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Diploma in Computer Applications (DCA): Course Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Jobs, Salary 2024

Course

Chetna Verma

Updated on 05th November, 2024 , 6 min read

 

DCA Computer Course Overview

DCA full form is known as Diploma in Computer Application. A diploma in computer applications (DCA) program lasts six months, but depending on the school and course curriculum, it may last up to a year. It is intended for candidates who wish to increase their proficiency with computer applications. 

As per eligibility criteria for the DCA course, candidates must have completed high school from a recognized board with at least 40% marks. The DCA computer course covers subjects like basic Computer Skills, MS Office Applications, Internet Basics, E-Business, PC Assembly, and Troubleshooting, etc.

Students can also choose from a variety of computer application programs offered in India, such as the BCA program, which provides even higher professional prospects. BBA Computer Applications, BSc Computer Applications, and BA Computer Applications are other categories of computer application courses offered in India. 

DCA course fees can be anywhere between INR 5,000 and INR 30,000. One can pursue further education in a similar sector or find DCA course job opportunities in a field like accounting, database handling, fundamental computer applications, software development, computer operator, etc. The average salary after the DCA computer course range between INR 2 to 5 lakhs.

Know More: Diploma Courses

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DCA Course Highlights

The following are a few of the course's main highlights:

ParticularsDetails
Course LevelGraduate
Duration6-12 months
ExaminationYearly
Eligibility10+2 from a recognized board
Admission ProcessDirect admission to colleges
Course FeeINR 5,000 - 30,000
Average Starting SalaryINR 2-5 lakh
Top Recruiting OrganizationsSardius, AARDEE Solutions, Zenith IT Solutions Pvt Ltd, Fortune hub, Blossoms Infotech
Top Recruiting AreasAccounting, Database Handling, Basic Computer Applications, and others
Top Job ProfilesComputer Operator, Web Designer, Accountant, Software Developer, C++ Developer, etc.
Related Courses
BSc Computer ScienceBSc IT

What is DCA?

The DCA computer course is a one-year diploma program that introduces students to the fundamental ideas of computer science. For those wondering what is the full form of DCA, it is an acronym for Diploma in Computer Application course.

The DCA computer course covers a variety of topics, such as Java development, network basics, office automation, computer basics, app development, Windows operating system, etc. The specifics of the DCA course include these ideas in order to give the students both the subject-matter knowledge and job-related skills they need. DCA certificate qualifies students as diploma holders for computer application programs.

Also Read: Diploma in Computer Engineering

DCA Course Fees and Duration

The duration of DCA course is six to twelve months. The course fees for Diploma in Computer Application can be anywhere between INR 5,000 to 30,000. Students must refer to the college website to get the exact DCA course fees for that particular institute. 

DCA Eligibility

Students must fulfill the basic eligibility requirements to enroll in the Diploma in Computer Application course. The institute that offers the DCA computer course has a certain selection process that must be followed in order for them to be admitted to the course. In India, most of colleges and universities follow the following admission procedure:

  • Candidates must have successfully finished and passed their high school 10 + 2 from a recognized board to enroll in the Diploma in Computer Application (DCA) course.
  • Having studied computers as a core or elective subject after 10th class will be an added advantage.
  • There are no further requirements for admission for candidates. However, high-achieving individuals would be preferred.

Must Read: Software Engineering Courses after 12th

DCA Admission Process

For DCA Admissions, students should visit the college or university website for admission information. The application form and the admission process usually take place between April and June. At some universities, the DCA can also be completed by university post-graduates. In that case, a PG degree will be considered for final admission. No further entrance tests are required for admission to this course program.

Steps to Apply:

  • Students must visit the college or university website for information on the admissions process, application fees, tuition fee structure, syllabus, and so on.
  • Admission starts in April and extends to June.
  • Candidates will be shortlisted for the DCA course based on the grades of candidates in grade 10+12 or bachelor and PG certificates.

Also read - Diploma Courses After 12th: Eligibility, Duration, Top Colleges, Salary

How to Apply for DCA Course?

  • DCA computer course details are available on the college websites through which the students can begin their application process. Applications for the DCA course can be availed through both the online and offline modes.
  • The candidate's performance in the 10+2 examinations will determine their selection process. Some colleges hold entrance exams to choose the most qualified applicants.
  • Candidates for DCA course admission must be between the ages of 18 and 22.
  • Students must visit the college or university website for information on the admissions process, application fees, tuition fee structure, syllabus, and so on.
  • Admission starts in April and extends to June.
  • Candidates will be shortlisted for the DCA course based on the grades of candidates in grade 10+12 or bachelor and PG certificates.

Further Reading: Software Engineer Salary in India

DCA Certificate Courses

Students who complete the DCA course will receive a certificate detailing their proficiency in computer applications and academic performance, which will help them land their ideal career. After high school and graduation, students can enrol in DCA courses.

Diploma in Computer Application Syllabus

The table below mentions the DCA syllabus as followed by most colleges and universities:

DCA Syllabus: Semester 1

DCA Syllabus: Semester 2

Computer Fundamentals and WindowsSpreadsheets
Representation of data/Information concepts of data processingManipulation of cells
Introduction to WindowsManipulation of sheets
Windows SettingProviding Formulas and functions
Window/AccessoriesFilters- Auto Filter, Advanced filters
Opening documents and closing documentsPowerPoint presentations
Formatting the textsCommunication and Internet
Handling Multiple documentsWWW and Web browser
Special featuresElectronic mail
Mail mergeDocument handling

Diploma in Computer Application Subjects

The table below mentions the DCA subjects as followed by most colleges and universities:

DCA Subjects: Semester 1

DCA Subjects: Semester 2

Fundamentals of ComputerDatabase Management System
Operating System and Application ProgramVisual Basics (VB)
Programming LanguageInternet and Web Page Designing
Practical in C Programming and Application ProgramProject work
Practical on Application Program-

DCA Colleges in India

The University of Calcutta, JMI, LPU, and other prestigious universities offer a Diploma in Computer Applications, with average tuition costs ranging from INR 10,000 to INR 1,00,000. The table below provides further information:

Name of The University or CollegeFees
University of Calcutta INR 7,810
Jamia Millia Islamia INR 5,610
Lovely Professional UniversityINR 99,000
Savitribai Phule Pune University INR 5,850
Aligarh Muslim UniversityINR 1,900
Punjab University INR 20,800
University of Madras INR 4,950

DCA Computer Course: College Comparison

Here is a detailed college comparison of two popular universities that offers a Diploma in Computer Applications course:

Parameters

University of Calcutta

Aligarh Muslim University

OverviewEstablished by law of the Legislative Council of British India in 1857, University of Calcutta is one of the best universities in the country with over160+colleges affiliated to the university.Founded by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in 1920, Aligarh Muslim University was placed 238th in the QS ranking.
LocationKolkataAligarh
NIRF Rankings511
Annual Course FeesINR 2000INR 8000
Annual SalaryINR 3.4 to INR 5 LPAINR 2 to 4 LPA
Top RecruitersThought Works Technologies, Wipro, HCL Technology, TCS, NIIT, etc.Aditya Birla Group, Tata Motors, UCO Bank, ITC, CESC limited, etc.

Also read - Diploma Courses After 10th: List, Eligibility, Fee & Scope

DCA Top Universities and Colleges Abroad

Given below is the list of the top universities and colleges that provide DCA course for students who wish to study abroad:

Course Name

College or University Name

Diploma of ComputingAustralian National university
Diploma in Information TechnologyUniversity of technology
Diploma in Information TechnologyMonash university
Diploma in Computer Systems TechnicianCentennial college
Diploma in Computer ProgrammerHumber college
Diploma in blockchainEuropean Business University
Diploma in Network Defence and Forensic CountermeasurePSB Academy
Diploma in Database Design and DevelopmentThe TAFE NSW

DCA Distance Education

Top universities like MP Bhoj (MPBOU), OPJS University, and Annamalai University offer DCA distance education for an average cost of INR 10,000–25,000. Let's get into the details -

Colleges/InstituteDurationFees
National Institute Of Management 3 yearsINR 52,500
Pioneer Institute Of Professional Studies 1-3 yearsINR 31,500
MP Bhoj (MPBOU)1-3 yearsINR 8,280
OPJS University 6 - 12 monthsINR 17,500
Annamalai University1 yearINR 3,500

Courses After DCA

CourseDurationAverage Fees
Master of Computer Applications (MCA) 3 yearsINR 30,000 - INR 2,00,000
ADCA1 yearINR 15,000 - 30,000
MSc Computer Applications 2 yearsINR 30,000 - 2,00,000
MCom Computer Applications 2 yearsINR 10,000 - 60,000
PhD Computer Applications 2-5 years-

Further Reading - 

DCA Skills

The following are the abilities that students gain from taking the DCA Course:

DCA Skills
Fundamental Computer SkillsCommunication skills
MS Office appsInterpersonal skills
Basics of ERPAnalytical skills
E-BusinessCoding skills
Internet fundamentalsProgramming skills
IT security & Software hackingAttention to detail

Diploma in Computer Application Jobs

Jobs like computer operator, web designer, software developer, etc. are included in the DCA Jobs category. The job position and average salary are shown in the table below:

Job PositionSalary
Computer OperatorINR 2 to 3 lakh
AccountantINR 1 to 2 lakh
Web DesignerINR 4 to 5 lakh
Software DeveloperINR 3 to 5 lakh
C++ DeveloperINR 4 to 6 lakh

Diploma in Computer Application Salary

JobsSalary (average) per year
Profile managersINR 2.53 lakh
Language developerINR 3.5-4.5 lakh
Web developerINR 3-5 lakh
Graphic design and animationINR 5-6 lakh
Technical DeveloperINR 2-3 lakh
Administrative managementINR 3 lakh
Software DeveloperINR 3-5 lakh
AccountantINR 1-2 lakh
Computer operatorINR 2-3 lakh

Diploma in Computer Application Top Recruiters

Top Recruiters
CognizantCESC
TCSTata Motors
SyntelUCO Bank Limited
HCLITC
NIITAditya Birla Group
DellGoogle
WiproAmazon
Tech MahindraCapgemini

Diploma in Computer Application Scope

The field of DCA has a wide range of possibilities. After completing this DCA course, one may move on to pursue higher education or consider employment opportunities. For people who don't wish to work a job, there is also the alternative of self-employment. You can work as a freelancer to create your own program. There are numerous software MNCs that hire DCA graduates. Those with the required job experience and skills may find good profiles in MNCs.

Students who want to advance their careers can enroll in advanced programs like MCA or Ph.D. Some of the top specializations in MCA are System management, system development, management information systems, etc.

Also read - Diploma in Computer Engineering/Computer Applications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the full form of DCA?

DCA full form is Diploma of Computer Application.

What is the DCA course?

The full form of is DCA course is the Diploma of Computer Application. It is a one-year diploma program to educate students about the basic and technical computer applications and programming tools as used in everyday life.

What is the DCA course duration?

The duration of DCA course is 6-12 months.

How much is the course fees for DCA computer course?

DCA course fees ranges between INR 5000 to INR 30000.

What is the eligibility criteria for DCA course?

DCA course eligibility requires students to complete 10+2 from a recognized board. Additionally, students who have studied computers as a core/elective subject at 10th level is preferred.

What is the benefit of DCA?

DCA course offers in-depth knowledge about computer applications and related technologies. DCA graduates can easily find job opportunities in domains like banking, accounting, insurance, and e-commerce marketing. Students can find jobs in both government as well private sectors.

Is the DCA course good?

Yes. After completing the DCA computer course, candidates can find various jobs like accountant, receptionist, profile manager, language developer, system engineer, etc.

What is the scope of DCA?

DCA course has a wide scope as it prepares the students with the fundamentals of computer applications. Students can opt for higher studies like MCA or Ph. D or even look for jobs like computer operator, software developer, accountant, etc.

Is DCA better than BCA?

While DCA is a diploma course, BCA is a full-time undergraduate course. So, yes BCA is better than DCA as it offers better qualifications and job prospects.

Can I do DCA after the 12th?

Yes, as per the DCA eligibility criteria, students must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board to get admissions.

What are the job opportunities available after DCA course?

Some of the DCA course job opportunities include: Computer Operator Accountant Web Designer Software developer C++ Developer

What is DCA in Salary?

Entry-level DCA holders can expect a monthly salary in the range of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000 which is 2-4 LPA.

Is BCA equivalent to DCA?

No, BCA(Bachelor of Computer Application) is an undergraduate degree whereas DCA (Diploma in Computer Application) is a diploma level program.

Can I do DCA without Maths?

Yes. However students who had Maths in their 11th and 12th will benefit from the knowledge.

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