Ramesh Vishwanathan

One of the most popular academic programs for students who want to work in business and finance is the commerce program. According to Degree Online Services Telangana (DOST), 42,000 undergraduate students have confirmed admission to the B.Com programme. Due to its increasing popularity relative to traditional streams, commerce has consistently accounted for 37% to 40% of admissions. Nearly 44.08 lakh students are enrolled in undergraduate commerce programs nationwide, with male students accounting for 52.8% of enrolment and female students 47.2%, according to the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE). These numbers show that young Indians are more interested in pursuing jobs in business, finance, and related fields.

These figures reflect the growing interest among young Indians in pursuing careers in business, finance and related sectors. However, in an increasingly competitive job market, a degree alone is no longer enough. Employers today are looking for graduates who can apply their academic knowledge to solve real-world problems and adapt to evolving industry requirements.

The degree-to-career gap

A degree remains an important starting point, but employment standards have changed over time. Today, recruiters are considering someone with more than just degree achievements: someone who can communicate effectively, solve problems, and apply their knowledge in real-world situations. This is particularly relevant for graduates in commerce. Careers in banking, wealth management, financial planning, FinTech, financial analytics, and corporate finance require specialised skills that go beyond classroom learning, even if their education gives them a strong foundation. This is where industry exposure becomes valuable. Internships, mentorship programmes and live projects help students understand workplace expectations, develop practical skills and make more informed career choices. These experiences enable graduates to transition more confidently from the classroom to the workplace.

Professional Education as a Bridge to Industry

The financial services sector provides a good example of how professional education enhances academic learning. As household finances become more complex, financial decisions today extend beyond savings and investments to include retirement planning, insurance, tax planning, children’s education and long-term wealth creation. This has increased the need for professionals who can take a holistic view of an individual’s financial situation and provide informed guidance.

This is where professional qualification becomes increasingly valuable. They help students apply what they learn in college while developing practical skills, ethical values and the ability to understand clients’ financial needs. One such pathway is CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification, which provides specialised education in financial planning and helps learners develop the practical skills needed in the profession. It can prepare graduates for roles in areas such as financial planning, wealth management and investment advisory, while also strengthening their ability to make ethical, client-focused financial decisions. Professional qualifications like these help students connect classroom learning with the practical demands of the workplace.

Preparing for a changing workplace

The transition from education to employment is becoming increasingly dynamic. Technology is reshaping financial services; new roles are emerging, and the skills required across professions are evolving.

This makes continuous learning increasingly important. Educational institutions can provide the academic foundation, while industry exposure and professional development can help students understand changing workplace expectations and adapt to them.

For commerce students, the breadth of their education offers the flexibility to explore different career paths. The focus now should be on helping them make informed choices and develop the capabilities needed to grow within those careers.

Ultimately, academic and professional education work hand in hand. While professional learning provides practical skills, ethical awareness and industry readiness, a university degree provides the theoretical foundation. Together, they prepare graduates not only to secure meaningful employment but also to adapt, grow and contribute confidently in an increasingly dynamic and competitive economy. As India continues to build a future-ready workforce, creating a strong bridge between classrooms and careers will be key to unlocking the full potential of India’s youth.

(The author is CEO, FPSB India)