Top 15+ In-Demand Career Options for Science Students in 2025

The world of science presents a wide array of exciting career opportunities driven by rapid technological advancements. The rapid growth of technology and healthcare management, in particular, has significantly expanded career opportunities for science graduates.

For instance, employment in computer and information technology occupations will grow by 11% between 2019 and 2029, which is an indication of growing demand for skilled professionals. In this blog, you’ll explore different career options for science students and tips needed for a successful career in this field. Let’s dive in!

Want to be part of in-demand science career fields? Check out upGrad’s learning courses in lucrative fields like Data Science, AI & ML, and Software Engineering!

Top Career Options for Science Students

The skills you develop through a science education are highly transferable and widely applicable across diverse fields. This unique ability opens up diverse career options for science students.

Enroll in our top-rated courses in trending fields that can help you land a high-paying career and advance your existing skills:

• Master’s  in Data Science from Liverpool John Moores University
• Executive Diploma in Machine Learning and AI
• AI-Powered Full Stack Development Course by IIITB

Curious to know your options? Here are some of the best career options for science students:

Source: Glassdoor

Healthcare and Medicine

The health and medicine field encompasses various specialties, from patient care to research and administration.

You can explore the following top science side career options for students.

1. Physician

Average Annual Salary: INR 6.9 L

A physician is a healthcare professional who practices medicine, and is concerned with promoting, maintaining, or restoring the health of individuals.

You need the following qualifications to become a physician.

• Complete high school with subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics
• Complete MBBS degree
• Complete masters in specialized medical fields like cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, surgery, etc.
• Clear the licensing exam to practice medicine.

Our guide on career options after PCMB covers a variety of exciting opportunities in science and healthcare to help you find the right fit for your future.

Here is a list of critical skills you require for this role.

• Strong foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and pathology
• Diagnostic skills
• Physical examination skills
• Soft skills like communication

You can explore the following job roles.

• General Practitioner
• Specialist (Cardiologist, Oncologist, Neurologist, etc.)
• Researcher

2. Physical Therapist

Average Annual Salary: INR 3L

A physical therapist helps individuals improve their physical movement and manage pain.

You require the following qualifications for this role.

• Bachelor’s degree in fields like biology, kinesiology, or exercise science 
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Here are a few critical skills you require for this role.

• Manual therapy techniques
• Communications skills
• Attention to detail

You can check the following associated roles.

• Clinical Therapist
• Sports Therapist
• Geriatric Therapist

3. Medical Laboratory Technician

Average Annual Salary: INR 2.4L

A medical laboratory technician’s role is to perform laboratory tests on patient samples to help diagnose and treat diseases.

You’ll require the below-mentioned qualifications.

• A degree in medical laboratory technology or a related field
• Certifications like American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

Here are the skills you’ll require for this role.

• Expertise in the use of laboratory equipment like a microscope
• Manual dexterity
• Time management 
• Attention to detail

Your potential job roles are given below.

• Medical Technologist
• Clinical Laboratory Scientist
•  Phlebotomist

Data Science and Technology

Data Science and Technology is a rapidly growing field that involves extracting insights from large datasets. 

You can check the science side career options for students in this field.

4. Data Scientist

Average Annual Salary: INR 12L

The job of the data scientist is to use statistical modeling techniques and computer science knowledge to extract insights that drive business decisions.

The basic qualifications for this role are listed below.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, or related fields
• Data science certifications can be beneficial 

You require the following skills for this role.

• Strong knowledge of statistics and probability
• Data mining skills
• Data visualization skills
• Expertise in programming languages like Python

You can explore the following job roles.

• Data Analyst
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Architect

Data Science is reshaping industries with exciting, high-paying roles. Explore top careers in data science and learn how to get started.

Also read: How to Become a Data Scientist – Answer in 9 Easy Steps

Ready to unlock your career potential? PG in Data Science and AI will equip you with the skills to solve real-world problems and drive innovation. Enroll now!

5. Machine Learning Engineer

Average Annual Salary: INR 10.8L

A machine learning engineer designs, develops, and deploys machine learning models to solve complex problems.

You’ll need the below-listed qualifications for this role.

• Bachelor's Degree in computer science, data science, or related fields.
• A master’s degree in Machine Learning can be advantageous. 

Here are the key skills you’ll need to succeed in this role.

• Expertise of programming languages like R
• Data visualization
• Knowledge of statistics
• Problem-solving

You can check the following potential job roles.

• AI Researcher
• Machine Learning Engineer 
• Software Engineer (ML)

To explore more exciting opportunities in this field, take a look at the career options in machine learning and cloud, and see where this tech journey can take you.

6. Data Engineer

Average Annual Salary: INR 9L

A data engineer designs, builds, and maintains data pipelines to collect, process, and store data. 

You need the following qualifications for this role.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or statistics
• A master’s degree can be beneficial 

The skills listed below can be beneficial to you.

• Expertise in programming languages like Scala
• Knowledge of data modeling concepts
• Understanding of database systems like SQL
• Familiarity with data pipeline tools like Apache NiFi

You can serve in the following job role.

• Data Architect
• Big Data Engineer
• Data Pipeline Engineer

Also Read: Data Engineer Salary in India in 2024

Environmental Science

The environmental science field integrates different scientific disciplines to study environmental issues and develop solutions.

Here are some popular career options for science students in this field.

7. Environmental Engineer

Average Annual Salary: INR 3.6L

An environmental engineer applies engineering principles to protect the environment and improve public health.

Here are some basic qualifications you require.

• A bachelor's degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or a related field
• A master’s degree can help in career progression

You require the following skills to succeed in this role.

• Good knowledge of engineering principles, environmental science, and chemistry
• Analytical skills
• Understanding of computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Fieldwork skills

You can check the following job roles.

• Environmental Consultant
• Sustainability Consultant
• Water Resource Engineer

Passionate about protecting the environment? Explore Environmental Engineering and other rewarding paths in top career options after engineering.

8. Wildlife Biologist

Average Annual Salary: INR 5L

A wildlife biologist studies wildlife and their habitats, thus playing a crucial role in understanding and conserving wildlife populations and ecosystems.

You require the following qualifications.

• A bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife biology, or a related field
• A master’s degree can help in research

Essential skills you require for this role.

• Fieldwork skills
• Data Analysis Skills
• Observation skills
• Problem-solving skills

Your job roles can include the following.

• Wildlife Conservationist
• Research Scientist
• Zoologist

Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

The biotechnology and pharmaceuticals field combines biology and technology to develop innovative solutions for healthcare and other industries.

If you possess the necessary interest in this field, it can be one of the potential career options for science students.

9. Research Scientist

Average Annual Salary: INR 11L

A research scientist conducts scientific research to advance knowledge and solve problems in this field. 

The basic qualifications you need for this role.

• A master's or doctoral degree in chemistry, biology, or related fields
• Research publications

You require the following vital skills for this role.

• Problem-solving skills
• Expertise in the field
• Communication skills

You can explore the following future job roles.

• Interdisciplinary researcher
• Climate change researcher
• Biotechnology researcher
• Environmental scientist

Interested in making a real impact through scientific research? Discover the role of a Research Scientist and many other promising career paths waiting for you by exploring top career options in India.

10. Quality Assurance Specialist

Average Annual Salary: INR 7L

A Quality Assurance specialist’s role is to ensure that pharmaceutical and biological products meet specific quality standards.

You require the following qualifications for this role.

• A bachelor’s degree in a scientific field like chemistry,  biology, or biotechnology.
• A master’s degree in quality assurance or related field. 

You have to possess the following skills.

• Knowledge of quality assurance principles, statistical analysis, and regulatory requirements
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving 

Your potential job roles can include the following. 

• Quality Control Inspector
• Quality Assurance Manager
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Engineering

Engineering is a field that uses scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes. 

Here are some job roles in the field of engineering you can check before choosing a career.

11. Civil Engineer

Average Annual Salary: INR 3.6L

A civil engineer designs, constructs, and maintains the infrastructure that supports modern society. 

The basic qualification you require for the role.

• A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering 
• A master’s degree can come in handy

The key skills you need for the role.

• Knowledge of designing software like AutoCAD and Revit
• Problem-solving skills
• Innovative skills

Here are your potential job roles.

• Structural Engineer
• Geotechnical Engineer
• Transportation Engineer

12. Aerospace Engineer

Average Annual Salary: INR 3.48L

An aerospace engineer specializes in designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. 

You need the following qualifications.

• A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or aeronautical engineering
• A master’s degree can be beneficial 

You will need the following skills to succeed.

• Deep knowledge of physics and mathematics
• Understanding of software like CAD and MATLAB
• Creativity
• Attention to detail

You’ll serve in the following job roles.. 

• Aeronautical Engineer
• Astronautical Engineer
• Aerospace Research Scientist

13. Chemical Engineer

Average Annual Salary: INR 6L

A chemical engineer uses chemistry, physics, and mathematics principles to design, develop, and operate processes that involve chemicals, materials, and energy.

You need the following qualifications. 

• A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering
• A master’s degree or PhD can be beneficial

Essential skills you require for this role.

• Knowledge of chemical engineering principles, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics.
• Understanding of engineering software
• Laboratory skills

Your job roles can include the following.

• Process Engineer
• Materials Engineer
• Biochemical Engineer

Agriculture and Food Science

Agriculture and food science focus on the production, processing, and distribution of food. The rising demand for food technology has made it one of the potential career options after 12th science.

Here are some career paths you can consider in agriculture and food science.

14. Agricultural Scientist

Average Annual Salary: INR 19.9L

An agricultural scientist uses scientific principles to improve agricultural practices and food production.

You’ll need the following qualifications for this role.

• A bachelor's degree in agriculture, horticulture, or a related field
• A master's degree or PhD can be beneficial.

You need the following skills to succeed.

• Knowledge of biology, physics, chemistry, and statistics
• Experience of fieldwork
• Problem-solving skills

Your future roles include the following.

• Precision agriculture specialist
• Food security expert
• Climate change adaptation specialist

15. Biotechnologist

Average Annual Salary: INR 3L

A biotechnologist develops technologies and products that improve human health and the environment.

You’ll need the below-listed qualifications.

• A bachelor’s degree in biology, biotechnology, chemistry, or a related field.
• A master’s degree or PhD is often required for research.

The following skills will help you succeed in this role.

• Good understanding of chemistry, biology, and biochemistry.
• Knowledge of statistical and computational tools.
• Laboratory skills

Here are your associate job roles.

• Genetic Engineer
• Biopharmaceutical Researcher
• Clinical Research Associate

Other Fields and Options

Many miscellaneous job roles are potential career options after 12th science. Below are some famous job roles among miscellaneous options.

16. Legal Professional

Average Annual Salary: INR 4.2L

A legal professional uses knowledge of law to provide legal advice and represent clients in a court of law.

You need the following qualifications for the role.

• A 5-year integrated Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree
• Clear the Bar exam

The essential skills you need to succeed are listed below.

• Communication
• Research skills
• Strong knowledge of laws

Your potential job roles include the following.

• Lawyer
• Attorney
• Legal Advisor

Also Read: How to Become a Corporate Lawyer?

17. Architect

Average Annual Salary: INR 3L

An architect combines creativity and technical knowledge to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable structures.

You require the below-listed qualifications for this role.

• A bachelor’s degree in architecture (B.Arch)
• A master’s degree in can improve career prospects

You’ll need to acquire the following skills to succeed.

• Expertise in architectural software like AutoCAD and Revit
• Design skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Creativity 

You can explore the following job roles.

• Architect
• Urban Planner
• Interior Designer

18. Commercial pilot

Average Annual Salary: INR 24L

A commercial pilot is responsible for the safe transportation of passengers and cargo.

You need to possess the following qualifications.

• Complete 12th grade with Physics and Mathematics as mandatory subjects.
• Pass the Class 1 Medical Certificate
• A Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Here are the key skills you require for the role.

• Navigation skills
• Communication skills
• Stress tolerance 
• Decision-making skills

Your future job can include the following roles.

• Corporate Pilot 
• Airline pilot
• Flight instructor

In this video, discover various career options available for science students across different fields and industries.

Top High Salary Courses After 12th Science

As a science student, you have a solid foundation for a lucrative career in tech and IT. A strong understanding of scientific principles, problem-solving skills, and analytical abilities make you a valuable asset in these fields. 

Here are some high salary courses after 12th science. You can choose the course that aligns with your interests.

Source: Glassdoor

Unlock your potential with upGrad's free courses and certifications to gain in-demand skills and propel your career forward. Visit upGrad today!

Essential Skills Required for a Career in Science

Have you decided on a science career but unsure which skills to focus on? You're not alone. A successful science career requires developing critical skills to adapt to evolving job roles.

By cultivating the following skills, you'll be well-positioned to achieve a successful and fulfilling career in science.

• Analytical and critical thinking:

  Ability to grasp complex problems and develop innovative solutions.

• Research and experimental design:

  Strong knowledge of various lab techniques, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

• Technical and computational skills:

  Knowledge of modern technology and computational tools.

• Attention to detail:

  Ability to focus on the smallest of details.

• Communication skills:

  Concise exchange of information, ideas, and emotions.

How to Prepare for a Career in Science

A science career offers both excitement and challenge. If you're interested in solving problems and exploring new ideas, consider a career in science.

Here are some tips to help you succeed in your science career.

• Strong academic foundation:

  Give attention to subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics.

• Gain practical experience:

  Consider hands-on experience in labs, clinics, or research settings.

• Enroll in certifications and specializations:

  Pursue certifications in fields such as data science to improve employability.

• Networking and professional development:

  Connect with scientists and industry experts by participating in workshops and seminars.

• Stay updated:

  Keep up with the latest scientific advancements through journals and online resources.

• Keep Patience:

  Scientific research may take time. Be patient, but don’t lose sight of your goals.

upGrad: Boosting Career Options for Science Students

Choosing a specific field within science can be challenging, given the vast number of options and rapid advancements. A well-informed decision is crucial to ensure a successful career.

upGrad offers a range of certificates and courses to help you advance your career in science. Whether you're looking to specialize in a specific field or upskill for a new role, upGrad's courses and certifications can give you the necessary knowledge and skills.

Here are some popular courses and certifications from upGrad that can boost your science career.

• Professional Certificate Program in AI and Data Science
• Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication
• Professional Certificate Program in UI/UX Design
• Advanced Certificate Program in Generative AI
• Fundamentals of Cybersecurity

If you’re still confused about choosing the appropriate courses for a career in science, talk to upGrad’s career counseling experts and gain valuable guidance for your future career plan.

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