The Bachelor of Computer
Applications - BCA is an undergraduate program which is designed to
bridge the gap between the studies of computers and its applications. The syllabus,
the guidelines and eligibility for BCA
course is set out by the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE). BCA usually consists of core subjects
such as Computer Organization and Network Fundamentals, Relational Database
Management Systems, Programming with C, Algorithm and Data Structures, Advanced
Programming with C, Web Programming, Software Engineering and Visual
Programming.
When a student is more interested
in joining a practical course as BCA,
to further his/her career in fields like software development, web design,
systems management, software testing and quality assurance prevailing in the IT
industry, it is advisable to join a regular Degree program than a distance learning
(DL) program. If the learner is a working professional who requires increasing his/her
qualifications and keeping up-to-date with the latest in IT, the option of
distance education or online learning program is more feasible.
The aspiring programmers, who are
on the brim of starting their careers, need to be clear as to what they would
get out of a regular BCA program
before finalizing their choice. No doubt the advancements in technology and virtual
learning systems have been trending in recent times. But the sheer learning
provided by physical presence of a faculty or a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on the
campus, one-on-one interaction with mentors for project work, and interaction
with peers is unmatched.
Another factor that can help students
make an informed decision is Cost versus Employability. Most full-time programs
in India are expensive than the online or distance learning modes of education.
But when it comes to employability factor, the online or distance learning
degrees are not valued by majority of employers in Indian IT industry. It is
believed that the education and training imparted to the regular students by
reputed university or college, not only gives them an understanding of theory
and applications, but also equips them with professional and communication
skills.
BCA course is
typically a three-year specialization program that spans six semesters. It
prepares students to face the challenges and opportunities in the IT industry
by building strong foundations. To increase the job scope after they successfully complete their degree course in computer applications,
students must first compare the best BCA colleges in India and the offered
academic programs.
