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 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.
Students can check the highlights of the PGDCA subjects and the PGDCA Computer course syllabus from the table below.
Particulars | Details |
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Duration | 1 year |
Core subjects |
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Elective subjects |
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Lab subjects |
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Common subjects |
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Books |
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Course structure |
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The table below highlights the PGDCA 1st year syllabus segregated into semester 1 and semester 2.
PGDCA 1st Semester Syllabus | |
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Fundamentals of Information Technology | Business Process |
Programming | Oracle |
Soft Skills | Web Programming |
Software Engineering | Practical Work |
PGDCA 2nd Semester Syllabus | |
Visual Basics | DBMS |
Java | Data Structure & Algorithms |
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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.
The following table lists the specific PGDCA course syllabus studied during the first semester:
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 1 | PGDCA Subjects Covered |
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Fundamentals Of Information Technology |
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‘C' Programming |
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Soft Skills |
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Data Structure and Algorithms |
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Principles And Practices of Management, Organizational Behaviour |
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Practical | Complete 20 Programs |
The following table lists the specific PGDCA course subjects covered during the second semester:
PGDCA subjects Semester 2 | PGDCA Subjects Covered |
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Visual Basics |
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Basic Java |
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Database Management System |
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Software Engineering And Business Process |
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Oracle |
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Web Designing |
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Practical | Complete 20 programs |
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:
Subject Name | Details |
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System Analysis and Design | System 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 Fundamentals | Computer Fundamentals encompass several topics such as input/output devices, memory, motherboard, CPU, software, hardware, and more. |
Subject Name | Details |
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Application Software Packages | Application 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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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-
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-
PGDCA Computer course syllabus varies institute-wise. You can check out the PGDCA syllabus 2025 for various top PGDCA colleges below.
Check the PGDCA course syllabus at IGNOU semester-wise below.
First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 1 | |
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Programming in C and Python | Computer Organization |
Operating Systems | Windows and Linux Lab |
C and Python Lab | - |
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 2 | |
Database Management Systems | Data Structures and Algorithms Lab |
Java and DBMS Lab | Object-Oriented Programming using Java |
Data Structure and Algorithms | - |
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 | |
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Programming in C and Python | Computer Organization |
Operating Systems | Windows and Linux Lab |
C and Python Lab | Computer Organization |
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 2 | |
Database Management Systems | Data Structures and Algorithms Lab |
Java and DBMS Lab | Object-Oriented Programming using Java |
Students can check the NIELIT PGDCA 1st year subjects in the table below.
First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)
PGDCA Syllabus 1st Semester | |
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Computer fundamentals and Windows | Financial Accounting using Tally |
Internet and Email | C /C++ |
Office Automation (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint) | Data Communication |
Algorithm Design | - |
PGDCA Syllabus 2nd Semester | |
Web Designing using DHTML, HTML, Flash, Java Script, Photoshop | VB.Net with SQL Server |
System Analysis & Design | Linux, PHP, and MySql |
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 | |
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Data Processing And Computer Applications | Cobol 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 System | Computer 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 |
Students can check the Jammu University PGDCA 1st year syllabus in the table below.
First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)
Semester 1 | |
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Introduction to Computers and their Applications | Data Structure & Structured System Analysis and Design |
Computer Networks & Problem Solving with C++ | Project Work |
Introduction to Computer Organisation | - |
Semester 2 | |
Database Management System | PC-Software (Practical I) |
Programming with C++ (Practical II) | Business Data Processing Lab (Practical III) |
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 | |
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Computer Fundamentals | Computer Fundamentals Lab |
Office Automation (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) | Office Automation Lab |
Data Communication & Networking | Data Communication & Networking Lab |
Semester 2 | |
Web Design (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, XML) | Database Management System Lab |
Database Management System | Application Development Using PHP Lab |
Application Development Using PHP | Project Work |
Web Design Lab | - |
Second Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 3 & 4)
Semester 3 |
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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 |
Check the Nirwan University PGDCA 1st year syllabus in the table below.
First Year PGDCA Subjects (Semester 1 & 2)
Semester 1 | |
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Introduction to IT and PC Productivity Tools | Programming with Visual Basic |
Programming with C | Electronic Data Processing |
Advanced Database Management System | - |
Semester 2 | |
Java | Operating System |
Programming on RDBMS | Database Lab |
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 | |
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Computer Organization and Architecture | Operating System |
PC Software | Practical-I I (PC Software) |
Practical-I ( C Language) | Fundamentals of Programming Using C |
PGDCA Syllabus Semester 2 | |
Database Management System | Project Work |
System Analysis and Design | Practical-IV (Database Management system) |
Object-Oriented Programming & C ++ | Practical-III (DFS Using C ++ ) |
Data and File Structure | - |
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 | |
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Information technology | Business process |
oracle | Web programming |
Soft skills | Software engineering |
Semester 2 | |
Data structure | Java |
Visual basic | PPM & OB |
DBM | Algorithms |
Project work | - |
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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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.
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.
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:
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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.
The table below focuses on some of the top PGDCA colleges that offer the entire PGDCA syllabus and subjects.
College Names | Average PGDCA Fees |
---|---|
Jamia Millia Islamia | INR 7,800 |
International Institute of Management, Media & IT | INR 75,000 |
Himalayan Institute of Management and Technology | INR 1,50,000 |
St. Joseph’s College | INR 50,000 |
Savitribai Phule Pune University | INR 11,700 |
SNDT Women’s University | INR 30,107 |
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj University | INR 75,000 |
Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Arts and Commerce College, Indore | INR 11,600 |
Institute of Engineering and Technology, Dr. BR Ambedkar University, Agra | INR 15,630 |
Goswami Ganesh Dutt Sanatan Dharam College, Hoshiarpur | INR 34,940 |
The Bhopal School of Social Sciences, Bhopal | INR 21,300 |
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 Book | Author Name |
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Beginning JavaScript | Paul Wilton |
Database Management Systems | Bipin Desai |
Software Engineering Practitioner's Approach | Roger Pressman |
Computer Database Organization | James Martin |
C Programming | Balagurusamy |
Object-oriented programming in C++ | Nabajyoti Barkakati |
Born to code in C | H. Schildt |
IT tools and applications | A Mansoor |
Computers Today | Sanders |
Know your PC | Peter Norton |
Elements of Digital Computer | Thomas Bartee |
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.
After completing PGDCA, students have the opportunity to pursue courses like MCA, MSc IT, MSc CS, M.Sc. in Computer Science, and MBA IT.
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.
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.
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.
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.
PGDCA certification is a 6-month course that enhances your practical knowledge of computer applications and their development.
Some of the PGDCA subjects are C Programming, Fundamentals of Information Technology, Software Engineering and Business Process, Visual Basic, Java, and Oracle.
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.
Some of the common PGDCA subjects for all semesters include Fundamentals of Information Technology, Visual Basics, ‘C’ Programming, and Basic Java.
C Programming, Oracle, Fundamentals of Information Technology, Java, Visual Basic, Software Engineering, and Business Process are some of the compulsory PGDCA subjects.
Financial Accounting with Tally, OOPs & Programming with C++, MS-Access, and Foxpro are some of the elective PGDCA 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.
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.
The course structure of PGDCA consists of II Semesters, Core subjects, Practical work/ Lab training, Individual project, Group project, and Workshop.
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.
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.
Candidates willing to pass the PGDCA course, have to score at least 40% marks.
PGDCA course is a one-year duration Postgraduate diploma course with two semesters.
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.
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.
System Analysis and Design, Computer Organization and Architecture, Application Software Packages, and Visual Basics are some of the subjects taught in PGDCA courses.