BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications)

Today, there is nothing as fascinating as technology. Who knew that computers and information technology will someday become an inseparable part of our lives? From programming languages and computer graphics to web designing and consulting, this field has applications in almost every sector. With the advent of new technologies and an increase in demand for field-specific professionals, universities across the world are now offering innumerable computer-related courses. One such course that opens the door to some of the most sought-after career options and profiles is the Bachelor of Computer Applications or BCA. It is one of the popular computer courses after 12th Commerce which encompasses the elements of both mathematics and computers.  Through this blog, we will provide you with an insight into everything you need to know about this program and what it entails. 

BCA Full-Form	Bachelor of Computer Application
Course Level	Undergraduate
Duration	3 years
Average Fees	INR 15,000 – 2 Lakhs p.a
Entrance Requirements	45%
Average Salary	INR 3.7 Lakhs p.a.

What is BCA?

BCA, an acronym for Bachelor of Computer Applications is a three-year undergraduate program in the field of computer science application and information technology. With BCA syllabus spread over 6 semesters, the program puts special emphasis on the core subjects like database systems, data structures, computer networks, programming languages, etc. This course helps the students demonstrate sound knowledge in the field of computers and solve complex problems through structured formats. Often interchanged, there are certain differences between the BSc Computer Science and Bachelor of Computer Applications. To understand this better, you can read our blog on BSC Computer Science vs BCA.

Why BCA Course?

Being knowledgeable about machinery is crucial in this age of computers and digitization. It helps the individual stand out against those who do not possess a degree in computer applications. The domain is expanding quickly. With the onset of globalisation in the 1990s, computers gained popularity and began to gradually take the role of paper and files in offices. The price was significantly reduced as a result. Students who choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer applications (BCA) will acquire knowledge and abilities in administration, organisation, and communication in addition to computer and information technology. Additionally, one learns programming languages like Java, C++, HML, SQL, and others. The most recent advancements in IT and communication systems, as well as information on various computer applications, are also offered.

BCA Specialisations

Following are the few BCA specialisations available for admissions:

• Accounting Application
• Internet Technologies
• Management Information System (MIS)
• Animation
• Music and Video Processing
• Network Systems
• Systems Analysis
• Programming Languages (C++, JAVA, etc.)

Required Skillset for BCA

• Strong database concepts
• Strong programming knowledge
• Creativity
• Ability to create apps for real-world situations
• Analytical Thinking
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Sound knowledge of Computers and IT
• Teamwork

Top 10 Universities for BCA Abroad

With the rise in demand for computer and information science courses among the students, the universities around the world have started offering quality education through comprehensive courses in this field. Apart from this, they also provide high-end learning tools, infrastructure and the required industrial exposure to the students. Here are the best universities in the world that offer BCA or its related programs: 

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
2. Stanford University
3. Carnegie Mellon University
4. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
5. University of Oxford
6. National University of Singapore (NUS)
7. Harvard University
8. University of Cambridge
9. ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
10. EPFL

Top 10 Colleges for BCA in India

BCA is a relatively emerging course offered extensively by popular colleges and universities in India. The following table enlists the top BCA colleges in India.

1. University of Mumbai, Mumbai
2. SRM Institute of Technology, Chennai
3. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Dwarka
4. Jaipur National University, Jaipur
5. Jamia Hamdard University, Delhi
6. Lucknow University, Lucknow
7. Mahatma Gandhi University, Delhi
8. Chandigarh University, Chandigarh
9. Amity University, Noida
10. Chitkara University

Eligibility

The students who aspire to pursue BCA or other variants of this program such as a Bachelor in Computer Science, etc, need to satisfy certain parameters for eligibility to secure admission to some of the best universities offering these programs. Here are some general eligibility conditions that the candidates have to meet: 

• The candidate must have passed their 10+2 level of studies in any stream with computer science as a compulsory subject, with a minimum aggregate percentage as mentioned in the university guidelines.
• The candidate needs to pass any such entrance exam held by the university if any.
• Secure the requisite percentile in English language proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.
• An exceptional Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), mark sheets, etc are the other documents required. 

Also read: Computer Science Engineering Syllabus

Subjects & Syllabus

A BCA is equivalent to a Bachelor in Computer Science in universities abroad. Owing to this, both the courses hold almost a similar structure and syllabus that trains the students to have sound knowledge in computer science. Here is a list of some of the prominent and general topics that are taught to the students enrolled in either of these courses: 

• Operating systems
• Operations research
• Digital fundamental and computer organization
• Programming in C
• Statistics
• Java programming
• Software engineering
• Python programming
• Application development
• Cloud computing
• Business intelligence
• Computer networks and information security
• PHP programming
• Data structures

Note: This is a generic list of BCA subjects. It can vary from one university to another.

BCA Job Profiles and Salary

After completing your bachelor in Computer Application, you can readily go for a post-graduation degree like a master’s in Computer Application (MCA) or master in Business Administration (MBA). This will help you dwell deeper into the subject and develop the necessary skills and tools to be successful in this field. Here are the most popular BCA jobs:

Job Profiles	Average Salaries
Computer Programmer	₹3,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 per annum
System Engineer	₹4,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 per annum
Web Developer	₹3,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 per annum
Web Designer	₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 per annum
Software Developer	₹4,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 per annum
Software Architect	₹15,00,000 – ₹20,00,000 per annum
System Security Officer	₹4,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 per annum

Major Employment Areas

Owing to the extensive BCA scope, graduates can choose from a plethora of sectors offering lucrative job opportunities. Here are the popular employment sectors for BCA graduates:

• Financial Institutions
• Banks
• Consultancies
• IT Companies
• Multimedia & Animation
• Graphic Design
• Actuaries
• Security & Surveillance
• Game Designing
• Software Development Companies

What Courses Can You Pursue After BCA?

The career path after BCA leads on to multiple subfields in which you can pursue a career after gaining the degree. To end your search regarding what to do after BCA, here are some of the prominent course that you opt to pursue-

• Masters in Computer Application
• Masters in Information Management
• Masters in Computer Management
• Information Security Management
• CISCO Certified Network Professional
• Post Graduate Program in Corporate Studies
• Master of Business Administration

FAQs

Thus, pursuing BCA as a career can offer innumerable opportunities across industries. Needless to say, if you want to study this course abroad, having an impeccable statement of purpose can increase your chances of getting selected in your dream university. Take the assistance of Leverage Edu’s experts who will not only guide you in completing the admission related process but will also help you craft an impressive SOP!