7 Best Career Options After BCA: What To Do After BCA? [2023]

This article will explore the top 7 career paths you can pursue after completing your BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications) degree. Whether you want to further your education or enter the job market, we’ve got you covered.

1. Get a Master of Business Administration(MBA)

• Pursuing an MBA could be an excellent choice if you want to combine your technical knowledge with business acumen. An MBA opens doors to managerial and leadership roles in the tech industry.

2. Become a Data Scientist

• Data science is a booming field. With your foundation in computer applications, you can delve into data analysis, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, making you a valuable asset in the world of data-driven decision-making.

3. Become a Digital Marketer

• In today’s digital age, businesses thrive on effective online marketing. By acquiring digital marketing skills, you can help companies reach their target audience and effectively promote their products and services.

4. Learn Product Management

• Product managers play a vital role in tech companies, ensuring that products meet market needs and are developed successfully. Your technical background will give you a unique advantage in this field.

5. Enter the Blockchain Industry

• Blockchain technology is disrupting various sectors. Understanding blockchain and its applications can lead to exciting opportunities in finance, supply chain management, and beyond.

6. Become a Cybersecurity Expert

• With the growing reliance on technology, cybersecurity has become critical. Specializing in cybersecurity can lead to a rewarding career protecting organizations from digital threats.

7. Get a Master of Computer Applications

• If you’re eager to deepen your technical knowledge, pursuing an MCA (Master of Computer Applications) is a logical next step. This postgraduate degree will enhance your expertise and job prospects in the IT sector.

What is BCA?

BCA, short for Bachelor of Computer Applications, is an undergraduate program focusing on computer science fundamentals, software development, and information technology.

Typically, it takes three to four years to complete, depending on the educational institution and country.

• Curriculum

The BCA curriculum covers a range of subjects, including programming languages like Java, C++, and Python. Students also learn about database management, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, web development, networking, and computer security.

The program emphasizes theory and practical application through classroom learning and hands-on assignments.

• Career Pathways

BCA graduates have numerous career opportunities, including roles as software developers, system analysts, database administrators, web designers, and IT consultants.

Their education equips them to contribute effectively to the rapidly evolving technology industry.

• Practical Experience

Many BCA programs offer internships or practical training, allowing students to apply their understanding to real-world projects.

This hands-on experience bridges the gap between theory and practice, enhancing their employability.

• Industry Demand

The demand for skilled IT professionals remains high today, where technology is integral to various industries. BCA graduates are sought after for their technical skills and ability to adjust to the ever-changing IT landscape.

“What to do after BCA?”

You’re not alone if you’re wondering about the best career options after BCA, the scope for BCA graduates, or BCA job opportunities. BCA is a popular choice for post-secondary education, but it’s important to note that obtaining a BCA degree is just the beginning.

To secure high-paying jobs, consider pursuing postgraduate studies or professional certifications to establish a successful career path after your BCA degree.

After obtaining a graduate degree in BCA, numerous career paths are available, yet not all students know the diverse routes that can lead to promising job opportunities.

Let’s delve into the various career options after BCA that you should consider for a secure and stable job prospect in the future.

In this article, we’re here to assist you in understanding the best career avenues after completing your BCA degree, particularly in computer applications, where promising career opportunities await.

It’s crucial to be aware of the various career options after BCA to make an informed choice.

Below, you’ll find a list of excellent courses and career paths after BCA, along with insights into the scope of BCA:

1. Get an MBA (Master of Business Administration)

Pursuing an MBA degree is one of the most sought-after career paths after BCA. A Master of Business Administration program covers various subjects related to management, organization, human resources, finances, and other essential aspects of business operations.

Career Prospects:

After earning an MBA, you can enter management and apply for leadership positions in various companies. Depending on your specialization, you can target management roles in specific areas of organizations.

For instance, if you specialize in IT, you can become an IT Manager or IT Governance Executive. It’s considered one of the top career options after completing your BCA degree.

MBA is a highly regarded course, offering one of the most attractive salary packages for freshers in India. MBA graduates often earn an average salary of 7 lakhs per annum, notably higher than many other specializations.

Some well-paying roles in this field include Investment Banker, Business Consultant, Management Consultant, Marketing Manager, and Project Manager.

What You’ll Learn:

During your MBA program, you’ll study subjects like Leadership, Design Thinking, Strategic Thinking, High-Performance Development, Integrated Business Strategy, and more.

This education equips you with the skills to solve complex business challenges in real-world scenarios, contributing to a company’s success.

How to Enter This Field:

There are multiple pathways to pursue an MBA. You can apply to various management schools nationwide, including prestigious institutions like IIMs and private universities.

To gain admission, you’ll need to appear for the Common Admission Test (CAT), the entrance exam for management degrees.

Alternatively, you can opt for online MBA courses, which offer a personalized and interactive learning experience through videos and projects.

At GreyAcademy, we provide MBA programs with various specializations in collaboration with renowned institutes. You can also explore pursuing an MBA (Global) from Deakin Business School.

In the meantime, consider checking out our HRM Advanced certification course.

MBA Salary Range in India:

According to Payscale, the average salary for MBA graduates in India is around 7.2 lakhs annually.

An MBA is undoubtedly one of the best career moves after completing your BCA, offering a pathway to lucrative job opportunities and leadership roles in the corporate world.

Here is a list of popular companies that often hire MBA graduates:

2. Become a Data Scientist

If you’ve always had an affinity for numbers and statistics, consider entering the field of data science. It’s one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, with a significant demand for professionals. Data science finds applications in various industries, including FMCG, technology, marketing, etc.

Career Prospects:

The demand for data science professionals is soaring, especially in India. Reports indicate the need for data scientists has surged by 40% since January 2019. India boasts the second-highest demand in the world for data science professionals, with over 50,000 positions available, making it one of the best career options after BCA.

Data scientists are in high demand in finance, technology, multinational corporations, and similar organizations. The starting earning for a data scientist in India typically ranges from 4 to 12 lakhs per annum.

What You’ll Learn:

To embark on a career as a data scientist, you’ll need to acquire essential skills. This entails learning programming, predictive analysis, data visualization, natural language processing (NLP), big data handling, machine learning, and other related subjects.

Additionally, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with various software tools and languages relevant to data science, such as MS Excel, Tableau, Keras, etc.

Data scientists employ various tools and programs to enhance their efficiency and productivity.

How to Enter This Field:

The most effective way to acquire the abovementioned skills is by enrolling in a data science course. Such courses offer a structured curriculum with comprehensive study materials to facilitate a better learning experience.

Importantly, you don’t need prior coding experience to enroll in our course, so even if you haven’t engaged in programming before, you can embark on this journey smoothly.

Data Scientist’s Salary Range in India:

The average earnings for data scientists in India is ₹708,012. An entry-level data scientist with less than one year of experience can earn around ₹500,000 per annum. Data scientists with 1 to 4 years of experience earn about ₹610,811 annually.

A medium-level data scientist with 5 to 9 years of experience commands an annual salary of ₹1,004,082 in India.

As your experience and skills increase, your earnings can rise significantly, with senior-level data scientists earning more than ₹1,700,000 annually in India!

Becoming a data scientist presents a fantastic opportunity for those with a passion for data analysis and a desire to work in a rapidly growing and lucrative field.

Certainly, prestigious companies lead the way to top-paying data jobs, and they’re also known for consistently boosting salaries by 15% each year. Here’s some information from Payscale:

3. Become a Digital Marketer

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the role of a digital marketer has never been more crucial. With businesses rapidly transitioning to online platforms, the demand for skilled digital marketers is skyrocketing.

Companies rely on digital marketing experts to boost their online presence, draw customers’ attention, and drive sales. As a BCA graduate, you can enter this lucrative field and make your mark. Digital Marketing is certainly one of the top choices for career growth after completing your BCA degree.

Exploring the Path Ahead

Digital marketing is a thriving industry in India, experiencing an impressive growth rate of 33.5% annually in the digital advertising sector. This growth is poised to continue with more businesses embracing the digital realm.

The field offers diverse roles, including SEO analyst, content manager, social media specialist, digital marketing manager, UI-UX designer, and more.

What Awaits You in Your Learning Journey

The world of digital marketing is vast and dynamic, encompassing various facets of online promotion. In your digital marketing journey, you’ll delve into the intricacies of search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), content marketing, marketing analytics, and other relevant domains. Familiarizing yourself with tools like MailChimp, Google Analytics, WordPress, and others is essential, as they are integral to a digital marketer’s toolkit.

Navigating Your Entry into the Field

Begin with a digital marketing career path best achieved through specialized courses. As a BCA graduate, you qualify for enrollment in most digital marketing programs, where you’ll gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the field.

Digital Marketing Salary Outlook in India

The digital marketing landscape in India is incredibly promising. Companies are eager to establish their digital presence, making digital marketing an excellent career choice.

Upon completing your digital marketing course, you can explore various job opportunities, including digital marketing executive, digital marketing manager, SEO executive, social media marketing expert, content writer, search engine marketer, and more.

Certainly, here’s the information on how your pay typically increases with years of experience:

4. Learn Product Management

One exciting avenue to consider after completing your BCA is a career in Product Management. Product managers are professionals well-versed in the intricacies of product development and its successful promotion.

They play an important role in helping companies identify, create, and launch products that cater to the needs of their customers. Product Management is gaining significant traction in the tech sector as one of the most promising career options post-BCA, as we’ll explore further in the following section.

Career Opportunities in Product Management

In recent years, the business landscape has evolved rapidly. Companies must continually release innovative software products to thrive in today’s competitive market.

They face the challenge of rivaling existing competitors and the need to prepare for emerging ones. Consequently, organizations seek skilled product managers to expedite developing and deploying new products.

The average earning for a product manager in India hovers around 16 lakhs per year. Entry-level positions start at approximately seven lakhs per year and can climb up to 3 crores for professionals with 15-20 years of experience.

The field offers lucrative compensation due to its high demand. This career path may be an ideal fit if you possess a passion for software and management.

Skills and Knowledge You’ll Acquire

Product managers shoulder the responsibility of overseeing the entire product life cycle. This encompasses ideation, development, testing, and deployment.

To excel in this field, you’ll need to acquire expertise in various areas, including Market Research, Prototyping, User Design, Product Analytics, Product Marketing, Planning, and Strategy Development.

Getting Started in Product Management

Many companies require certification in product management for aspiring professionals. Enrolling in a comprehensive product management course that covers the abovementioned topics and provides in-depth study materials is advisable.

Once you’ve completed such a course, you can apply for product management roles across tech companies and other industries to kickstart your career journey.

Product Manager Salary Range in India

PayScale says the average annual earning for Blockchain Developers in India is Rs. 5,89,580. It’s worth noting that blockchain roles are among the highest-paying positions in the Indian science and technology sector.

Embracing a career in Product Management after your BCA can open doors to exciting opportunities and substantial earning potential, making it a compelling choice for those with a passion for technology and a knack for strategic thinking.

List of few top companies and their salary range from Payscale:

5. Enter the Blockchain Industry

If you’re a BCA graduate wondering about your next career move and are keen on exploring a relatively new field, consider venturing into the exciting world of blockchain technology. While relatively young compared to other sectors, the blockchain industry has rapidly gained traction in recent years.

It offers promising career prospects for fresh graduates, making it an appealing option after completing your BCA.

Career Outlook

According to a LinkedIn report titled ‘Emerging Jobs 2020,’ the role of a Blockchain Developer was rated as one of the most sought-after jobs in the current year. With the increasing prevalence of digital transactions in India, the demand for a robust and efficient infrastructure to support them has surged.

This is precisely where blockchain technology comes into play, and as a result, the demand for skilled blockchain professionals is on the rise.

Prominent companies like Accenture, IBM, and others consistently seek talented blockchain developers and managers to bolster their teams.

What You’ll Need to Learn

To embark on a career in this field, you must understand blockchain fundamentals and its associated tools. Some key skills that you should focus on to become a proficient blockchain professional include:

• Ethereum

• Composer

• Solidity

• Core Backend Development

• Smart Contracts

• Java

Entering the Field

When it comes to securing a position in this competitive field, most employers value certifications and practical experience.

We recommend enrolling in a well-structured blockchain course with a comprehensive curriculum, video tutorials, and hands-on projects to bolster your skills.

As a BCA graduate, you’re eligible to enroll in our blockchain course at Grey Academy, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn from industry experts and earn a prestigious PG diploma from IIIT Bangalore.

Blockchain Developer Salaries in India

PayScale says the average annual earning for Blockchain Developers in India is Rs. 5,89,580. It’s worth noting that blockchain roles are among the highest-paying positions in the Indian science and technology sector.

This is primarily due to the significant shortage of qualified professionals, prompting companies to offer competitive salaries to deserving candidates with the requisite skills. While entry-level salaries typically start at around Rs. 5 lakhs per annum, they can soar as high as Rs. 45 lakhs per annum with experience and expertise.

Venturing into the blockchain industry after your BCA can be a rewarding career move, offering financial incentives and the chance to be part of an innovative and rapidly evolving field.

List of few top companies and their salary range from Payscale:

6. Become a Cyber Security Expert

Still, contemplating your options after completing your BCA degree? The recent high-profile hacking incidents involving prominent Twitter accounts shed light on the vulnerability of online platforms and underscored the critical role of cybersecurity experts.

If you have a penchant for cryptography and security, a career in cybersecurity might be the perfect path for you.

There is a universal need for cybersecurity experts, from government agencies to multinational corporations, making it one of the most promising career choices following your BCA.

Career Opportunities

The demand for cybersecurity experts is steadily increasing, with more than 67,000 job openings recorded in the first month of this year. Cybercriminals and malicious entities are constantly probing for weaknesses in the digital defenses of businesses and organizations.

Furthermore, as companies increasingly transition their operations and transactions online, the importance of digital security has reached new heights.

All these factors indicate that the demand for cybersecurity professionals will continue to grow. Leading companies such as Amazon, Wells Fargo, CISCO, Shell, and Walmart, among others, are actively seeking cybersecurity specialists.

What You’ll Need to Learn

To thrive in this sector, you must acquire essential skills, including:

• Data Security

• Application Security

• Network Security

• Cryptography

Familiarity with various tools in this domain, such as Kafka, Spark, Tableau, HBase, and others, is also essential.

Entering the Field

To pursue a career in cybersecurity, you’ll typically need a diploma or certification in the field. Grey Academy offers a PG Diploma in Software Development with a Specialization in Cybersecurity, covering all the vital skills mentioned above and more. As a BCA graduate, you are well-qualified to apply for this program.

In an age where digital threats loom large, becoming a cybersecurity expert can be a rewarding and impactful career choice. It promises job security and offers the chance to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the digital landscape for individuals and organizations alike.

7. Get a Master of Computer Applications

• Our discussion on “What to do after BCA?” would be incomplete without mentioning the option of pursuing an MCA (Master of Computer Applications) degree.

MCA is a popular choice among BCA graduates looking to further specialize in their field. It equips you with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the IT industry, making it one of the top courses to consider after completing your BCA.

Career Opportunities

Many career opportunities, particularly in software development, become available upon completing an MCA. Some of the roles you can explore include:

• Network Engineer

• Database Administrator

• System Analyst

• Software Engineer

• Troubleshooter

For certain technical roles, you may need to acquire additional skills. For instance, if you aspire to delve into app development after earning your MCA, you must familiarize yourself with UI/UX design and OS-specific development (e.g., Android, Linux, or iOS). This is a favored career path for many BCA graduates.

What You’ll Learn

An MCA program typically covers many subjects, including mathematics, commercial application software design, system software, and business management.

Your specific course content may also depend on your specialization within your MCA degree.

Entering This Field

To embark on the journey towards an MCA degree, you can enroll in reputable tech universities and colleges nationwide. Some of the prominent institutions offering MCA programs include:

1. National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirapalli (NIT, Tiruchirapalli)
2. Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi (JNU, New Delhi)
3. National Institute of Technology, Warangal (NIT, Warangal)

Pursuing an MCA degree is a logical step for those seeking to deepen their expertise in computer applications. It opens up many career paths, allowing you to make a significant impact in the ever-evolving world of IT.

MCA Salary Range in India

Exploring More Career Options BCA

The BCA job landscape is incredibly diverse, offering many well-paying opportunities. If you’re wondering whether BCA is a good course or if it’s a professional course, you’ll be pleased to discover that the scope of BCA extends beyond traditional boundaries.

Here, we’ll delve into some additional specialization options within the BCA field that you might want to consider:

1. Full-Stack Developer:

• The demand for software developers remains consistently high in the ever-evolving IT market. However, a more versatile breed of developers, known as Full-Stack Developers, is currently in great demand.

• These professionals possess expertise in both the client and server sides of software development, allowing them to create comprehensive solutions.

• Bagging a high BCA salary is entirely feasible with this role.

2. Cloud Computing Professional:

• Cloud computing technology is revolutionizing how businesses operate by reducing the reliance on external devices and their associated costs.

• With digitization gaining momentum, websites are now building their entire infrastructure on the cloud.

• BCA graduates with a tech background can explore promising career opportunities in cloud computing.

3. Data Analyst:

• Data analysis plays an important role in the realm of data science. Data analysts work with vast amounts of unstructured data, employing various algorithms to uncover patterns, anomalies, and valuable insights.

• This role is highly regarded in the BCA job market, with companies seeking skilled data analysts.

4. Technical Content Writer:

• As technological advancements become more widespread, the need for disseminating technical knowledge to the general public grows.

• Technical content writers bridge the gap, translating complex technical concepts into accessible content.

• If you have a passion for writing and a BCA background, this role offers a unique opportunity to blend both skill sets.

5. Web Developer:

• The BCA scope extends into the realm of web development. Web developers utilize high-level programming languages to create websites and web applications.

• Interested candidates can further enhance their qualifications by pursuing certifications and specialization diplomas, strengthening their web development skills.

6. Bioinformatics:

• BCA graduates with an interest in biology can explore the field of bioinformatics, which combines biology and computer science tools.

• Bioinformatics is used to analyze, store, manipulate, assess, and make predictions based on biological data.

• Many groundbreaking experiments and treatments emerge from the synergy of these two significant fields, expanding the BCA scope.

7. Artificial Intelligence:

• In an era where computers simplify human life by handling repetitive tasks, artificial intelligence (AI) aims to take this to the next level.

• AI seeks to replicate human-like intelligence and make technology smarter to enhance human lives.

• BCA graduates can find lucrative career opportunities in this burgeoning sector, working with prominent industry names and enjoying excellent BCA salary packages.

These diverse career options showcase the versatility of a BCA degree and its potential to lead to exciting and well-compensated roles in various industries.

Whether you’re passionate about technology, biology, or AI, there’s a pathway for you within the expansive world of BCA careers.

Navigating Your Career Path After BCA: Tips for Success

Your journey toward a thriving career after completing your BCA demands careful planning, skill development, networking, and a commitment to continuous learning. Here are some valuable tips to help you chart your course:

1. Define Your Goals:

• Start by clarifying your career objectives and aspirations. Decide whether you desire to enter the workforce, pursue further education, or embark on an entrepreneurial venture in the tech sector.

2. Specialize:

• Within the expansive tech industry, pinpoint an area of specialization that resonates with your interests and strengths. Options include software development, data science, cybersecurity, web development, or artificial intelligence. Concentrate on honing your expertise in your chosen domain.

3. Continued Learning:

• The tech field is dynamic, ever-evolving, and unforgiving to those who don’t keep pace. Stay updated by enrolling in online courses, participating in workshops, and devouring industry publications. Embrace lifelong learning as a cornerstone of your career strategy.

4. Build a Strong Portfolio:

• Develop a portfolio that showcases your projects, coding prowess, and practical experiences. A well-constructed portfolio can impress potential employers and prove your capabilities.

5. Internships and Projects:

• Gain real-world experience through internships, freelance projects, or contributions to open-source initiatives. Hands-on exposure offers valuable insights and sharpens your skills.

6. Networking:

• Attend tech meetups and conferences and engage in online forums to connect with industry professionals. Building a network can open doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship.

7. Soft Skills Matter:

• While technical skills are crucial, don’t underestimate the significance of soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. These qualities are indispensable for success in any career.

8. Certifications:

• Acquire relevant certifications in your chosen field. Certifications validate your skills and enhance your attractiveness to potential employers.

9. Job Search Strategy:

• Customize your resume to emphasize your skills, projects, and accomplishments. Begin your job search with entry-level positions that align with your career goals and work your way up progressively.

10. Interview Preparation:

• Prepare diligently for technical and behavioral interviews. Be ready to elucidate your projects and demonstrate how your skills can benefit prospective employers.

11. Stay Updated with Industry Trends:

• Keep yourself informed about emerging technologies and industry trends by following blogs, podcasts, and news sources. Being aware of the latest developments can give you a competitive edge.

12. Consider Further Education:

• If you aspire to specialized roles or higher positions, contemplate pursuing a master’s degree or relevant certifications. These credentials can amplify your expertise and career prospects.

13. Entrepreneurial Ventures:

• If you possess an entrepreneurial spirit, ponder the possibility of launching your tech-related business. This can be a fulfilling path to apply your skills and unleash your creativity.

Armed with these tips, you can chart a successful career trajectory after your BCA, realizing your potential in the ever-evolving and exciting world of technology.