16 Best Courses for Commerce Students in 2025 | Eligibility, Duration, Jobs and Salaries Included

Commerce students are spoiled for choice. There is no shortage of exciting career prospects and job opportunities across various fields such as finance, management, business and accounting. With the right skill set and professional qualifications, you can work in banking, taxation, auditing, financial planning or investment banking. Look around, the possibilities are plenty. Whether you go down the traditional corporate route, work in a new digital venture or explore entrepreneurship.However, you need to be smart about your next move. With countless options like the US CMA, CA, ACCA, CFA, CS and MBA available, you should pick the certification that suits your talent, interests and strengths. Which course will result in a rewarding, lucrative career for you? What should you look for when making an informed decision? Luckily for you, this post reviews the best courses for commerce students. You get a clearer picture of what to expect in these courses for commerce students and how they can impact your career.

Also Read- 18 Accounting & Finance Courses Every Commerce Student Must Know

Best Courses For Commerce Students

1. Chartered Accountancy

The CA program is one of the most prestigious, rigorous and respected certifications in the finance and accounting industry. Created in 1949 with the formation of the ICAI body, the course has maintained its high standards of excellence. The CA syllabus is extensive, offering in-depth knowledge about relevant topics such as taxation, cost accounting, auditing and financial management. It is considered one of the best courses for commerce students in India.

Eligibility

• 12th-year students must take the foundation route.
• Graduates and Postgraduates can take the direct entry route and skip the foundational level.

Duration

Most students can complete the CA program within four to five years.

Syllabus

The course has three levels:

• CA Foundation
• CA Intermediate
• CA Final

• Job Profiles
• Tax Consultant
• Auditor
• Financial Analyst
• CFO

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to 8 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 20 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 25 lakhs to Rs 50 lakhs

2. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

The ACCA course is one of the world’s most sought-after accounting qualifications, with a strong presence in over 180 countries. As one of the best courses for commerce students, it prepares individuals to excel in fields such as financial reporting, management accounting, taxation, and internal auditing. With an ACCA stamp on your resume, you can work with large accounting firms, MNCs, management consulting companies and global and local banks. Many ACCA professionals have worked in top-tier organisations such as Deloitte, PWC, Tata Group, Reliance Industries, Goldman Sachs, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank.

Eligibility

• 12th-year students with a commerce background can take the course.
• 12th-year students without a commerce background must take the Foundations in Accountancy course first.
• Graduates can skip the Applied Knowledge level and move directly to the Applied Skills level.
• Students with professional certifications can get multiple exam exemptions. For example, CA professionals can skip nine ACCA papers.

Duration

Most students complete the ACCA program within two to three years.

Syllabus

The course has three levels:

• Applied Knowledge Level
• Applied Skills Level
• Strategic Professional Level

Job Profiles

• Accountant
• Financial Analyst
• Internal Auditor
• Tax Consultant
• CFO

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 30+ lakhs

3. Master of Business Administration (Finance)

In India, the esteemed MBA degree is a highly sought-after PG program for individuals who want to take on management roles in the finance sector. One of the best courses for commerce students, the MBA covers important areas such as investment management, financial analysis, corporate finance, financial planning and risk management. The MBA professional is highly sought after by top recruiters, particularly in industries such as banking, consulting, investment firms, and corporate finance.

Eligibility

• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 50 per cent average.
• Must clear entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT and GMAT.
• Experienced professionals may stand a higher chance of getting admission into some B-schools.

Duration

Most students complete the MBA finance program within two years.

Syllabus

The course has two levels:

• First year (core subjects)
• Second year (finance specialisation)

Job Profiles

• Investment banker
• Financial Analyst
• Corporate Finance Manager
• Portfolio Manager
• Wealth Manager
• Credit Analyst
• Entrepreneur
• CFO
• CEO

Potential annual salary (for tier-1 B-schools)

• Entry level — Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 40 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 50+ lakhs

Potential annual salary (for tier-2 B-schools)

• Entry level — Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 30 lakhs to Rs 40+ lakhs

4. Financial Risk Manager

The FRM course is a globally recognised certification for risk managers, giving them the knowledge and skills to handle financial risks effectively. Created by the GARP organisation, this is one of the best courses for commerce students who want to work in insurance, corporate finance, investment management and banking. The focus is on risk management, investment strategies and financial markets.

Eligibility

Graduates or working professionals can apply for the course.

Duration

Most students complete the FRM program within one to two years.

Syllabus

The course has two levels:

• FRM Part I
• FRM Part II

Job Profiles

• Risk Manager
• Portfolio Manager
• Financial Analyst
• Credit Risk Analyst
• CRO
• Head of Risk Management

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 20 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 40+ lakhs

5. Certified Management Accountant (USA)

The US CMA course is globally acclaimed in over 150 countries for its exceptional syllabus in management accounting and financial management. The curriculum is focused on significant topics such as financial planning, performance management, and strategic decision-making. India has seen a huge rise in the demand for US CMA holders as they are the preferred hire for MNCs, financial firms, consulting services and even local companies. Created by the illustrious IMA board, the US CMA is one of the best courses for commerce students hoping to kickstart their careers in accountancy. It is also ideal for working professionals looking for career advancement.

Eligibility

• You need a bachelor’s degree from an IMA-accredited college.
• Undergrad students can take the exams but must submit their degrees within seven years to receive their certification.

Duration

Most students complete the US CMA program within six months to a year.

Syllabus

The course has two levels —

• Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
• Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

Job Profiles

• Management Accountant
• Financial Analyst
• Tax Consultant
• Budget analyst
• Financial Controller
• Risk Manager
• CFO
• CEO

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 18 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 40 lakhs

6. Cost and Management Accountant (India)

The CMA India is one of the best courses in the commerce stream, focusing on cost management, financial management, strategic planning and performance management. Created by the ICAI, this qualification helps professionals master relevant subjects like cost accounting, taxation, corporate laws, and financial management so they can work in various sectors such as manufacturing, consulting and finance.

Eligibility

• Students who have completed 10+12 must take the Foundation course.
• Graduates and Postgraduates can take the CMA intermediate level and skip the Foundation.

Duration

Most students complete the CMA (India) program within three to four years.

Syllabus

The course has three levels:

• CMA Foundation
• CMA Intermediate
• CMA Final

Job Profiles

• Management Accountant
• Financial Consultant
• Controller
• Finance Manager
• Tax Consultant
• CFO

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 7 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs
• Senior level — Above Rs 15 lakhs

7. Chartered Institute of Management Accountants

The CIMA course is a highly coveted professional qualification for management accountants. It is valued by MNCs in over 180 countries for its detailed syllabus and practical approach to business scenarios. Students develop expertise in financial reporting, business strategy, risk management and performance management while preparing for leadership roles in finance and accounting.

Eligibility

• There is no minimum requirement to take the certificate in accounting level in the CIMA course. All students who have cleared class 10 and up are eligible.
• Graduates and professional certification holders may be exempt from some of the exams.

Duration

Most students complete the CIMA program within three to four years.

Syllabus

The course has four levels:

• Certificate in Accounting Level
• The Operational Level
• The Management Level
• The Strategic Level

Job Profiles

• Management Accountant
• Business Analyst
• Financial Consultant
• CFO

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 20 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 25 lakhs to Rs 50 lakhs

 

8. Chartered Financial Analyst

The global benchmark for investment management, the CFA course is known for boosting careers in India and abroad. Set up by the CFA Institute, USA, this program focuses on financial analysis, portfolio management and professional ethical standards. CFA professionals are qualified to work in areas such as equity research, investment banking, asset management, and financial advisory. They join banks, MNCs and reputed finance firms in prominent positions and climb the corporate ladder swiftly. No further proof is needed that the CFA is one of the top courses for commerce students.

Eligibility

• You require a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university to receive your CFA certification.
• Students who are doing a three-year bachelor’s degree, can complete Level 1 in their second year, Level 2 in their last year and finish Level 3 after they graduate.
• Students who are doing a four-year bachelor’s degree can complete Level 1 in their third year, Level 2 in their final year and finish Level 3 after graduation.
• Working professionals without a degree can take the CFA course if they have over 4,000 hours of relevant experience.
• All CFA students must hold a valid passport.

Duration

Most students complete the CFA program within two to three years.

Syllabus

The course is divided into:

• CFA Level I
• CFA Level II
• CFA Level III

Job Profiles

• Investment Analyst
• Equity Analyst
• Portfolio Manager
• Investment Banker
• Risk Manager
• Financial Consultant
• Credit Analyst

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 30+ lakhs

 9. Certified Financial Planner

Another one of the best courses for commerce students is the CFP program. It is a universally acclaimed certification in financial planning and private wealth management.

Students receive a deep, insightful education in risk management, retirement planning, estate planning, and tax management. It is a good time to be a CFP professional, as the demand for financial planners is at an all-time high in India.

Eligibility

• Students who have cleared class 12 can apply for the CFP course. They must complete all modules of the certification (regular pathway).
• Experienced working professionals with select certifications such as CFA, CA or CMA (India) can skip the modules and directly take the CFP exam (challenge status pathway).

Duration

• Most students complete the regular pathway course within six months to two years.
• Professionals taking the challenge status pathway can take three to six months to finish the course.

Syllabus

The course is divided into four modules

• Investment Planning Specialist
• Retirement and Tax Planning
• Risk and Estate Planning
• Integrated Financial Planning

Job Profiles

• Financial Planner
• Retirement Planner
• Investment Advisor
• Wealth Manager

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 9 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 30+ lakhs

10. US Certified Public Accountant

The Big 4 firms, global financial companies, and MNCs consider the US CPA certification one of the best credentials on a resume. The CPA professional is regarded as an expert in accounting, taxation, business laws and auditing. This qualification can lead to attractive jobs in public accounting, corporate finance and consulting companies. If you want to learn more about financial and management accounting, this is one of the best courses for commerce students.

Eligibility

Students should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. It helps to have an accounting background.

Duration

Most students complete the US CPA program within six months to a year.

Syllabus

The course is divided into four sections:

• Auditing and Attestation
• Business Environment and Concepts
• Financial Accounting and Reporting
• Regulation

Job Profiles

• Tax Consultant
• Financial Analyst
• Auditor
• CFO

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 9 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 18 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 35 lakhs

11. Digital Marketing

One of the most popular courses for commerce students is the DM course. It is specially designed to meet the rising need for digital engagement with customers. The program trains students to promote products and brands online while interacting with digital consumers. The topics taught include content marketing, social media, SEO, digital advertising and email marketing. As the digital landscape continues to grow and thrive, this course provides the perfect tools, industry knowledge, and practical insights to work in the digital marketing domain.

Eligibility

Students who have completed their 12th year can apply.

Duration

Most students complete the course in three to six months, depending on whether they applied for the part-time or full-time course.

Syllabus

The course is divided into three short modules:

• Website and SEO
• Social Media Marketing
• Performance Marketing

Job Profiles

• SEO Specialist
• Digital Marketing Manager
• PPC Specialist
• Social Media Manager
• Content Strategist
• Email Marketing Specialist
• Online Reputation Manager

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 5 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 20 lakhs

12. Business Analytics

Why is Business Analytics one of the best courses for commerce students? This program teaches students the necessary skills for data analysis and how to make business decisions based on the data. The key topics covered in the course are statistical analysis, predictive analytics, and data visualisation. Students also learn how to effectively use tools like R, Python, and MS Excel. The main focus is understanding how to leverage data to elevate business performance.

Eligibility

Students should have a bachelor’s degree in business, mathematics or engineering.

Duration

Most students finish in three to six months, depending on whether they applied for the part-time or full-time course.

Syllabus

The course teaches the following topics:

• Introduction to Business Analytics
• Data Collection and Data Quality
• Statistics and Probability for Business Analytics
• Excel for Business Analytics
• Business Analytics Tools and Software
• Predictive Analytics
• Optimisation and Simulation
• Data Visualisation and Reporting
• Business Analytics Case Studies

Job Profiles

• Business Analyst
• Operations Analyst
• Market Research Analyst
• Customer Insights Analyst

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 18 lakhs

13. Data Science

The Data Analytics course is a fantastic option for students who are interested in the world of big data. The program teaches you to analyse and decode complex data to create insights that lead to data-driven decision-making. The key topics in the course include machine learning, data visualisation, statistical analysis and data interpretation. Students also learn to use important data tools such as Python, Excel and R.

Data science is big now. With so many opportunities available, it’s not hard to see why this is one of the best courses for commerce students.

Eligibility

You need a bachelor’s degree in any field to apply for the course.

Duration

The course typically lasts six to nine months, depending on whether it’s a part-time or full-time program.

Syllabus

The course contains the following topics:

• Introduction to Data Science
• Statistics for Data Science
• Data Collection & Cleaning
• Exploratory Data Analysis
• Programming for Data Science
• Machine Learning Algorithms
• Advanced Machine Learning & AI
• Data Visualisation & Reporting

Job Profiles

• Data Scientist
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Engineer
• Quantitative Analyst
• Data Architect
• Data Consultants

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 30 lakhs

14. Actuarial Science

Actuarial Science is another course for commerce students that’s in high demand. A specialised program created by the Institute of Actuaries in India, the course focuses on managing financial risks in insurance, investment and pension sectors. Students develop skills to assess data and handle potential risks. You need to be proficient in maths, finance, economics and statistics to make informed evaluations of specific financial events.

Eligibility

• Students who have completed Class 12 (and took mathematics as a subject) can apply.
• Graduates from any stream are also eligible. (It helps to have a background in maths, economics or statistics.)

Duration

Students can take three to five years to complete the course.

Syllabus

The course contains four levels:

• Core Principles
• Specialist Technical
• Specialist Applications
• Core Application

Job Profiles

• Actuary
• Pricing Actuary
• Risk Manager
• Pension Actuary
• Underwriter

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 20 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 25 lakhs to Rs 50 lakhs

15. Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing

SAP certifications in India are coveted by students who are interested in working in fields like IT, project management or business analytics. The course helps students gain valuable knowledge in enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and learn various SAP modules. There is a growing dependence on SAP solutions in multiple industries. Certified professionals can help companies streamline their operations and enhance efficiency.

Little wonder it is fast becoming one of the best courses for commerce students.

Eligibility

Students should have a bachelor’s degree in relevant streams such as economics, engineering or computer science.

Duration

• Basic SAP certification courses last three to six months.
• Advanced SAP certification courses last six months to a year.

Job Profiles

• SAP FICO Consultant
• SAP SD Consultant
• SAP ABAP Developer
• SAP Security Consultant
• SAP BW Consultant

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 9 lakhs to Rs 18 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 40 lakhs

16. Company Secretary

The CS course is a well-respected professional qualification that trains students to manage corporate governance, regulatory adherence and business law. Company secretaries ensure organisations meet regulatory requirements and have complete corporate transparency. As one of the best courses for commerce students, this program will pave the way to exciting positions in corporate management.

Eligibility

• Students should have completed class 12 from any discipline (except fine arts).
• Graduates, postgraduates and certain qualified professionals can directly enrol in the Executive Programme.

Duration

• Undergraduates can take three to four years to complete the course.
• Graduates can take two to three years to finish the program.

Job Profiles

• Company Secretary
• Corporate Governance Officer
• Legal Advisor
• Compliance Officer
• Tax Consultant

Potential annual salary

• Entry level — Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 7 lakhs
• Mid-level — Rs 7 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhs
• Senior level — Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 30+ lakhs

 

Also Read- Top Core Finance Courses To Get Jobs Like Investment Banker, Equity Research Analyst Etc. In 2025

How to choose the best course for you

• Identify your key skills to gauge where your talent lies.
• Consider job profiles or industries that are appealing or interest you.
• Decide on what your short-term and long-term career goals are.
• Do a deep dive into the different courses to fully understand the syllabus.
• Analyse the time and cost of the course and see if it fits your schedule and budget.

 

Also Read-  7 Courses Like CA You Can Pursue In 2025 

Why should you enrol with Proschool?

IMS Proschool is one of India’s leading coaching institutes offering some of the best courses for commerce students such as CFA, ACCA, US CMA, CIMA, US CPA, business analytics, data science and digital marketing. Here are a few reasons why Proschool enjoys such a stellar reputation.

• Professors are experienced industry professionals with a deep understanding of the curriculum.
• Students are taught using active learning methods and innovative training techniques.
• Online and offline classes are available along with recorded sessions.
• You can access multiple learning resources such as full-length mock tests, board-approved study material, recorded videos and study plans.
• Students also receive doubt-clearing sessions and revision classes.
• Special recruitment support is provided through mock interviews, resume building and career guidance.

Conclusion

So many courses for commerce students can lead to exciting job opportunities, career growth and lucrative salaries. The ideal course for you will depend on your interests and career aspirations. Take the time to research, analyse your options and make the right decision.

FAQs

Should I pursue a professional certification along with my commerce degree?

Enrolling in a professional course with your degree can be a great idea. Certifications like US CMA, CFA, CIMA and ACCA add value to your resume and boost your chances of getting high-paying jobs with the top MNCs and finance companies. They also increase your chances of working in countries like the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and others.

How do I choose the best course after Class 12 for a career in finance?

Play to your strengths. As a commerce student, you may already know your areas of interest and proficiency. You may find yourself keen to learn more about investment banking. Or maybe management accounting concepts are easier for you to understand. So, pick one of the courses in commerce that most appeals to you.

Are ACCA, CIMA, and US CMA recognised globally?

Yes, the ACCA and CIMA are recognised in over 180 countries, while the US CMA has a strong presence in more than 150 nations.