BCA Syllabus & Subjects 2025

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Aug 01, 2025 21:57PM IST

BCA Syllabus & Subjects 2025 is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of computer applications, programming languages, and IT tools. Key subjects include Programming in C/C++, Data Structures, Database Management Systems, Web Technologies, Operating Systems, and Software Engineering. The course also incorporates mathematics, computer networks, and mobile application development. Through theoretical studies and practical lab work, students build strong foundational and technical skills. The program prepares them for careers in software development, system management, and IT services. Regular assignments, projects, and internships ensure hands-on experience and industry readiness.

BCA Syllabus & Subjects 2025

BCA syllabus & subjects 2025 covers a broad range of subjects such as Introduction to Operating Systems, Programming using C, Computer Graphics & Animation, Computer Networks, Programming in Java, and Database Management Systems. The Semester Wise BCA Syllabus consists of lectures, classroom learning, project work, lab sessions, interactions with industry experts, and presentations. 

Candidates pursuing a BCA course will be introduced to semester-wise BCA Subjects using the programming language C, handling operating systems, various computer fundamentals, data structures, graph theory, statistics, learning management systems,  HTML, object-oriented programming using C++, Java Programming, embedded systems, computer graphics, etc. Candidates get jobs in the private and public sectors after graduating from the BCA course.

BCA 1st year Subjects include C Programming Lab, Introduction to Programming Using C, Digital Computer Fundamentals, etc., while BCA 2nd year Subjects include Data Structures, Data Structures Lab, Visual Programming Lab, etc. This piece will focus on the BCA course syllabus and BCA Subjects for all candidates willing to pursue the BCA course in the future. All the candidates should check them in advance and analyse them before applying for the admission process of the BCA course.

Also Read: Top BCA colleges in India 2025

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Overview of BCA Syllabus and Subjects 2025

Candidates can check the BCA syllabus and subjects highlights from the table below.

Particulars Details 
Duration 3 years
EligibilityPassed Class 12th with a minimum of 50% marks.
Semester6 Semesters
BCA SubjectsFundamentals of Computers, C Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, Software Engineering, Web Development, Database Management Systems, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing
BCA Course StructureClassroom lessons, project work, seminars, lab lessons, skills enhancement classes, etc
BCA Specializations 
  • Internet Technologies
  • Database Management
  • Programming Languages
  • Personal Information Management
  • Word Processing
  • Computer Graphics
  • Animation
  • Accounting Applications
  • System Analysis
  • Music & Video Processing
Top Colleges for BCA in India
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Year Wise BCA Syllabus & Subjects 2025

Since the BCA course is spread over three years, candidates can expect a range of subjects that they have to study. Some institutes offer a yearly BCA syllabus; most institutes have spread the BCA syllabus over two semesters per year. The BCA syllabus for all six semesters has been divided and explained accordingly in the subheads below. 

Before planning to take up BCA as a field of study, candidates are advised to check the BCA syllabus and make their decisions accordingly.

BCA 1st Year Syllabus

The BCA 1st year subjects have been highlighted in the table below.

Semester 1

Hardware Lab (CIA ONL)Digital Computer Fundamentals
Creative EnglishIntroduction to Programming using C
Foundational MathematicsC Programming Lab
Statistics for BCAPC Software Lab

Semester 2

Cast Tools Lab (CIA only)Data Structures
Communicative EnglishData Structures Lab
Basic Discrete MathematicsVisual Programming Lab
Operating Systems

BCA 2nd Year Syllabus

The semester-wise BCA syllabus for the 2nd year has been highlighted in the table below.

Semester 3

Interpersonal CommunicationObject-oriented Programming using C++
Introductory AlgebraC++ Lab
Financial AccountingOracle Lab
Software EngineeringDomain Lab (CIA only)
Database Management Systems

Semester 4

Professional EnglishDBMS Project
Financial ManagementWeb Technology Lab
Computer NetworksLanguage Lab (CIA only)
Programming in Java

BCA 3rd Year Syllabus

The semester-wise BCA subjects for the 3rd year have been highlighted in the table below. 

Semester 5

Unix ProgrammingUnix Lab
User Interface DesignWeb Designing Project
Graphics & AnimationGraphics & Animation Lab
Python ProgrammingPython Programming Lab
Business IntelligenceBusiness Intelligence Lab
OOAD using UML

Semester 6

Design & Analysis of AlgorithmsMultimedia Applications
Client-Server ComputingIntroduction to Soft Computing
Computer ArchitectureAdvanced Database Management System
Cloud Computing

Also Read: Best Career Options after BCA - Career Scope, Job Profile, Courses after BCA

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Year-Wise BCA Syllabus & Subjects for Distance Program

The syllabus and subjects for BCA distance programs have been described according to the semesters.

BCA Distance 1st year Syllabus

Candidates can check the BCA 1st year subjects for distance programs in the table below.

Semester 1

Business CommunicationComputer Fundamental and Office Automation
Programming Principles and AlgorithmsBusiness Accounting
Principles of ManagementComputer Laboratory and Practical Work

Semester 2

Organisational BehaviorCost Accounting
Elements of StatisticsComputer Lab and Practical Work
File Structure and Database ConceptsC Programming

BCA Distance 2nd year Syllabus 

Candidates can check the BCA semester-wise syllabus for semester 3 and semester 4 in the table below.

Semester 3

C ProgrammingRDBMS
Software EngineeringComputer Lab and Practical Work
Data Structure Using CNumerical Methods

Semester 4

NetworkingHuman Resource Management
Visual BasicsObject-Oriented Programming Using C++
Inventory ManagementComputer Lab and Practical Work

BCA Distance 3rd year Syllabus 

Candidates can check the BCA semester-wise subjects for semester 5 and semester 6 in the table below.

Semester 5

NET-FrameworksProject Work
Internet Programming and Cyber LawElective
Core JavaMicroprocessor Architecture and Programming

Semester 6

E-CommerceProject Work
Multimedia SystemsElective
Advance JavaData Communications and Computer Networks

Also Read: BCA Bangalore - Admission 2025, Fees, Courses, Placement, Ranking

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Course-Wise BCA Subjects

The BCA 1st year subjects, along with the other semesters, have been listed in the table below.

SubjectsTopics Covered
Introduction to Programming Using C
  • Introduction to Computers and Programming
  • Unions and Files: Low-Level Programming
  • C Preprocessor
  • Introduction to C Control Structures and Arrays, Functions, and Pointers Structures
Operating Systems
  • Introduction and System Structures
  • Deadlock Memory Management File
  • Process Management, Process Synchronisation
  • I/O system
Computer Graphics and Animation
  • Introducing Objects, Creating Shapes with Splines, Editing Meshes, and Creating Complex Objects
  • Autodesk 3ds Max
  • Light and Shadow Enhancing Models with materials
  • Understanding Animation: Creating Animation
  • Dynamics Rigging for Animation
  • Organising and Editing Objects
  • Using the Camera Organising Objects and Scene Management
  • Particles
Programming in Java
  • Introduction, Arrays & String Handling, Inheritance, and Exception
  • IO package Applets AWT Classes
  • Handling Multithreading
Computer Networks
  • Physical Layer Digital Transmission
  • Multiplexing Transmission Media
  • Wired LANs
  • Wireless LAN
  • Address Mapping Protocol, Routing Protocols
  • Transport Layer Congestion Control
  • Analog Transmission
  • Data Link Layer
  • Data Link Control Multiple Access
  • Network Layer Internet Protocol
  • QoS Application Layer and Network Security
Database Management Systems
  • Index Structures for Files Relational Data Model
  • Data Modelling using the Entity-Relationship Model
  • Database Administration
  • Distributed Databases
  • Database Design
  • Introduction to DBMS Architecture
  • SQL Transaction Processing Concepts
  • Database Recovery
  • Concurrency Control Techniques
  • Introduction to Advanced Database Concepts
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Common BCA Subject List

Candidates pursuing BCA courses are all intended to study some common BCA subjects. These BCA subjects will be taught in most of the specialisations. To provide students with a more rounded education, the BCA syllabus includes some of the common subjects like Basic Mathematics, English Communication, IT Fundamentals, etc.

These common BCA subject lists have been highlighted in the pointers below. 

  • Fundamentals of IT & Computers
  • Digital Electronics
  • Basic Mathematics
  • English Communication
  • C Language Lab
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BCA Syllabus for Core Subjects

The core subjects in BCA represent the compulsory ones, and candidates have no privilege to choose any of them. The table below highlights the BCA core subjects for all semesters.

Subjects

Description

Fundamentals of IT & ComputersBasics of computer systems, hardware, and software.
Basic MathematicsFoundational math concepts used in computer applications.
Digital ElectronicsStudy of digital circuits, logic gates, and systems.
C Language LabPractical programming using the C language.
English CommunicationDeveloping verbal and written communication skills.
Operating Systems and FundamentalsBasics of OS design, functions, and management.
Advanced C Programming LabIn-depth coding practice in advanced C concepts.
C Language Advanced ConceptsComplex data types, pointers, and file handling in C.
Organisational BehaviourUnderstanding workplace psychology and human behavior.
Advanced MathematicsApplied math for computing, including algebra and calculus.
Database Management SystemsDesigning and managing structured data and databases.
DBMS and Web Technology LabPracticals on database queries and basic web tech.
Software EngineeringSoftware development processes, models, and tools.
Open Source TechnologyOverview of free software tools and platforms.
Web-Based ApplicationsBuilding and managing internet-based software applications.
Web DesigningDesigning user-friendly and responsive web interfaces.
Object-Oriented ProgrammingProgramming using classes, objects, and encapsulation.
Introduction to LinuxBasics of Linux OS, commands, and file systems.
Data StructuresOrganising and managing data efficiently in programs.
ElectiveStudent-selected subject for broader specialisation.
Software Engineering – IIAdvanced software design, testing, and maintenance.
Advanced Java and Python LabHands-on practice in Java and Python programming.
Python LanguageProgramming fundamentals using Python syntax and logic.
Java ProgrammingDeveloping applications using Java language features.
eCommerce and MarketingUnderstanding digital business, strategy, and promotion.
ElectiveStudent-selected subject for broader specialisation.
Artificial IntelligenceBasics of AI algorithms and intelligent systems.
Application DevelopmentBuilding and deploying real-world software applications.
Information SecurityProtecting data, networks, and systems from threats.
ElectiveStudent-selected subject for broader specialisation.
Project/DissertationFinal-year research or application development project.

Also Read: Top BCA Colleges in Patna 2025

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BCA Syllabus for Optional Subjects

The optional electives of the BCA subjects have been explained based on the years as electives 1, 2, and 3. Here is the list of BCA Elective Subjects:

  1. Computer Network Security
  2. Introduction to e-Governance
  3. Data Mining and Warehousing
  4. IT Acts and Cyber Laws
  5. Operation Research
  6. Fundamentals of TCP/IP
  7. Theory of Computing
  8. Artificial Intelligence
  9. Simulation and Modeling
  10. Internet and e-Commerce
  11. Analysis and Design of Algorithms
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Specialisation-wise Subjects offered in BCA

The specialisations include Personal Information Management, Database Management, Music & Video Processing, etc. The BCA Syllabus and Subject specialisations have been highlighted in the table below. 

Specialisations Area

Subject Topics

Internet TechnologiesWeb Development, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Internet Protocols
Database ManagementSQL, Oracle, DBMS Concepts, Data Modeling, MySQL
Programming LanguagesC, C++, Java, Python, C#, Object-Oriented Programming
Personal Information ManagementDigital Calendars, Task Management Tools, PIM Software
Word ProcessingMS Word, Google Docs, Text Formatting, Document Editing
Computer Graphics2D/3D Graphics, OpenGL, Image Processing, Rendering
Animation2D Animation, 3D Modeling, Adobe Flash, Blender
Accounting ApplicationsTally, QuickBooks, Accounting Principles, Financial Software
System AnalysisSystem Development Life Cycle (SDLC), Requirements Analysis, Use Case Design
Music & Video ProcessingAudio/Video Editing, Adobe Premiere, Audacity, Media Conversion

Also Read: BCA College - Admission 2025, Fees, Courses, Placement, Ranking

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Specialisation-Wise BCA Syllabus & Subjects 2025

Some of the popular specialisations under BCA courses are data science and data analytics. For an easier understanding, we have mentioned the year-wise BCA Data Science Syllabus and BCA Data Analytics Syllabus.

BCA Syllabus for Data Science 

The Subjects concerning the BCA Data Science syllabus have been listed in the table below.

First Year BCA Data Science Syllabus

You can check the BCA Data Science course syllabus in semesters 1 and 2 in the table mentioned below:

Semester 1

Language 1Discrete Mathematics
Environmental Science and SustainabilityComputational Thinking and Programming in C Lab
Communicative EnglishComputer Essentials for Data Science
Cultural Education 1Computational Thinking and Programming in C

Semester 2

Professional Communication Database Management System Lab
Database Management SystemData Structure and Algorithm
Language Paper 2Operating System
Cultural Education 2Data Structures Lab
Statistics and Probability

Second Year BCA Data Science Syllabus

You can check the BCA Data Science course syllabus in semesters 3 and 4 in the table mentioned below:

Semester 3

Computer NetworksEssential of Data Collection Ethics
Life Skills 1Object Oriented Programming using C++
Software EngineeringPractical Exposure to Data Collection Lab
Descriptive StatisticsScripting Technologies Lab

Semester 4

Open Elective A*Introduction to Data Mining
Life Skills 2Introduction to Java and Web Programming
Python Programming LabJava Programming Lab
Python ProgrammingElective A

Third Year BCA Data Science Syllabus

You can check the BCA Data Science course syllabus in semesters 5 and 6 in the table mentioned below:

Semester 5

Machine LearningIntroduction to Parallel Programming Lab
Data Modelling and VisualisationOpen Elective B*
R Programming for Data ScienceFundamentals of Machine Learning Lab
Introduction to Parallel Programming and Data OptimisationMinor Project
Elective B

Semester 6

Natural Language ProcessingBig Data Analytics Lab
Big Data AnalyticsElective C
Information and Data SecurityProject

BCA Syllabus for Data Analytics

The Subjects concerning the BCA Data Analytics syllabus have been listed in the table below.

First Year BCA Data Analytics Syllabus

You can check the BCA Data Analytics course syllabus in semesters 1 and 2 in the table mentioned below:

Semester 1

Mathematics for Data Scientists - IProgramming in C Lab
English for ProfessionalsOperating System Lab
Computer Architecture & OrganisationOperating System
Communication skillsProgramming in C

Semester 2

Object Oriented Programming using JavaObject Oriented Programming using Java Lab
Mathematics for Data Scientists -- IIData Structures and Algorithms Lab
Probability & Statistics - IIntroduction to Data Science
Data Structures and AlgorithmsExcel for Data Scientists (Tool-Based)

Second Year BCA Data Analytics Syllabus

You can check the BCA Data Analytics course syllabus in semesters 3 and 4 in the table mentioned below:

Semester 3

Software EngineeringScientific Programming Using R (Tool-Based)
Reasoning and ThinkingComputer Networks
Probability & Statistics - IISoftware Engineering Lab
Database Management SystemsDatabase Management Systems Lab

Semester 4

Data Manipulation Using PL / SQL ProgrammingBusiness Communication and Presentation Skills / Professional Ethics
Inferential StatisticsExploratory Data Analysis (Tool-Based)
Machine Learning Algorithms - I (Tool-Based)Data Manipulation Using PL / SQL Programming Lab
Big Data Analytics (Tool-Based)Inferential Statistics Lab

Third Year BCA Data Analytics Syllabus

You can check the BCA Data Analytics course syllabus in semesters 5 and 6 in the table mentioned below:

Semester 5

Cloud ComputingCloud Computing Lab
Time Series AnalysisMachine Learning Algorithms - II (Tool-Based)
Data Visualisation (Tool-Based)Elective – III (Any One)
Elective – IData Science Project Management
Elective – IIData Science Industry Use Cases
Time Series Analysis LabAdvances in Data Science

Semester 6

Project and Viva-VoceNeural Networks
Elective - IIIElective – II (Any One)
Elective – I (Any One)Natural Language Processing
Internet of ThingsReinforcement Learning
Artificial IntelligenceReal-Time Data 

Also Read: Government Jobs after BCA

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BCA Syllabus for Entrance Exam

Selection for the BCA course can be both merit-based and entrance-based. Few universities require students to take entrance exams like the CUET UG, AIMA UGAT, IPU CET, SET, NIMCET, BUMAT, and Christ University Entrance Test. The syllabus of the entrance exams in BCA includes:

CUET UG: CUET UG entrance exam syllabus for BCA includes Class 12-level subjects such as General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Computer Fundamentals, and English language. It assesses candidates on problem-solving skills, analytical ability, and basic computer knowledge.

AIMA UGAT: AIMA UGAT entrance exam syllabus for BCA comprises English Language, Numerical and Data Analysis, Reasoning and General Intelligence, and General Knowledge. The computer-based section includes basic computer awareness and IT terminology.

IPU CET: IPU CET entrance exam syllabus for BCA includes English Language & Comprehension, Mathematics, Computer Awareness, and General Knowledge. Questions are based on Class 12 topics with a focus on logical and analytical reasoning as well.

SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test): SET entrance exam syllabus for BCA covers English, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, and Analytical & Logical Reasoning. The questions test overall aptitude and problem-solving ability relevant to computer application studies.

NIMCET: NIMCET entrance exam syllabus includes Mathematics, Analytical Ability & Logical Reasoning, Computer Awareness, and General English. It helps students with a strong foundation in computer-related topics to seek advanced programs later.

Christ University Entrance Test: Christ University entrance exam syllabus includes English Language, General Knowledge, Fundamental Mathematics, Reasoning, and Computer Basics. It assesses readiness for undergraduate computer application education through a balanced approach.

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Important Books for BCA

The important books required for the BCA course have been highlighted in the table below. Candidates are advised to check them and prepare according to them.

BCA Books and Author Name

Name of BCA Syllabus BooksName of The Author
The C Programming LanguageBrian W Kernighan
Operating System ConceptsAvi Silberschatz and Peter Galvin
Software EngineeringIan Sommerville
Fundamentals of Numerical CompultionG Alefeld and R Grigorieff
A Textbook on C: Fundamentals, Data Structures and Problem SolvingKarthikeyan
Data Structure Using CA K Sharma
Design of The Unix Operating SystemsMaurice Bach
Algebraic Methodology and Software TechnologyGrigore Rosu and Jose Meseguer
Object-Oriented Analysis and Design with ApplicationsBooch

Also Read: BCA + MCA

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BCA Skill Set Requirements

Here are some skill sets that are essential for a successful career in computer applications that are taught throughout the BCA program.

  • A basic understanding of one programming language, such as Java, C++, Python, or others.
  • Curiosity to solve complicated issues using logical thinking.
  • Understanding of database management systems and SQL.
  • A strong grasp of computer networks and network security.
  • Practical communication abilities, both oral and written.
  • Basic understanding of data structure and algorithms (DSA).
  • Understanding of essential web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
  • Adaptability and the will to learn new technology and tools.
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BCA Course Structure

The BCA Course is organized into two semesters each year (January to June and July to December). As a result, there are two tests held each year: one in June for the January to June semester course and another in December for the July to December semester. Students can appear for any of the University's examination schedules throughout the year, provided they complete the minimum duration and attendance requirements.           

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FAQs about BCA Syllabus

Which are BCA elective subjects?

Computer Network Security, Introduction to e-governance, Data Mining and Warehousing, IT Acts and Cyber Laws, and Operation Research are some of the BCA elective subjects.
 

Which are BCA common subjects?

Fundamentals of IT & Computers, Digital Electronics, Basic Mathematics, English Communication, and C Language Lab are the common BCA subjects. 
 

How many subjects are there in BCA 1st year Syllabus?

Based on the Semester Wise BCA Subjects, there are 6 subjects that the candidates will have to learn in in BCA 1st year Syllabus.
 

What are the subjects included in the BCA 1st year Syllabus?

Some of the BCA 1st year Subjects include C Programming Lab, Introduction To Programming Using C, Digital Computer Fundamentals, etc.
 

Is BCA 1st year Subjects changed for 2023?

No, there are no changes in the BCA 1st year Subjects for the year 2023.
 

How many subjects are compulsory in BCA?

Fundamentals of IT & Computers, Digital Electronics, Basic Mathematics, English Communication, and C Language Lab are some of the compulsory subjects in BCA.
 

Does BCA include maths?

Yes, mathematics is compulsory in BCA course.
 

How many subjects will be there in BCA?

There are a total of six subjects each semester with 2 lab subjects.
 

Is BCA a hard subject?

No, a Bachelor of Computer Applications or BCA is not a hard subject.
 

What are the 6 subjects in BCA?

The 6 subjects for BCA first semester are Hardware Lab (CIA ONL), Creative English, Foundational Mathematics, Statistics for BCA, Digital Computer Fundamentals, and Introduction to Programming using C. 
 

Is BCA 3 years or 4 years?

BCA course duration is 3 years.
 

What is the syllabus of BCA 3 year?

BCA 3rd year syllabus consists of Python Language, E-commerce and Marketing, Artificial Intelligence, Application Development, Project, Software Engineering etc. Students are also taught advanced topics like cyber security and mobile software.
 

What is the syllabus of BCA course?

The syllabus of BCA course includes 6 subjects per semester which count to 36 subjects in all three years. Along with course subjects candidates will also have to study lab subjects every semester.
 

What are the subjects for BCA first year?

There are a total of 12 subjects taught in the BCA first year along with lab subjects. Some of the BCA first year subjects are Hardware Lab (CIA ONL), Foundational Mathematics, Introduction to Programming using C, Basic Discrete Mathematics, Cast Tools Lab (CIA only), etc.
 

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