Best Professional Courses After BA for Arts Graduates

After a BA, professional courses enhance career opportunities, employability, and skills.
UniList Desk

Updated Dec 24, 2025 | 06:15 PM IST

Verified By
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree is highly useful for students as it opens up a wide range of career opportunities. After completing a BA, many graduates look for professional courses to improve their job prospects. Choosing the right professional course helps BA graduates develop practical skills and achieve better career growth.
In India, students can find several reputed government colleges and universities that offer quality professional courses at affordable fees.
This article discusses the courses students can pursue after completing a Bachelor of Arts degree. It is especially useful for those who have an interest in arts and are planning their next academic or career step.

Why Choose Professional Courses After BA?

A Bachelor of Arts degree helps students develop strong communication skills, critical thinking, and analytical abilities. Professional courses add practical and job-oriented knowledge that can be applied in real-world situations. These courses improve employability and can also increase earning potential.
A combination of a BA degree and professional qualifications is often helpful for government jobs and for higher studies.

List of Best Professional Courses After BA

1. Master of Arts (MA)

The Master of Arts (MA) is one of the most popular choices after completing a BA. Students can choose subjects such as English, History, Political Science, Economics, or Sociology. An MA degree is useful for careers in teaching, research, academics, and for preparing for competitive examinations like UPSC and state services.
Top Government Universities:
  • University of Delhi
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University
  • Banaras Hindu University
  • University of Hyderabad

2. Bachelor of Education (B.Ed)

The Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) is a professional course for students who want to become teachers. It is mandatory for teaching in most government and government-aided schools in India. After completing a B.Ed, candidates can appear for teacher eligibility and recruitment exams conducted by central and state governments.
Top Government Institutions:
  • Central Institute of Education, University of Delhi
  • Regional Institutes of Education
  • State Government Colleges

3. Master of Social Work (MSW)

The Master of Social Work (MSW) is ideal for students interested in social service and community development. This degree offers career opportunities in non-government organisations, government departments, welfare agencies, and international organisations. MSW graduates often work in areas such as healthcare, education, rural development, and social policy.
Top Government Universities:
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences
  • University of Delhi
  • University of Madras

4. MBA from Government Universities

Arts graduates can also pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA). This course helps develop leadership, managerial, and organisational skills. Admission to MBA programmes in government institutions is usually through national or university-level entrance examinations.
Top Government Institutes:
  • Indian Institutes of Management
  • Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi
  • Jamia Millia Islamia

5. LLB (Law Course)

The LLB degree is required to practise as a lawyer in India. After completing LLB and enrolling with a State Bar Council, graduates can work as advocates or prepare for judicial services and legal examinations. The degree is essential for careers in law, litigation, legal consultancy, and public services.
Top Government Law Colleges:
  • National Law Universities
  • Faculty of Law, University of Delhi
  • BHU Faculty of Law

6. Diploma and Certificate Courses

Short-term diploma and certificate courses are useful for acquiring specific, job-oriented skills. Popular areas include journalism, public administration, tourism, and foreign languages. These courses are suitable for students who want quick skill development and better employability.
Government Institutes Offering These Courses:
  • Indira Gandhi National Open University
  • Jamia Millia Islamia
  • State Open Universities

Conclusion

Arts graduates have many professional course options after completing a BA. Government colleges and universities in India offer quality education at affordable costs. Students should choose a course based on their interests, strengths, and long-term career goals. The right choice can lead to a stable and successful future.

Learn More, Grow Faster

Get Updates Straight to Your Inbox!
SUBSCRIBE NOW