Staff | Christ University | ||
| Travel Counselor |
Government Jobs After 12th Arts
The stream provides ample job opportunities in government services with different departments and ministries. The civil services exam is a popular career option among many Arts students. Apart from this, art students can build their careers in the Banking sector (banking recruitment exams), SSC exams, or State PCS exams to join the bureaucracy.
List of government jobs after 12th Arts
- Union Public Service Commission
- National Defence Academy
- SSC Combined Higher Secondary Level
- Indian Railway Recruitment Board
- SSCMulti-Tasking Staff
- SSC Stenographer (Grade C and Grade D)
This is a comprehensive overview of the best courses after 12th Arts and high-paying career options after 12th Arts.
How to Choose a Suitable Arts Course After 12th?
With all the discussion and hype surrounding technical, management, & medical streams, various high-salary courses after 12th arts often fail to catch the students' attention. Students are advised to remain calm and meticulous while making a choice. Their choice of courses after 12th Arts will influence and guide them towards one of the many fruitful career options after 12th Arts.
How to decide an appropriate course and career options after 12th Arts:
- Identify one's own likings and passions
- Research top courses and career options after 12th arts
- Consider related future career prospects
- Assess personal strengths and weaknesses.
- Seek expert advice.
- Check rankings of reputed universities (e.g., top colleges of DU for Arts).
Making a thoroughly thought-out choice will serve students in the long run in navigating successful career prospects. Make a suitable choice for the best course after 12th Arts. Target any top DU college for Arts or any other best universities for Humanities in India, remain focused, and invest time and energy appropriately to achieve the target.
Top 10 DU Colleges for Arts
Students must target top universities/colleges when choosing a course and subject. This will enhance their learning environment and boost their career options and opportunities.
While discussing top colleges and most sought-after targets for the best courses after 12th Arts, DU always tops the list.
Top 10 DU Colleges for Arts
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Sl. No. |
Name of the College |
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1 |
Shri Ram College of Commerce |
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2 |
Hindu College |
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3 |
St. Stephen's College |
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4 |
Miranda House (W) |
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5 |
Kirori Mal College |
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6 |
Hansraj College |
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7 |
Ramjas College |
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8 |
Sri Venkateswara College |
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9 |
Jesus and Mary College (W) |
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10 |
Shaheed Bhagat Singh College |
Students must undertake comprehensive CUET preparation and score well in CUET UG and Boards to get into any of the top 10 DU colleges for Arts. Keeping that in mind, the top 10 DU colleges for Arts are listed below.
Best Universities for Humanities in India
More than 210 universities will participate in CUET 2026 and grant UG admission based on students’ CUET scores. The following are the names of a few well-known universities that offer quality education and have a reputation for Arts and Humanities courses.
- Delhi University (DU)
- Jamia Millia Islamia (JNI)
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
High-Salary Career Options After 12th Arts
Some of the highest-paying humanities job opportunities & career options after 12th Arts are mentioned below:
1. Historian
Average salary: 77K/mont
Historians carry out field research, assess historical records and furnish an evaluation of past events with critical insights. They study the past by decoding the evidence found in written records or physical artefacts, among other historical materials.
An appropriate 12th class arts subject and pursuing it in your higher studies from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India will be crucial for your career of being a historian.
2. Art Director
Average salary: 6L/year
Art directors manage campaigns that focus on creativity and are in charge of design, illustrations, publishing, coordination, management of a team, devising strategies, and execution of campaigns. Art directors also collaborate with graphic designers and copywriters to work on marketing projects.
Choosing the ideal 12th class arts subject and continuing it in your UG from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India will be a huge boost for your career as an art director.
3. Technical Writer
Average salary: 5.5L/yea
Technical writers are responsible for writing instruction manuals, guides, and help sections on websites. They turn technical information into content that is simple to read and understand. They also interact with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to list out clear instructions for operation guides for consumers.
Enrolling in a suitable 12th class arts subject and a subsequent UG degree in the same from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India will be crucial for your success in this field.
4. Content Marketing Manager
Average salary: 4.7/year
Content marketing managers look after the planning, development, and implementation of different content strategies in a company. Through this, they aim to achieve business targets by increasing brand awareness through engagement with the target audience.
An appropriate 12th class arts subject and pursuing it in your higher studies from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India will be crucial for your career of being a content marketing manager.
5. Public Relations Manager
Average salary: 35K/mont
A public relations manager is in charge of managing the communication initiatives of a business, specifically with media personnel. They oversee a team of public relations professionals and assign tasks to the team members.
Identify and choose the ideal 12th class arts subjects and pursue it in your higher studies to be a successful public relations manager.
6. Foreign Language Teacher
Average salary: 31K/mont
Foreign language teachers help students learn a new language. They are required to be thorough with their academic lesson, which include grammar, composition, and pronunciation.
Choosing the ideal 12th-class arts subject and continuing it in your UG from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India will be a huge boost for your career as a foreign language teacher.
7. Psychologist
Average salary: 26K/mont
The job of a psychologist is to listen and assess the thoughts and emotions of their clients in order to provide support using therapies. Psychologists listen patiently to fully understand what is causing a patient's mental, emotional or behavioural block.
Various courses are available in the top 10 arts colleges in India, which can lead you to be a successful psychologist.
8. Travel Agent
Average salary: 25K/mont
Travel agents create travel plans for tourists and make other arrangements for them. They possess knowledge of famous tourist spots that can make the travel experience memorable.
An appropriate 12th-class arts subject and pursuing it in your higher studies (UG & MBA) from one of the top universities will be crucial for you to be a successful travel agent.
9. Copywriter
Average salary: 22K/mont
Copywriters work for a marketing or advertising agency and are tasked with writing captivating marketing and promotional materials. They write content for different company products and services to generate engagement.
10. Hospitality Manager
Average salary: 21K/mont
Their role may include the smooth functioning of the everyday operations of a restaurant or hotel, management and supervision of the staff, and overseeing tasks like catering.
Enrolling in a suitable 12th class arts subject and a subsequent UG degree in the same from one of the top 10 arts colleges in India will be crucial for your success in this field.
Disclaimer: The salary figures mentioned above are approximate and just for your reference.
This article has meticulously listed the best courses after 12th Arts, various high-salary courses after 12th Arts, the best career options after 12th Arts, the top 10 DU colleges for Arts, and more. It will enable students to analyse and understand the complete perspective of each option and help them choose their desired field of study accordingly.
In order to enter into any of these prestigious universities, students must appear and score well in the Common University Entrance Test. Explore the detailed CUET university list and stay informed.
Courses After 12 Arts - FAQs
Students can pursue a profession in law or do additional courses such as Digital Marketing to land high-paying jobs.
Students can pursue BA (hons.) or BCom (hons) while preparing for government exams.
Yes, you can pursue a course in digital marketing or graphic designing and start as a freelancer.
You can pursue courses like BCom and a Bachelor's of Honours after appearing for CUET.
Yes, you can work in Hotel Management. Some of the best courses after 12th are:
- BA Hotel Management
- BA in Hospitality and Travel
- BA in Hotel Management and Catering Technology
The best job depends on your skills, interests and goals. There are various career options like graphic design, illustration and fine arts that you can pursue.
Choosing courses after 12th depends on your interests, skills and career goals. It is important to consider your passion and interests before choosing a course.