Online MCA Programme: Curriculum, Career Outcomes, and Fees

Global investment in technology and data science is on an upward trend. A forecast by Gartner estimates that global expenditure on IT will be 4.5 trillion USD in 2023. Further, the software and IT sectors will each grow at 9.3% and 5.5%.

These figures show the rising necessity for IT and software technicians. Getting an online MCA degree helps students gain exposure and deep knowledge of computer science. It also enables them to apply computer science principles to solve real-world problems.

Do you want to pursue a lucrative career in tech and software development? Read on to learn more about an MCA programme’s curriculum and career prospects after an MCA degree.

What is an MCA degree?

A Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is a post-graduate degree programme. It involves the study of computer science and IT and teaches students about their real-world applications.

Scope of the MCA Programme in India

Computer science and technology is a budding field in India and worldwide. According to Statista, the expenditure on the IT sector in India in 2022 was 109.6 billion USD. The study estimates that this number will exceed 112 billion USD by 2024.

The need for IT experts and digital professionals is growing with global industries expanding in the digital sphere. With widespread application and ease of upskilling, MCA offers promising prospects for future tech professionals. From data science to ethical hacking, MCA graduates have a wide variety of careers.

MCA graduates find employment in a wide array of industries. Some of them include:

• Software and Tech
• Media
• Corporate
• Public Sector
• Food and Beverage
• Education
• Business and E-commerce
• Automobiles
• Energy

Online vs Offline: Which MCA degree is better?

There is no significant difference when comparing the scope of online and offline MCA degrees. Still, pursuing an online MCA course has a few notable benefits.

You can study on your terms

Pursuing an online degree gives students the flexibility to study anytime and anywhere. Online courses help students with scheduling and effective time management. It also allows them to upskill without skipping offline classes or work.

You save more on regular expenses

Some online degrees may look expensive at first, but they are affordable and save you money in the long run. Students save on regular transportation costs as there is no need to travel to attend online lectures. There is also a reduction in the cost of buying study materials as most notes are available in a digital format.

You can get a personalised learning experience

Not only are some online courses self-paced, but they also allow you to personalise your learning experience. Several universities provide choice-based learning systems and offer career counselling and placement support.

You get the opportunity to network and collaborate

Many MCA programmes encourage their students to work on projects together and attend lectures, webinars and job fairs. This allows you to network and collaborate with peers, industry experts and alumni.

Eligibility criteria for MCA courses

A candidate must have a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) degree to enrol in an online MCA course in India. Candidates with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Engineering may also apply for MCA programmes. Candidates with a bachelor's in humanities, commerce or science can also apply. To be eligible for an MCA course, they must have mathematics at the 10+2 level.

MCA course duration and fees

An MCA degree course is a two-year post-graduate programme divided into four semesters. Each semester spans six months. Some universities offer self-paced courses as well. In the case of self-paced courses, the duration depends on the student's learning pace. The fee structure of online MCA degrees varies from course to course. At Amity University, MCA fees amount to Rs. 40,000 per semester for a total of Rs. 1.6 lakhs for the entire programme.

MCA curriculum

The syllabi of online MCA courses vary from university to university. But most MCA programmes cover the following subjects:

• Logic and Mathematics
• Programming languages like Java, Unix and Linux
• Cloud Computing and Architecture
• Database Management
• Software Engineering
• Graph Theory and Combinatorics
• Data Structures and Algorithm Design
• Network Security and Cryptography
• Cloud Infrastructure and Services
• Quantitative Aptitude
• Research Methodology
• Professional Communication
• Ethics, Cognitive Analytics and Social Skills

Along with the theoretical matter, MCA students work on a project during this course. Universities may also offer specialisations to students. These include machine learning, AI, augmented reality, blockchain, data analytics and so on.

MCA degree: Career outcomes

An MCA degree is the gateway to many job opportunities with rewarding career outcomes. Some of the roles graduates can pursue with an MCA degree are:

Software Developer

Software developers design, create and maintain software to perform various tasks. They also troubleshoot and debug faulty software.

Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects build, implement, maintain, and ensure the security of cloud computing software. They plan cloud software implementation and monitor and manage the cloud computing system.

Software Consultant

A Software Consultant helps companies implement technologies to reach their business goals. They recommend new technologies or analyse existing software companies use to suggest improvements.

Data Scientist

Data science is the collection, analysis and interpretation of data. Data scientists research and write code to provide data-backed solutions to support a company’s business objectives.

Network Engineer

Network Engineers plan and set up computer networks within a company. They are responsible for formulating, implementing, maintaining and troubleshooting network and connectivity plans.

Web Designer/Developer

Web Designers and Developers are responsible for creating visually attractive websites with seamless interfaces. They work on design and functional elements and help maintain and debug the website.

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use analytics and database management tools to gain unique insights into company performance. They have technical knowledge and business acumen that enables them to assess company performance and suggest improvements.

UI/UX Engineer

User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) are two fundamental components of the development of software applications. A UI/UX Engineer designs user interfaces for websites, mobile or other digital media.

Cybersecurity Specialists

Cybersecurity Specialists develop and maintain security systems for networks, software and databases. They analyse software and hardware to eliminate vulnerabilities and risks they may face.

Ethical Hacker

Ethical Hackers discover and report any bugs or vulnerabilities that may be present in a network or database. They provide consultations to companies and even perform re-tests to ensure the elimination of bugs and security risks.

Technology Journalist

Technology Journalists write articles and create content centred around technological developments and digital products. Some Tech Journalists try new technologies and review them for their consumers.

Conclusion

An MCA course is a post-graduate level programme held over two years. Subjects taught in the MCA programme include programming, database management, cloud computing and research methodology.

Completing an online MCA degree gives graduates in-depth knowledge of software and technology. An MCA graduate can have a fruitful career as a Software Developer, Ethical Hacker, Software Consultant or Data Scientist.

Are you passionate about pursuing your dream career in computer applications and IT? Upskill with Amity University’s globally-accredited online MCA programmes from the comfort of your home and get job-ready.