If you are a class 12 student aspiring to build your career in tech, getting a computer science degree is not your only option. Currently, many job-oriented computer courses are offered by top MNCs. HCL TechBee is one such program where you can begin your tech career right after class 12.
However, the question is, Do such programs render university undergraduate degree programs like B. Tech and Engineering obsolete? If not, which one is better for your career path?
We will explore aspects of both B. Tech And HCL Techbee and try to find their suitability in the competitive job market.
What Is B. Tech?
Bachelor of Technology, or B. Tech is a four-year undergraduate academic program that you can do after class 12. It is similar to a B.E (Bachelor of Engineering) but is sometimes considered more prestigious and superior. Either way, like B.E., B. Tech offers various streams in computer science, mechanical engineering, electronics, information technology, civil engineering, etc.
What Is HCL TechBee Programme?
HCL TechBee is not just another academic degree program featuring obsolete syllabi. It’s an exclusive job program offered by reputed multinational organisation HCL Technologies for class 12 passed students.
HCL TechBee trains you for 12 months and, after the training period, employs you full-time in HCL. You can start earning right after your 12th as you will receive a stipend during your training period.
You can still get a degree while doing this training. You can enroll in higher education at India’s best universities while working, and HCL will help you pay for it.
Check out our previous article to know more about HCL TechBee Registration 2024
B. Tech Vs. HCL TechBee: A Detailed Comparison
If you are finding it difficult to choose between a B. Tech course and the HCL TechBee program, here’s an in-depth comparison of the two on important parameters:
1. Eligibility Criteria And Qualification
Although there is no age limit for both B.Tech and HCL Techbee, you must have successfully passed your class 12 board exams. To apply for TechBee, you must have a minimum of 60% overall score in your class 12 exam and 60+ in mathematics or business mathematics. The minimum score for a B. Tech degree depends on the university and is usually in the range of 50 to 75%. For B. Tech, you must individually score above 60 in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Being a resident of India is a must for both. However, some institutions allow NRIs with OCI cards to apply for B. Tech, and some allow foreign nationals.
2. Admission Process
There are various engineering entrance exams for B. Tech, such as JEE, NEET, COMEDK, etc. These can be national-level, state-level, and even institutional-level. The exact test you need to appear for depends on which college and branch you wish to pursue, but you can appear for more than one exam. You will get admission based on your performance and ranking.
HCL conducts its separate admission process, which involves a CAT (Career Aptitude Test) followed by a face-to-face interview if selected. If you also clear the interview, you will receive your offer letter for the HCL TechBee program.
3. Course Duration
Tech is a full-time professional undergraduate program that lasts four years. During this time, you will learn full-time but also do projects and internships, depending on your course. HCL Techbee is a 12-month training program conducted across India in multiple locations: Noida, Lucknow, Madurai, Chennai, Nagpur, Bengaluru, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad. Once you successfully complete your training, you will get a full-time job at HCL.
4. Fees And Stipend
Tech fees range from around INR 2 lakhs to 8-15 lakhs, depending on the college and branch. But you will not get any stipend during your course. However, you can earn some money on the side during internships if your institution allows it.
HCL TechBee charges around INR 2 Lakhs, which can be waived depending on your performance. If you need financial assistance, you can avail of a bank loan with tied-up banks. During the 12 months, you will receive a stipend of INR 10,000 per month.
5. Job Opportunities after HCL Techbee
With B. Tech, you will have several job opportunities as you can apply to any company—on campus or off campus. However, there is no job guarantee as you will face tough competition, and getting a job might take months. Depending on the company and role, your salary can range between 2.5 and 5 lakhs per year.
With HCL TechBee, you are guaranteed a job at HCL after training. You will receive a starting salary of 1.7 to 2.2 lakhs per year, and you can join another company only after working for a minimum period in HCL.
Final Verdict
That is the million-dollar question. Isn’t it? Well, it depends on what you want. If you don’t mind learning full-time for 4 years without earning but have a broader range of job opportunities, B. Tech might be a good option. But if you want to start earning right away while you learn and have a job guarantee, HCL TechBee might be a good option. Also, you still have the opportunity to pursue higher education at India’s top universities.
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