Difference Between B.Sc. Computer Science and BCA

IT (Information Technology) is a growing field, in India, and is looked upon, as one of the industries to provide jobs. A science student, interested in joining the IT bandwagon is usually confused between many courses on offer at the undergraduate level and might end up joining a course which might not be as beneficial as some other course.

One such confusion comes between choosing BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications) or B.SC (Computer Science). We have listed some of the difference in these courses to help you reach a decision.

B.Sc (Computer Science)

The B.Sc (CS) course mainly focuses on the mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing, rather than teaching specific technologies that may quickly become outdated. The course prepares you for higher education.

Eligibility: It is more of an academic course and admission to most universities is based on your performance at the HSC level. Having physics, chemistry and maths is essential to apply for this course.

Education after B.Sc: You can pursue courses like M.Sc or MCA. You can even pursue an M.Tech, after you complete your M.Sc, if the M.Sc(CS) degree is recognised by UGC or AIU (Association of Indian Universities). For M.Tech you can appear for the GATE examination conducted by the IITs or check individual universities which conduct their own entrance exam.

Jobs after B.Sc: Although people prefer to enhance their skills by pursuing higher education, companies hire B.SC (CS) students for the post of software testers, software developers in various IT companies.

BCA

This is an undergraduate program where students are introduced to various areas of computer science, programming, database design, software engineering, networks and information systems. This course prepares graduates for further postgraduate research degrees or employment in any variety of roles in organizations that require expert professionals who can apply computer science principles to solve problems produced by the interface between business and technology.

Eligibility Criteria:  It is more of a professional course. The admission to most colleges is based on an entrance test, the eligibility for most is 50% or above in HSC with Maths as a compulsory subject.

Education after BCA: You can go for an MCA or you can directly apply for an M.Tech, after you complete your BCA.

Jobs after BCA: Since it is a professional course, job prospects are very good. You can get hired for the post of software testers or software developers.

B.Sc. Computer Science	BCA
It is a more academic course, and focuses mainly on mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing.	It is a professional course, designed according to the needs of the IT industry.
Admission is based on your performance at the HSC level, and having physics, chemistry and maths at your HSC level is a must.	Admission is generally based on an entrance test conducted by the university/institute. The eligibility for most exams is 50% at the HSC level, with maths as a compulsory subject.
You can not pursue an M.Tech directly after completing your B.Sc	You can pursue an M.Tech degree after you complete your BCA.