Master of computer application, popularly known as MCA is an advanced post graduate degree in computer science that focuses on equipping the students with the competency to develop software and applications using various programming languages. MCA is a preferred choice of higher education for computer science undergraduates today, owing to the great amount of employability the course provides. Many reputed universities offer this course in India through regular classes over a three-year duration.
There are many working professionals who wish to upgrade their skills and a three-year programcan prove to be a financial burden, that too after quitting one’s job for a full-time course. Under such circumstances, many opt for the distance MCA program offered by many reputed colleges. Based on whether it is possible for the candidate to visit the campus once in a while or entirely pursue it on a remote basis, one can choose to do it through distance program with few contact hours or as an online program.
Distance MCA and its advantages
MCA from distance education is a real boon to those who wish to pursue a career or other interests, while focusing on their post graduate studies. With the advancement in technology, it has become a hassle-free process to stay at a location convenient to you and still have access to the best study material available. The flexibility of time and location enables the candidates to take up the course at their own pace. Virtual classroom training, 24-hour assistance and downloadable e-books have become an integral part of any distance program today, ensuring that the candidates do not miss out on the quality of education. Computer science distance learning programs usually have distance learning centres where classes are conducted at regular intervals.
Online MCA
MCA Online programs are very similar to the distance programs, but only differ in the way the students receive and submit the course work. As the name suggests, it is entirely an online program that does not require the candidates to visit the learning centres. This kind of a program is being offered by some universities in India today and are growing in popularity.
Both the programs come with a great amount of flexibility and are sure to make a difference in one’s IT career. The distance program has a slight advantage over the online program because of the opportunity to interact with like-minded professionals during the occasional classroom sessions. However, online education is also catching up with time and offersnear equal exposure as distance learning does.