Bhubaneswar, July 19: There is a mad rush for admission in the commerce stream at Utkal University. With 1,056 application forms for just 48 seats, the department of commerce has broken all previous records.

“Many avenues have been opening up for commerce graduates and postgraduates. Commerce is a job-oriented subject. The figures this year shows there are 22 applicants for each seat,” said P.K. Pradhan, a faculty member of commerce. However, of the total forms, only 122 were received online.

Last year, the department had received 924 forms and in the previous year, it was 802.

Another faculty member J.K. Parida said the campus placement opportunities have made commerce a viable option.

“Various reputed companies recruit nearly 60 per cent of our students. The annual pay package ranges from Rs 2.2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, which is a very good deal,” he said, adding that the remaining students also have many other options such as bank services, chartered accountancy, company secretary, chartered financial analyst courses and competitive exams.

Students of the department feel the extensive and up-to-date syllabus gives them an edge over others.

“We have 24 papers for two years and all chapters are of current importance. Our teachers stress on classroom presentation, case-study approach and joint seminars. Most of our seniors have been absorbed into good companies,” said a second-year student.

The commerce department will hold its entrance test on July 20. Of the total 48 seats, 35 are for general candidates. There will be 100 objective multiple-choice questions.

The admissions would be carried out on the basis of their career scores and marks secured in the entrance test.

“Nearly 300 applicants have excellent career record and we will select the best students for the limited seats,” Pradhan said.