15+ Must-Explore Courses After Engineering: Engineering remains one of the top degree choices for students after completing 12th grade in the Science stream, closely linked with cutting-edge technology and innovation. Earning an engineering degree is no easy feat, as it demands a broad understanding across various subjects, typically within a rigorous four-year program.
Congratulations on navigating through “40 subjects, conducting 4,000 experiments, and attending 40,000 lectures over 4 years.”
While the sense of achievement is immense, your journey doesn’t have to stop here. Whether you were driven into engineering by external pressures or had every step meticulously planned, this is your opportunity to shape the next chapter of your professional life.
To assist you in exploring your options, here’s a list of courses you should consider pursuing after your engineering degree.
Top Courses to Pursue After Engineering
After completing your BTech degree, a world of career opportunities opens up to you. While the debate between pursuing an MBA or MTech is common among engineering graduates, there are numerous other conventional and unconventional paths you can explore. Wondering which course to take up next? Here are some of the best courses and universities you can consider studying abroad after completing your engineering degree:
- MTech
- MBA
- MSc or MS
- PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)
- Merchant Navy Courses/Exams
- Animation/VFX Courses
- Entrepreneurship Courses
- Game Designing Courses
- PG Certificate Courses in IoT, Materials Management, Graphic Designing, Video Designing, and more.
Master of Science (M.Sc. or M.S.)
Pursuing a Master of Science is a common and strategic choice for engineering graduates who wish to further specialize in their field of interest. This route is particularly suited for individuals drawn to the technical side of their discipline.
A significant advantage of an M.S. program is that, unlike other postgraduate options that may require several years of work experience, an M.S. typically does not have this prerequisite. Earning your M.S. degree abroad can also boost your chances of landing a job internationally. To gain admission into a top university, a strong GRE score, persuasive Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and a well-crafted Statement of Purpose (SOP) are essential.
Key specializations for an MSc include:
- MSc in Physics
- MSc in Chemistry
- MS in Artificial Intelligence
- MSc in Computer Science
- MSc in Applied Mathematics and Computing
- MSc in Electronic Science
- MSc in Game Design and Development
- MSc in Green Technology
Top Universities for MS/MSc
- University of Cambridge offers a variety of advanced degrees in science and technology, with fees around 50 Lakh INR.
- Stanford University is known for its cutting-edge research and quality education, with tuition fees approximately 50 Lakh INR.
- Georgia Institute of Technology provides robust MS programs with a focus on innovation and industry relevance, costing around 46 Lakh INR.
- University of California – Berkeley is a top-tier institution for MS/MSc, with fees approximately 65 Lakh INR.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is renowned for its prestigious MS programs, with a tuition fee of about 70 Lakh INR.
Master of Technology (MTech)
For engineering graduates, transitioning from a BTech to an MTech is a natural progression and a popular choice for those seeking to deepen their knowledge in their chosen field. The MTech program offers an in-depth focus on the subjects introduced at the undergraduate level, allowing students to hone their skills and specialize further.
Graduates often select an MTech specialization aligned with their BTech discipline, aiming to enhance their qualifications and secure lucrative positions in their field of interest. Admission to MTech programs generally requires passing the GATE exam, which serves as a key criterion for entry into premier engineering institutes.
Moreover, an MTech degree can be pursued while working, offering flexibility for professionals looking to advance their education. Some of the top specializations available for MTech include:
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Power Systems Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
Top Universities for MTech
| University | Average Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| University of California – Berkeley | 65 Lakh |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 44 Lakh |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 60 Lakh |
| University of Cambridge | 50 Lakh |
| Stanford University | 50 Lakh |
These leading institutions are known for their outstanding MTech programs, offering students advanced education and research opportunities in various fields of engineering.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
An increasingly popular option among students, an MBA equips you with the essential skills and refinement needed to excel in the corporate world. This program emphasizes business acumen, managerial skills, and integrates decision-making and leadership qualities, making it an attractive path for engineers looking to diversify their skill set.
To pursue an MBA abroad, the GMAT exam is typically required, while exams like CAT and various private university entrance tests are needed for admission into Indian institutions. This course is a great option for those considering a shift in their career trajectory after completing engineering.
Key MBA specializations include:
- Finance
- Human Resource Management
- International Business
- Information Technology
- Media and Communications
- Hospitality Management
- Healthcare Management
Top Universities for MBA
| B-Schools | Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| Harvard Business School | 80 Lakh |
| University of Pennsylvania: Wharton | 82 Lakh |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | 83 Lakh |
| INSEAD | 67 Lakh |
| CEIBS | (Fees not listed) |
These renowned business schools offer some of the best MBA programs worldwide, providing comprehensive education in various specializations to prepare students for leadership roles in the business world.
Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
A Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) provides a diploma rather than a degree, distinguishing it from an MBA. Although often seen as comparable, the content of these programs varies.
MBA curricula are typically designed to fit university guidelines, while PGDM courses are more geared toward practical, industry-based learning. This makes PGDM a more hands-on and application-focused program compared to the generally more theoretical MBA. Pursuing a PGDM can be a valuable and rewarding option after completing an engineering degree.
Top Universities for PGDM
| Universities | Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| Harvard Business School | 80 Lakh |
| INSEAD | 67 Lakh |
| London Business School | 80 Lakh |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | 56 Lakh |
| University of Pennsylvania: Wharton | 82 Lakh |
These prestigious institutions are well-known for their PGDM programs, which emphasize practical skills and real-world industry insights, making them excellent choices for engineering graduates looking to expand their management expertise.
Merchant Navy/Armed Forces
Engineering graduates have various alternative career paths, one of which is joining the merchant navy. However, to pursue a career in the merchant navy, it is essential to hold a degree in mechanical, electronics, electrical, or marine engineering.
Upon completing a B.Tech in one of these disciplines, graduates can enroll in courses such as Graduate Marine Engineer (GME) or Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) to secure direct placements on merchant navy ships. Another viable option is to join the armed forces by pursuing courses like:
a. Technical Graduate Course (TGC)
b. Short Service Commission (SSC)
These pathways offer engineers a unique blend of technical expertise and service-oriented careers.
Short-Term Courses After Engineering
If you’re looking to boost your skills through concise yet impactful training, here’s a list of some top short-term courses suitable for engineering graduates, presented in a mixed order:
- Software Testing
- Financial Risk Manager (FRM) Certification
- Tally Course
- PGDCA (Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications)
- Java Course
- Project Management
- Digital Marketing Course
- Graduate Diploma in Applied Policy
- Certificate courses in Graphic Designing and Web Designing
- Business Analytics Course
- PGDM in Digital Production for Entertainment Design
- PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)
- Programming courses in C, C++, SQL, HTML, JAVA, and more
- Human Resource Management Courses
- Business Accounting and Taxation Course
- Post Graduate Diploma in VLSI Design
- PG Diploma in Digital Marketing
- Data Visualization Course
These courses are structured to provide targeted skills, enhancing your professional capabilities and expanding your career horizons.
List of Postgraduate Courses After Engineering
If you’re considering further studies after completing your engineering degree, here are some of the top postgraduate courses to explore, in a mixed order:
- MBA in Finance
- Master of Engineering (ME)
- MBA in Marketing
- Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Technology (MTech)
- MBA in Operations
- MBA in Construction Management
- MBA in Information Technology
- MBA in Quality Management
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
These programs provide advanced education and specialized skills to help propel your career forward in your chosen industry.
Medical Pathways After Engineering
If you’re considering a shift towards the medical field after earning a BTech or BE, there are several postgraduate options that cater specifically to engineering graduates. Here are some prominent medical specializations you can explore:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biochemical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Paramedical Studies
- Healthcare Management
- Allied Health Sciences
These courses offer the opportunity to integrate your engineering expertise with medical knowledge, providing a gateway to diverse careers in the healthcare sector and beyond.
Non-Technical Career Paths After Engineering
For engineering graduates who prefer to begin their professional journey in non-technical roles, there are several exams and fields to consider. If you’re exploring non-technical career options after your engineering degree, here are some opportunities:
- Civil Services Exam
- Bank Probationary Officer (PO)
- Digital Marketing
- Business Development
- Stock Market Roles: SEBI Grade A
- Consultant
- Investment Banking
- Central Bank Careers: RBI Grade B, RBI Grade A, RBI Assistant, etc.
- Online Educator
- Photographer
- Corporate Communication Specialist
These paths offer a chance to leverage your skills in diverse and dynamic fields beyond traditional engineering roles.
Management Courses After Engineering
If you’re aiming for managerial roles after completing your BE/BTech, enrolling in management courses can be an ideal pathway. These programs are designed to equip you with the leadership skills and business acumen needed for higher-level positions. Here are some popular management courses to consider:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Masters in Management (MIM)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
- Master of Management Studies (MMS)
- Executive Diploma in Management
These courses provide a strong foundation in management principles, preparing you for a successful transition into leadership roles across various industries.
Career Switching Options After Engineering
For engineering graduates interested in exploring new fields, there are numerous career options and specializations available that cater to a variety of interests and skills.
From non-technical fields like Management, Graphic Design, and Digital Marketing to tech-focused areas like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, BTech and BE graduates have plenty of opportunities for a career shift. Deciding on the next step might involve taking an entry-level job in your new field or enrolling in a relevant educational program.
Here are some popular options for a career change after Engineering:
- Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence (Master’s/Certificate)
- Media & Journalism (PG Diploma/MA)
- Digital Marketing (Master’s/PG Diploma)
- Game Designing
- Creative Writing/Fashion Designing (MFA)
- Management (MBA, PGDM, MIM)
- Content Writing/Technical Writing/Subject Matter Expertise
- Entrepreneurship
- Graphic Design (Certificate/Online Courses)
- Qualifying for Bank Exams/UPSC/Civil Services or IAF Exams
These diverse pathways enable engineering graduates to apply their skills in new and exciting directions, offering a fresh start in a variety of industries.
Alternative Career Paths & Courses After Engineering
Beyond the conventional routes typically taken after an engineering degree, it’s worthwhile to explore unconventional paths that could lead you to a unique and rewarding career. Here are some distinctive courses tailored for engineers that you might want to consider:
Game Designing
If you’ve always been captivated by video games and are intrigued by the intricate process behind their creation, then game design is an avenue worth exploring. Programs such as a Master’s in Game Development delve into the journey of a game, from its initial concept to its detailed design and eventual release to the public.
As the online gaming sector continues to thrive, the need for talented game designers and developers is rapidly growing. Specializing in game design not only opens doors to a lucrative career but also allows you to tap into a dynamic and creatively satisfying industry.
Animation/VFX/Graphic Designing
With the entertainment industry increasingly relying on dynamic and visually stunning graphics, animation courses after engineering offer a compelling alternative career path. If you have a knack for storytelling through animated visuals, pursuing a career in VFX and Animation can place you at the heart of the media and entertainment sectors.
Additionally, if you have a passion for creating captivating visuals, infographics, and design elements, exploring graphic designing courses can be a great way to channel your creativity into a rewarding profession.
Filmmaking
For those with a creative drive, filmmaking is an unconventional yet highly rewarding path to pursue after engineering. This field offers a unique opportunity to translate untold stories and extraordinary ideas onto the big screen.
A variety of filmmaking courses are available, allowing you to explore diverse roles such as scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, and more.
Leveraging your technical skills, you can dive into the vibrant world of cinema, where your talents in visualization and storytelling can help you craft timeless cinematic works.
Entrepreneurship
If you have a distinctive business idea but lack the necessary skills and knowledge to bring it to life, pursuing a PG diploma or an MBA in Entrepreneurship could be the perfect stepping stone. These programs equip you with essential insights and practical exposure needed to succeed in the entrepreneurial world.
Engineers are known for their creativity and innovation, so if you’re looking to forge a different path, you can dive straight into entrepreneurship after graduation. In addition to traditional courses, specialized programs like the Entrepreneurship Development Program can further refine your entrepreneurial skills.
Having a solid educational foundation is highly recommended before venturing into the business world.
Top Engineering Colleges Globally
| University | Location | Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022 (Engineering) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Cambridge | UK | 2 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | USA | 4 |
| ETH Zurich | Switzerland | 7 |
| Stanford University | USA | 5 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | USA | 15 |
| Princeton University | USA | 17 |
| University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | USA | 10 |
| University of Oxford | UK | 3 |
| Harvard University | USA | 4 |
These universities are ranked among the world’s leading institutions for engineering, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022, and offer top-notch education and research opportunities in the field.
Top Engineering Colleges in India
| College | Location |
|---|---|
| IIT Dhanbad | Dhanbad |
| IIT Guwahati | Guwahati |
| IIT Varanasi | Varanasi |
| IIT Madras | Chennai |
| IIT Kanpur | Kanpur |
| IIT Indore | Indore |
| IIT Hyderabad | Hyderabad |
| IIT Roorkee | Roorkee |
| NIT Trichy | Tiruchirappalli |
| IIT Kharagpur | Kharagpur |
| IIT Delhi | Delhi |
| IIT Bombay | Mumbai |
| National Institute of Technology Karnataka | Surathkal |
These institutions represent some of the premier engineering colleges in India, distinguished by their high academic standards, advanced research facilities, and significant impact on engineering education.
FAQs
What are the best courses to pursue after engineering?
Several popular options are available for those looking to continue their education after engineering. Consider these top choices:
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MTech (Master of Technology)
- PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in Management)
- Maritime Studies
- Civil Services Examination
- Animation and Graphic Designing
- Software or ITI (Industrial Training Institute) Courses
What should I study after completing an engineering degree?
There are a variety of fields to explore after earning a BTech or BE degree. You might consider:
- PG Courses: Options like MBA, MTech, Master’s in Digital Marketing, MIM (Master in Management), and MBA with a focus on Entrepreneurship.
- Short-Term Courses: Programs such as PGDM, PGDCA, and certificate courses in Graphic Designing, Web Designing, JAVA, C, C++, SQL, HTML, and other programming languages.
- Medical Courses: Specializations including Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Psychology, and Biochemical Engineering.
What are the options after completing a BTech?
Once you’ve completed your BTech, there are several pathways you can explore. You might consider enrolling in postgraduate programs such as MTech, ME (Master of Engineering), MBA, MIM (Master in Management), or a Master’s in Digital Marketing. Alternatively, you could prepare for competitive exams like the Civil Services exams or UPSC, or explore opportunities with the Indian Army.