DCA full form is Diploma in Computer Application. It is a one-year diploma program in the field of computer applications that includes the study of a variety of software programs, including HTML, MS Office, Internet Applications, and operating systems.
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.
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.
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.
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DCA Course Details
| DCA Course Duration | 6 to 12 months |
| DCA Eligibility | 10+2 from a recognized board |
| DCA Course Fee | INR 5000 to INR 30000 |
| DCA Admission | Direct admission to colleges |
| DCA Examination | Yearly |
| DCA Average salary | INR 2 Lakh - INR 5 Lakh |
| DCA Job Sectors | Accounting, Database Handling, Basic Computer Applications, and many other |
| DCA Job profiles | Computer Operator, Web Designer, Accountant, Software Developer, C++ Developer, and many more |
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
Students must make sure they meet the essential qualifying requirements for the DCA admissions procedure. The minimum requirement for admission to the DCA computer application program is the completion of the 10+2 program from any recognized board. English is the language of instruction for applicants to the Diploma in Computer Application program.
Students who choose computer science as one of their majors in 10+2 have an advantage in understanding the course content and syllabus for the Diploma in Computer Application. There are a few institutions that also administer an entrance exam for DCA eligibility. Students can submit applications for admission to the DCA both online and offline.
Students can visit the relevant college portal to learn more about the DCA course, including the cost and duration of the program. Some general guidelines are listed below:
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.
- Students need to fill out their personal details for the DCA admission process through either mode or provide required documents according to the guidelines of the university. Students should look closely at the DCA course details and DCA qualifications to ensure they have the basic eligibility criteria.
- After the submission of the application, students will receive further correspondence from the college concerning the admission process.
- 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.
Further Reading: Software Engineer Salary in India
DCA Certificate
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 Windows | Spreadsheets |
| Representation of data/Information concepts of data processing | Manipulation of cells |
| Introduction to Windows | Manipulation of sheets |
| Windows Setting | Providing Formulas and functions |
| Window/Accessories | Filters- Auto Filter, Advanced filters |
| Opening documents and closing documents | PowerPoint presentations |
| Formatting the texts | Communication and Internet |
| Handling Multiple documents | WWW and Web browser |
| Special features | Electronic mail |
| Mail merge | Document 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 Computer | Database Management System |
| Operating System and Application Program | Visual Basics (VB) |
| Programming Language | Internet and Web Page Designing |
| Practical in C Programming and Application Program | Project work |
| Practical on Application Program | - |
DCA Colleges in India
Here is a list of the top colleges that offer DCA course in India:
Name of the College | DCA Course Fees |
| University of Calcutta | INR 7810/- |
| Jamia Millia Islamia | INR 5610/- |
| Savitribai Phule Pune University | INR 5850/- |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | INR 99000/- |
| Aligarh Muslim University | INR 1900/- |
| Punjab University | INR 20,800/- |
| University of Madras | INR 4950/- |
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 |
| Overview | Established by law of the Legislative Council of British India in 1857, University of Calcutta isone of the best universities in the country with over160+colleges affiliated to theuniversity. | Founded by Sir Syed Ahmed Khanin 1920, Aligarh Muslim University was placed 238th in the QS ranking. |
| Location | Kolkata | Aligarh |
| NIRF Rankings | 5 | 11 |
| Annual Course Fees | INR 2000 | INR 8000 |
| Annual Salary | INR 3.4 to INR 5 LPA | INR 2 to 4 LPA |
| Top Recruiters | Thought Works Technologies, Wipro, HCL Technology, TCS, NIIT, etc. | Aditya Birla Group, Tata Motors, UCO Bank, ITC, CESC limited, etc. |
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 Computing | Australian National university |
| Diploma in Information Technology | University of technology |
| Diploma in Information Technology | Monash university |
| Diploma in Computer Systems Technician | Centennial college |
| Diploma in Computer Programmer | Humber college |
| Diploma in blockchain | European Business University |
| Diploma in Network Defence and Forensic Countermeasure | PSB Academy |
| Diploma in Database Design and Development | The TAFE NSW |
Skillset Offered by DCA Course
Here is a list of the skills that students can learn via DCA computer course:
- Fundamental Computer Skills
- MS Office apps
- Basics of ERP
- E-Business
- Internet fundamentals
- IT security & Software hacking
- Troubleshooting & PC assembly
DCA Careers
Some of the common career opportunities after completing DCA course are listed below:
- Accounting
- Web Development
- Technical Writing
- Software design & engineering
- Animation & Graphic design
- Computer Applications
- E-commerce/web development
- Internetworking and Networking
- Database Handling
- Development & Administration
Diploma in Computer Applications Jobs
Here is a list of jobs that students can pursue after completing DCA computer course:
DCA Jobs | Average Salary |
| Computer Operator | INR 2 to 3 lakh |
| Accountant | INR 1 to 2 lakh |
| Web Designer | INR 4 to 5 lakh |
| Software Developer | INR 3 to 5 lakh |
| C++ Developer | INR 4 to 6 lakh |
Diploma in Computer Application Salary
The tabular form mentions the DCA course job opportunities and salary prospects for graduates:
Job Profiles | Average Salary |
| Profile managers | INR 2.53 LPA |
| Language Developer | INR 3.5-4.5 LPA |
| Web developer | INR 3-5 LPA |
| Graphic design and animation | INR 5-6 LPA |
| Technical Developer | INR 2-3 LPA |
| Administrative management | INR 3 LPA |
| Software Developer | INR 3-5 LPA |
| Accountant | INR 1-2 LPA |
| Computer Operator | INR 2-3 LPA |
DCA Top Recruiters
Some of the top recruiters that hire DCA graduates are:
- TCS
- Cognizant
- HCL
- Dell
- Syntel
- NIIT
- Wipro
- Tech Mahindra
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.