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30 Fun & Interesting Career Options in India You Should Know About!

30 Fun & Interesting Career Options in India You Should Know About!

Updated on 11 November, 2024

47.05K+ views

• 12 min read

If you think traditional career options are all you’ve got in India, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. It’s 2024, and a world of exciting, unconventional, and fulfilling career paths is just waiting for you to explore.

Wouldn’t you want a career that’s fulfilling, creative, and uniquely you? Traditional jobs offer stability, sure. But they may not always inspire that spark of excitement or give you a chance to make a difference on your own terms.

Here’s the deal: pursuing a unique career means waking up excited about work, feeling a sense of purpose, and often, getting to put your unique skills and creativity to the test.

If you’re intrigued, you might be wondering, “But is this for me?” Let’s find out! Ask yourself:

Do you enjoy problem solving?
Do you want to make an impact, beyond 9-to-5?
Are you ready to learn, experiment, and keep growing?

If the answer is yes, keep reading—you just might find a future career in the list below that feels like it was made for you.

30 Interesting Career Options in India

The modern world isn’t just about securing a job; it’s about building a career that excites you every day. Imagine waking up every morning with a sense of purpose, diving into work that makes you feel alive and creative. Wouldn't that be something?

If you're ready to explore beyond the conventional, let's check out 30 thrilling career options that could change the course of your future.

Creative & Artistic Careers

The creative industry is booming, with an increasing demand for artists, designers, and storytellers. Whether you’re drawn to visual arts, digital creation, or fashion, these careers allow you to express yourself while making an impact in various industries.

Creativity is at the heart of these roles, and they offer endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

1. Graphic Designer

Overview: Graphic designers bring ideas to life through visuals, whether it’s designing logos, posters, or digital media.
Skills: Creativity, proficiency with design software (Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator), attention to detail.
Path: Take design courses, create a portfolio, and start freelancing or work with advertising agencies.

Also Read: Graphic Design Production: Key Skills and Job Opportunities

2. Fashion Designer

Overview: Fashion designers create clothing, accessories, and trends, shaping the way people dress.
Skills: Creativity, knowledge of fabric, sketching, and pattern making.
Path: Enroll in fashion design courses, gain experience through internships, and start your own brand.

3. Illustrator

Overview: Illustrators create unique artwork for books, advertisements, or animations, giving life to stories through visuals.
Skills: Strong drawing abilities, digital tools knowledge (Illustrator, Photoshop).
Path: Build a diverse portfolio, take art courses, and work with publishers or brands.

4. Animator

Overview: Animators craft moving visuals for films, video games, or advertisements, creating compelling characters and stories.
Skills: Animation software expertise, storytelling, creativity.
Path: Study animation, build a strong portfolio, and apply to animation studios or freelance.

5. Product Designer

Overview: Product designers create functional and aesthetically pleasing products, from gadgets to home décor.
Skills: Creativity, understanding of materials, user experience.
Path: Study industrial design, work with manufacturers, and build a portfolio of your designs.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Careers

The fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are at the forefront of innovation and are shaping the future of society.

Whether you’re interested in coding, engineering, or solving environmental problems, STEM careers are intellectually stimulating and offer immense opportunities for growth and contribution to the world.

6. Data Scientist

Overview: Data scientists analyze and interpret complex data to help businesses make informed decisions.
Skills: Data analysis, statistical modeling, proficiency in programming languages (Python, R).
Path: Pursue a degree in data science, learn coding, and gain experience with real-world data sets.

7. Environmental Scientist

Overview: Environmental scientists study and work to protect the environment, tackling challenges like pollution and climate change.
Skills: Research, biology, knowledge of environmental laws.
Path: Degree in environmental science, field research, and internships with environmental agencies or NGOs.

8. Robotics Engineer

Overview: Robotics engineers design and build robots, which can be used for a range of purposes in industries like manufacturing and healthcare.
Skills: Engineering skills, coding, problem-solving.
Path: Study robotics, build practical knowledge through internships, and work in manufacturing or tech.

9. Genetic Counselor

Overview: Genetic counselors help patients understand genetic conditions, providing guidance on health risks and family planning.
Skills: Understanding of genetics, counseling, communication skills.
Path: Degree in genetics or counseling, certification in genetic counseling, and work in healthcare settings.

10. Blockchain Developer

Overview: Blockchain developers build decentralized applications, creating secure systems for transactions and data storage.
Skills: Coding (JavaScript, Python), understanding of blockchain technology, cryptography.
Path: Learn blockchain development, gain experience with blockchain technologies, and work in fintech or tech startups.

Business & Management Careers

In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are looking for innovative minds to drive growth, manage teams, and create sustainable solutions.

A career in business offers the opportunity to take on leadership roles, strategize growth, and make a real impact on the economy. Whether you’re managing operations, launching a startup, or working in corporate social responsibility, the possibilities are endless.

11. Social Media Manager

Overview: Social media managers oversee brands' online presence, strategizing content that engages and builds communities.
Skills: Content creation, knowledge of analytics tools, communication.
Path: Study digital marketing, gain experience by managing social media for brands, and explore freelance or agency roles.

12. Startup Entrepreneur

Overview: Startup entrepreneurs create their own businesses, taking risks to bring new ideas to the market.
Skills: Business acumen, leadership, resilience, and adaptability.
Path: Research market trends, create a solid business plan, and network with investors and mentors to launch your startup.

Also Read: How to become an Entrepreneur? Steps and Tips!

13. Supply Chain Analyst

Overview: Supply chain analysts improve the flow of goods and services by optimizing logistics, ensuring timely and cost-efficient delivery.
Skills: Analytical thinking, logistics management, data analysis.
Path: Study business or supply chain management, gain experience through internships, and work with global logistics companies.

Your supply chain success story starts here—sign up with upGrad’s Supply Chain Management Online Course Today!

14. Product Manager

Overview: Product managers lead the development and lifecycle of products, ensuring they meet market demands and customer needs.
Skills: Project management, market research, leadership.
Path: Degree in business or management, work in product development roles, and gain expertise in product lifecycle management.

Step into the world of product innovation! Join upGrad’s Product Management course now!

15. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Specialist

Overview: CSR specialists work with companies to design programs that benefit society, balancing profitability with social responsibility.
Skills: Project management, communication, social awareness.
Path: Degree in social work or business, work in corporate sectors or non-profits focusing on sustainability.

Curious to know what exactly is CSR? Click and read more!

Entertainment & Media Careers

The entertainment and media industries offer an exciting blend of creativity, technology, and communication.

From creating content for television and film to managing social media platforms or producing events, this field thrives on storytelling, innovation, and cultural influence. A career in entertainment can be both thrilling and rewarding.

16. Content Creator / Influencer

Overview: Content creators develop engaging material for digital platforms, often becoming influencers who shape opinions and trends.
Skills: Video editing, social media skills, creativity.
Path: Start a YouTube channel or Instagram profile, collaborate with brands, and grow your audience organically.

Ready to turn your influence into impact? Start with upGrad’s Influencer Marketing course!

17. Scriptwriter

Overview: Scriptwriters develop the dialogue, plot, and characters for films, TV shows, and web series.
Skills: Writing, creativity, storytelling.
Path: Enroll in creative writing or film studies, write scripts, and pitch your work to production houses.

18. Radio Jockey (RJ)

Overview: RJs host engaging shows on the radio, keeping listeners entertained and informed while playing music.
Skills: Voice modulation, communication, humor.
Path: Study mass communication, work with radio stations, or start your own podcast.

19. Event Planner

Overview: Event planners organize everything from weddings to corporate events, ensuring flawless execution of all details.
Skills: Organization, multitasking, communication.
Path: Degree or certification in event management, intern with event planning companies, and start managing your own events.

20. Video Game Designer

Overview: Video game designers create the gameplay, mechanics, and visual elements of video games, creating immersive experiences for players.
Skills: Coding, creativity, problem-solving.
Path: Study game design or computer science, gain practical experience with design studios, and develop your own games.

Also Read: How to become a Game Developer?

Health & Wellness Careers

Health and wellness careers are designed to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. These roles offer personal fulfillment and allow you to make a real difference in people’s lives through mental health, fitness, or healthcare.

21. Nutritionist

Overview: Nutritionists provide advice on healthy eating, helping clients maintain a balanced diet to improve their health.
Skills: Knowledge of food and nutrition, communication, counseling.
Path: Degree in nutrition, certification, and work with hospitals or as a private consultant.

22. Yoga Instructor

Overview: Yoga instructors guide students through yoga practices, promoting physical and mental health.
Skills: Knowledge of yoga postures, teaching, patience.
Path: Obtain a certification in yoga, start teaching at centers or online platforms.

23. Sports Psychologist

Overview: Sports psychologists help athletes improve their performance by addressing mental challenges and emotional well-being.
Skills: Psychology, communication, understanding of sports.
Path: Study psychology, specialize in sports psychology, and work with athletes or teams.

24. Veterinarian

Overview: Veterinarians diagnose and treat animals, ensuring their health and well-being.
Skills: Medical knowledge, empathy, animal care.
Path: Pursue a degree in veterinary science, complete internships, and work in animal clinics or hospitals.

25. Physiotherapist

Overview: Physiotherapists help patients recover from injuries, improving mobility and pain management.
Skills: Knowledge of physical therapy techniques, communication, empathy.
Path: Study physiotherapy, get certified, and work in hospitals, clinics, or sports teams.

26. Mental Health Counselor

Overview: Mental health counselors provide therapy to individuals experiencing emotional or psychological challenges.
Skills: Empathy, communication, understanding of mental health disorders.
Path: Study psychology or counseling, earn certifications, and work in hospitals or private practice.

Education & Social Impact Careers

Education and social impact careers are focused on making a difference in society. Whether you're teaching the next generation, working in social services, or addressing global issues, these careers are all about improving lives and empowering communities.

27. Teacher

Overview: Teachers educate students in schools, helping shape the future of the next generation by imparting knowledge and life skills.
Skills: Communication, patience, subject knowledge.
Path: Study education, specialize in a subject, and apply for teaching positions at schools or tutoring centers.

28. Social Worker

Overview: Social workers assist individuals and communities in overcoming challenges related to mental health, poverty, or injustice.
Skills: Empathy, problem-solving, communication.
Path: Study social work, gain experience in community programs, and work with NGOs, government agencies, or in healthcare.

29. Urban Planner

Overview: Urban planners develop plans and programs for land use in cities, helping them grow sustainably and efficiently.
Skills: Knowledge of architecture, zoning laws, sustainability.
Path: Study urban planning, get involved in community planning projects, and work with municipal governments.

30. Human Rights Lawyer

Overview: Human rights lawyers fight for the protection of people’s rights, advocating for justice in both domestic and international settings.
Skills: Legal knowledge, strong communication, critical thinking.
Path: Study law, specialize in human rights, and work with nonprofits, government bodies, or international organizations.

Read more: Top Career Options for Lawyers

Why Choose a Unique Career Path?

Imagine building a role that doesn’t just earn a paycheck but also allows you to leave a lasting impact on the world.

Whether it’s launching your own business, working in a niche field, or becoming a digital creator, unique career paths let you showcase your individuality while making a difference.

How to Choose the Right Career for You

When it comes to finding that unique career fit, consider these essential steps:

Self-Assessment Tools: Dive into personality tests and interest inventories. These tools provide valuable insights into your strengths, passions, and ideal work environments, helping you uncover the path that best aligns with who you are.
The Power of Internships: Getting real-world exposure through internships is crucial. It allows you to explore your field firsthand, building skills and clarifying your career vision as you work with professionals.
Networking Tips: Start connecting with others in your area of interest early. Networking not only opens doors but also provides mentors, collaborators, and insights that can shape your journey.

Choosing a unique career is about daring to define your own path—start exploring yours today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are some lesser-known but high-paying careers in India?

Careers like ethical hacking, data science, wildlife photography, and food styling can be high-paying if you develop specialized skills. These fields often reward creativity and expertise, allowing passionate individuals to earn well in unconventional jobs.

2. How can I figure out which unique career is right for me?

Start by assessing your interests, strengths, and hobbies. Research potential careers by speaking to professionals, exploring online courses, and trying internships. This hands-on approach can help you find the best fit based on your personality and goals.

3. Do unique careers require special education or degrees?

Many unconventional careers don’t require specific degrees, but relevant certifications or skills are beneficial. For example, pet grooming, digital marketing, and gaming often value hands-on experience and skill-building over formal education.

4. How do I start in a creative field if I have no prior experience?

Start by taking free or affordable online courses to learn the basics. Building a portfolio through personal projects or volunteering can help you showcase your skills. Social media is also an excellent platform to connect with industry experts and share your work.

5. Are there good earning opportunities in careers like food styling and pet grooming?

Yes, demand for unique careers is growing, especially in urban areas. Many professionals in food styling and pet grooming earn well by offering specialized services. Earnings can increase as you gain expertise and build a strong client base.

6. How can I make a career in gaming in India?

You can pursue roles as a game developer, tester, or content creator. Start by learning game design, joining gaming communities, and showcasing your skills on platforms like YouTube or Twitch. Many gaming companies also offer internships and junior roles.

7. What is the best way to enter the wildlife photography field?

Wildlife photography requires both photography skills and knowledge of nature. Start by practicing in local wildlife reserves and building a portfolio. Networking with conservation groups and learning from established photographers can open doors to opportunities.

8. How can I find mentors or experts in these unique career paths?

Networking is key. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and connect on LinkedIn. Many professionals share advice through social media, workshops, and webinars, making it easier to learn from them and find guidance.

9. Are there career options in India for people interested in mental health and art?

Yes, art therapy combines psychology and creative arts to support mental health. With a psychology or counseling background, you can pursue certification in art therapy. Art therapists often work in clinics, schools, or independently with clients.

10. How can I gain experience in food styling or critique if I’m just starting out?

Start by practicing food presentations at home and sharing your work on social media. Collaborating with local cafes or photographers can provide real-world experience. Many aspiring food critics also build credibility by starting food blogs or YouTube channels.

11. Can I turn a passion or hobby into a successful career in India?

Absolutely! Many unique careers, like photography, blogging, gaming, and art therapy, began as hobbies for professionals. With dedication, skill-building, and market research, turning a passion into a sustainable career is very achievable in today’s job landscape.

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Co-authored by: Apoorva Shankar, Business Development Associate, UpGrad The world today has enhanced productivity requirements. Due to this, the demand for highly skilled labour is growing. China and India are set to drive this demand. Globally, the share of low-skill jobs is likely to decline from 74% of employment in 2010 to 62% by 2020. On the other hand, the shortage of highly skilled workers with a tertiary level of education is expected to reach 18 million by 2020, globally. But due to its demographic dividend, India will have a labour surplus of 47 million by 2020. However, this surplus may only be of low-skilled labour. And while the demand for highly skilled labour is increasing, the supply isn’t quite keeping up. The challenge, as well as opportunity, that India faces is how to train such a large reserve of labour and convert low skills to high skills. One solution that immediately comes to mind is providing higher education for all. But at present only 24% of those meant to be participating in higher education, are actually enrolled. Plus, traditional college or university pedagogy has been increasingly criticized for being outdated and irrelevant to the jobs market. If you attended school or college in India, you will have first-hand experience of the ills that plague the system. Some of the reasons for this are: Absence of a customized or personalized approach to education (necessary as different students have different needs and learning capabilities). Restricted resources due to not-for-profit nature of educational institutes and over-regulation. Lack of technology infrastructure. Poor teaching quality. Lack of skills-based learning. Low focus on research and development. Minimal partnerships with industry/foreign academia. Outdated curricula not reflecting requirements of a dynamic market environment. Skill-intensive industries are expected to contribute more than 90% of India’s GDP by 2030. The opportunity is staring at us in the face. Only about 25% of Indian graduates are considered employable by the organized sector. Further, 48% of Indian employers said they were having difficulty in filling jobs, in 2012. Despite employers expressing difficulty in finding employable candidates, in 2009-10 the unemployment rates in India were higher for those who were more educated (graduates had more difficulty finding jobs than secondary or primary level graduates). [b_color background=”#EDFF3D”] Also Read – Technology will surely kill some jobs, but not all of them [/b_color] So Indian education, in its current form, hasn’t proved to be enough training for the incoming workforce. The numbers also prove that just completing higher education in any field is not all it takes anymore. This pinch is being increasingly felt as the world of jobs is turning upside down; which is why we need skill training. Skill-intensive industries are expected to contribute more than 90% of India’s GDP by 2030. The opportunity is staring at us in the face. It’s not just about the potential but also the responsibility we are tasked with — restoring balance to the global supply of labour. The country needs to invest in skill development and training for a large chunk of its population. Exploiting sheer numbers is therefore one major reason to skill our workers. Secondly, the demand for advanced skill-sets in emerging areas is growing. Knowledge-intensive roles such as finance, business, etc, and those related to information technology and entrepreneurship are gaining momentum. The reality that these skills must be acquired will take root for more and more individuals, including drop-outs from the mainstream education system and those who have completed such education. Currently, the actual supply of these workers falls drastically short of matching growing demand. Hence, the gaps in domain knowledge are another reason to scale up the skilling. You are likely to be at a disadvantage, in terms of skill training and thereby employability, when compared to someone your age in China, USA, South Korea… In China about 47% of the workforce has received some kind of skill training, 52% in USA, 68% in UK, 75% in Germany, 80% in Japan and 96% in South Korea. Comparatively, only about 10% of the Indian workforce received such training in 2008. India is seventh in the category of countries facing maximum difficulty in filling jobs, i.e., 58% difficulty, where the global average is 38%. These figures reflect that just belonging to the young Indian demographic is not enough. You are likely to be at a disadvantage, in terms of skill training and thereby employability, when compared to someone your age in China, USA, South Korea etc. To address these imbalances, India needs unprecedented increase in both education and job creation. At this point, there is no guaranteed advantage for India in the contest for high-skill talent. It will be dependent on skilling. Considering the state of higher education and the skill upgrade required to be carried out in the future, the process will not just be about learning for professionals, but rather unlearning and re-learning.

by Mayank Kumar

13 Jul'16

5.2K+

7 reasons to watch UpGrad Talks today

There is really no secret sauce for success. Provided you have had the opportunity to view the exclusive online tete-e-tete sessions brought to you by UpGrad Talks. With an amazing roster of world-class speakers, some from the top 1000 companies of India such as Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Sky, Coca Cola, JP Morgan, JWT to start-up poster children such as RedBus, Snadeal, Ola & Zivame and many more, Upgrad Talks provides insights into their formulae for success. The talks also share deep learning from situations that didn’t work out and many valuable nuggets of honest, down-to-earth and practical advice from successful entrepreneurs, experts and industry leaders. While some lip service has been paid to new-age technologies and skill sets, and the evolution of industries because of these, a deeper understanding of what this signifies is missing. Upgrad Talks intends to fill this gap by bringing together thought-leaders from different walks of life and raising the level of discourse in this area, as they share their experiences. Here are the top reasons why you must visit talks.upgrad.com today and make it your daily source of insights and motivation: Get Inspired Inspiration can come from many different sources. You may get inspired when you see a problem that needs a solution, which you are able to ideate, or get inspired when you hear stories of adversity being overcome by sheer willpower. Rarely does the simple existence of wealth inspire us. It may motivate us to work harder, but inspiration stems from a deeper place that needs real stories. Upgrad Talks are stories from the folks who have lived these stories, first hand. Not only does hearing someone’s complete story of challenges, thought process and subsequent outcome inspire, it also gives birth to new ideas and provides impetus to grow in your own space. Moreover, inspiration also stems from well-put statements such as, ‘attitude will sail you through,’ by Harit Nagpal, CEO of Tata Sky. A key benefit of listening to industry leaders is that it also inspires us to think. ‘What we think, we become,’ is a quote by Buddha that sums up this well. Go ahead, face challenges It does not matter if you are a startup or an established financial organization; challenges, big or small, exist in every level of most businesses. Challenges faced, strategized and overcome is the rite of passage for almost everyone. Not only do Upgrad Talks cover challenges faced by leading industry veterans, it also covers it from various stages of businesses along with discussion of the solutions that helped overcome them. Upgrad Talks speakers’ discuss challenges faced by businesses in different spaces, which makes these talks an interesting listen. Furthermore, is quite motivating to hear the candid conversations of business leaders. So what is the common thought on challenges in the Upgrad Talks? No challenge is too big. It also strengthens the belief that challenges help you grow and become stronger and develops a sense of confidence to take on the next big challenge. Learn from influencers People who can motivate are great influencers. To hear success stories at Upgrad Talks, which have been driven by deep-rooted passion as well as courage of conviction can be a great influence on most people. It is likely to help you push yourself to greater heights and also follow your dreams a bit more diligently. To quote Snapdeal’s Kunal Bahl, ‘ there is a fine line between stubbornness and persistence.’ Upgrad Talks is likely to help you define the lines as an excellent selection of influencers talk also about the key soft skills required to make it a significant mark on the industry that you belong to. Mentoring As you listen to entrepreneurs, business leaders and experts on models that have worked, one can also start drawing parallels to one’s one business or profession. Mentoring of this kind is both subtle and effective as it helps you choose some key takeaways from the shared experiences that are most relevant to you. Follow the series to get premium access to the best mentors in the country as they talk about education, the emerging digital age and its impact on businesses, talent shortages and advice to youngsters. A bit of crystal gazing In the series of Upgrad Talks, one is likely to come across a vast amount of business knowledge which has been converted into digestible insights that can also help you choose the next steps in your career. Speakers’ at Upgrad Talks share their business mantras and what the future is likely to be. This is crystal gazing of the finest variety and yet another reason to tune into the talks. A healthy dash of optimism One of the unique selling points of the Upgrad Talks is that they also brings out the combined optimism in business from key industry leaders. Apart from that one can learn what is next in the industry, and explore potential future opportunities in the workspace. The upbeat and positive nature of these talks makes them a must-listen. Easily available online Just in case you were wondering how far you would need to travel to listen to such a wide range of speakers, you can breath easy. Upgrad Talks are delivered online and you can listen to them at your own convenience. All you need to do is to long onto talks.upgrad.com and you can access high quality, pre-recorded sessions online. Upgrad is making content richer, bigger and better as it kicks off with 15+ talks delivered by entrepreneurs, experts & business leaders. You definitely do not want to miss out on the educational transformation that UpGrad is fuelling in partnership with some of the greatest minds. Remember, one can never stop learning. So, if you always aspired to hear great advice and insights from the top Indian business leaders on how you can grow your business, choose a career goal or get inspired, do take a look at Upgrad Talks. They are truly the voices that impact. Join us today and be a part of it at talks.upgrad.com.

by Omkar Pradhan

06 Aug'16