Development
Master of Computer Applications: Admission, Eligibility, Courses, Fees, Syllabus
- 4.721 students
- Last updated 8/2022
MCA (Master of Computer Applications) is a master’s level course focusing on computer applications and software development. It will provide you with comprehensive knowledge and skills in topics like programming languages, data structures, DBMS, emerging technologies and more in a 3-year coursework.
MCA Admission is based on entrance exams like NIMCET, CUET PG, MAH MCA CET, IPU CET and more. You can also explore colleges that provide direct admission based on merit. To be eligible for the MCA course, you must have a bachelor’s degree with mathematics as one of the subjects in graduation or class 12.
Non-CS candidates should consider MCA as it will provide them with in-demand industry skills and prepare them for roles in programming, data analysis, IT consulting and more. MCA deals with computer applications, making it ideal for careers in software engineering. You can also explore specialised MCA courses in fields like AI, cloud computing, cyber security, data science and more.
What is the Eligibility of MCA?
You must be well aware of the MCA eligibility before applying for the program. The eligibility criteria for MCA can vary based on the affiliated universities or government rules. You can check the general eligibility of MCA below.
- You must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with 50% marks from a recognised university.
- You must have mathematics as one of the main subjects in graduation or class 12.
- You can also apply if you are in the final year of your bachelor’s degree.
- Some colleges may also require you to have some amount of work experience.
- Candidates from reserved categories can expect some relaxation in the required marks.
- You will have to clear an entrance exam if you are targeting top colleges.
Can Students with no Maths Background Pursue MCA?
Yes, you can pursue an MCA without having a maths background from colleges like Manipal University, Jaipur, Sikkim Manipal University and IIT Bombay (Continuing Education Program). These colleges do not have a strict requirement for a maths background. There are various other steps that you can take to become eligible for the MCA course. Some of the top choices are listed below.
- You can pursue bridge courses that are offered by many MCA colleges. This will provide you with a foundation and help you catch up.
- You can consider online MCA courses that generally do not require a maths background.
- You can opt for a PG diploma in computer applications and directly join the second year of MCA.
- You can take the class 12 maths exam from the open boards making you eligible for MCA.
How Can I Get Admission into MCA?
MCA admissions are based on entrance exams like NIMCET, IPU CET, MAH MCA CET, MAKAUT CET and more. NIMCET is a national-level state exam conducted by NITs. There are also state and university-level exams that you can consider. Some colleges also provide admission based on merit. They will consider your bachelor’s degree marks to provide admission.
What are the subjects under the MCA course?
The MCA Syllabus is covered in 2 years and generally consists of subjects related to computer applications and software programming. The syllabus covers subjects like programming languages, data structures, DBMS, software engineering, computer networks and more. The subjects can vary slightly based on the offering institute but the overall syllabus remains the same. The syllabus spans 2 years and is covered in 4 semesters. You can check the semester-wise subjects below.
| MCA 1st Semester Syllabus | |
|---|---|
| Data Structures and Algorithms | Object Oriented Programming |
| Database Management Systems | Supportive Core 1 |
| Data Structures and Algorithms Lab | Object-Oriented Programming Lab |
| Database Management Systems Lab | |
| MCA 2nd Semester Syllabus | |
| Computer Networks | Operating Systems |
| Domain-Specific Elective 1 | Domain-Specific Elective 2 |
| Open Elective | Communication Skills |
| Computer Networks Lab | Operating Systems Lab |
| MCA 3rd Semester Syllabus | |
| Software Engineering | Internet and Web Technologies |
| Supportive Core 2 | Domain-Specific Elective 3 |
| Skill Enhancement Program | Academic Outreach Program |
| Mini Project | Internet and Web Technologies Lab |
| MCA 4th Semester Syllabus | |
| Project Work | Project Seminar |
| Project Report and Viva-voce | – |
What elective courses are included in the MCA?
There are many elective subjects that you can choose from in the MCA program. Electives allow you to develop specific skills related to a discipline. You can choose domain-specific electives along with one open elective from a non-computer science field. You can check some of the top electives in the following table.
| Elective | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Software Engineering | Object Oriented System Design, Software Architecture, Software Testing, Software Quality Assurance, AGILE Software Process |
| Information Security | Cryptography Fundamentals, Mobile and Digital Forensics, Malware Analysis, Cloud Security, Ethical Hacking |
| Network Computing | Parallel Computer, Network Design and Management, Web Service Computing, Cloud Computing, Distributed Computing Principles |
| Artificial Intelligence | Expert Systems, Neural Networks, Machine Learning, Robotics, Soft Computing, Fuzzy Logic |
| Data Analytics | Big Data, Python for Data Analytics, Risk Analytics, Social Network Analytics, Marketing Analytics, Database Systems in Big Data |
| Human-Computer Interaction | Web Accessibility, Mobile Accessibility, Context-Aware Computing Fundamentals, UI Engineering, Computer Vision and Applications |
What are the high-paying jobs after MCA?
IT professionals are one of the highest-paid in India. After MCA, there are many jobs that you can consider that will pay you a good amount. In some roles, you have to initially start with lower pay. But with demonstrated skills, you can make a good earning. Some of the top high-paying jobs after MCA are mentioned in the following table.
| Job Profile | Job Description | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud Architect | Oversee the cloud computing strategy of a company for secure and effective cloud services. | 25.7 LPA |
| Cloud Security Architect | Protect cloud architecture and data from threats by implementing security measures. | 24.8 LPA |
| Data Scientist | Analyse big data sets to help organisations make data-driven informed decisions. | 14.5 LPA |
| Application Developer | Design and maintain applications for different devices and ensure their efficient functioning. | 11.7 LPA |
| Data Engineer | Design and maintain data architecture for efficient data storage, retrieval and analysis. | 10.7 LPA |
| System Analyst | Analyse IT systems and ensure they are meeting the business requirements. | 10.3 LPA |
| Machine Learning Engineer | Use machine learning models and integrate them into applications to solve complex problems. | 10.2 LPA |
| Cloud DevOps Engineer | Utilises CI/CD pipelines to manage cloud infrastructure and applications. | 9.5 LPA |
| Blockchain Developer | Uses blockchain technology to support decentralised applications and their implementation. | 9.2 LPA |
| Software Developer | Design and maintain software applications to meet end-user and business goals. | 8.4 LPA |
| Cloud Security Analyst | Check and improve the security measures of a cloud infrastructure ensuring privacy. | 8.3 LPA |
| Ethical Hacker | Help organisations improve their computer security by checking vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. | 4.2 LPA |
Which industries offer the highest salaries for MCA graduates?
MCA graduates are in demand in various industries that rely on technology or are shifting their operations to technology-based for better efficiency. With your skills in programming, software development, programming and more, you can explore roles in many industries. You can check some of the top industries in the table below.
| Industry | Job Profiles | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| IT | Software Developer, System Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Consultant | 8 LPA – 10 LPA |
| Finance and Banking | Software Developer, Database Analyst, IT Consultant | 8 LPA – 10 LPA |
| Healthcare | Health Informatics Specialist, Healthcare Software Developer, IT Consultant | 8 LPA – 14 LPA |
| FinTech | Blockchain Developer, Cyber Security Analyst, Data Analyst, Software Developer | 8 LPA |
| EdTech | LMS Administrator, EdTech Developer, Software Engineer, App Developer | 5 LPA – 8 LPA |
| Gaming | Game Designer, Game Developer, Game Tester, Programmer | 6 LPA – 11 LPA |
| E-commerce | App Developer, Programmer, System Analyst, Cyber Security Analyst, Payment Systems Engineer | 6 LPA – 10 LPA |
| Aviation | System Analyst, Data Analyst, App Developer, Cyber Security Analyst |
MCA FAQs
Ques. Will MCA be difficult for me as a BSc student?
Ans. As a BSc student, you will find MCA a bit challenging because of the technical aspects and the topics it covers. It is a computer application-focused program featuring topics like programming languages, advanced programming concepts, databases and more. If you have done a BSc in specialisations like computer science or mathematics, you may find MCA easier because of some of the overlapping topics like discrete mathematics, calculus, statistics, programming basics or computer networks.
Ques. How can I remain relevant after my MCA degree?
Ans. Remaining relevant in the industry is important if you want to secure the latest jobs and keep an edge on others. Many emerging technologies are going to shape future processes. You should choose one field and focus on it completely to build a strong foundation and skills. Working on the skill set is important and you can consider open-source contribution projects, internships and hackathons for the same. AI, machine learning, game development, android app development and data analytics are some of the top fields that are going to be relevant in the future.
Instructors
Web Developer
This course includes:
- 62 hours on-demand video
- Full lifetime access
- Access on mobile and TV
- Free Webinar
- Certificate of completion