We are living in era where computers have not only revolutionized the entire world but have become a part and parcel of our day to day life. They play a key role in all the aspects of our personal and professional life. We can’t think of anything where computers are not being used. Keeping its penetration in view and the roles played, the demand of skilled computer professionals is increasing day by day and so the programs of study amongst the students. Some of the popular programs imparting education in the field of computers are Bachelor of Technology, Bachelor of Computer Applications and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Out of these, Bachelor of Technology is a four year program whereas the rest of the two are three years programs. And this is the main point of confusion amongst many of the students that how to know which program is best suitable for them while both BCA and B.Sc. Computer Science are three year programs and have several subjects in common. This blog is an attempt to answer this question and tries to resolve this dilemma through the variations visible in the program structure of both the programs, their admission process and career options after both the programs. Hope you enjoy reading this blog.
Programme Overview
BSc Computer Science is more concept-oriented while BCA is an application-oriented programme. Students pursuing BCA learn about current technologies and get a basic idea of in-demand programming languages.
BSc Computer Science
BSc Computer Science is a 3-year undergraduate degree that focuses on basic concepts in the field of Computer Science and technological implementations of computers. The program helps students build a strong foundation in the computer science domain. BSc Computer Science includes study of subjects like Programming in C/C++, Databases, Operating Systems and Computer Organization and Architecture.
BCA
BCA is also a 3-year undergraduate degree programme focussing on the applications of computers. During this programme, students hone their skills in various programming languages and applications of computers. However, hardware related concepts and technicalities are not a part of BCA programme. The BCA curriculum includestopics such as Fundamentals of Computer Programming, Website Design, and Multimedia Applications etc. BCA program is generally followed by 2 years Master of Computer Applications (MCA) program to enhance the technical knowledge and consequently the job prospects
Career Scope
Career opportunities are definitely higher for BCA graduates since they are more ready to work on the platform they have been taught in universities or institutes. On the other hand, students of BSc Computer Science are good at aptitude butmight need further training on specific aspect of the job. BCA graduates can find a job with any software company. Software development companies hire BSc Computer Science holders too but they are more often hired by electronic equipment manufacturers, system maintenance consultanciestechnical support teams, security and surveillance companies, etc.Due to the growing demand of computers and its applications, there is a dire need of skilled professionals in almost every industry.
BSc Computer Science
Knowledge gained by BSc computer science graduands during the program makes them employable across various industries to handle a variety of roles. Hands on experience gained by them allow them to work upon new technologies as the need arises. Following sectors hire graduates of BSc computer science: Information Technology, Software Development and Maintenance firms, Banking, Insurance, Finance, Consulting firms, Original Equipment Manufacturers and government sector to name a few.
BCA
BCA graduates also have a plenty of career options across various types of industries including government and private. They also have a variety of job roles depending upon the requirement of the job viz financial advisor, data analyst portfolio manager etc. to name a few.
BSc Computer Science vs BCA: Job Roles
Let us now have a glimpse of the most common career options available to choose from for graduates in both these programmes.
For BSc Computer Science graduates, the most common careers available to choose from are:
- Software Engineer
- Programmer
- IT Project Manager
- Program/System Analyst
- Database Administrator
- Network Architect
- Web Developer
- Information Security Analyst
- Research Scientists
For BCA graduates, the most common careers available to choose include:
- Software Developer
- Software Tester
- Programmer
- Network Administrator
- Web Designer
- System Manager
- Game Designer/Tester
- Technical Support
- System Specialist
- System Maintenance
It is impossible to imagine a world without computers, electronic gadgets and the internet. Due to this, candidates pursuing programmes in the pertinent field need no further assurance for the stability of a job in the field of computer science. Industry is always short of manpower to innovate new technologies, implement and maintain them. Thus, BSc Computer Science and BCA are two of the many ways in which a person can enter a successful career in this field. Irrespective of the fact that whether a candidate studies BSc or BCA, it is important to identify the utility and compatibility of the programme with respect to his/her preferences and ambitions.
Another thing every student must keep in mind irrespective of the programme they are pursuing that they must try to fetch as much internships as possible. It will help them to understand the relevant industry practices and obtain a well-groomed skill set required for any job. In addition to that, all students of BCA and BSc Computer Science programmes must try to have a strong network base of industry mentors and alumni. A good network builds the foundations of a successful career in IT industry.
