PGDCA (Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application): Course, Eligibility, Fees, Admission, Syllabus, Scope

PGDCA is a postgraduate diploma programme in computer application and information technology. PGDCA full form is a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application, which can be pursued by students with any educational background. The PGDCA course lasts one year, covering topics, such as operating systems, database management systems, and web programming.

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This Story also Contains

1. PGDCA Course Details
2. PGDCA Course Duration
3. PGDCA Eligibility Criteria
4. PGDCA Entrance Exam
5. PGDCA Course Syllabus
6. PGDCA Course Fees
7. PGDCA Course Job Opportunities
8. PGDCA Salary in India
9. List of Top PGDCA Colleges in India

More than 900 colleges affiliated with around 220 universities in India offer PGDCA courses. The PGDCA course covers comprehensive knowledge of computer application and computer science. It covers various topics like computer programming, system analysis, web development, and software engineering.

Students who have completed their undergraduate degree and secured at least 50 per cent marks can apply for the PGDCA course. Students from streams like BA, B.Com, B.Sc, BBA, BCA, and B.Tech can pursue PGDCA courses. The salary of PGDCA graduates is around Rs. 4 LPA for freshers but can vary based on the individuals' skill set. Colleges admit students based on their degree scorecard, and most of the time, there is no need to appear for any entrance exam.

Highlights: Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications

PGDCA Course Details

With the technological advancement and rapid change in the software industry within a short time, it has become important to provide education related to software and technology. PGDCA aims to provide this knowledge to students with any educational background.

• PGDCA distance education, part-time, and full-time are modes of education that students can opt for.
• Both Co-Ed and gender-specific colleges offer PGDCA courses.
• Students with any educational background can join the software industry after graduation.
• The average monthly salary for PGDCA fresher graduates is anywhere between Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 25,000.
• From 2024-2028, software industry revenue is expected to grow 10.82 per cent annually, increasing job opportunities.

PGDCA Course Duration

PG diploma in computer application is of one year duration. It is divided into two semesters which include life skills, humanity, and entrepreneurship related subjects in addition to computer applications. PGDCA course duration is the same for all colleges, which is 12 months.

PGDCA Eligibility Criteria

A variety of institutes offer PGDCA courses, although the eligibility criteria are not uniform across all institutes. Before applying to colleges, candidates should review the college's PGDCA course eligibility requirements. Before applying to college, they must meet specific standards.

• Candidates must have passed a bachelor's degree in any stream from any recognised university or college.
• They need to be a graduate in any discipline (BA, B.Com, B.Sc, BBA, BCA, and B.Tech).
• Candidates need to appear for entrance exams conducted by universities and examination authorities although some institutes offer admission based on the marks obtained in 10+2.

PGDCA Admission Process

The PGDCA admission process is almost similar for every college however the eligibility criteria may differ. In this section, we have mentioned the PGDCA admission process.

• PGDCA admission is usually based on merit, although a few institutes conduct a written test or examination to screen candidates.
• Candidates who qualify for the test are called for an interview before the final seat allotment.
• Some institutes in India will offer admission to the PGDCA course based on scores secured in the undergraduate degree programmes.
• Authorities prepare a merit based on qualifying exam marks, which is used for seat allotment.
• PGDCA course fees depend on the types of colleges and universities and other infrastructure that the colleges offer.

PGDCA Entrance Exam

There is no national-level entrance exam that provides admission to the PG diploma in computer application. Mostly admission to PGDCA courses is done based on the scorecard of the required degree. However, some states and colleges also administer their exams followed by a personal interview.

PG Diploma in Computer Application Cutoff

PGDCA cutoff is different for every institute and it is defined as the minimum score that is required for admission. Multiple factors decide the cutoff for a PGDCA course such as the merit score, seats available, and the difficulty level of the exam. Candidates should know the cutoff for any particular university and must check the official website.

Skills Required for the PGDCA Course

Candidates pursuing PGDCA courses should possess certain skills that are required for graduates. A few skills required for the candidates are mentioned in the table below:

• Analytical skills
• Leadership skills
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of computer languages

PGDCA Course List/Specialisation

Recent advancements in computer science have forced many institutions to update course content and add new courses and specialisations. In the Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications course also, many providers have started offering specialisation related to new technologies. Below are some newly introduced PGDCA specialisations.

• Artificial Intelligence
• Blockchain
• Cyber Security
• Data Science

PGDCA Course Syllabus

PGDCA course is a one-year PG diploma course with two semesters. The PGDCA course syllabus includes topics related to computer software and applications. The PGDCA course syllabus can vary from one institute to another but the basic theme or core remains the same. In the table below, we have mentioned the PGDCA subjects taught as per the NIELIT.

PGDCA Course Fees

PGDCA fee varies depending on the college or university that a candidate attends. It is not a very expensive course if candidates decide on the right college for studying. Before enrolling in any particular college, students should check the PGDCA fee structure. The average PGDCA course fee varies from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 3 lakhs, depending on the college chosen by students.

Scope of PGDCA Course

The PGDCA is a professional course, and after completing the degree students can take up a job in the corporate sector. Some good job profiles are available for the student, especially if the degree is earned from a top college. Popular job roles include Java Developer, Web Developer, Computer Programmer, and IT Professional.

Many students instead of taking up a job immediately after the PGDCA course, go for higher studies. Candidates can take courses like MCA, M.Sc IT, and M.Sc CS to pursue higher studies. PGDCA course helps the candidates to get lateral entry into these programmes.

PGDCA Course Job Opportunities

Many job opportunities are available after completion of the PGDCA course. One can take up a variety of roles in various sectors, some of which are discussed below:

Software Developer: A software developer is a professional who designs, develops, researches, and tests software programmes. His or her work includes identifying areas for modifying the existing software programmes and continuously modifying the codes of programmes.

Java Developer: A Java developer is responsible for developing, designing, and maintaining Java applications and software. He or she is responsible for conducting testing, debugging, and programming of software applications.

Project Manager: A project manager is responsible for finishing the project on time. He or she also checks the performance of the team members and clears their doubts regarding the project.

Database Administrator: A data administrator is responsible for managing the database and storing company information. He or she will take care of the company database and store them safely.

Web Designer: A web designer is responsible for creating the design and layouts of web pages and websites. He or she mainly works on the visual aspects of a website such as usage, page layout, and design.

Top Recruiters:

• E&Y
• Accenture
• IBM
• Cognizant
• Wipro
• KPMG
• Barclays
• Deutsche Bank
• Goldman Sachs
• Morgan Stanley

Benefits of Studying the PGDCA

Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications is a specialised programme for individuals who want to opt for a career in the IT industry. Candidates pursuing the PGDCA syllabus will learn all the programming languages and new technologies.

PGDCA provides numerous opportunities for students enrolled in the course such as web developers, web designers, computer programmers, software developers, and ethical hackers. However, remember that a degree or course can make you eligible for these job profiles; it is the candidate’s skills that will help them get a job.

PGDCA Salary in India

The salary of a PGDCA degree holder will depend on the job role and also experience. Generally with an increase in experience the salary increases, and so does a rise in the designation. Below, we have listed the PGDCA course salary for respective job roles.

Source: Ambition Box

List of Top PGDCA Colleges in India

In India, there are more than 900 PGDCA colleges. Admissions are based on the entrance examinations conducted by various colleges and universities and also based on merit. The table below shows the Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications offered by several of India's top institutions.

Top Private PGDCA Colleges in India

In India, around 700 private PGDCA colleges offer courses. The fee in private PGDCA colleges is more than in government colleges. Some of the top private PGDCA colleges and their fees are discussed below:

Top PGDCA Course Government Colleges in India

Studying at a government college is less expensive than attending a private college. More than 200 government colleges are well known for their high academic excellence throughout India. The following are some of the top government PGDCA colleges.

The PGDCA course is designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are required for working in the IT industry. PGDCA is one of the most sought-after courses among candidates who have completed their bachelor's degree and want to pursue a professional course.