The paramedical field is the fastest-growing sector in India, offering courses related to the healthcare sector after the 12th grade. A paramedic is a healthcare specialist who responds to medical emergencies outside the hospital setting. These courses train students to enter the healthcare profession by equipping them with the necessary skills and qualifications. Aspiring students interested in pursuing a career in the medical field can choose paramedical courses after the 12th grade, based on their interests.
Previously, there was a myth that only students with a science background could take these courses, which is not true. Paramedical courses are open to students from all streams, including science, commerce, and arts.
Paramedical courses after the 12th grade are available in three types:
- Bachelor courses
- Diploma courses
- Certified courses
In this article, we have listed some of the best paramedical courses, which can be chosen based on individual preferences, eligibility, and stream.
The program typically includes 3 to 4 years of study, and the minimum eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific course.

List of Paramedical Courses After 12th
One of the finest platforms emerging today is the Paramedical field. As there is a decrease in the health and life expectancy rate, the need for Paramedical experts and professionals increases gradually.
Below are a few of the Paramedical Courses available in India.
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Nursing:
- Duration: 4 years
- Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th standard with relevant subjects
- Job profiles: Case manager, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, etc.
- Diploma in Child Health (DCH):
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: Minimum 50% in primary subjects in 12th standard
- Job profiles: Nutrition specialist, personal physician, associate professor, sports nutritionist, etc.
- Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom):
- Duration: 4 years
- Eligibility: 12th standard with a science stream
- Job profiles: Optician, optometrist, refractionist, ophthalmic assistant, etc.
- Diploma in Orthopedics:
- Duration: 2 years
- Eligibility: MBBS or 12th standard
- Job profiles: Pharmacists, medical officers, orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, etc.
- Post Basic Bachelor of Science (P.B.B.Sc.):
- Eligibility: Completion of GNM program
- Job profiles: Rehabilitation specialist, chief nursing officer, Paramedic nurse, nurse manager, community health specialist, etc.
- General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM):
- Duration: 3.5 years
- Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th standard (science stream)
- Job profiles: Nursing roles in hospitals, AIIMS, etc.
- Auxiliary Nursing Midwifery (ANM):
- Duration: 2 years
- Eligibility: 12th standard with minimum 45% marks
- Job profiles: Clinical nurse specialist, forensic nursing, lecturer, traveling nurse, sales purchase assistant, etc.
- B.Sc. in Cardiac Technology:
- Duration: 3 years
- Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th standard (science stream)
- Job profiles: Cardiologist, dialysis technician, nephrologist’s technician, medical sonographer, cardiovascular technologist, etc.
Other top bachelor’s degree paramedical courses include:
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy
- Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
- B.Sc. in Operation Theatre Technology (OTT)
- B.Sc. in Medical Record Technology
- B.Sc. in Radiography
- B.Sc. in Medical Lab Technology (MLT)
- B.Sc. in Dialysis Technology
- B.Sc. in X-Ray Technology
- B.Sc. in Dialysis Technology
Diploma programs in paramedical courses include:
- Diploma in Radiography
- Diploma in Medical Imaging Technology
- Diploma in Dental Hygienist
- Diploma in Rural Health Care
These courses offer theoretical knowledge along with practical training and have durations ranging from 3 to 4 years.