Best Diploma Courses After 10th for Students in 2025

There are many types of diploma courses available after the 10th grade that can help you kick-start your career without completing higher secondary education. In fact, an increasing number of students today are opting for skill-development programs and vocational training after Class 10 to gain early exposure to the workforce and build expertise in fields that match their interests.

For example, Rohit Sharma, a Class 10 student from Delhi, chose to pursue a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Polytechnic) instead of continuing with Class 11 and 12. Within three years, he secured a placement as a junior engineer at a reputed automotive firm, and later leveraged his diploma to pursue a B.Tech through lateral entry. His decision not only saved him time but also gave him hands-on industry experience much earlier than his peers.

After completing 10th, students can explore a wide range of diploma courses that provide practical, industry-oriented training. These programs not only create pathways to early job opportunities but also serve as stepping stones for advanced studies. Some popular options include Diploma in Engineering (Polytechnic), Computer Applications, Fashion Designing, and Medical Lab Technology-spanning domains like engineering, IT, paramedical sciences, and creative arts.

Carefully evaluating your career goals at this stage is crucial. For students aiming to acquire job-ready skills quickly or those interested in technical and creative fields, diploma courses offer a valuable and credible alternative to traditional +2 education.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best diploma courses after 10th in Arts, Commerce, and Science streams, along with details on eligibility, duration, fees, top institutes, and career prospects-so you can make an informed and confident decision about your future.

What to Do After the 10th?

After completing your 10th grade, the best thing to upgrade yourself with some skills to get a great job is to do a diploma course. Diploma Courses after 10th grade can help you shape your future. You can pursue diploma courses after 10th grade in a field of your interest. It is a 6 month to 1 year course. 

There are a lot of top government colleges and universities that provide diploma courses after 10th. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer alternative diploma programs that may not have official recognition but still provide valuable training and skills. Choosing one of these programs can be a great way to start an exciting career.

What is a Diploma Course?

A diploma course is a short-term educational program that provides specialized knowledge and practical skills in a specific field. Typically lasting 1-2 years, these courses help students gain industry-relevant expertise and improve job prospects.

Best Diploma Programs After Class 10

Below is the Diploma courses list after 10th:

1. Diploma in Photography
2. Diploma in Psychology
3. Diploma in Elementary Education
4. Diploma in Digital Marketing
5. Diploma in Fine Arts
6. Diploma in Fashion Designing
7. Diploma in Graphic Designing
8. Diploma in Web Development
9. Diploma in Web Designing
10. Diploma in Travel & Tourism

Best Diploma Courses After 10th (Arts)

Below is the list of arts diploma courses after 10th standard are:

Course	Duration	Eligibility	Course Details	Admission Process	Career after 10th
Diploma in Hotel Management	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Hotel Management courses after the 10th open up jobs like Hotel Manager, Restaurant Manager, Maintenance Manager, Front Office Manager, Hotel Assistant	Merit-based	Hotel Management courses after the 10th open up the jobs like Hotel Manager, Restaurant Manager, Maintenance Manager, Front Office Manager, Hotel Assistant
Diploma in Journalism	1-4 years	10th/12th Standard	Journalism is one such field that has seen increased career opportunities, which is a result of the introduction of radio, television, and the internet.	Merit-based/ Entrance exam	Media Researcher, Journalist, Reporter, and Content Developer
Diploma in Education	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	Subjects include educational psychology, curriculum and pedagogy, understanding language, and early literacy.	Entrance exam	Teacher, Author, Home Tutor, Education Coordinator,
Diploma in Photography	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Several specialist sessions in interdisciplinary photographic topics are included in the training and education.	Merit-based	Wildlife Photographer, Wedding Photographer, Cinematographer, Videographer
Diploma in Psychology	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	This diploma program can help you get a foundational grasp of any profession. Moreover, this will allow you to explore deeper into what it comprises.	Merit-based	Community Worker, Counselor, Social Worker, etc.
Diploma in Elementary Education	2 years	10th/12th Standard	You will get practical training involving internships with classroom training.	Merit-based/ Entrance exam	Government Teachers, Nursery Teachers, Private Schools
Diploma in Digital Marketing	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Subjects include SEO fundamentals, keyword search, on-site and off-site SEO, organic search ranking, Google Analytics tools, and web analytics tools.	Merit-based/ Entrance exam	Content Manager, SEO, VR Developer, Digital Marketing Manager & Director
Diploma in Fine Arts	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	Fine Arts encompasses the study of Visual Arts such as printmaking, painting, drawing, digital media, photography, etc.	Merit-based	Creative Designer, Game Artist, 3-D artists
Diploma in English	1 year	10th/12th Standard	The curriculum focuses on teaching students the principles and essentials of the English language.	Merit-based	Digital Copywriter, Lexicographer, Magazine Journalist
Diploma in Fashion Designing	2 years	10th/12th Standard	Subjects include an introduction to fashion designing, textile science, fashion illustration, management and merchandising.	Merit-based/ Entrance exam	Fashion Designer, Fashion Illustrator, Stylist, Fashion Consultant
Diploma in Graphic Designing	1 year	10th/12th Standard	This course focuses on improving the talent or art of a certain mix of text and images. In addition, it assists students in creating new practical abilities and creative approaches.	Merit-based	Graphic Designer, Exhibiting Artist, Concept Artist, Creative Director
Diploma in Web Development	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Subjects include the basics of web designing, web technologies, web design and applications, HTML, and CSS.	Merit-based	Front End Developer, Back End Developer, Full Stack Developer
Diploma in Web Designing	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	Subjects include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Adobe, Illustrator.	Merit-based	Web Designer, Web Application developer
Diploma in Mass Communication	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Subjects include visual communication, camera use, feature writing, news reporting and editing.	Merit-based	PR Manager, News Reporter, Anchor, and Event Manager

Best Diploma Courses After 10th (Commerce)

Below is the list of commerce diploma courses after 10th standard:

Course	Duration	Eligibility	Subjects	Admission Process	Career after 10th
Certificate Course in Tally	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Basic Accounting Principles Introduction to Tally Software Ledger Creation and Management Voucher Entry Financial Statements Generation	Merit-based	Bookkeeper, Operation Manager, Finance Manager, Account Executive
Diploma in Banking	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Banking Principles and Practices Financial Accounting Banking Law and Regulations Credit Management Risk Management	Merit-based	Bank Collection Agent, Market Analyst, Administrative Assistant, Process Analyst
Diploma in Risk and Insurance	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Risk Management Principles Insurance Fundamentals Insurance Law and Regulations Actuarial Science Underwriting Practices	Merit-based	Risk Manager, Surveyor, Adviser, Risk Analyst
Advanced Diploma in Financial Accounting	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	Advanced Financial Accounting Management Accounting Financial Reporting Standards Taxation Principles Auditing and Assurance	Merit-based	Finance Analyst, Financial Controller, Advisor, Finance Manager
Diploma in e-Accounting Taxation	1 year	10th/12th Standard	Accounting Software (e.g., Tally, QuickBooks) Taxation Laws and Regulations Goods and Services Tax (GST) Income Tax Electronic Filing Procedures	Merit-based	E-Accounting and Banking, Consultants, Advisors, CA, CS
Diploma in Business Administration	2 years	10th/12th Standard	Business Management Principles Marketing Management Financial Accounting Managerial Economics Business Communication	Merit-based	Business Development Manager, Consultant, Business Planner, Sales Manager

Read More: Career Options for Commerce Students

Best Diploma Courses after 10th (Science)

Below is the list of science diploma courses after 10th standard:

Course	Duration	Eligibility	Course Details	Admission Process	Career after 10th
Diploma in Computer Application	1 year	10th/12th Standard	This course is for students aspiring for a Diploma in IT. It provides a solid understanding of computer foundations and programming.	Merit-based	Computer Operator, Web Designer, Software Developer, Web Developer
Diploma in Information Technology	1 year	10th/12th Standard	A Diploma program in Health assistance is available. Moreover, Health Care Assistants, also known as nursing associates, assistance attendants, or bolster workers, provide patient care in emergency rooms or other therapeutic settings.	Merit-based/ Entrance exam	IT Programmer, IT Specialist, Technical Consultant, Computer Network Professional.
Diploma in Food Production	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	This is a one-and-a-half-year certificate program in the specialized trade of Food Production.	Merit-based	Food Manager, Consultant, Food Supplier, Purchasing Manager
Certificate in Diesel Mechanics	1-2 years	10th/12th Standard	This is a one-year diploma-level vocational course in vehicle engineering with a concentration in diesel engine mechanics.	Merit-based	Engine Mechanic, Pump Operator, Machine Operator
Diploma in Dental Hygienist	1 year	10th/12th Standard	The curriculum emphasizes preventative dentistry, oral hygiene, dental radiography, and periodontal therapy. It also focuses on basic restorations and deciduous tooth extraction.	Merit-based/ Entrance exam	Healthcare Assistant, Dental Hygienist
Diploma in Electrical Engineering	1 year	10th/12th Standard	This course includes electricity utilized for lighting, heating, cooling, refrigeration, and controlling household appliances, and control systems.	Merit-based	Electrical Engineer, Assistant Engineer, Quality Assurance Engineer, Plant Executive
Diploma in Computer Science and Engineering	1 year	10th/12th Standard	This course will teach the fundamentals of engineering procedures, engineering mathematics, physics, chemistry, programming, computer science, operating systems, data structures, and other computer-related disciplines.	Merit-based	Cyber Security Specialist, Data Analyst, Full Stack Software Developer, Data Engineer
Diploma in Petroleum Engineering	1 year	10th/12th Standard	A diploma in Petroleum Engineering is a course after the 10th designed to create professionals with specialized knowledge of techniques and procedures followed in the gas or petroleum industry.	Merit-based	A Diploma program in Health assistance is available. Moreover, Health Care Assistants, also known as nursing associates, assistance attendants, or bolster workers, provide patient care in emergency rooms or other therapeutic settings.
Diploma in Hospital Assistance	1 year	10th/12th Standard	A diploma in Information Technology covers topics including applied mathematics, physics, chemistry, C programming, system analysis, digital electronics, and much more.	Merit-based	Healthcare Assistant, Assistant Manager, Lab Assistant
Diploma in Rural Healthcare	1 year	10th/12th Standard	This diploma course after the 10th aims to address rural health needs by teaching students the fundamentals of healthcare, first aid, sanitation, and patient education. Moreover, the DHRC’s main goal is to address rural India’s challenges, as the majority of the Indian population still lives in rural regions.	Merit-based	Nurse, Administrative Staff, Healthcare Assistant
Diploma in Pathology Lab Technician	1 year	10th/12th Standard	The Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology Course is an introductory course that teaches students how to inspect, assess, and identify various disorders.	Merit-based	Lab Technician
Diploma in Paramedic Nursing	1 year	10th/12th Standard	A Diploma in X-Ray Technology teaches the principles of radiography, patient care, and image interpretation.	Merit-based	Paramedical courses are job-oriented medical training courses that allow students to pursue a career in the medical field. Furthermore, this course requires a short period and a reasonable cost.
Diploma in ECG Technology	2 years	10th/12th Standard	This course gives students a foundation in medical fields such as anatomy, physiology, and electrocardiography.	Merit-based	ECG Technician, Cardiologist, Assistant
Diploma in X-Ray Technology	1 year	10th/12th Standard	A Diploma in X-Ray Technology teaches principles of radiography, patient care, and image interpretation.	Merit-based	X-Ray Technicians, Radiologists, Assistant X-ray Technician

Recommended Read:

• Careers After Electrical Engineering
• Diploma in Civil Engineering
• Polytechnic Courses

Top Diploma Courses After 10th (With Institutes)

Course Name	Duration	Top Institutes	Approx. Fees (INR)
Diploma in Computer Engineering	3 years	Delhi Skill & Entrepreneurship University, MSBTE	₹15,000 – ₹60,000
Diploma in Fashion Designing	1–3 years	NIFT, Pearl Academy, JD Institute	₹75,000 – ₹3,00,000
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering	3 years	Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi Polytechnic	₹12,000 – ₹50,000
Diploma in Hotel Management	1–2 years	IIHM, IHM Pusa, YMCA	₹25,000 – ₹2,00,000
Diploma in Graphic Design	1 year	MAAC, Arena Animation, WLCI	₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000
Diploma in Nursing (GNM/ANM)	3–3.5 years	Government/Private Nursing Colleges	₹20,000 – ₹80,000
Diploma in Electrical Engineering	3 years	Government Polytechnic Colleges, DSEU	₹10,000 – ₹40,000

Eligibility Criteria & Admission Process

While a majority of diploma courses stipulate an applicant’s successful completion of Class 10 from an authorised board, some courses may also have the following restrictions:

• Minimum Marks: 45-50% aggregate in Class 10 (it varies by course)
• Age Limit: 15 to 18 years (technical diplomas)
• Entrance Exams:
  • Delhi CET for Polytechnic Courses ( Delhi )
  • JEECUP ( Uttar Pradesh )
  • AP POLYCET ( Andhra Pradesh )
  • Respective institute exams (NIFT Entrance for Fashion, etc.)

Admission Procedure:

• Complete the online application forms on the prospective institute/board website.
• Complete the entrance exams (where relevant).
• Attend counseling and document verification, if required.
• Secure a place and confirm payment.

Steps to Choose the Right Diploma After 10th

Step 1: Begin by analyzing your interests

Don’t choose any course for your future, or peer pressure, because you must analyze which subjects bring curiosity to you and awaken your interest. Hence, if you analyze your interests, you can choose among the best diploma courses after 10th grade.

Step 2: Highlight the available options

After you have figured out your interest, narrow down the available options according to your interests and make a flowchart showcasing the pros and cons of each option.

Step 3: SWOT Analysis

Carry out a proper SWOT analysis of the best possible options you chose as SWOT means analyzing Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

Step 4: Explore Career Opportunities

Before you finalize your field, make sure that the area has enough opportunities in the future. In addition, do detailed research on career scope, growth, etc.

Step 5: Identify your aim

There are many diploma courses after 10th grade but not every course can meet your requirement and energy. Hence, you must choose a course that will help you to achieve your goal in the long term.

Step 6: Take advice

Before choosing among Diploma after 10th grade, take health advice from elders. Therefore, you can seek advice from your teachers, elder brother/sister, counsellor, etc.

Step 7: Career Counselling

If you are confused among diploma courses after 10th grade, seeking advice from a career counsellor would be best. Moreover, it will clear your doubts and show you a clear picture of the subject.

Diploma Program Comparison

Feature	Diploma in Engineering	Diploma in Design	Diploma in Hospitality
Duration	3 years	1–3 years	1–2 years
Industry Demand	High	Moderate to High	High
Placement Rate	75–90%	60–80%	70–85%
Requires Entrance Test	Mostly Yes	Some Institutes	No

Insights:

• Hospitality Diploma: An excellent fit for students interested in travel, tourism, hotel, and service management. They usually do not require admission tests and have decent placement opportunities at the end of the program.
• Engineering Diploma: This program is perfect for technically inclined students. It has a remarkable placement rate and strong demand for jobs in the marketplace. Most programs have an admissions exam.
• Design Diploma: This program offers creative liberty and a pathway into many industries, such as fashion, interior, and graphic design. The length of the program and admissions requirements will vary significantly by institute.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

At the state and federal levels, numerous government agencies provide scholarships based on merit and income criteria.

• AICTE Pragati & Saksham Scholarships
• Post-Matric Scholarships for SC/ST/OBC students
• Institutional Waivers: Offered by polytechnics and other private institutes.

Tip: Submit your application as early as possible and ensure that your income certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), and academic mark sheets are correct.

Career Prospects & Job Roles

Achieving a diploma after 10th grade provides opportunities for early entry into jobs, apprenticeships, and further studies. Here are some illustrative occupations and sectors:

Course	Entry-Level Job Roles	Average Starting Salary (INR/month)
Computer Engineering	Technician, Web Developer, IT Support	₹12,000 – ₹25,000
Fashion Designing	Assistant Designer, Merchandiser	₹15,000 – ₹30,000
Hotel Management	Front Office Exec, Housekeeping Asst.	₹10,000 – ₹20,000
Graphic Design	Junior Designer, Illustrator	₹12,000 – ₹25,000
Nursing	Staff Nurse, Health Worker	₹15,000 – ₹30,000
Mechanical Engineering	CAD Operator, Machine Operator	₹12,000 – ₹25,000

Popular Cities for Diploma Education

• Delhi NCR: DSEU, Jamia Polytechnic, YMCA
• Mumbai: MSBTE-affiliated colleges, Sophia Polytechnic
• Bengaluru: GTTC, NTTF, IHM Bangalore
• Hyderabad: Osmania-affiliated colleges, POLYCET colleges
• Kolkata: WBSCTE institutions, Government Polytechnics

Build an Exciting Career after 10th

You must clearly understand the best diploma courses after 10th grade. There are many courses and opportunities for students who want to do their diploma courses after 10th grade and want to get a job immediately. You can choose part-time or full-time employment after the 10th course. You can also appear for various competitive exams after the 10th.

You can choose any field like arts, engineering, or commerce based on your interest, and further do a diploma course in it. You can also do diploma courses after 10th in education and journalism, regardless of your subject background.

The average salary of diploma graduates starts from INR 2 LPA, which can further increase as per the experience. Therefore, opting for the diploma courses after 10th grade is a great option.

Conclusion

Diploma courses after 10th grade have become one of the most practical and future-ready pathways for students who want to gain hands-on skills and early career exposure. With shorter durations, affordable fees, and strong alignment with industry needs, these programs prepare students for roles in engineering, design, healthcare, hospitality, IT, and many other emerging sectors.

In fact, many employers today value skill-based training and practical expertise as much as traditional degrees-making diploma holders highly employable with reasonable placement opportunities. Beyond job readiness, these courses also serve as a stepping stone to higher education, allowing students to pursue advanced diplomas, lateral entry into degree programs, or even specialized certifications later.

Whether you aspire to work in technology, innovation, or service-oriented fields, a diploma course can fast-track your journey. The key is to explore your area of interest, assess long-term career prospects, and align your education with industry demand.

Remember, starting early with the right diploma can not only save you time but also help you stand out in a competitive job market-giving you both skills and confidence to shape a successful career path.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)