The three-year undergraduate course in Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) is considered equivalent to a degree in Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech). The course offers a well-rounded curriculum aimed at producing professionals not only proficient in information technology and computers but also management, organization and communication skills. As a BCA graduate, you are well-versed with languages such as SQL, HML, Java and C+, along with working knowledge of latest IT software and communication systems. These skills make you suitable for employment is various fields. (http://www.geekinterview.com/question_details/88056) Some of the top employment options avenues for BCA graduates are: (http://swapbca.hpage.co.in/bca-information_35701701.html, http://www.naukrihub.com/freshers/salary-of-various-jobs-after-bca.html)

1.Software Engineer:

A majority of IT firms today prefer hiring skilled BCA graduates for the profile of software engineer. The job profile involves designing and developing software for computer applications. With the constant expansion in the scope of internet, a software engineer may also be involved in developing software to support websites and mobile apps, and offer back-end support for their maintenance. Since computer programming and languages are an integral part of the BCA curriculum, it is one of the most suitable and sought after career profiles. You can hope for a starting salary of Rs 24,500 per month and go up to Rs 40,000-50,000 with an experience of 2-4 years. (http://www.naukrihub.com/freshers/salary-of-various-jobs-after-bca.html)

2. IT Project Manager:

The job profile of an IT project manager mainly involves ensuring that projects are completed within a stipulated budget and deadline. A project head or project manager is responsible drafting IT strategies, managing staff, carrying out research and implementing IT solutions. It is technically a step forward from the job of a software engineer, and a majority of companies prefer hiring someone with 2-4 years of experience for this job. However, if you have sound skills and a good working knowledge of IT systems, you can hope to be incorporated as a project manager soon after graduation, especially in smaller organizations and start-ups. The starting salary for project managers ranges between Rs 65,000-70,000 a month and can go up to Rs 1 lakh after a few years of experience (https://ist.mit.edu/sites/default/files/migration/hr/jobdescriptions/itproject-manager.pdf)

3. Systems Administrator:

Another popular career opportunity for BCA graduates is that of a systems administrator. Specialized training in IT and computer operations makes BCA graduates suitable for the role of systems administrator that involves setting up and maintaining computer servers and systems. Almost every company and business establishment today relies on an internal network of computers for its day-to-day operations. Therefore, there is a massive scope of employment in this field. The salary for freshers ranges from Rs 15,000-20,000 and can go up Rs 25,000-30,000 after 2-3 years of experience. (http://www.cyberciti.biz/faq/what-is-the-role-of-the-system-administrator/)

4. Graphic Designing:

In these times of electronic and internet boom, graphic designing is emerging in a big way. Fresh BCA graduates can use their computer skills and expertise to foray into the field. The job profile largely involves creating visual concepts through computer software for brochures, advertisements, corporate reports and magazines. The starting salary is roughly around Rs 20,000 and can go up Rs 40,000-45,000 with experience. (http://www.payscale.com/research/IN/Job=Graphic_Designer/Salary)

5. Multimedia Developer:

Another IT-oriented job for BCA graduates is that of a multimedia developer. The job entails manipulating and generating graphic images, text, sounds, videos and animation for data presentation, entertainment and educational products, information kiosks, and multimedia presentations. The starting salary for a multimedia developer is around Rs 25,000 a month. With a year’s experience, you can hope for a substantial jump in remuneration. Multimedia developers with one-four years of experience can earn up to Rs 40,000 per month. (http://www.payscale.com/research/IN/Industry=Multimedia_Development/Salary)

6. Banking Jobs:

BCA graduates can also apply for job in both public and private sector banks. In public sector banks, opening for clerks, SOs and Pos are available for fresh graduates, with a starting salary ranging between Rs 18,000-25,000. The salary raise is in accordance with the current government policy on increments. In private sectors, on the other hand, job profiles may be those involving use of computer and IT skills such as database upgrade, systems operation and software maintenance. The starting salary is Rs 20,000-25,000 per month and may go up to Rs 40,000 after 2-4 years of experience.

7. Teaching faculty:

Fresh graduates can also explore avenues in the field of teaching and work as computer and information technology instructors in schools, colleges and even privately run institutions. A master’s degree is mandatory for teaching BCA-related disciplines to college students. The starting salary for computer and IT instructors is roughly around Rs 15,000 (http://www.payscale.com/research/IN/Job=Computer_Science_Teacher,_Postsecondary/Salary). The scope for growth is minimal in this field. Even with 2-4 years of experience, the salary is between Rs 18,000-22,000. However, if you get a master’s degree in the meanwhile, you can graduate to teaching BCA students and earn a take home salary of Rs 35,000-40,000.

Considering our growing reliance on computers, information technology, smartphones and the internet, computer applications is one field with limitless scope for employment and professional growth in the future.