Top 7 career options after BBA. And MBA isn’t one of them.

7 career options after BBA 

(MBA is not one of them!)

Isn’t it true? The next logical step for every BBA graduate is an MBA

If you think the above statement isn’t correct, check again. Or better still, allow us to change your mind. Your BBA degree opens up a world of possibilities beyond the MBA qualification. 

Your degree has given you the skills and business-related knowledge that opens up many different opportunities. You are one step closer to becoming a highly sought-after business professional. Instead of an MBA, you can pursue other professional courses, depending on your aptitude. Whether you want to work in a multi-national corporation, join a government organization or start your own business, you have many options to consider. An MBA may not be one of them. Other courses can take your career where you want it to go. 

Here are seven courses after BBA for you to explore:

1. The CFA program 

Do you have your heart set on being in the investment finance industry? Then a CFA course is perfect for you. The CFA institute has created an internationally acknowledged qualification that enables certified professionals to work in investment services and portfolio management. As a chartered financial analyst (CFA), you will know the practical skills and expertise to navigate this fiercely competitive field. You will also join the community of over 170,000 professionals who have gone on to enjoy successful careers across the world. It is one of the best courses after BBA to consider pursuing. 

Advantages of the CFA course:

• The CFA institute is a globally acknowledged, defining standard in investment management
• The course lays down a solid foundation in investment analysis and portfolio management
• Investment specialists and industry leaders consistently update the syllabus based on the latest developments and standards 
• CFA charterholders play a role in shaping the investment industry 

Eligibility 

• You need a bachelor’s degree or apply when you are in your final year of graduation 
• You are also eligible if you have 4 years of work experience in a relevant industry
• You should be able to communicate in English
• You need a valid passport

CFA course details

The program focuses on investment banking, equity research, portfolio management and wealth management. 

• The course is divided into 3 levels and contains the following subjects: 
  • Ethical and professional standards
  • Quantitative methods
  • Economics
  • Financial reporting and analysis
  • Corporate issuers
  • Equity investments
  • Fixed income
  • Derivatives
  • Alternative investments
  • Portfolio management

• The duration of the course depends on the student, but the average is around 3 years 

• You will need to fulfil the work requirement of 3 years to become a charter holder 

Career opportunities 

A CFA professional is considered a proficient investment specialist by many leading companies globally. You receive the educational background and learn technical skills that open up many doors in finance. The course training enables you to handle high-pressure environments and deal with the challenges that arise in the industry. Your certification offers the opportunity to become a wealth manager, investment banker, portfolio manager and equity research analyst in some of the top investment firms in the world, such as 

• HSBC
• CitiGroup
• JP Morgan Chase
• Morgan Stanley
• Price Waterhouse Coopers

Companies are willing to pay for your level of expertise. As a CFA, your salary starts at around Rs 7 lakhs a year, going up to Rs 15 lakhs once you gain experience. Established CFA professionals can earn over Rs 20 lakhs a year.

Click here to learn more about the CFA program

or 

2. PGCM Data Analytics

Data analytics is revolutionizing businesses in corporate India. It is also one of the potential job opportunities after BBA. Business savvy professionals use big data scientists to transform raw data into insights. It helps them to build sound strategies and make informed decisions. They can find solutions to complex challenges using multiple methods and technologies. A PGCM in data analytics gives you well-rounded training in software systems such as Python, MySQL and Excel to create models and visualisations. Combine this certification with your BBA degree, and you’ll be an unstoppable force in the business world. 

Advantages of the data analysis course:

• Data analysts are in high demand all over the world as they play an instrumental role in increasing the growth and productivity of a company 
• More and more companies are looking for qualified analysts to work with them
• The course teaches theoretical and technical skills such as Python, MySQL and machine learning 
• You help to shape the strategies and policies of an organisation
• Despite the tech-heavy nature of the job, a data analyst can never be replaced by automation. You need a sharp, critical mind to harvest the raw information 

Eligibility

• You must be a graduate
• Your average grade must be 50 percent or more

PGCM data analysis course details

A postgraduate certificate in marketing is an ideal certificate for BBA graduates who are interested in data science. 

• It is a one-year course that teaches you relevant skills such as SEO, SMM and analytics
• You also become proficient in software systems such as MySQL, Python and machine learning 
• You receive comprehensive learning resources that help you sharpen your analytical skills 
• As this is an AICTE-approved program, you also get an option to do an MBA degree within two years (with this course counting as the first year)
• This course counts as your 16th year in case you plan on further studies abroad

• The following subjects are taught across two terms:
• Term 1: 
  • Data analysis in Excel
  • Business statistics
  • Visualisation with PowerBI
  • Introduction to IT systems
  • Business communications
  • Marketing management

• Term 2: 
  • Data handling with SQL and Python
  • Data preprocessing and EDA
  • Introduction to machine learning
  • Machine learning techniques
  • Advanced machine learning

Career opportunities 

Today, almost all corporations are looking for qualified professionals. Businesses rely heavily on big data to improve their efficiency and output. They need skilled data analysts to detect emerging patterns, study new trends, spot discrepancies and create insights. It applies across all industries, whether a pharmaceutical corporation, financial services or a tech giant like Google. With your credentials, you could become a:

• Business analyst 
• Marketing manager
• Research scientist
• Financial analyst
• Business development executive
• Data processing manager 

Data-based jobs are proving very lucrative, with annual salaries for freshers starting at Rs 3 – 4 lakhs. After a few years, this figure can go up to Rs 8 – 10 lakhs. Once you’re a seasoned professional, the yearly income can cross over 20 lakhs. It all depends on the company and the location. Organisations like Infosys, Flipkart, Capgemini and Accenture generate a large amount of raw data and hire well-trained data analysts to help decode the information. 

There’s more data about the PGCM data analytics course here

or 

3. The ACCA course 

It doesn’t matter what the current trends in the corporate world are — accounting never goes out of style. It’s a time-honoured profession constantly upgraded but never made redundant. If you love working with facts and figures, have a sharp eye for details and love to organise, you could become an ACCA-certified accountant. 

Founded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in 1904, this program has become globally renowned, with more than 500,000 students in over 180 countries. It is the perfect courses after BBA, if you’re looking for a foothold in the accounting and finance industry.

Advantages of the ACCA course 

• Globally recognised in over 180 countries, including Australia, the UK, Singapore, Canada and Dubai
• The comprehensive syllabus includes international regulations and practices followed by the big 4 and other leading multi-national corporations 
• It is the ideal course for managerial and financial accountants 
• Once you become an ACCA member, you receive better job prospects and growth opportunities 
• You are eligible to work in many accounting-related jobs such as taxation, fund management, forensic accounting, etc.
• An ACCA qualification can lead to migration possibilities, as your credential is valid across the world

Eligibility

• BBA graduates can apply for the course 
• The course is also open to students who have cleared their 12th year and working professionals 

The ACCA course details 

• The course can take 2 to 3 years to complete 
• BBA graduates receive exam exemptions in the first four subjects (3 papers from the Knowledge level and one from the Applied skills level)
• To become an ACCA member, you need to pass all exams and work for 3 years in a relevant position
• The syllabus contains 13 subjects across three levels

Applied knowledge level 

• Accountant in business
• Management accounting 
• Financial accounting

Applied skills level 

• Corporate and business law
• Performance management
• Taxation 
• Financial reporting
• Audit and assurance
• Financial management 

Strategic professional level

Essential:

• Strategic business leader
• Strategic business reporting

Optional (Pick any two):

• Advanced financial management
• Advanced performance management
• Advanced taxation 
• Advanced audit and assurance

Career opportunities 

Your ACCA qualifications can get you a job with some of the world’s biggest companies. The big 4 already have many ACCA-certified employees and are always looking to add to the team. The training you receive while doing the course equips you with the tools and expertise to work in strategic positions and leadership roles. Today’s ACCA student can be tomorrow’s CFO of a major firm. The salaries offered to ACCA professionals are also on the higher end of the scale. While salaries start at Rs 3 to 8 lakhs per annum, higher management positions such as CFOs can earn between Rs 40 to 80 lakhs a year.

The GPA program takes the ACCA course to new heights. Click here to learn more

or

4. The CFP program 

The need for quality financial planners has increased exponentially in the past few years. Even in India, more and more individuals are looking for certified professionals to help them manage their investment portfolios and plan their financial futures.

The CFP course meets the rising demands within the investment services industry. The program is one of the best career options after BBA, if you are interested in financial planning. It is a rewarding career with immense job satisfaction and a fast growth rate.

Advantages of the CFP course 

• It is the gold standard in financial planning across the world, including the USA, the UK, Germany, Australia, and Hong Kong.
• The syllabus contains relevant topics such as taxes, estate and retirement planning and risk management
• Great way to advance your career or start your practice 
• Research has shown that clients are more likely to trust CFP professionals as they follow a strong code of ethics
• You enjoy a strong reputation in the finance industry and among your peers 

Eligibility

• The course is open to undergraduates (12th year), graduates and postgraduates from many streams
• Working professionals can also apply

CFP course details 

• The program is affiliated with the Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB)

• The duration is one year

• The syllabus has six specialist modules 
  • Introduction to financial planning 
  • Risk analysis and insurance planning
  • Retirement planning and employee benefits 
  • Investment planning
  • Tax planning and estate planning
  • Advanced financial planning 

• The course offers training in core investment concepts and industry knowledge

Career opportunities 

As a certified financial planner, you are a coveted hire by top banks, NBFCs, wealth management firms, mutual fund houses and even insurance agencies. They need trustworthy and reliable planners who can advise clients on suitable investments and help them build their financial portfolios. As you build relationships with your investors, you also forge strong connections with your employer and become a valuable asset to your company. This can lead to better prospects for your career. Also, your certification allows you to apply for several roles as: 

• Portfolio manager 
• Cost analyst
• Financial advisor
• Risk analyst 
• Wealth manager
• Financial manager
• Investment advisor 
• Insurance advisor 

CFPs entering the workforce can start at an annual salary between Rs 3 to 5 lakhs.

Middle-level employees move up to Rs 6 to 8 lakhs a year, while seasoned planners earn over Rs 10 lakhs per annum.

Find out more information about the CFP course here

or

5. PGCM in digital marketing

Your BBA degree and a PG certificate in digital marketing go well together. You can use your business acumen and knowledge to promote products and services online. Today, everyone has a smartphone. You can reach out to a broader audience and create brand-building opportunities for your clients. You don’t need to do an MBA after BBA, this course will make you a force to reckon with. 

Eligibility

• You must be a graduate 
• Your average grade must be 50 per cent or more

Advantages of the PGCM digital marketing course

• You receive an AICTE-approved PG certificate
• You learn the latest software and tools used in digital marketing fields such as Google Data Studio, Figma, LinkedIn Ads, etc. 
• The syllabus includes a comprehensive study of industry concepts such as SEO, SEM and SERP
• The course counts as your 16th year in case you go abroad for further studies
• You are ready to start working in one year
• There are subjects across two terms: 
  • Term 1:
  • Data analysis in Excel
  • Business statistics
  • Visualisation with PowerBI
  • Introduction to IT systems
  • Business communications
  • Marketing management

• Term 2: 
  • Intro To digital marketing
  • Web Design & SEO
  • SEM & SMM
  • Digital communication
  • Web analytics & performance tracking
  • Trends in digital marketing

Career opportunities 

Digital marketing is a multi-billion dollar industry. Companies invest massive amounts of money to attract customers online. They need skilled digital marketers to get the job done. There are many digital channels to explore and various strategies to implement. The right professional will use the latest tools and techniques to create an effective and efficient online campaign. There are several job profiles within the industry to carry out specific functions, such as: 

• Search Engine Optimiser 
• Web developer
• Social media marketer 
• Email marketer 
• Digital marketing manager 

On receiving the PG certificate, freshers earn around Rs 3 to 4 lakhs a year. Those with a few years of experience move up to the Rs 8 to 10 lakhs bracket. Digital marketing managers can earn an annual income of Rs 18 to 20 lakhs. The numbers vary as they depend on factors such as the location, company and negotiation skills. 

To join the exciting world of digital marketing, register for the PGCM program here

or

6. PGCM Investment Banking and Capital Markets

The PGCM IBCM course is perfect for those BBA graduates who are uncertain about pursuing an MBA but still want to enter the finance industry. The program teaches comprehensive finance-based theory and the practical skills required to become a certified investment specialist. 

Advantages of the PGCM IBCM course 

• It is an option to do an MBA-equivalent course
• You get an AICTE-approved qualification 
• The course counts as your 16th year in case you go abroad for further studies
• You are ready to start working in the investment industry in one year

Eligibility

• You must be a graduate 
• Your average grade must be 50 percent or more

PGCM IBCM course details 

• The course duration is one year
• You learn essential skills like financial modeling and analytics
• The syllabus includes learning software systems such as Excel and Tableau 

• There are 12 subjects taught across two terms: 
  • Term 1:
  • Data analysis in Excel
  • Business statistics
  • Visualization with PowerBI
  • Introduction to IT systems
  • Business communications
  • Financial markets

• Term 2:
• Financial performance and analysis
• Financial management
• Business economics and industry analysis
• Project finance and equity modeling
• Business analysis, valuation and pitch book
• Business simulation

Career opportunities 

With your PG certificate and newly acquired specialised financial skills, you can launch your career within the investment industry. You can work in various sectors such as venture capital, private equity, valuations, investment banking and corporate finance. Your qualification will ensure you are on the cutting edge of the latest developments and trends in the market. You can apply for the following jobs after BBA and PGCM IBCM:

• Asset manager 
• Wealth manager 
• Corporate finance professional 
• Investment banker 

Click here to sign up for the PGCM IBCM course today

or

7. The CIMA course

The CIMA certificate is an internationally acknowledged qualification for business and finance. Since 1919, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants has established itself as one of the most illustrious organisations, with more than 250,000 members in over 180 countries. The course teaches students how to achieve sustainable business success. It is the perfect course for BBA graduates who want to combine their love for management with their passion for accounting. 

Advantages of the CIMA course

• The program is preferred by many major companies around the world when recruiting new employees
• It helps you learn the necessary skills that are relevant to the industry 
• You develop keen business acumen and industry knowledge 
• You can reap many career-rich benefits from being a member of the CIMA network 

Eligibility

• The course is open to undergraduates and graduates 
• Candidates who have done other professional courses can apply as well

The CIMA course details 

• The duration of the course is between 2 to 3 years 

There are 13 subjects across 4 levels

• Certificate level 
• Fundamentals of business economics
• Fundamentals of management accounting
• Fundamentals of financial accounting
• Fundamentals of ethics, corporate governance and business law

• Operational level 
• Organisational management
• Management accounting
• Financial reporting and taxation

• Management level
• Project and relationship management
• Advanced management accounting
• Advanced financial reporting

• Strategic level 
• Strategic management
• Risk management
• Financial strategy
• BBA graduates will receive certain exemptions from exams

Career opportunities 

Many companies prefer to hire CIMA-qualified professionals to work as management accountants. They have the perfect combination of business and finance-based skills that most international organizations want in their employees. A CIMA certificate can lead to many job opportunities after BBA. You can work in profiles such as:

• Management accountant
• Project manager 
• Management consultant
• Forensic accountant
• Business analyst 
• Financial controller

The CIMA certification has proven quite lucrative. The average annual salary for a CIMA professional is Rs 10 lakhs, whereas CGMA holders can command around Rs 55 lakhs per annum.

To know more about the CIMA Program, click here.

or

In conclusion

You don’t have to necessarily do an MBA after BBA. The above seven options work well with your degree and can help you pursue a successful and fulfilling career in the industry of your choice.