MCA for non-cs graduates. Is it worth pursuing?
MCA is a leading postgraduate course in computer science, perfect for CS graduates. Recently, non-CS graduates have also started choosing it to switch to tech careers. But is it worth it for those without a CS background? Let’s explore.
This blog describes the opportunities and benefits of MCA for Non-CS graduates by helping them reach a choice.
WHAT IS MCA ?
MCA is a professional master’s degree also known as Master’s in Computer Application.
- It takes around 2-3 years, depending on the nature of the course.
- This course helps students gain theoretical and practical computer application and IT management knowledge.
- For non-CS graduates, MCA serves as a gateway to the rapidly expanding world of technology, offering unique opportunities that are otherwise inaccessible with a degree in humanities, commerce, or any other non-technical field.
- It provides avenues for opportunities in IT that are otherwise impossible to pursue with a degree in humanities commerce or any other non-technical stream.
Why would non-cs graduates want to study MCA when there are many options behind it?
1.Rising it industries
The IT sector offers great salary opportunities, attracting non-CS graduates who may see limited growth or financial prospects in their current fields, making MCA a promising career shift.
2.Career shift
Most non-CS graduates often lose interest in their career paths due to limited promotion opportunities. Pursuing an MCA is a great chance to completely change their career direction.
3.Higher potential for salary
Graduates in software engineering can earn well if they have the right skills and abilities.
Challenges faced by non-cs graduates-
1.Steep learning curve
Non-CS graduates often begin an MCA with little programming knowledge and must work harder than CS graduates to build skills not covered in their undergraduate studies.
2.Time and funds
The MCA course requires the candidate to give 2-3 years with full focus, so the ones with non cs background need to decide if they can give this much time and focus.
3.Not ready to head to work
While a broad understanding of computer applications is provided in an MCA course, most companies require hands- on skills in various technologies on the platform.
Opportunities for non-cs-graduates-
Even though they face the same challenge, MCA provides numerous opportunities for non-cost graduates.
1. Diverse career
MCA holders, including those with non-CS backgrounds, will have a broad career scope in diversified IT areas, live software development, data science, etc., and roles like IT analysts, offering a wide range of exciting career opportunities.
2.Fresh Support
Many MCA programs provide the infrastructure for internship and real-world project opportunities that ensure hands-on experience for students. Practically, such exposure would be needed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional requirements.
3.Job security
Many employers in healthcare, finance, etc, are looking for IT professionals. The world’s increased dependence on technology to complete business dealings ensures an increasing body of skilled MCA graduates entering the workforce after any undergraduate degree.
4.Supportive learning environment
Many institutes offering MCA courses know that students coming to the institute are mostly from stream other than cs. For this reason, many institutes have started to design their curriculum to meet the requirements of non cs graduates.
How can the MCA program become beneficial for a non-cs graduate?
The ones who come from a non cs background need a very strategic and intelligent approach.
Here are a few ways they can maximize their chances of success-
A. Take bridge courses
They must complete foundational or bridge courses if their MCA program offers them as a serious requirement.
B. Focus on practical learning
Make sure you concentrate on developing practical skills in your MCA program and participate in coding boot camps and internships to sharpen your technical skills and show them to potential employees.
C.Get Certified
Get certified in those emerging trends – cloud computing, data science, AL/ML, or cypher security. You can become a catch for employers after getting this certification.
Is MCA worth it for a non-cs graduate ?
An MCA can be your door to endless career opportunities as long as you are passionate about the field of technology.
Conclusion-
If the Non- CS graduate is motivated and determined, then there is no doubt that MCA will be a rewarding career option for them.
