If I say there’s a million-dollar question students face whenever deciding to opt for a degree in computer science, it will be BCA, B.Tech CS or B.Sc which is better? How do I choose one? Which has got better job prospects? Is the curriculum different? Which institutes are best for it? What all subject combinations would I need?
Well! Worry not. We are here to settle it once and for all.
Computers have utterly revolutionized modern life, becoming an important part of work and relaxation. Considering the numerous roles that computers play, the study of computers is also varied and jobs are available in numerous fields.
If you are interested in working in one of the many fields of computers, you may have heard of the three most popular courses: BCA, B.Sc Computer Science and B.Tech Computer Science (CS).
As all three courses are computer-based, it may become confusing on how to differentiate between them and how to identify which is best suited to you. Don’t worry, despite BCA, B.Sc Computer Science and B.Tech CS having common study topics, there is plenty of variation between them. These differences are visible in their course structure, admission process, and career opportunities.
Read on to learn more!
What are BCA, B.Sc Computer Science and B.Tech CS?
All three, BCA, B.Sc. Computer Science and B.Tech CS involve the study of computers, but that is mostly where the similarity ends.
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
BCA is an undergraduate degree course focusing on the applications of computers. As the focus is mostly on the various computer applications, understanding the technicalities and hardware functioning is not necessary. Topics studied include multimedia systems, web-based applications and the basics of computer programming. Most BCA graduates follow it up with a 2-year Masters of Computer Applications (MCA) degree course. Several universities and colleges also allow students without PCM or mathematics to apply for a BCA course. However, having studied maths in 11th & 12th gives you an edge during pursuing the course.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (B.Sc Computer Science)
B.Sc Computer Science is an undergraduate degree, specialising in computer science. The course focuses on basic concepts in the field of computer science and technological implementations of computers, providing you with a strong academic foundation in the field of computer science. Topics studied in B.Sc Computer Science include programming concepts, disk operating systems, and control structures.
Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science (B.Tech CS)
B.Tech CS is a 4-year undergraduate professional course, which is essentially a degree in the field of engineering with a specialization in computer science. In B.Tech CS, you would study computers in-depth, including their software, hardware, concepts and applications. The B.Tech CS course was one of the first courses in the field of computer science to be offered in India and has immense prestige. Topics studied in B.Tech CS include digital circuits & system, data structures, operating systems, database management systems, and computer architecture.
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Subjects Required in Class 12
An important distinguishing factor between BCA, B.Sc Computer Science and B.Tech CS is the subjects required in Class 11-12.
BCA: To be eligible for the BCA course, all you need is to pass class 12 with any stream. While some institutes require you to have studied mathematics in Class 11-12, it is not compulsory for every institute.
B.Sc Computer Science: To be eligible for the B.Sc Computer Science course, you must have passed the science stream in Class 12, with physics, chemistry and maths as compulsory subjects.
B. Tech Computer Science: Similar to B.Sc Computer Science, to be eligible for B.Tech CS, you must have passed out from the science stream in class 12, and have studied physics, chemistry and maths.
Differences in Course Structure & Curriculum of BCA, B.Tech CS & B.Sc Computer Science
The core difference between the 3 computer courses is their area of focus. While BCA concentrates on applications of computers, B.Sc Computer Science puts emphasis on concepts and B.Tech CS is based on intensive programming and software/hardware knowledge.
Here is a list of subjects that are typically taught in the 3 courses:
BCA
- Digital Computer Fundamentals
- Interpersonal Communication
- Financial Management
- Mobile Applications
- Computer Graphics and Animation
- Cyber Law
- Multimedia Applications
- Embedded Systems
B.Sc Computer Science
- Programming Fundamentals Using C++
- Computer System Architecture
- Data Structures
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Database Management Systems
- Internet Technologies
- Theory of Computation
- Computer Graphics
B.Tech Computer Science
- Programming Fundamentals Using C++
- Web Technologies
- Management Systems
- Multimedia Technologies
- Applied Mathematics
- Applied Physics
- Applied Chemistry
- Database Management Systems/Data Mining
- Theory of Computation
- Engineering Mechanics
- Algorithm Analysis & Design
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Top Colleges for BCA, B.Tech CS & B.Sc Computer Science
Here are a few leading institutes (not limited) for the three courses. This list below is indicative and does not rank the institutes.
BCA
- Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies & Research (SICSR) – Pune
- Department of Computer Science, Christ University – Bangalore
- Loyola College – Chennai
- Amity Institute of Information Technology – Noida
- Xavier’s Institute Of Computer Application – Ahmedabad
B.Sc Computer Science
- Fergusson College – Pune
- Mount Carmel College – Bangalore
- Elphinstone College – Mumbai
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College – New Delhi
- University Of Lucknow – Lucknow
B.Tech Computer Science
- Indian Institute of Technology – Multiple Locations
- Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) – Pilani
- Delhi Technological University (DTU) – Delhi
- Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology – Delhi
- NITs & IIITs- Multiple locations
Admission Criteria for BCA, B.Tech CS & B.Sc Computer Science
Although admission criteria can vary based on the institute, admissions to the BCA and B.Sc Computer Science courses are generally provided on the basis of the marks you score in Class 12, but a few institutes may ask for you to attempt an entrance test.
In contrast, admission to B.Tech Computer Science is a streamlined process and you will compulsorily have to attempt an engineering entrance exam, such as JEE (Joint Entrance Exam), BITSAT, VITEEE, and others.
The admission procedure for B.Tech CS is exactly the same as for any other engineering course, as it is primarily an engineering degree with a specialization in Computer Science. Based on the rank you score in the entrance exam and possible personal interview/ group discussion, you will be able to secure admission in your desired institute.
Higher Education Opportunities after BCA, B.Tech CS & B.Sc Computer Science
Higher education is no longer a dull option, but an alluring opportunity to further knowledge and gain an edge in the market. The higher education options after BCA and B.Sc. Computer Science are similar. Your options include MCA, M.Sc Computer Science, MS or even management courses such as an MBA or post-graduate diploma.
However, if you are interested in M.Tech as a BCA or B.Sc Computer Science graduate, you would need additional studies if your undergraduate degree is of 3 years as M.Tech is available after 10+2+4 years of study.
If you pursue a 4-year B.Tech Computer Science course, you have the option of pursuing higher studies in M.Tech, MS or management courses. MCA is generally not advisable as the B.Tech CS course is comprehensive and would have already covered the majority of relevant subjects.
Deciding to pursue higher education is a personal decision, however, experts advise to pursue a Master’s degree or further studies after a BCA or B.Sc Computer Science, while a B.Tech CS is considered to be a comprehensive and complete course in itself.
What are the Career Opportunities After Each?
Career Opportunities after BCA
Considering the wide applications of computers across industries, there are unlimited career opportunities for a BCA degree holder, whether you want to work in a government job, a private sector job or self-employment. You would be suitable for job profiles such as system analyst, programmer, system manager, network designer, game developer, web designer, technical associate and IT technical support developer. Industries you can work with range from education and multimedia, to financial institutes and manufacturing.
Career Opportunities after B.Sc Computer Science
The strong foundational concepts of studying B.Sc Computer Science will make you eligible for a variety of roles across industries, and also aid you in understanding new technologies when the need arises. Among the various job profiles are DTP operator, IT project manager, program analyst, software engineer, developer and programmer. You can work in areas including software development companies, system maintenance centres, the banking sector, consultancies, government agencies, electronic equipment manufacturing companies and more.
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Career Opportunities after B.Tech Computer Science
Graduates of B.Tech Computer Science are in great demand and are often hired straight from campus. Since you would gain in-depth knowledge of software, hardware, programming and designing you have a variety of job profiles to choose from. The job profiles include working as a software engineer, software developer, application developer, programming analyst, network engineer, hardware engineer, test engineer and CAD engineer. You can work with engineering firms, IT/software companies, government PSUs, and sales and marketing firms, among others.
Summing Up
The selection of which course to pursue, whether BCA, B.Sc Computer Science or B.Tech CS is a major decision, as it will most likely reflect in your performance in the course. Consider which aspect of computers do you like the most, whether it is application, concept or theory.
Research the top institutes and their respective admissions procedures. Analyze your own interests and skills to identify which course would suit you. If you still have doubts, consider career counselling to help you make the best choice.
We advise you to take up our Virtual Career Simulation Program in Computer Engineering, where you will learn about Coding, Programming, UI/UX Design, Testing, and many more in-demand skills.
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