For decades, computer science has been an evergreen choice among engineering aspirants.
However, with the rise in AI, students are increasingly realising the potential of automation and robotics, notes Nayagam PP, career counsellor and founder of EduJob360.
- Career-related questions? Ask rediffGURUS HERE.
With the academic year wrapping up, lakhs of Class 12 students from across the country find themselves at a crucial crossroad.
Core Science. Medicine. Engineering. Commerce. Arts... What should they study? This decision will not only shape their college journey but influence their long-term career path.
With emerging technologies, changing industry demands and global job trends, the challenge of selecting the most suitable stream has become more complex in 2025.
These are some of the challenges faced by engineering aspirants:
Overwhelming options
With the addition of new branches like AI, data science and environmental engineering, students often find it difficult to narrow down their choices.
Lack of awareness
Many students are unaware of what each stream involves in terms of curriculum, career paths and jobs in the future.
Parental and peer pressure
Students often choose streams based on external influences rather than their personal interest or aptitude.
Uncertainty about the future
With rapid technological changes, students worry if their chosen field will remain relevant in the next decade.
Limited career counselling
Many schools and coaching centres focus on entrance exams, offering little or no personalised guidance for stream selection.
Geographic limitations
Access to specialised streams is often limited by the availability of institutes in specific regions.
Misinformation on social media
A lot of half-baked advice circulates online, confusing students rather than helping them.
Fear of failure
Pressure to succeed in popular, high-paying streams like computer science leads some students to pick them even if they lack genuine interest.
Inadequate exposure
Students rarely get real-world exposure to what engineers in different streams actually do.
Misalignment of interests and aptitude
Students often do not assess their strengths before making a decision, leading to dissatisfaction and depression in the future.
How to choose the best engineering stream?
Both students and parents must bear in mind the following things before making an informed decision:
1. Personal interest and passion: The stream should align with what excites and motivates you. Passion is the key to long-term success and satisfaction.
2. Aptitude and strengths: Assess your logical, analytical, creative and/or mathematical abilities to find a stream that complements your natural skills.
3. Future job market trends: Research which streams are growing and which ones are becoming obsolete. Look at global as well as local trends.
4. Industry relevance: Choose a stream that is aligned with current industry needs, such as automation, sustainability and data analytics.
5. Scope for higher studies: Consider whether you would like to pursue post-graduation in India or abroad and which streams offer the best options.
6. Placement opportunities: Check the placement records of colleges for various streams. Some branches have consistently higher demand.
7. Interdisciplinary potential: Choose a stream that offers flexibility and crossover into other fields, such as robotics, fintech or biotechnology.
8. Learning style compatibility: Some streams are more theoretical, others practical. Choose based on how you prefer to learn.
9. Financial prospects: Understand the earning potential in your stream, both in the short term (after graduation) and long term (with post-graduation/work experience).
10. Location and college availability: Some specialised streams may only be available at select institutes. Do your research and check availability before making your decision.
Computer science vs AI: Which is the best branch in engineering?
For decades, computer science has been an evergreen choice among engineering aspirants. However, with the rise in AI, students are increasingly realising the potential of automation and robotics.
The shift in demand can be attributed to a growing interest among students and industries that value innovation and better work life.
These are some of the top branches in engineering that Indian students can consider:
1. Computer science and engineering (CSE): With AI, machine learning and cloud computing dominating the tech world, CSE remains a top choice.
2. Artificial intelligence and data science: A rapidly growing field with applications in every sector, from healthcare to finance.
3. Electronics and communication engineering (ECE): IoT, 5G and embedded systems are keeping this stream relevant and in-demand.
4. Mechanical engineering (with robotics/automation focus): Traditional yet evolving, especially with automation and smart manufacturing.
5. Civil and environmental engineering: With infrastructure development and sustainability becoming priorities, this field is regaining traction.
6. Electrical engineering: With the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy, this classic branch is seeing a modern resurgence.
7. Biomedical engineering: Combining medical science with engineering, this stream is growing thanks to advances in healthcare technology.
8. Chemical engineering (green tech focus): Industries are looking for sustainable solutions, making this stream valuable again.
9. Information technology (IT): Similar to CSE but more application-oriented, IT remains strong in software development and system design.
10. Materials science and nanotechnology: With applications in electronics, biotech and manufacturing, this is an emerging stream with global scope.
The average salary package for fresh engineering graduates may range between Rs 3 lakhs per annum to Rs 20 lakhs per annum, depending on the college you choose, the skills you have and the companies that hire you on or off campus.
- Career and college admission related questions? Ask rediffGURUS HERE.
© 2025 