Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs for Commerce Students

In today's dynamic job market, the demand for careers in the field of commerce is soaring, offering a promising and secure future. Traditionally, the choices for secure and rewarding professions often revolved around medicine and engineering. However, the landscape has evolved significantly. The commerce sector has expanded its horizons, with a plethora of Jobs for Commerce Students, contributing to a global surge in employment opportunities. 

Commerce is the driving force behind numerous industries, encompassing finance, human resources, public relations, marketing, and management, making it an integral aspect of any business endeavour. As a result, the demand for commerce-related jobs continues to thrive. 

If you're grappling with doubts about the prospects of a commerce career and whether it can lead to success and prosperity, this blog is your compass. This blog has curated a list of the most lucrative Jobs for Commerce Students. Keep reading to discover a career path that aligns with your interests and aspirations. 

Table of Contents  

1) Top 15 Jobs for Commerce Students 

     a) Chartered Accountant (CA) 

     b) Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) 

     c) Company Secretary (CS) 

    d) Cost Management Accountant (CMA) 

    e) Product Management 

    f) Actuary  

    g) Investment Banker 

    h) Research Analyst 

    i) Marketing 

    j) Entrepreneurship 

   k) Retail Management 

   l) Cost Accountant  

   m) Public Accountant 

   n) Personal Financial Advisor 

   o) Digital Marketing 

3) High-paying career options for Commerce graduates without Math 

4) Conclusion 

Top 15 Jobs for Commerce Students
 

Below is a list of various jobs in the commerce field with salary ranges to help students better understand what to expect: 
 

                                                                                                                            Source: AmbitionBox, Naukri.com

1) Chartered Accountant (CA) 

The job of a Chartered Accountant (CA) is not just fancy; it's also one of the most lucrative careers in the commerce world. In the early stages of their career, CAs can earn annual salaries ranging from INR 7 lakhs to INR 8 lakhs. However, as experience and accomplishments accumulate, their compensation significantly increases. Chartered Accountants are pivotal in ensuring a company's financial records and accounts are accurately maintained and calculated. 

To become a Chartered Accountant, aspiring professionals must adhere to a structured process regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Eligibility for this prestigious title is determined through a series of examinations and internships. The journey to becoming a full-fledged CA generally spans 3 to 7 years, encompassing three key stages: CA Foundation, Integrated Professional Competence Course (IPCC), and CA Final. 

After completing the IPCC level, candidates must intern with a CA firm or work as an apprentice under a practising CA for 2.5 to 3 years. This practical experience is a crucial step toward qualification. Once all prerequisites are met and candidates pass the CA Final examination, they unlock the door to a rewarding career with high-paying job opportunities. 
 

2) Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) 

A Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) might not be as well-known in the commerce stream, but it holds significant untapped potential. CFAs are specialists in investment management, equipped with the skills to analyse and predict financial markets accurately. 

Becoming a CFA requires mastering various financial disciplines, including wealth management, equity management, credit analysis, and fixed-income analysis. The CFA certification consists of three levels, covering subjects such as accounting, economics, security analysis, money management, and ethics. Notably, economics plays a significant role in this course, making it an excellent choice for those interested in the field. 

CFAs can expect an average salary of INR 7 to INR 8 lakhs per year, and the added advantage is the global recognition of this profession within the commerce field. Unlike some other careers, a CFA degree remains valuable when working abroad. This makes it one of the few commerce stream jobs where the degree's credibility holds internationally. 

3) Company Secretary (CS) 

A company secretary plays a vital role in an organisation, providing essential services such as advising the board on legal, statutory, and regulatory compliance, as well as managing tasks like filing company tax returns. One of the appealing aspects of this career is its accessibility to students from various educational backgrounds. After completing their 12th-grade examinations and passing the three stages of examinations, students from any stream can apply for the foundation program. This flexibility makes it an attractive choice among the best career options after completing 12th grade in the commerce stream, with the potential for a high salary. As a Company Secretary, you can expect an annual salary of between INR 4 and INR 6 Lakhs per year as a fresher. 

4) Cost Management Accountant (CMA) 

CMA, which stands for Cost Management Accountant, is a prestigious professional credential with international recognition for commerce and accounting professionals. Not only is it considered one of the most challenging courses in India, but it also ranks among the highest-paying career options for commerce students. The CMA course is offered in countries like the USA and is closely associated with the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI). This affiliation further adds to the global relevance and value of the CMA designation for commerce professionals. 

5) Product Manager 

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, companies are continuously striving to innovate and create cutting-edge products and services that can capture the global market. At the heart of this innovation-driven process is the pivotal role of a product manager. These professionals are instrumental in every facet of a product's lifecycle, from its initial conceptualisation to the design and final production stages. 

From tech giants like Google to industry disruptors like Tesla, organisations seek skilled and visionary product managers who can bring creativity and ingenuity. These individuals are not just tasked with managing products but with shaping the future of businesses in an ever-competitive and dynamic market. The role of a product manager is both challenging and rewarding, offering the opportunity to make a significant impact on a company's success by delivering innovative solutions that resonate with customers worldwide. 

6) Actuary  

An actuary is a professional who plays a vital role in the insurance industry. Their primary responsibility is to meticulously analyse and assess the multitude of risks associated with the industry. They are instrumental in preparing insurance companies to handle potential liabilities in the future through a combination of risk management strategies and mathematical expertise. 

The spectrum of risks actuarial professionals deal with is wide-ranging, encompassing areas such as property loss, disability, and various other factors that can impact both companies and individuals. Actuaries often command a competitive salary, with earnings ranging from INR 9 to INR 10 lakh per year, subject to specific conditions and qualifications. 

Becoming an actuary requires a strong aptitude for managing and mitigating risk, making it a career choice for individuals with sharp analytical minds. It's essential to pursue a bachelor's degree in disciplines like Economics, Business Administration, Finance, or Mathematics to establish a solid educational foundation in this field. Actuaries play a pivotal role in ensuring that businesses and individuals can effectively navigate the complexities of risk in the insurance sector. 

7) Investment Banker 

A career as an Investment Banker or a Chartered Accountant (CA) stands out as one of the high-paying options in the commerce stream. However, unlike the path to becoming a CA, an Investment Banker doesn't require 3-7 years of rigorous study to be job-ready. 

If you possess a natural affinity for finance, a deep understanding of market behaviour, and a keen insight into the stock market, this profession could be your calling. Investment bankers primarily focus on advising companies and individuals regarding the most prudent ways to invest their capital. 

Investment banking firms specialise in crafting targeted investment portfolios that often yield significantly higher returns compared to the strategies employed by individual day traders. As an investment banker, your responsibility will involve ensuring that your organisation can meet its long- and short-term investment objectives. 

For those starting their career in this field in India, the average annual salary for an investment banker ranges between INR 10 to INR 12 lakh. Investment banking offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for individuals who thrive in finance and aspire to provide expert financial advice to clients. 

8) Research Analyst 

Becoming a research analyst presents an appealing career path for those passionate about operations, economics, finance, and equity analysis, among others. To embark on this career journey, a foundational requirement is a bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study, such as marketing, finance, or economics. However, to further enhance your qualifications and career prospects, pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) after gaining a few years of practical work experience can be a strategic move. This higher level of education equips you with advanced knowledge and analytical skills, opening up a broader spectrum of opportunities and preparing you for more sophisticated roles in research and analysis within various industries. 

9) Marketing 

After completing their 12th-grade education, students in the commerce stream can explore entry-level positions in marketing. This is an excellent starting point for gaining valuable experience and gradually advancing their marketing careers. A plethora of marketing opportunities await, particularly in small businesses that specialise in digital marketing, an industry that continues to grow and thrive. Aspiring marketers can conveniently enter this field by enrolling in a Certificate Program in Digital Marketing. For those looking to bolster their qualifications and career prospects further, pursuing a postgraduate course in digital marketing after completing their graduation is a strategic step. Such advanced education enhances one's expertise in the field and opens doors to more challenging and rewarding roles within digital marketing. 

10) Entrepreneurship 

Successful entrepreneurs are essentially versatile individuals who must adeptly handle a wide array of responsibilities. They embark on their entrepreneurial journeys by either introducing innovative, fresh concepts to the market or by offering improved versions of existing ideas. To excel as an entrepreneur, one must possess innovation and outstanding problem-solving abilities and consider enrolling in some of the finest Business Management courses. 

One of the remarkable aspects of entrepreneurship is that it doesn't mandate a specific course or degree. Entrepreneurs can emerge from diverse educational backgrounds. The most accomplished entrepreneurs are those who effectively address unmet market needs. In the realm of entrepreneurship, there are no predetermined salaries or fixed incomes. Instead, your earnings as an entrepreneur are directly tied to your company's profitability, affording the potential for substantial financial success. 

11) Retail Manager 

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, a career as a retail manager in finance could be an ideal choice. As a retail manager, your role revolves around problem-solving at both the front and back ends of operations to ensure optimal team performance. 

Your responsibilities encompass the comprehensive management and supervision of daily store operations. This involves overseeing sales, staff, inventory, and resource management to guarantee the store's efficient operation and profitability. 

To pursue a career as a retail manager, a degree in retail management is essential. You can further enhance your qualifications by enrolling in courses related to project management and business management, which provide a well-rounded understanding of your responsibilities. This profession ranks among the top career options for commerce students after completing their 12th-grade education. Retail managers typically earn an annual salary ranging from INR 5 to INR 6 Lakhs initially, with the potential for increased earnings based on performance and cost-saving initiatives. 

12) Cost Accountant  

A career as a cost accountant is an excellent choice for commerce students after completing their 12th grade. Cost accountants hold a multifaceted role, focusing on profitability analysis and budget preparation. These responsibilities are closely intertwined, as financial efficiency is vital. 

Unlike chartered accountants, becoming a cost accountant does not require official certification or the need to pass professional exams governed by a specific body. However, a strong aptitude for mathematics and economics, coupled with a background in commerce, is essential. 

Cost accountants typically earn an average annual salary of around INR 5 Lakhs. Manufacturing companies primarily employ them to help streamline production processes for maximum output while minimising production costs. Cost accountants meticulously examine and analyse supply chain data to ensure an optimised and cost-effective production process. This profession offers promising career prospects for commerce graduates. 

13) Public Accountant 

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) shares several similarities with a Chartered Accountant (CA), albeit with different governing bodies. While Indian Chartered Accountants are regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, Certified Public Accountants are overseen by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). 

What sets CPAs apart is their extensive global reach, akin to that of a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). This means that once you attain CPA certification, you can work in various locations worldwide, making it one of the few commerce careers with a global scope. CPAs specialise in conducting financial statement audits and providing comprehensive insights into an organisation's financial well-being. Additionally, they frequently offer expert advice on tax matters and financial planning. 

To become a CPA, you must hold a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or Accounting. Moreover, you need to complete a minimum of 150 hours of education to qualify for the licensure examination. This demanding profession offers opportunities to work internationally and make a significant impact on a company's financial management. 

14) Personal Financial Advisor 

Personal Financial Advisors are financial experts who assist clients in achieving both short-term and long-term financial objectives. Their guidance encompasses various financial matters, including property investments, tax planning, insurance, taxes, and retirement planning. Successful personal financial advisors possess a profound understanding of investment markets and a talent for discerning the best stocks, bonds, or funds tailored to each client's unique financial goals. 

The role of a Personal Financial Advisor is inherently specialised, with responsibilities that vary from one client to another. Similar to a personal shopper, these advisors must craft investment strategies that align with the individual financial aspirations and preferences of each client. 

Starting with an average annual salary of INR 4 Lakhs, this profession offers a dynamic and rewarding career path within finance. Personal Financial Advisors play a pivotal role in shaping their clients' financial future by providing sound financial guidance and tailored investment strategies. 

15) Digital Marketer 

Digital marketing stands as one of the most promising career options available to students after completing their 12th grade in commerce. Unlike traditional marketing methods, digital marketing leverages digital channels to promote services, brands, or products. This industry is characterised by its rapid growth, with new career avenues emerging at an unprecedented rate. As businesses and consumers increasingly embrace the digital landscape, the demand for digital marketing experts has surged, making it an attractive choice for commerce students seeking dynamic and evolving career opportunities. 

High-paying career options for Commerce graduates without Math 

If you're not a fan of math and numbers, there's no need to worry. Numerous commerce careers don't heavily rely on mathematics and statistics, enabling you to engage in the aspects of commerce you enjoy without delving too deep into math. Here are the top 5 commerce jobs that typically don't require extensive math skills: 


 

1) Relationship Manager 

Relationship managers are crucial in maintaining and nurturing a company's client relationships. Their responsibilities span a wide spectrum, including addressing customer inquiries and concerns, offering essential information, and facilitating sales. These professionals serve as a bridge between the company and its clients, ensuring customer needs are met, questions are answered, and the client relationship remains strong and beneficial. 

2) Human Resource Specialist 

Human resources play a fundamental role within any organisation. They are responsible for essential tasks such as employee onboarding and offboarding, managing salary adjustments, and resolving workplace conflicts. This career is ideally suited for individuals with strong interpersonal skills who are more inclined to focus on the human dimension of companies rather than solely the financial and commercial aspects. 

Human resources professionals work diligently behind the scenes to ensure that the company's operations run smoothly. On average, individuals working in human resources earn an annual salary of approximately INR 4.8 Lakhs. This profession offers a fulfilling career path for those who value the people-centric aspects of an organisation and are committed to fostering a positive work environment. 

3) Event Manager 

Event managers or event planners are pivotal in overseeing and coordinating various aspects of events and ceremonies. They are entrusted with meticulously organising events, which may encompass everything from catering to logistics. Event managers are in high demand, both in the corporate sector for managing company events and in the public domain for organising diverse gatherings, such as parties, weddings, and concerts. The annual salary for an event manager averages around INR 15 Lakhs, making it a lucrative career option for those with strong organisational and management skills.  

4) Hotel Manager 

Becoming a hotel manager requires obtaining a degree in hotel management from a recognised university. While additional specialisation courses in areas such as wine, hospitality, baking, or cooking can enhance your resume, a degree is a fundamental requirement. Hotel management is closely linked to the expansive travel and tourism industry, offering opportunities to contribute to the global economy. Hotel managers typically earn an average annual salary of INR 2.5 Lakhs, making it a viable career path in the hospitality sector. 

5) Sales Manager 

A Sales Manager holds a crucial role in developing, strategising, and executing sales plans while also ensuring a strong customer base and market presence. This position ranks among the high-paying Jobs for Commerce Students, offering an enticing career choice. Sales Managers are responsible for supervising sales representatives, including recruitment, selection, and training to equip them with the necessary skills for attracting clients and boosting the company's product sales. This multifaceted role plays a vital part in a company's growth and success. 

Conclusion 

Today's commerce sector offers diverse and structured career opportunities that are distinct from the past. The ever-expanding field provides constant room for growth, leading to a surge in demand for commerce professionals. Specialisation courses enhance employability and earning potential as companies seek specialists to fill specific roles. Upgrade your skills to boost prospects of landing high-paying Jobs for Commerce Students.