Online BCA Syllabus
February 28th, 2025: 10 Min
Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA) is a 3-year undergraduate program in software development and computer applications. The BCA syllabus allows prospective students to gain expertise in programming languages, software engineering, networking, and database management in six semesters. Academically, the degree is considered nearly equivalent to a 4-year BTech course in computer science or IT. It is Ideal for students who aspire to establish their careers in the thriving IT industry.
With several remote learning programs being offered nowadays, students can easily apply for online BCA courses at reputed institutions and attend classes virtually from the comfort of their homes. Many universities' placement cells also help students secure dream job offers. For interested candidates looking to gather more information on the online BCA course of leading colleges, this blog provides all the relevant information on the subjects included in the curriculum.
Online BCA 1st Year Subjects
The 3-year online BCA syllabus blends theory and practicals required to gain a competitive edge in the ever-changing technology industry. The first-year subjects introduce students to the dynamic world of computer science as they gain knowledge about basic mathematics principles and C++ programming while acquiring industry-relevant soft skills. Here is a semester-wise breakdown of common online BCA subjects of the first year.
BCA Semester 1 Subjects |
BCA Semester 2 Subjects |
Fundamentals of IT and Programming |
Data Structures and Algorithms |
Business Communication |
Operating Systems |
Basic Mathematics |
Software Engineering and Modeling Program |
Programming in C |
Object-oriented Programming-C++ |
Understanding PC and Troubleshooting |
Digital Logic |
Online BCA 2nd Year Subjects
Students learn about pertinent topics like data security, complex programming, and artificial intelligence in their second year. Here is a semester-wise breakdown of common online BCA subjects for 2nd year.
BCA Semester 3 Subjects |
BCA Semester 4 Subjects |
Java Fundamentals |
Python Programming and Machine Learning |
Database Management System |
System Software |
Computer Organization |
Java Programming |
Computer-Oriented Numerical Methods |
Web Technologies |
Practical Lab |
Practical |
Online BCA 3rd Year Subjects
In the final year online BCA syllabus, students learn about website development, cloud computing, and big data. They are assigned projects that hone their research and leadership skills. They can also choose elective subjects of their interest. Here is a semester-wise breakdown of common online BCA subjects in 3rd year.
BCA Semester 5 Subjects |
BCA Semester 6 Subjects |
Web Design |
Cloud Computing |
Practical-Python Programming |
Mobile Application Development |
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence |
Professional Ethics |
Software Engineering |
Elective |
Elective |
Major Project |
Online BCA Elective Subjects
A range of elective subjects are available for students enrolled in online BCA programs. They consist of technology-driven topics that allow learners to expand their knowledge and skills in their area of interest. Here are some of the BCA subjects available as electives at top universities.
- Cyber Security
- Multimedia and Animation
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Data Science and Big Data
BCA Syllabus for Different Specialization
BCA specializations offer an advanced approach to building the candidates’ expertise in the dedicated areas of the IT field. Below are the most popular specializations that can make a graduate even more valuable in the professional arena:
- BCA in Informational Technology: The main focus of this specialization is software development, database management, and other critical IT areas.
- BCA Data Analytics: Students learn how to interpret, analyze, and visualize large data sets, equipping themselves to make informed business decisions.
- BCA Cloud Computing: The syllabus of this course covers cloud infrastructures and services, including cloud security and architecture.
- BCA Digital Marketing: This course’s key components include social media marketing, SEO, and digital advertising.
- BCA Cyber Security: Learners develop an understanding of cryptography, network security, ethical hacking, and cyber threat protection.
Syllabus of BCA From Top Colleges
Different universities can have different structures for their online BCA syllabus. Here is a summary of the subjects offered by a few top online universities.
Syllabus of Chandigarh University BCA
The UGC-entitled online BCA degree at Chandigarh University is recognized in India and overseas. Its applied-based syllabus aims to make students industry-ready by giving them a sound academic foundation and vital practical skills. Below is the breakdown of Chandigarh University’s BCA course subjects per semester.
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
Semester 5 |
Semester 6 |
Computer Programming |
Object-oriented Programming |
Design and Analysis of Algorithms |
Python Programming |
Data Visualization |
Business Analytics |
Communication skills |
Algorithm and Data Structure |
Environmental, Waste, and Disaster Management |
Computer Graphics |
Linear Algebra and Optimization |
Software Engineering |
Finance & Economics |
Introduction to Management & Leadership |
Database Management Systems |
Computer Network |
Data Warehousing and Data Mining |
Machine Learning |
Discrete Mathematics |
Soft Skills |
Operating Systems |
Computing Systems |
Cloud Computing |
Cloud Native Development |
Electronics and Electrical Circuits |
Computer System Architecture |
Web Applications |
Probability and Statistics |
Minor Project |
Major Project |
Syllabus of Vivekananda Global University BCA
The AICTE-accredited online BCA course at Vivekananda Global University is open to domestic and international students. Its robust syllabus is designed to train students to be efficient workforce leaders. The university’s learning methodology fosters real-life skills and facilitates career-defining networking opportunities. Below is the breakdown of Vivekananda Global University’s BCA subjects for each semester.
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
Semester 5 |
Semester 6 |
Basic Mathematics |
Object-oriented Programming with C++ |
Database Management System |
Programming in Java |
Software Engineering |
Major Project |
Fundamentals of C Lab |
Algorithm and Data Structure |
Computer Networks |
Operating System |
Python Programming |
Elective 9 |
Basic Electronics |
Information Management System |
Internet & Web Technologies |
Computer graphics and Visualization |
Software Engineering Lab |
Elective 10 |
Principle of Programming Languages |
Data Structure Lab |
Database Management System Lab |
Computer Graphics Lab |
Python Programming Lab |
|
Fundamentals of C |
Soft Skills and Professional Attitude |
Internet and Web Programming Lab |
Programming in Java Lab |
Project Formulation and Appraisal |
|
PC Software and Automation Lab |
Object-oriented Programming Lab with C++ |
Elective 3 |
Elective 5 |
Elective 7 |
|
Elective 1 |
Elective 2 |
Elective 4 |
Elective 6 |
Elective 8 |
Syllabus of Centurion University BCA
Centurion University’s online BCA degree is certified by UGC and has NAAC A+ accreditation. This highly engaging yet flexible program focuses on industry collaborations. Students can pursue education remotely and still get excellent placement support to fast-track their computer science and IT careers. Below is the semester-wise breakdown of Centurion University’s online BCA subjects.
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
Semester 5 |
Semester 6 |
High-performance Computing |
Cloud Computing |
IIoT |
Edge Computing |
Machine Learning |
Project |
Quantum Computing |
Cyber Security |
Embedded Systems |
SoC |
ARVR and Gaming |
Elective |
Data Science and Warehousing |
Spectral Image Analytics |
Mobile Computing |
Artificial Intelligence |
Syllabus of Distance BCA
Distance BCA programs offer a student-centric approach to learning for candidates who want a world-class education but cannot attend the university campus. The BCA subjects for distance courses are similar to the regular on-campus program. Here is a list of some common papers in different university curricula:
- Computer Fundamentals and Programming
- Database Management Systems
- Data Structuring Using C
- Digital Electronics
- Programming in Java
- Software Engineering
- Web Technology and Programming
- Cloud Computing
- Computer Networking
- Information Security
- Operating Systems
- Data Structures and Algorithms
BCA Entrance Exam Syllabus
To get admission to an online BCA program in some universities, candidates must have a valid entrance exam score. Major national-level entrance tests include the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) and the Undergraduate Aptitude Test (UGAT). There are also university-led exams like the Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test (CUCET).
Most of these entrance exams have the same syllabus, which include:
- English Language: Tests include comprehensive reading passages accompanied by questions on vocabulary, grammar, expression, and more.
- Quantitative Reasoning: The math-based questions are devised to check the candidate’s problem-solving skills.
- General Knowledge: These questions test the candidate’s awareness of current affairs, culture, trade, and innovations.
- Computer Science: This will test the candidate’s technical and fundamental knowledge
of computer operations from network computing to programming languages.
FAQs
- Is online BCA a credible degree?
The UGC and several other prestigious institutions accredit online BCA programs offered by top universities. Therefore, they are credible and recognized by higher education institutions and employers.
- Is the online BCA syllabus aligned with the industry standards?
The curriculum and teaching methodologies prioritize students’ future requirements and equip them with real-life skills valued in the workforce.
- Do online BCA programs include projects?
Apart from BCA degree subjects, projects are critical to the online syllabus as they provide practical exposure and promote leadership qualities.
- What is the maximum duration for completing the online BCA course?
The maximum time is double the standard duration for an online BCA degree, which is six years.
- Who is a suitable candidate for distance learning?
Any candidate who wants to enroll in a higher education program that is flexible and accessible from anywhere is best suited for distance learning.