MCA vs MSc IT: Which is the Right Path After BCA?

12-Jul-24
H
ave you done your BCA and want to add more skills to your bucket? But still confused about what option you should choose between the MCA and MSc IT. Then you are not alone because every 5 out of 10 students are confused with this question. This blog will help you to decide what is the right path for your career after BCA by knowing varied facts.
 

Have you done your BCA and want to add more skills to your bucket? But still confused about what option you should choose between the MCA and MSc IT. Then you are not alone because every 5 out of 10 students are confused with this question. This blog will help you to decide what is the right path for your career after BCA by knowing varied facts.

 

In this rapidly evolving world, science and technology have gripped the globe. The upcoming generation will be entirely dependent on the technology and computer sectors. With the growth of this field, the requirement for a completely acquainted, skillful, and professional is increasing day by day. As per the survey, the demand for MCA will boost in 2024 by 2.4 percent, and it will increase more by every passing year. Once you pursue any of these courses, it will not help you to enhance your technical skills or even grow your career. 

 

What is the difference between MCA and MSC IT?

If we discuss the difference between these courses, it becomes a complex question because the MCA and MSC IT skills are almost similar. But the role and purposes are different. Let’s have a look at the difference:

MCA refers to Master in Computer Application, a three-year postgraduate program that helps students learn about software and all the required aspects of computer applications. MCA includes a wide range of subjects like development, designing, programming languages, system analysis, etc.  

MSc IT refers to Master of Science in Information Technology, a two-year postgraduate program that prepares students to understand computer applications and theoretical knowledge. This knowledge helps students do proper research in the IT field and understand the basic to advanced concepts of IT, such as software, artificial intelligence, development, IT consulting, networking, etc. 

What Skills You Learn After Completing MCA and MSC IT?

While pursuing MCA and MSc IT, the students will gain the skills that will aid them in achieving their goals and lead to their career path. The skills you will develop after completing these courses are explained below:

MCA (Master in Computer Application)

  1. Programming language: After completing a Master's in Computer Science, you will have a perfect grip on languages such as Java, C++, and Python. These languages are used in almost every industry and help develop software applications.
  2. Database Management: Database management is one of the most important skills for any MCA professional. It helps in working with data and retrieving information from the database. You must carry the proper knowledge of database management systems such as SQL and Oracle. 
  3. Problem-Solving: In MCA, the students will enhance their problem-solving skills and enable them to think critically. They will also solve complex technical problems easily. 
  4. Cloud Computing: Understanding cloud computing technologies, such as AWS and Azure, is vital for MCA students.

MSc IT (Master of Science in IT) 

  1. Data Analysis: In today's world, businesses have pushed toward digitalization. Businesses gain data from everywhere, which requires practitioners to be able to accumulate data, analyze it, determine it, explain and visualize the data, and help make business decisions.
  1. Artificial Intelligence: The newest skill on the list reflects one of the most disruptive technologies ever to hit businesses. AI is becoming quite popular daily. All technology experts will have to comprehend how AI works, from the data used for input to the probability-based output.
  1. Web Development: Most software developers are working on web applications. It is the top of the specific programming language that is used for understanding how software works on the internet. including the browser's front end and the server's back end. 
  1. Mechanical Learning: Various software developers do not work directly on coding foundational AI algorithms. However, more and more software applications will feature machine learning to some degree.  

What is the career scope after completing MCA or MSc IT?

The rapid evolution of computer technology has increased the demand for IT professionals, which has been growing 10-12% annually. Once you have completed your MCA or MSc IT degree, you can choose your career in the field of IT across the world. Here is the list of jobs that one can prefer accordingly.

Opportunities after MCA

  • Software developer: This is one of the highest-taken programs by any IT person. You will be responsible for developing, designing, and managing software programs in this position. The average salary for a Software Developer is $1,20,187 per year.
  • Technical writer: You can also choose your career as a technical content writer after completing MCA if you have good written skills. The average salary for a technical writer is $77,711 per year.
  • Cloud Architect: In recent years, the scope of cloud computing and cloud storage increased vastly, and hiring experts to manage this framework has become important. The average salary for a cloud architect is $1,45,505 per year.
  • Hardware Engineer: A hardware engineer is responsible for the whole IT or computer framework, including microprocessors, computer parts, installation, and repair. The average salary for a hardware engineer is $1,12,187 per year.

Opportunities after MSc IT

  • Language programmer: Companies hire programmers to write codes for their applications, and if you are fluent in writing codes, then you can apply as a language programmer. The average salary for a language programmer is $1,31,625 per year
  • System security engineer: As a system security engineer, you will monitor the company’s server against any threat and improve the security system. The average salary for a system security engineer is $1,32,871 per year
  • Data scientist: If you are not interested in core software development, you can choose this path after completing your MSc IT program.  The average salary for a data scientist is $1,25,171 per year
  • Lecturer: If you are not interested in coding or development, you can also apply for a government or private lecturer position. The average salary for a lecturer is $78,854 per year

How much salary can an MCA and MSc IT graduate earn?

The salary criteria definitely depend on the profile and role you will obtain in an organization globally. The average salary of an MCA graduate starts from $75,305 annually and increases by a minimum 20% hike every year. On the other hand, an MSc IT can start an entry-level job with an average annual salary of $55,269 with a minimum of 15-18% hike every year. 


Conclusion: So, this is all about MCA and MSc IT, which can help you decide what to pursue once you completed BCA. But before making any decision, you should always know your preferences and interests. Additionally, you must contact a career counsellor and properly research the university or institutes where you will enroll because this is the first step towards your future career.