IGNOU MCA In Data Science
(Online & Distance MCA In Data Science from IGNOU)
IGNOU offers Online MCA in Data Science as a 24-month program in online mode for those individuals who want to develop skills in computing foundations. Online MCA in Data Science is designed in such a way that it offers comprehensive software & computer applications curriculum. With this course, students will develop skills to make end-to-end, data-powered software systems. This course also includes Python and relevant packages like NumPy, SciPy, ScikitLearn, Matplotlib, Data visualization tools like Tableau, and SQL For ETL. This discipline includes basic to in-depth knowledge on subjects from Computer Organization & Architecture to Text Mining.
- DURATION: 2 years (24 months)
- Fees Per Year: 25,000/-
- Total Fees: 50,000/-
- Last date of admission: 15th July, 2025
Admission Open for the July, 2025 session for the notified programmes offered in ODL and Online modes on the Samarth Portal.
@OfficialIGNOU https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in (ODL) https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in (Online mode) The last date to apply is July 15th, 2025. Read more about the same here.
The admissions for IGNOU’s online and distance MCA programs for the July 2025 registration session has started and The last date to apply for the online and ODL MCA programme is 15th July 2025.
IGNOU ranked Number #1 in the “Open University” category in the 2024 NIRF India Ranking.
IGNOU has accredited with an A++ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
IGNOU MCA In Data Science Course Overview
IGNOU MCA in Data Science program is designed for learners who wish to specialize in data science while benefiting from a flexible and affordable online education model. It helps students build a strong foundation in computing with an emphasis on data analytics, machine learning, and big data technologies—making them industry-ready professionals.
Here are some highlights of IGNOU MCA In Data Science
– Applicants for admission to the Online MCA program must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, Mathematics, or a related field, with at least 50% marks from a recognized university.
– The course duration is two years, with a maximum extension period of up to four years as per university norms.
– The Online MCA in Data Science is structured across four semesters, each spanning six months.
– Data Science opens the door to careers in Data Analysis, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Engineering, and Business Intelligence.
– There are no age restrictions for admission to the Online MCA program offered by IGNOU.
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IGNOU MCA In Data Science Duration & Eligibility
Eligibility (Graduation with Computer Science Degree): Only graduates (Bachelor) in a similar Programme from a recognized university with a time duration of three years can apply for Online MCA in Data Science. Students should have basic knowledge of this field. To be eligible for this course students need to have secured 50 % or more in their graduation.
Candidates who have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Science/Commerce/Arts with Mathematics at the 10+2 level or graduation level need to complete additional bridge courses. The details are as follows:
– MCS-201 (Programming in C and Python)
– MCS-208 (Data Structures and Algorithms)
Students who have already successfully completed any of these bridge courses, such as MCS-201 or MCS-208 from IGNOU, are required to register and complete the remaining bridge courses only. The fee for these bridge courses is based on the Course-wise Registration and Certification Scheme (CRCS) of IGNOU.
Note: Students WITHOUT Mathematics at 10+2 level or at Graduation level are not eligible for ODL/Online MCA programme.
Duration (2 to 5 years): This Online MCA in Data Science course is for 2 years. In these 2 years, there are 4 semesters, each with different topics and subjects. These semesters are prepared in such a way that students get the required information and skills to exceed in this field. After every semester assignments are given to students for their better understanding of the concept.
Get detailed insights on eligibility criteria, admission requirements, and qualifications needed. 
Click here for IGNOU MCA Eligibility!
Ranking & Approvals
UCG Entitled
Recognized by the University Grants Commission
AICTE Approved
Approved by the All India Council for Technical Education
WES Accredited
World Education System
NAAC A++ Accredited
Accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council
MHRD Approved
Ministry of Human Resource Development
AIU Approved
Recognized by the Association of Indian Universities
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Sample Degree of IGNOU MCA Program
Job Roles After Online MCA In Data Science
ENTRY LEVEL
– Data Analyst
– Junior Data Scientist
– Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst
– Machine Learning Intern
– Data Engineer (Trainee)
MID LEVEL
– Data Scientist
– Machine Learning Engineer
– Data Engineer
– AI/ML Developer
– BI Developer
ADVANCED LEVEL
– Senior Data Scientist
– Lead Data Scientist
– AI/ML Architect
– Data Science Manager
– Chief Data Officer (CDO)
– Research Scientist (AI/ML)
IGNOU MCA In Data Science Curriculum (Syllabus/Subjects)
Syllabus of Online MCA in Data Science includes Mathematical Foundation for Computer Application, Operating System & Unix Shell Programming, Data Communication & Computer Networks, Data Structures with Algorithms, Computer Organization & Architecture, Relational Database Management System, Design & Analysis of Algorithms, Java Programming, Python for Data Science, Statistical Methods in Decision Making, Advanced Web Technologies, Data Visualization, SQL for Data Science, Data Mining, Time series Analytics, Text Mining, Applied Analytics – Marketing, Web, Social Media, etc.
Get detailed insights on the syllabus, course structure, and key subjects covered. Click here for IGNOU MCA Syllabus!
IGNOU MCA In Data Science Curriculum
24 months | 4 semesters | 15-20 hours/week | 80 credits
|
Subject (7 Courses) |
Credits |
|
Design and Analysis of Algorithms (MCS-211) |
4 |
|
Discrete Mathematics (MCS-212) |
4 |
|
Software Engineering (MCS-213) |
4 |
|
Professional Skills and Ethics (MCS-214) |
2 |
|
Security and Cyber Laws (MCS-215) |
2 |
|
DAA and Web Design Lab (MCS-216) |
2 |
|
Software Engineering Lab (MCS-217) |
2 |
|
Subject (6 Courses) |
Credits |
|
Data Communication and Computer Networks (MCS-218) |
4 |
|
Object Oriented Analysis and Design (MCS-219) |
4 |
|
Web Technologies (MCS-220) |
4 |
|
Data Warehousing and Data Mining (MCS-221) |
4 |
|
OOAD and Web Technologies Lab (MCS-222) |
2 |
|
Computer Networks and Data Mining Lab (MCS-223) |
2 |
|
Subject (6 Courses) |
Credits |
|
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (MCS-224) |
4 |
|
Accountancy and Financial Management (MCS-225) |
4 |
|
Data Science and Big Data (MCS-226) |
4 |
|
Cloud Computing and IoT (MCS-227) |
4 |
|
AI and Machine Learning Lab (MCS-228) |
2 |
|
Cloud and Data Science Lab (MCS-229) |
2 |
|
Subject (3 Courses) |
Credits |
|
Digital Image Processing and Computer Vision (MCS-230) |
4 |
|
Mobile Computing (MCS-231) |
4 |
|
Project (MCS-232) |
12 |
Learning Method (IGNOU MCA In Data Science LMS)
E-books & Study Material
View and download study materials, attend virtual classes, and watch pre-recorded lectures.
Live Interactive Sessions
Participate in MCA course online discussion forums, interact with peers, and get support from faculty.
Project & Assignment
Upload assignments of MCA programs and track submission deadlines easily.
Learning Managment
The LMS is accessible anytime, anywhere, ensuring flexibility for working professionals and remote learners.
Top Studies Center
These centers offer hands-on sessions, guidance and counseling, workshops, access to library resources, examinations, and additional support.
Worldwide Reach
Currently, the University operates in 88 countries through various agreements and projects, with 25 Overseas Study Centres (OSCs) located across 15 different countries.
IGNOU MCA In Data Science Fees Structure & scholarships
Online MCA in Data Science costs around 2LPA but some universities might charge up to 5LPA for the same course, it totally is on the university and its set standards. IGNOU being a university controlled by the central government has a very affordable fee structure for all the disciplines offered. For course fees, students can download the brochure available on the IGNOUs official site.
Get detailed insights on tuition fees, payment options, and other charges. 👉 Click here for IGNOU MCA Fees Structure!
| Registration Fee | 300/- Rupees |
| Course Fee | Rs. 50,000/- for full programme to be paid semester wise @Rs. 12,500/- per semester |
| Examination Fee | 200- Per Subject |
Top 5 Online MCA Universities Fees Comparision
| University | MCA Course Fee | Approvals and Accreditations |
| Lovely Professional University | 35,000/- Semester | NIRF | NAAC A++ |
| Manipal University | 39,500/- Semester | UGC | NAAC A+ |
| Chandigarh University | 26,250/- Semester | UGC | NAAC A+ | NIRF 27 |
| Vivekananda Global University | 32,500/- Semester | NAAC A+ | UGC |
| Vignan University | 27,500/- Semester | UGC | NAAC A+ | NIRF |
IGNOU MCA In Data Science Admission Process (How to Apply?)
Students looking to take admission in IGNOU can follow a simple admission procedure. Applicants first need to open the application form on the official portal by clicking on ‘New Admission when the application form appears they need to fill in required information including name, email, fathers name, mother’s name, etc. students will have to make a login id and password for themselves. Once the information is fed then students will have to upload the required documents. Once students are done with the formalities they will just have to pay the admission fee and take a print of their admission form for future use.
Get detailed insights on the admission procedure, application process, and important guidelines. Click here for IGNOU MCA Admission Procedure!
July Admission Session 2025 Started
The last date to apply IGNOU MCA In Data Science program is 15th July, 2025. To apply for the IGNOU MCA In Data Science course for the July 2025 session, Follow these below steps:
Visit the official website of IGNOU admission portal: ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. Fill in your basic, education & work experience-related details and pay the application fee to register.
Pay the admission fee for the first semester/year or full program.
Upload supporting documents & submit your application.
The university will evaluate your documents to confirm your admission.
Why Choose IGNOU MCA In Data Science Course?
IGNOU or Indira Gandhi National Open University is the oldest open university in India. The university is established in 1985 by the parliament act of Indira Gandhi National University. The university is a recognized university by the University Grant Commission and Distance Education Bureau for offering online and distance learning courses. The university has also been accredited by NAAC with an ‘A++’ Grade. There are few universities that have been accredited with ‘a++’ grades by NAAC and IGNOU is one of them.
MCA, or Masters in Computer Application, is one of the university’s courses available to interested students. The institution provides this course to students via online & distance education. This course is especially advantageous for working professionals who are currently engaged in some type of employment and lack the time necessary to enroll in normal sessions in order to seek a higher degree.
Self-Study Activities – Self-study activities such as projects making, assignments, module making, etc are given to students to sharpen students’ skills and knowledge.
E-Content & Printed Material – For student’s aid, all the study material be it sample papers, notes, a question bank, old question papers, etc are available in both E-content and printed form.
Multimedia content – Students are also offered multimedia content comprising of links, videos, recordings, audios, references, etc so that students can get information from external sources as well.
Recorded lectures – Be it Online MCA in Data Science or any other specialization students are given access to recorded video lectures and audio lectures so that they can study whenever they want.
Term – End Examination – Twice a year, in June and December, the University conducts a term-end examination for the Distance & Online MCA course. Students are required to fill in the examination form along with a fee if they wish to attend the examination. The online exam form must be completed on the website of IGNOU.
Evaluation – Educational evaluation for the MCA program is through course pattern and structure where the assignments are the compulsory submissions that a student requires to complete. 30% of weightage is provided to the students. Accordingly, students for the examination are required to pass the examination where passing marks is a must for the students. For the examination part the 70% weightage is provided. The evaluation is done through the accuracy maintenance, there is no leniency practised by university.
Semesters Examination – For the examination students need to appear for the 4 semesters and all the semesters have particular subjects where students need to solve the answers and accordingly students are obtained marks. For the examination students need to follow all the instructions before entering the examination hall. There are some mandatory instructions printed on the Hall Ticket which students need to follow while appearing for the examination. The passing marks need to be maintained in all the semesters.
Placement – Online MCA in Data Science is a very demanded course. Individuals looking for a good job in a growing field should definitely pursue an Online MCA in Data Science. Some top recruiters in this Field include Deloitte, LinkedIn, MuSigma, Flipkart, IBM, Accenture, Citrix. And Myntra.
| Regional Centre | Study Centre |
| HYDERABAD | 0100: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE HYDERABAD LSC Code 0100 |
| KARNAL | 1000: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE KARNAL LSC Code 1000 |
| SHIMLA | 1100: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE SHIMLA LSC Code 1100 |
| JAMMU | 1200: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE JAMMU LSC Code 1200 |
| BANGALORE | 1300: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE BANGALORE LSC Code 1300 |
| BHOPAL | 1500: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE BHOPAL LSC Code 1500 |
| PUNE | 1600: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE PUNE LSC Code 1600 |
| IMPHAL | 1700: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE IMPHAL LSC Code 1700 |
| SHILLONG | 1800: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE SHILLONG LSC Code 1800 |
| AIZWAL | 1900: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE AIZWAL LSC Code 1900 |
| PORT BLAIR | 0200: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE PORT BLAIR LSC Code 0200 |
| KOHIMA | 2000: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE KOHIMA LSC Code 2000 |
| BHUBANESHWAR | 2100: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE BHUBANESHWAR LSC Code 2100 |
| KHANNA | 2200: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE KHANNA LSC Code 2200 |
| JAIPUR | 2300: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE JAIPUR LSC Code 2300 |
| GANGTOK | 2400: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE GANGTOK LSC Code 2400 |
| CHENNAI | 2500: Regional Centre Chennai LSC Code 2500 |
| AGARTALA | 2600: Regional Centre Agartala LSC Code 2600 |
| LUCKNOW | 2700: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE LUCKNOW (2700) |
| KOLKATA | 2800: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE KOLKATA LSC CODE 2800 |
| DELHI 2 | 2900: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE DELHI2 LSC CODE 2900 |
| ITANAGAR | 0300: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE ITANAGAR LSC Code 0300 |
| SRINAGAR | 3000: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE SRINAGAR LSC Code 3000 |
| DEHRADUN | 3100: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE DEHRADUN LSC CODE 3100 |
| RANCHI | 3200: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE RANCHI LSC Code 3200 |
| VIJAYAWADA | 3300: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE VIJAYAWADA LSC Code 3300 |
| RAIPUR | 3500: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE RAIPUR LSC Code 3500 |
| NAGPUR | 3600: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE NAGPUR LSC Code 3600 |
| JORHAT | 3700: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE JORHAT LSC Code 3700 |
| DELHI 3 Naraina | 38039: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE DELHI3 LSC Code 38039 |
| NOIDA | 3900: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE NOIDA LSC Code 3900 |
| GUWAHATI | 0400: Regional Centre Guwahati LSC Code 0400 |
| TRIVANDRUM | 4000: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE TRIVANDRUM LSC Code 4000 |
| JABALPUR | 4100: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE JABALPUR LSC Code 4100 |
| RAJKOT | 4200: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE RAJKOT LSC Code 4200 |
| MADURAI | 43015: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE (43015) |
| KORAPUT | 4400: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE KORAPUT LSC Code 4400 |
| SILIGURI | 4500: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE SILIGURI LSC Code 4500 |
| DARBHANGA | 4600: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE DARBHANGA LSC CODE 4600 |
| ALIGARH | 4700: Regional Centre Aligarh LSC Code 4700 |
| VARANASI | 4800: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE VARANASI LSC Code 4800 |
| MUMBAI | 4900: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE MUMBAI LSC Code 4900 |
| PATNA | 0500: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE PATNA LSC Code 0500 |
| RAGHUNATHGANJ | 5000: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE RAGHUNATHGANJ LSC Code 5000 |
| CHANDIGARH | 0600: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE CHANDIGARH LSC Code 0600 |
| DELHI 1 (MOHAN ESTATE (SOUTH DELHI)) | 0700: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE DELHI1 LSC CODE 0700 |
| PANAJI | 0800: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE PANAJI LSC Code 0800 |
| BHAGALPUR | 8200: Regional Centre Bhagalpur LSC Code 8200 |
| VATAKARA | 8300: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE VATAKARA LSC Code 8300 |
| VISHAKHAPATNAM | 8400: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE VISAKHAPATNAM LSC Code 8400 |
| BIJAPUR | 8500: Regional Centre Bijapur LSC Code 8500 |
| SAHARSA | 8600: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE SAHARSA LSC CODE 8600 |
| DEOGHAR | 8700: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE DEOGHAR LSC Code 8700 |
| JODHPUR | 8800: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE JODHPUR LSC Code 8800 |
| AHMEDABAD | 0900: IGNOU REGIONAL CENTRE AHMEDABAD LSC Code 0900 |
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UGC DEB Official Website – 1 Link here |
NIRF India Ranking IGNOU PDF- 2 Link here |
|
India Rankings 2024: Open University- 3 Link here |
NAAC Official Website- 4 Link here |
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IGNOU eGyanKosh- 5 Link here |
IGNOU Gyandarshan- 6 Link here |
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IGNOU e-Content- 7 Link here |
Swayam Free Online Education- 8 Link here |
Are you ready to take the next step in your career ?
Frequently Asked Question About IGNOU MCA In Data Science
The MCA in Data Science from IGNOU is a postgraduate degree program designed to provide in-depth knowledge of data analytics, machine learning, programming, and big data technologies. It helps students gain practical and theoretical skills in managing and analyzing large datasets, using tools such as Python, R, SQL, and AI frameworks. This program is best for those looking to build a career in data science, analytics, AI, software development, or research.
To apply, candidates must:
– Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related discipline.
– Alternatively, candidates with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline along with mathematics at the 10+2 level or graduation level may also apply.
– A minimum of 50% marks is typically required (45% for reserved categories).
Yes. IGNOU is a Central University recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and approved by the Distance Education Bureau (DEB). The MCA in Data Science is valid for jobs in government, private, and international sectors.
Specialization Subjects:
– Data Science and Machine Learning
– Big Data Analytics
– Artificial Intelligence
– Data Visualization
– Deep Learning
– Data Warehousing and Data Mining
– Natural Language Processing
Core Subjects:
– Design and Analysis of Algorithms
– Operating Systems
– Database Management Systems
– Computer Networks
– Programming in Python and Java
– Software Engineering
– Web Technologies
Steps to apply online:
– Visit the official website: www.ignou.ac.in
– Register using your email ID and mobile number
– Fill in the online application form
– Upload your documents (photo, ID proof, degree certificates, etc.)
– Pay the application fee online
– Submit the form and download the confirmation receipt
No. Admission is merit-based and depends on your academic qualifications. No entrance test is required.
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in the data and tech industries. Job roles include:
– Data Scientist
– Machine Learning Engineer
– Data Analyst
– Business Intelligence Analyst
– AI/ML Developer
– Big Data Engineer
– Data Engineer
– NLP Engineer
– Software Developer (Data-Focused)
– Research Analyst (AI/Data)
Yes. The program is designed with flexibility in mind, making it suitable for working professionals. You can learn at your own pace and manage your studies alongside your job.
The total program fee is approximately INR 50,000, payable semester-wise. The latest fee structure can be confirmed on the official IGNOU website.
– Minimum Duration: 2 Years
– Maximum Duration: 4 Years
No. IGNOU provides free digital study material through its eGyanKosh portal. However, if you prefer printed materials, you can request them during admission by paying an additional fee.
Yes. IGNOU allows online assignment submission via the student portal, making it convenient for distance learners and working students.
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