6 Things to Know Before You Opt for MCA

Do you have a knack for computer application development and learning modern programming languages? If yes, MCA might be the course for you.

To get a better understanding of the course, we have listed 6 important things you should know. 

What is MCA and who should do it?

Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is a postgraduate degree that deals with computer application development, computer architecture, mobile computing, networking, operating systems, application software etc.
With the fast-paced growth in computer sciences and the technology driver industry, MCA becomes a course in high demand.

MCA Course details

The objective of the course is to train the students in software and web development, Computational Theory, Parallel and Vector Processing, Data Mining etc so that they can take up the job roles of programmers, systems designers, system analysts and other jobs in the IT sector. Students can opt for doing MCA online or through distance education. MCA Fees for both the options would be generally between INR 30,000 - 2 lakh.

Who should do MCA?

• Anyone who wants to enter into the realm of software designers and developers or UI developers can look out for this course
• MCA is a great option to hone your skills if you want to enhance your job profile
• It is the best-suited post-graduation program for someone who is a BCA degree holder
• People who wish to switch their fields can also opt for MCA

What is the eligibility for doing MCA?

Though the MCA eligibility criteria may differ for different colleges the basic eligibility requirement for doing a Master of Computer Applications programme is given below-

• The candidate must have scored at least a minimum of 50% at the undergraduate level in computer applications, computer science or such comparable areas
• The candidate must have opted for Mathematics in 12th standard.

MCA syllabus 

Make sure you know and understand all the components of the syllabus before you pursue your MCA. Take a look at the year-wise division of the terms and semesters:

Year One

SEMESTER I	SEMESTER II
Mathematical Foundation	Operating Systems
Fundamentals of Computer Organisation	Probability and Combinatorics
Web Technology	Unix and Windows Lab
Elements of Basic Communication	InfoSystems Analysis Design and Fundamentals
Data and File Structure	Oral and Wireless Communication
Programming Fundamentals	Business Programme Lab

Year Two

SEMESTER III	SEMESTER IV
Statistical Computing	Network Lab
Database Management Systems	Organisational Behaviour
Object-Oriented Analysis and Design	CASE Tools Lab
Computer Communication Networks	Network Programming
Management Support System	Software Engineering I
DBMS Lab	Elective I & II

Year Three

SEMESTER V	SEMESTER VI
Software Engineering II	Project
AI and Application Lab	Seminar
Optimisation Techniques
Elective III & IV
Industrial Project

MCA specialisations

If you’re doing MCA you also have the option to specialise in a certain field as there are various specialisation you can choose from:-

• Systems Management 
• Management Information Systems (MIS) 
• Systems Development 
• Systems Engineering 
• Software Development 
• Internet 
• Application Software 
• Troubleshooting 
• Networking 
• Hardware Technology

MCA admission

Admission to MCA courses can be done on merit basis or through an entrance exam.  Various entrance exams are conducted on national level, state level and university level such as NIMCET, IPU CET, MAH CET and others.

For admission through merit

It is possible to get admission to MCA without giving the entrance exam by going through the direct admission process. You will need to have already passed BCA or any other equivalent exam.

Direct admission is granted on the basis of merit in the qualifying tests. Colleges also have reserved management quota seats. These seats are however more expensive than regular seats. Direct admission is allowed by only private colleges and institutions. In this method, the candidate only has to give a knowledge-based test and a personal interview to get admitted.

For admission through entrance exams

• Go to the website of the board, college or university and register yourself
• Fill up the application form with all the necessary details and documents that need to be uploaded in the required size and format
• You will be required to pay the admission fee. Download the receipt after making the payment
• Download and print the admit card as it will be required while appearing for the entrance test
• After giving the exam those candidates who will qualify will attend a counselling session. Seats are allotted in various colleges through these counselling sessions.

Top 10 universities that offer MCA courses

• Christ University Bangalore
• Loyola College
• Guru Nanak College
• Madras Christian College
• Jaipur National University
• St Xavier's College
• SS Jain Subodh PG College
• Poornima University
• Amity University Lucknow
• Ethiraj College for Women

Career opportunities

With jobs dominantly in the IT industry which is growing so rapidly, an MCA degree provides opportunities to explore various job roles that never go out of demand and also provide good compensation. The MCA course provides career opportunities in various fields and job profiles, some of which are listed below:

• Ethical Hackers
• Database Engineer
• Software Engineer
• Software Application Architect
• Trouble-shooters
• Web Designer and Developer
• Hardware Engineer
• Social Media Handler
• Sunstone’sTechnical Writer

Some of the top recruiters hiring MCA degree holders are:

• Accenture
• SAP
• Cybage
• Oracle
• Amazon
• KPIT
• Capgemini
• IBM
• HCL

Does the question ‘ is MCA good for career’ hovers over you? If you are wondering whether MCA is a good career option we have the answer. Yes, as it is in high demand due to the booming IT Industry. Developing your skills in computer and programming languages would definitely benefit you in building your career in this field. Some students also wonder, “Can I do MCA in 2 years?” Well. yes, you can complete your MCA in 2  years. 

About Sunstone

Sunstone is a leading higher education services provider that works with academic institutions in upskilling students for employability. Sunstone offers career-oriented training interventions for undergraduate and postgraduate students at 40+ institutions across 30+ cities.

Its training programs are industry-endorsed to enhance employability. These programs are designed for hybrid delivery with an unparalleled focus on soft skills and personality development. Sunstone’s focus is to provide students with a holistic educational experience.

We at Sunstone, understand the significance of unlocking your dream job on your own terms. We guarantee that you will be exposed to an extensive pool of options and opportunities with our comprehensive panel of recruiters.