How Many Subjects in Commerce? What You Need to Know?

Commerce is the second most popular stream among students after completing 12th grade. This is because it opens avenues for diverse professional courses that pay handsome salaries. But before joining the stream, you need to know the subjects that will be taught in the course. This gives you an idea to assess your strengths and weaknesses. You can be prepared and make a wise decision.

Overview of Commerce Stream Subjects

The commerce stream imparts students with basic knowledge about business, trade and accounting. Economics, Business Studies, Statistics, and English are some of the key subjects. They lay the foundation for commerce education.

Core Subjects in Commerce

Subjects in the commerce stream can be grouped into two categories: mandatory and optional subjects.

The compulsory subjects are integral to commerce education, which include:

• Accountancy 

Accountancy is the study of financial transactions, recording, and reporting practices. It gives an idea about the basic accounting principles, preparing you to analyze the financial statements of the organization. Students learn to design accounting databases, accounting processes, and maintain a record of every transaction.

• Business Studies 

Business studies deals with understanding the principles of businesses. Students learn about the formation and operation of companies. You will also know about the intricacies of the business environment and the economy. Emerging modes of business, internal trade, international business, business and financial marketing, e-commerce, and principles and functions of management are some of the foundational topics taught in this subject.

• Economics 

This is a vast topic that covers economic principles, market behavior and resource allocation. It helps students understand the functioning of the national and global economies. 

Microeconomics comprises concepts like demand and supply, forms of market, and price distribution. While macroeconomics cover national income, budget, consumer behavior, balance of payments, employment, etc.

• English 

This subject is essential for all professional fields. Students focus on enhancing their fluency, comprehension, reading, and writing skills. Mastery of this global language is crucial for succeeding in job interviews and communicating effectively in the workplace. The curriculum includes instruction on grammar and comprehension.

Elective Subjects in Commerce

These subjects are optional in nature and students can choose based on their interests and career aspirations.

• Mathematics 

Mathematics helps students in their other subjects like accounting or economics. It builds computational and analytical skills. Students who are good with numbers can choose this subject. It is also ideal for students who want to pursue careers in finance and economics. Statistics, probability, calculus and algebra are some of the major topics taught in this subject.

• Informatics Practices 

This subject focuses on computer applications and software development. It is a good choice for students interested in data science, application development and related fields. Students develop problem-solving skills and gain practical experience that helps them build careers in IT, software development and data science. 

• Entrepreneurship  

This subject teaches all the fundamentals of starting and running your own business. Students learn how to manage and operate a business. It imparts problem-solving and risk-taking skills. They develop other skills like marketing, planning and resource management. 

• Physical Education 

If you are someone who is into sports or physical activities, this optional subject is a wise option. It is a great way to balance academics along with maintaining physical fitness. Yoga, sports, lifestyle, nutrition and physiology are some of the important modules taught in this subject.

How to Choose the Right Electives in Commerce

Tips to select the right elective in Commerce:

• The subject should align with your interests.
• Pick the one that helps you fulfill your career goals.
• Select the subject based on your academic strength.
• Research every elective subject and know the syllabus in detail.
• Take insights from seniors or mentors to understand the scope of electives.
• Explore the market demand for the skills and the subject.
• Choose the subject that you can balance with the core subjects to reduce the workload.
• Evaluate whether you can make a career out of the knowledge gained.

Benefits of Studying Commerce Subjects 

Studying commerce subjects has numerous advantages:

• It prepares students for future career opportunities.
• It lays strong foundations for various professions like chartered accounting, company secretary, etc.
• It helps set up and operate startups.
• It aids in making informed financial decisions personally and professionally.
• The development of problem-solving, analytical and innovative skills enhances personal and career growth.

Conclusion 

Choosing the right elective can be an exhaustive task and we hope this article will help you make a conscious decision. Commerce is a unique stream that offers high-paying and reputed jobs such as CA, company secretary, investment banker, and entrepreneur. However, the choice of selecting the right subjects, performing better and securing a job lies in your hands. Seek guidance from career counselors or mentors before selecting anything.

Check: Best PU Colleges in Bangalore 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many Compulsory Subjects are there in the Commerce Stream
   There are four compulsory subjects in the commerce stream, namely: Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics and English.
   
   
2. Can I Study Commerce Without Taking Mathematics?
   Yes. Mathematics is an elective subject in Commerce. So Commerce can be studied without opting for Mathematics.
   
   
3. What are the Elective Subjects Available in Commerce for Classes 11 and 12?
   Elective subjects available in Commerce for classes 11 and 12 are: Computer Science, Physical Education, Entrepreneurship, Informatics Practices, Mathematics, Home Science, Fine Arts, and Psychology.
   
   
4. Which Subject Combinations are Best for Pursuing a Career in Finance or Economics
   Commerce with Mathematics is a popular choice among students for pursuing a career in Finance or Economics.