7 Things to Know About a Bachelor of Computer Application

As technology becomes an increasingly important part of our lives, the need for tech and computer-oriented jobs grows too. If you're interested in a career in computers and technology, consider earning a Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA). This career track can lead to opportunities across many industries and countries and a competitive salary. 

A BCA covers various topics, including computer languages, databases, programming, and software engineering. It typically takes three years to complete, and once you finish, you can seek a job in IT or continue your education to qualify for more advanced positions. 

If a Bachelor of Computer Application sounds like something you want to pursue, look at this list of seven things you need to know about the course, like who is eligible, what you'll study, and the types of jobs you can get.  

1. What is the Bachelor of Computer Application? 

A Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA) is an undergraduate degree course that provides a basic understanding of computer applications and information technology. It takes three years, or six semesters, to complete. 

Upon completion, you should understand computer basics, operating systems, common programming languages, web development, information security, database systems, software engineering, and more. Many colleges and universities across India offer the degree, and you can even find many distance or online learning options, both in India and abroad. 

2. Who is eligible to earn a Bachelor of Computer Application? 

To earn a Bachelor of Computer Application, you need to have passed Class 12 from any stream. While a science background is optional for this course, you can apply for a BCA if you complete the arts or commerce streams. However, most schools will require you to have taken English. You'll also typically need to have made a minimum of 45 to 55 percent marks. 

You'll generally need to be at least 17 years old and no older than 25 (though the maximum age may vary by school). You'll also need to have passed or appeared on the 12th examination, with some schools requiring maths as a compulsory subject. 

Accepting a Bachelor of Computer Application programme may be based on merit, but some universities select students based on an interview or entrance exam.

People who succeed in this field are usually creative, analytical thinkers who work well as a team. You'll also need strong communication skills and a good foundational knowledge of computers and IT. 

3. What will I study while earning a Bachelor of Computer Application? 

While every university's courses will be different, you'll usually study many of the same topics. Most programmes include English communication, mathematics, and workplace skills. But the bulk of your education will revolve around computers and information technology. Some of the classes you'll take might include:  

• Programming in C

• Statistics

• Hardware labs

• Software labs 

• Computer networks

• Web design

• User interface design 

• E-commerce

• E-governance 

• Operating systems

• Data structures

• Software engineering

• Graphics

• GUI Programming

• Theory of computing

• Microprocessors

• Cloud computing

• Open source technology

• Computer network security

• C++

• Java 

• Python 

• Artificial intelligence 

• Information security

• Database management systems

• Design and analysis of algorithms 

4. What are some Bachelor of Computer Application specialisations? 

Within the Bachelor of Computer Application programme, you can choose a specialisation in a particular area of the field that interests you most. Different universities will offer other options, but some common Bachelor of Computer Application specialisations are:

• Programming languages (Python, Java, etc.)

• Data science

• Data analytics

• Database management systems

• Network systems

• Animation

• Computer graphics

• Music and video processing

• Internet technologies

• Systems analysis 

• IT technologies 

• Accounting applications

• Management information systems

5. How does a Bachelor of Computer Application compare to similar degrees? 

A Bachelor of Computer Application isn't the only computer degree you can earn. Two of the most popular are the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science and the Bachelor of Technology (BTech). Take a look at how the different degrees compare to each other: 

BSc Computer Science

Both the BCA and BSc Computer Science typically take three years to complete. Entry to BSc Computer Science programmes is merit-based, while BCA programmes may be merit-based or based on an interview or exam. You'll also need to have completed a science stream with maths, physics, and chemistry. While the BCA focuses on creating software and applications, the BSc Computer Science focuses more on basic computer knowledge and concepts, though some subjects may overlap. Both degrees typically offer specialisations. 

BTech

Similar to the BSc Computer Science, the BTech degree covers computer and IT basics rather than focusing on software and applications, and it also helps you improve your human and analytical skills and learn about computer engineering. You'll need to complete a science stream to gain entry to a BTech programme. One big difference between the BCA and BTech is that the BTech takes four years to complete compared to the BCA's three years. 

6. What jobs can you get with a Bachelor of Computer Application?  

Once you complete your BCA, you have many professional opportunities. Tech and IT jobs are the most common professional paths BCA grads take to go into fields like digital marketing, data science, cybersecurity, banking, e-commerce, and education. 

Take a look at some of the common job titles for people who earn a Bachelor of Computer Application and their average annual salary:  

• Web developer: ₹4,38,000

• Data scientist: ₹13,35,000

• Software engineer: ₹7,90,000 

• Digital marketer: ₹2,85,504 

• Systems analyst: ₹9,22,155 

• Software developer: ₹7,90,000 

• E-commerce executive: ₹2,52,000

• IT analyst: ₹9,75,000 

• Blockchain developer: ₹7,50,000

• Tech support professional:  ₹4,22,500

*All salaries are from Glassdoor India as of July 2024. 

7. What other paths can I take after completing my Bachelor of Computer Application? 

While many people choose to go straight to work or on-the-job training upon earning their Bachelor of Computer Application, a few more options are available. For example, you can further your education. Some popular options include the following: 

• Earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA), which can help you develop your human skills and seek positions in management and leadership. 

• Earn a certificate in product management. 

• Earn certifications in cyber security. 

• Earning your Master of Computer Application (MCA) will help you expand on the skills you learned while earning your BCA.

• Earn a diploma such as the postgraduate diploma in management (PGDM) or postgraduate diploma in computer application (PGDCA). 

• Seek jobs abroad—tech companies in countries like the United States, UK, and Dubai usually seek BCA grads for various positions. 

Next steps 

Something else you can do after you earn your BCA, even while working in a new job, is add to your credentials by taking online courses, Professional Certificates, and Specialisations on Coursera in topics related to computer applications. Some of the top educational institutions and businesses in the world offer them. Some great options for BCA freshers include the Blockchain Revolution Specialisation provided by INSEAD, the IBM Full Stack Software Developer Professional Certificate, and the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate.