Passed the UGC-NET but couldn't become a professor? Beyond academics, there are many career paths open to you..

Career Options for UGC NET Qualified Candidates: Every year, lakhs of candidates from across the country apply for the position of Assistant Professor or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) through the UGC-NET exam. Many of these successful candidates make a name for themselves in the academic world through their research and skills. But the question is: if someone clears the NET and is unable to immediately become an Assistant Professor or receive a JRF, what other options are available? If you have this same question, let's explore the career paths that open up for you after qualifying for the UGC-NET.

Becoming an Assistant Professor is the First and Foremost Option
The biggest advantage of clearing the UGC-NET is that you become eligible to become an Assistant Professor at a university or college. If you also qualify for the JRF (Junior Research Fellowship), you have the opportunity to conduct in-depth research in your chosen subject, participate in research projects, and publish in international journals. This not only strengthens your academic career but also opens doors to PhD and post-doctoral opportunities in the long run.

Opportunity to work on research projects
According to a BBC report, even if you don't get a JRF, there's no need to worry. Parveen Malhotra, founder of CAREING (Career Awareness Resources in Need of Guidance), says that NET-qualified candidates can work as research associates in research projects funded by institutions like CSIR, ICSSR, ICMR, or DRDO. These institutions always need young people who are proficient in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Job Opportunities in the Public Sector (PSUs)
Large government companies (PSUs) like BHEL, NTPC, IOCL, and ONGC are now prioritizing UGC-NET-qualified candidates. Parveen Malhotra explains, "If the department is involved in the legal cell or policy analysis, NET-qualified candidates with a law or social science background are preferred. These positions also offer attractive salaries, which can reach lakhs of rupees."

Administrative and Academic Coordination Roles
UGC-NET qualified candidates are not limited to teaching. They can take on roles such as academic coordinator, department head, or program design expert in universities and colleges. These roles involve responsible tasks such as course planning, faculty support, and monitoring students' academic performance.

Role in Content Development and EduTech Companies
In today's digital age, the demand for NET-qualified candidates is constantly increasing in the rapidly growing world of EduTech companies. Opportunities can be found as content developers or subject matter experts in companies like Byju's, Unacademy, Physics Wallah, and Vedantu. Your job is to create online courses, design study materials, and assist as a student guide. Government platforms like 'SWAYAM', 'DIKSHA', and 'e-Pathshala' also prioritize NET-qualified candidates.

Analytical Roles in Think Tanks and NGOs
According to Dr. Sanjib Acharya, a senior career counselor, many think tanks, policy research organizations, and NGOs in India hire NET-qualified candidates as data analysts, researchers, or policy advisors. This provides opportunities for candidates to conduct research and publish reports on social, economic, and academic issues.

Opportunities in Government and Education Departments
State and central government education departments, NCERT, ICHR (Indian Council of Historical Research), and Education Ministries also offer opportunities for NET-qualified candidates. Here, candidates can participate in syllabus design, education policy development, and education reform programs.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News 18 hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.