PGDCA Course Syllabus and Subjects 2025

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Mar 17, 2025 17:09PM IST

PGDCA syllabus covers programming fundamentals such as languages like C, C++, Java, or Python along with advanced curriculum such as Database Management Systems, Web Development, Operating Systems, Software Engineering, etc. It also covers additional subjects like networking, computer graphics, or project management.

PGDCA Syllabus and Subjects Overview

PGDCA Syllabus and subjects focus on the theoretical and practical aspects of computer software and programming. The PGDCA compulsory subjects are C Programming, Fundamentals of Information Technology, Visual Basic, Software Engineering and Business Process, Java, Oracle, etc. The PGDCA elective subjects are Financial Accounting with Tally, OOPs & Programming with C++, MS-Access, Foxpro, etc.  The semester wise PGDCA subjects are designed to point students on the proper path as they get ready to take the course's numerous tests. The PGDCA Syllabus may vary from college to college and university to college, so students should only follow the syllabus that is required by their college or university.

PGDCA is a postgraduate diploma program that focuses on computer applications and technology. For PGDCA Admission 2025, students must have earned a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 45%.  The PGDCA syllabus covers disciplines like Fundamentals of Information Technology, Visual Basic, Programming, Business Process, Principles and Practices of Management and Organizational Behavior, Oracle, etc. that are relevant to programming and technology. Check the semester-wise and the institute-wise PGDCA syllabus 2025 along with core subjects, lab subjects, common subjects and more here. 

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PGDCA Syllabus and Subjects Highlights

Students can check the highlights of the PGDCA subjects and the PGDCA Computer course syllabus from the table below.

Particulars Details 
Duration 1 year 
Core subjects 
  • Oracle
  • Business Process
  • PPM & OB
  • Java
  • Fundamentals of Information Technology
  • C++ Programming
Elective subjects 
  • Databased using MySQL
  • Foxpro
  • MS-Access 
  • OOPS & Programming with C++
  • Fundamentals of Multimedia
Lab subjects
  • Computer Fundamentals Lab
  • PC Packages 
  • Data Communication & Networking Lab 
  • Programming with Visual Basic.NET
  • Introduction to Operating Systems 
  • Application Development Using PHP Lab
Common subjects 
  • ‘C’ Programming
  • Fundamentals of Information Technology
  • Visual Basics
  • Basic Java
  • Database management system
  • Soft Skills
  • Data Structure and Algorithms
Books 
  • Beginning JavaScript by Paul Wilton
  • Database Management Systems by Bipin Desai
  • Software Engineering Practitioner's Approach by Roger Pressman
  • Computer Database Organization by James Martin
Course structure
  • II Semesters
  • Core subjects
  • Practical work/ Lab training
  • Individual project
  • Group project
  • Workshop
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Semester Wise PGDCA Syllabus

The table below highlights the PGDCA 1st year syllabus segregated into semester 1 and semester 2.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

PGDCA 1st Semester Syllabus 
Fundamentals of Information TechnologyBusiness Process
ProgrammingOracle
Soft SkillsWeb Programming
Software EngineeringPractical Work
PGDCA 2nd Semester Syllabus 
Visual BasicsDBMS
JavaData Structure & Algorithms

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PGDCA Subjects

This section provides a detailed description of the PGDCA 1st year subjects covered within the course syllabus. The PGDCA subjects offer thorough courses in computer application and programming. PGDCA Computer course syllabus emphasizes the theoretical aspects of computer science while concentrating on teaching students computer programming languages.

PGDCA Semester 1 Subjects 

The following table lists the specific PGDCA course syllabus studied during the first semester:

PGDCA Syllabus Semester 1PGDCA Subjects Covered
Fundamentals Of Information Technology
  • Computer
  • Representation Of Data
  • Boolean Algebra
  • Software
  • Operating System
  •  Microsoft Tools
  • Introduction To Viruses.
‘C' Programming
  • C Fundamentals
  • Decision And Case-Control Structure
  • Loop Control Structure
  • Storage Classes
  • Arrays, Functions, Pointers, And Unions
Soft Skills
  • Effective Communication In Business
  • Writing Skills
  • Presentation Skills
  • Listening Skills
  • Communication Skills
Data Structure and Algorithms
  • Data Structure Concepts
  • Algorithm Concepts
  • Arrays, Stacks, Graphs, Sorting, Trees, Linked Lists, and Searching Algorithms
Principles And Practices of Management, Organizational Behaviour
  • The Essence of Management
  • The Evolution of Management Thought
  • Managerial Decision-Making
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Team Building
  • Leadership And Conflict Management.
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PGDCA Subjects for Semester 2 

The following table lists the specific PGDCA course subjects covered during the second semester:

PGDCA subjects Semester 2PGDCA Subjects Covered
Visual Basics
  • Introduction
  • Validating And Processing User Inputs
  • Using Debugging Tools and Database Connectivity
Basic Java
  • Introduction to Java
  • Programming Concepts of Basic Java
  • Objects And Classes
  • Language Features
  • Exception Handling and Multithreading
Database Management System
  • Introduction
  • Modeling Techniques
  • Hierarchical Database
  • Relational Algebra
  • Normalization
  • Integrity Constraints
  • Recovery Mechanisms
  • Distributed Database
Software Engineering And Business Process
  • System Concept
  • Various Phases of Software Development And Roles Involved
  • Different Approaches to Software Development
  • Application System Modelling
  • Database Design Methods and Logic Representation Techniques
Oracle
  • Introduction
  • SQL Operators
  • Query Expression Operators
  • SQL Functions, Joins, Views and Synonyms, Cursor, Exception Handling, Composite Data Types And Packages
Web Designing
  • Introduction
  • Hypertext Markup Language
  • Javascript And VB Script
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PGDCA Subjects

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Core PGDCA Subjects

The core subjects of the PGDCA syllabus 2025 are those subjects that are compulsory for students. The syllabus of PGDCA covers important topics that form the basis for studying computer applications and related fields. The core subjects of the PGDCA Syllabus provide an important framework for the advanced study of computer applications and their related field. Below is a list of core PGDCA Subjects:

PGDCA Core Subjects Semester 1

Subject NameDetails
System Analysis and DesignSystem Analysis and design refers to the process utilized by organizations to assess specific business scenarios and devise effective solutions to enhance business processes.
 Computer System Architecture The Computer System Architecture is a collection of visible tools that are available for end-users.
Computer FundamentalsComputer Fundamentals encompass several topics such as input/output devices, memory, motherboard, CPU, software, hardware, and more.

 PGDCA Core Subjects Semester 2

Subject NameDetails
Application Software PackagesApplication Software Packages refer to a collection of Microsoft products which include MS Office, PowerPoint, MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Linux is an Operating System (OS)Linux is an Operating System (OS) that is open-source and is responsible for directly managing the hardware and resources of a system.
Visual Basics (VBA)Visual Basics (VBA) is a programming language that is internal to Microsoft Office applications and is used to write programs specifically for the Windows operating system.

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PGDCA Lab Subjects

The lab subjects involved in the Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA) course are basically the subjects that are taught in the full syllabus. The PGDCA syllabus 1st sem and PGDCA 2nd sem syllabus include practical or lab work as a part of the pedagogy to acquaint studdents with the apprehension and manipulation of computer applications. Therefore it is advisable for students to check the PGDCA syllabus 2025 offered by the respective institute they have chosen as the lab subjects of Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA) course depending on college to college. Students can check the lab PGDCA subjects from the following-

  • Computer Fundamentals Lab
  • PC Packages 
  • Programming with Visual Basic.NET
  • Data Communication & Networking Lab 
  • Introduction to Multimedia & Photoshop Lab
  • Database Management System Lab
  • Application Development Using PHP Lab
  • Introduction to Operating Systems 
  • Introduction to Android Programming & Python Lab
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PGDCA Optional Subjects

The PGDCA optional subjects are those subjects that students can choose as per their preference. The PGDCA syllabus 2025 varies college-wise. Each college has their own set of optional PGDCA subjects 2025 from which students can choose. Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA) courses are mostly related to topics that include Fundamentals of Information Technology, Visual Basics, ‘C’ Programming, Basic Java, Soft Skills, Database management system, etc. You can check some elective PGDCA subjects below-

  • Web Development Using Laravel Framework  
  • Foxpro
  • MS-Access 
  • OOPS & Programming with C++
  • Fundamentals of Multimedia
  • Development Of Android Applications 
  • Financial Accounting With Tally
  • Big Data
  • Databased using MySQL
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University Wise PGDCA Syllabus and Subjects

PGDCA Computer course syllabus varies institute-wise. You can check out the PGDCA syllabus 2025 for various top PGDCA colleges below. 

PGDCA Syllabus at IGNOU

Check the PGDCA course syllabus at IGNOU semester-wise below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

PGDCA  Syllabus Semester 1
Programming in C and Python Computer Organization
Operating SystemsWindows and Linux Lab 
C and Python Lab -
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 2
Database Management SystemsData Structures and Algorithms Lab
Java and DBMS LabObject-Oriented Programming using Java
Data Structure and Algorithms-

PGDCA Syllabus Vikram University

Students can check the Vikram University PGDCA 1st year subjects in the table below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

PGDCA  Syllabus Semester 1
Programming in C and Python Computer Organization
Operating SystemsWindows and Linux Lab  
C and Python Lab Computer Organization
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 2
Database Management SystemsData Structures and Algorithms Lab
Java and DBMS LabObject-Oriented Programming using Java

PGDCA Syllabus in NIELIT

Students can check the NIELIT PGDCA 1st year subjects in the table below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

PGDCA Syllabus 1st Semester
Computer fundamentals and WindowsFinancial Accounting using Tally
Internet and EmailC /C++
Office Automation (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Data Communication
Algorithm Design-
PGDCA Syllabus 2nd Semester
Web Designing using DHTML, HTML, Flash, Java Script, PhotoshopVB.Net with SQL Server
System Analysis & DesignLinux, PHP, and MySql

PGDCA Syllabus at Karnataka State Women’s University

Check the Karnataka State Women’s University PGDCA 1st year subjects in the table below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

PGDCA Syllabus 1st Sem
Data Processing And Computer ApplicationsCobol And System Analysis And Design
Computer Lab-I (Based On BSC104CS)Computer Lab-III (Based On BSC304CS)
Programming In ‘C’Data Structures Using ‘C’
Computer Lab-II (Based On BSC204CS)Computer Lab-IV (Based On BSC404CS)
PGDCA Syllabus 2nd Sem
Database Management SystemComputer Lab-VII(Based On BSC603CS)
Computer Lab-V (BASED ON BSC503CS)Java And Internet Programming
OOPS With C++Computer Lab-VIII(Based On BSC604CS)
Computer Lab-VI(Based On BSC504CS)Programming In Visual Basic 6.0

PGDCA Syllabus at Jammu University

Students can check the Jammu University PGDCA 1st year syllabus in the table below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

Semester 1
Introduction to Computers and their ApplicationsData Structure & Structured System Analysis and Design
Computer Networks & Problem Solving with C++Project Work
Introduction to Computer Organisation-
Semester 2
Database Management SystemPC-Software (Practical I)
Programming with C++ (Practical II)Business Data Processing Lab (Practical III)

PGDCA Syllabus at OSOU

PGDCA at Odisha State Open University, Sambalpur, Odisha is offered for a duration of 1 and a half years (18 months). The PGDCA syllabus 2025 at OSOU is divided into 3 semesters. You can check the PGDCA all subject names for semesters 1, 2, and 3 below. 

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

Semester 1
Computer FundamentalsComputer Fundamentals Lab
Office Automation (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Office Automation Lab
Data Communication & NetworkingData Communication & Networking Lab
Semester 2
Web Design (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, XML)Database Management System Lab
Database Management SystemApplication Development Using PHP Lab
Application Development Using PHPProject Work
Web Design Lab-

Second Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 3 & 4)

Semester 3
Programming in Java
Introduction to Android Programming & Python
Introduction to Multimedia & Photoshop
Programming in Java Lab
Introduction to Android Programming & Python Lab
Introduction to Multimedia & Photoshop Lab

PGDCA Syllabus in Nirwan University

Check the Nirwan University PGDCA 1st year syllabus in the table below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

Semester 1
Introduction to IT and PC Productivity ToolsProgramming with Visual Basic
Programming with CElectronic Data Processing
Advanced Database Management System-
Semester 2
JavaOperating System
Programming on RDBMSDatabase Lab

PGDCA Syllabus HPU (Himachal Pradesh University)

You can check the Himachal Pradesh University PGDCA 1st year subjects in the table below.

First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)

PGDCA Syllabus Semester 1
Computer Organization and ArchitectureOperating System 
PC SoftwarePractical-I I (PC Software)
Practical-I ( C Language)Fundamentals of Programming Using C
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 2
Database Management SystemProject Work
System Analysis and Design Practical-IV (Database Management system) 
Object-Oriented Programming & C ++ Practical-III (DFS Using C ++ )
Data and File Structure-
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PGDCA Syllabus and Subjects for Distance Programs

PGDCA course is offered as a distance program also. This course duration is 12 months and is divided into two semesters. Admission to PGDCA Distance Education varies from college to college. The study of computer applications and their significance is covered in the PGDCA Distance Education program. PGDCA Distance Education admission is done by various colleges based on merit

PGDCA distance syllabus covers everything from C-Programming Fundamentals to Business Communication Skills. The goal of the distance learning PGDCA course is to guarantee that students gain a thorough comprehension of the subject. Check out the PGDCA course syllabus 2025 for distance education below.

Semester 1
Information technologyBusiness process
oracleWeb programming
Soft skillsSoftware engineering
Semester 2 
Data structureJava
Visual basicPPM & OB
DBMAlgorithms
Project work-
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PGDCA Syllabus for Entrance Exam

Usually, admission to the PGDCA course in India is done based on the merit of the students in the qualifying exam. However, some institutes out there conduct written tests to provide admission to students. Based on the marks in the written test that the students score, they are called for an interview or GD round for the final seat allotment. Thus, the PGDCA entrance exam syllabus depends upon the exam type, institute conducting the exam, and related.

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Specializations offered in PGDCA

Students who are studying a PGDCA course will specialize in computer science. Similarly, the students will become specialized in maneuvering computers and have satisfactory knowledge of software as well as software development. The PGDCA course will also train students how to apply software technology for decipher mathematical, communications, computing, or networking problems. The Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA) programme is also on the lookout to work out many commercial problems that make an appearance out of software technology.

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PGDCA Common Subjects for All Semester

PGDCA is a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application that has various subjects to offer. These PGDCA subjects vary from college to college. The PGDCA subjects comprises common subjects that are common in almost all semesters and optional subjects. The list of core PGDCA subjects is given below. 

  • Fundamentals of Information Technology
  • Visual Basics
  • ‘C’ Programming
  • Basic Java
  • Soft Skills
  • Database management system
  • Data Structure and Algorithms
  • Software engineering and business process
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PGDCA Course Structure

PGDCA course structure is segregated into theoretical teaching and practical or lab work during its duration of 4 semesters. The PGDCA syllabus and subjects aim to come up with its students with a practical comprehension of how computer software programming and languages are used in the working industry.

For instance, Web Programming as a PGDCA subject legalizes the students to comprehend how one’s HTML page that is invariable can be metamorphosed into a zestful one by depending on the website. Both the first and second years of the PGDCA syllabus include practical or lab work as a part of the pedagogy to acquaint its students with the purview and manipulation of computer applications. The PGDCA course syllabus structure is listed below:

  • IV Semesters
  • Core subjects
  • Practical work or Lab training
  • Individual project
  • Group project
  • Workshop

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PGDCA Course Projects

Several projects have been formulated based on the PGDCA Syllabus and subjects that have to be completed by the students before they complete the course. These projects help the students to fetch credit points which thereby helps them in the final year results. Some of the projects have been discussed below.

  • Credit Card Processing and Data Mining
  • ATM-based Broadband ISDN and Congestion Control
  • Middlebox Architecture and Its Design and Implementation
  • Voice Biometrics and the Implementation of a Network Security Layer
  • The Identification of Facial Features Using the E-attendance Method
  • Java and Static Analysis Perspective On Smart Card Security
  • Face recognition in e-attendance
  • Data Mining for Credit Card Processing
  • Data Leakage Detection Using Cloud Computing
  • Java Applications for a Bluetooth Platform
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PGDCA Important Books

Books are the main source of resource material while studying for any particular course. The tabular form below mentions all the important books that students can pick to study for the PGDCA syllabus and subjects. There are many alternatives available in the market that will be similar to the PGDCA reference books. Students are advised to refer to the best books that cover all the PGDCA subjects, available in the market from the authentic source. 

Name of the BookAuthor Name
Beginning JavaScriptPaul Wilton
Database Management SystemsBipin Desai
Software Engineering Practitioner's ApproachRoger Pressman
Computer Database OrganizationJames Martin
C ProgrammingBalagurusamy
Object-oriented programming in C++Nabajyoti Barkakati
Born to code in CH. Schildt
IT tools and applicationsA Mansoor
Computers TodaySanders
Know your PCPeter Norton
Elements of Digital ComputerThomas Bartee
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FAQs about PGDCA Course Syllabus

What are the teaching methodology and techniques in PGDCA courses?

The PGDCA program employs diverse teaching techniques such as audio and visual training. The course enables one-to-one communication with instructors. Online resources such as computer materials are also available for students. The program includes practical work to reinforce learning.
 

What courses can be done after PGDCA course?

After completing PGDCA, students have the opportunity to pursue courses like MCA, MSc IT, MSc CS, M.Sc. in Computer Science, and MBA IT.
 

What are the project topics of PGDCA?

The PGDCA course project covers several topics, such as ATM-based broadband ISDN and congestion control. Credit card processing and data mining are among the project topics. One of the project topics focuses on voice biometrics and the implementation of a network security layer. Another topic is the design and implementation of middlebox architecture. A perspective on smart card security is explored using Java and static analysis.
 

What is the syllabus of PGDCA certificate?

Computer PC Software, Programming in C, Data Structures, DBMS (Database Management System), OOP using C++, and Web Technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) are some of the subjects covered in the PGDCA syllabus.
 

What are the PGDCA important books?

Some of the PGDCA important books include Beginning JavaScript by Paul Wilton, Database Management Systems by Bipin Desai, Software Engineering Practitioner's Approach by Roger Pressman, and Computer Database Organization by James Martin.
 

How to prepare for PGDCA course?

If you're interested in pursuing a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications, it's important to build a solid base in programming languages like Java, C++, or Python. You should also get familiar with concepts such as database management systems, web development, and software engineering. Regularly practicing coding and working on projects can help you improve your skills. Keep up-to-date with the latest industry trends and emerging technologies by utilizing online resources, attending workshops, and participating in coding competitions. To stay on top of your coursework, it's important to develop effective time management and organizational skills. Collaborating with your peers, seeking guidance from professors, and embracing a commitment to continuous learning are essential to succeed in the dynamic field of PGDCA.
 

What is the PGDCA course in 6 months?

PGDCA certification is a 6-month course that enhances your practical knowledge of computer applications and their development.
 

What are the subjects in PGDCA?

Some of the PGDCA subjects are C Programming, Fundamentals of Information Technology, Software Engineering and Business Process, Visual Basic, Java, and Oracle.
 

Which is better DCA or PGDCA?

DCA is an entry-level course that provides a basic understanding of computers and their applications. To add value to this course and benefit from it, PGDCA is the ideal option.
 

Which are the common PGDCA subjects for all semesters?

Some of the common PGDCA subjects for all semesters include Fundamentals of Information Technology, Visual Basics, ‘C’ Programming, and Basic Java.
 

Which are the compulsory subjects in PGDCA?

C Programming, Oracle, Fundamentals of Information Technology, Java, Visual Basic, Software Engineering, and Business Process are some of the compulsory PGDCA subjects.
 

Which are the PGDCA elective subjects?

Financial Accounting with Tally, OOPs & Programming with C++, MS-Access, and Foxpro are some of the elective PGDCA Subjects.
 

What is PGDCA lab subjects?

Some of the practical PGDCA Subjects are Programming with Visual Basic, Introduction to Multimedia & Photoshop Lab, NET, Application Development Using PHP Lab, Introduction to Android Programming & Python Lab, and Database Management System Lab.
 

What are the topics covered in Fundamentals of Information Technology?

Magnetic Tape, Block Diagram of Elements of Digital Computer-their functions, Memory, CPU, I-O devices, Secondary Storages, Disk, Other recent developments-Scanners, CD-ROM, Digitizer, and Plotters are some of the subjects covered in Fundamentals of Information Technology.
 

What is PGDCA course structure?

The course structure of PGDCA consists of II Semesters, Core subjects, Practical work/ Lab training, Individual project, Group project, and Workshop.
 

Which are the best PGDCA books?

An Introduction to Database Management Systems by Bipin C. Desai, Programming in ANSI C by E. Balaguruswamy, and Object-oriented Programming in C++ by Nabajyoti Barkakati are some of the best books that cover the entire PGDCA syllabus and subjects.

What are the topics covered in C Programming?

Decision and Case Control Structure, Built in operators and function, and C Fundamentals, are some of the topics covered in the C programming chapter of PGDCA subjects.
 

What is the passing marks for PGDCA exam?

Candidates willing to pass the PGDCA course, have to score at least 40% marks.
 

How many semesters are there in PGDCA?

PGDCA course is a one-year duration Postgraduate diploma course with two semesters.
 

What is the scope of PGDCA in future?

The scope of PGDCA course includes various designations such as Actuaries, Computer Support Service Specialists, Chief Information Officers, Independent consultants, System administrators, Project Managers, etc.
 

How many topics are there in PGDCA?

Some of the topics covered in PGDCA are Visual Basic, Programming, Fundamentals of Information Technology, Business Process, Principles and Practices of Management and Organisational Behavior, etc.
 

What are the subjects in PGDCA syllabus?

System Analysis and Design, Computer Organization and Architecture, Application Software Packages, and Visual Basics are some of the subjects taught in PGDCA courses.
 

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