Sikkim Manipal University Online BA vs Online BCom – A Detailed Comparison
In 2025, online education remains the preferred option for students and working professionals seeking to advance their studies while balancing personal and professional commitments. Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) is a UGC-approved institution that offers flexible and industry-relevant online degree programs. Two popular courses offered by SMU include the Online BA and Online BCom courses.
This detailed guide will compare the two programs and help you decide which one aligns best with your academic goals and career aspirations.
About Sikkim Manipal University (SMU)
Sikkim Manipal University is a well-recognised private institution, approved by the UGC and recognised by AICTE. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in both online and distance learning formats, making education accessible to students across India without the need to attend a physical campus.
Key Features of SMU’s Online Education Platform:
Live and recorded classes
E-books and study materials
Doubt-clearing sessions
Online assessments and exams
Career support services
Overview of the Online BA Program
The Online BA at Sikkim Manipal University is a three-year undergraduate program designed for students interested in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. This course is ideal for students seeking careers in education, content writing, social work, or business management, offering a flexible curriculum that suits their needs.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
- Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent from a recognised board
- Mode: 100% Online
- Learning Format:
- Interactive video lectures
- E-learning resources
- Online assignments and exams
- Access to digital library and LMS
- Interactive video lectures
Overview of the Online BCom Program
The Online BCom at Sikkim Manipal University is a three-year undergraduate program that focuses on commerce, finance, and business administration. This course is ideal for students seeking careers in accounting, finance, banking, or business management.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
- Eligibility: 10+2 with commerce or equivalent from a recognised board
- Mode: 100% Online
- Learning Format:
- Live online sessions
- E-books, study notes, and digital resources
- Regular assignments and exams
- Access to LMS and digital library
- Live online sessions
Course Curriculum Comparison: Online BA vs Online BCom
Online BA Curriculum (Arts & Humanities Focus)
The Online BA program offers a variety of subjects, enabling students to specialise in literature, sociology, history, political science, and more. It is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in education, content creation, or social work.
Core Subjects:
English Literature / Political Science:
English Literature delves into analysing literary works, while Political Science examines political systems and governance structures.Sociology / Psychology:
Sociology looks at society and social behaviour, whereas Psychology focuses on understanding human behaviour and mental processes.History / Philosophy:
History investigates past events and their effects, while Philosophy explores fundamental questions surrounding existence and knowledge.Communication Skills:
This subject enhances effective written and verbal communication, essential for both personal and professional settings.Economics:
Economics covers both microeconomics and macroeconomics, focusing on market behaviour, economic policies, and their impact on industries.Environmental Studies:
This subject explores the relationship between humans and the environment, emphasising sustainability and current environmental challenges.
Online BCom Curriculum (Commerce & Finance Focus)
The Online BCom program is designed to provide a solid foundation in business, finance, and accounting, preparing students for careers in accounting, finance, or management.
Core Subjects:
- Financial Accounting:
Teaches the preparation and analysis of financial statements, including balance sheets and profit/loss accounts. - Business Mathematics:
Introduces mathematical techniques for solving business problems, such as financial analysis and forecasting. - Economics for Business:
Focuses on how economic principles affect business decisions and the global market. - Business Law:
Covers the legal aspects of business, including contracts, labour laws, and ethics. - Marketing Management:
Focuses on marketing strategies, consumer behaviour, and market research. - Cost Accounting:
Teaches cost control and budgeting techniques within an organisation.
Fees Structure and Payment Options
Both the Online BA and Online BCom programs offer affordable fees with flexible payment options, including EMI plans, making them suitable for working professionals and full-time students.
Online BA SMU – Fee Structure
Caution Deposit: ₹3,000
(Refundable upon course completion)Registration Fee: ₹1,000
(One-time payment during the first-year admission)Yearly Course Fee: ₹56,850
(Payable in two instalments of ₹29,500 each)Examination Fee: ₹500 per subject
(Payable during each semester examination)Dissertation Fee: ₹1,500
(Payable in the 6th semester for BA with Major & Research)
Note: The above fees include tuition and other associated charges. The caution deposit is refundable upon course completion. Instalments are due before the beginning of each semester.
Online BCom SMU – Fee Structure
Caution Deposit: ₹3,000
(Refundable upon course completion)Registration Fee: ₹1,000
(One-time payment during the first-year admission)Yearly Course Fee: ₹56,850
(Payable in two instalments of ₹29,500 each)Examination Fee: ₹500 per subject
(Payable during each semester examination)Dissertation Fee: ₹1,500
(Payable in the 6th semester for BCom with Major & Research)
Note: The above fees include tuition and other associated charges. The caution deposit is refundable upon course completion. Instalments are due before the beginning of each semester.
Career Opportunities After Each Course
Both the Online BA and Online BCom programs provide diverse career opportunities, but in different fields. Let’s take a look at the possible job roles that each program can lead to:
| Job Role | Online BA | Online BCom |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher/Instructor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Accountant | ✗ | ✓ |
| Content Writer | ✓ | ✗ |
| Financial Analyst | ✗ | ✓ |
| Social Worker | ✓ | ✗ |
| Tax Consultant | ✗ | ✓ |
| Journalist | ✓ | ✗ |
| Banking Professional | ✗ | ✓ |
| HR Executive | ✗ | ✓ |
| Business Consultant | ✓ | ✗ |
Salary Insights:
Online BA: ₹2.5 LPA to ₹6 LPA (depending on industry and role)
Online BCom: ₹3 LPA to ₹8 LPA (depending on industry and role)
Which Program Is Best for You?
Choosing between the Online BA and Online BCom at Sikkim Manipal University depends on your interests and career aspirations.
Choose Online BA if:
- You have an interest in the arts, social sciences, or humanities.
- You are looking for a career in education, writing, or social services.
- You prefer a broad, flexible curriculum that can lead to diverse career opportunities.
Choose Online BCom if:
- You are interested in finance, accounting, or business.
- You aim to pursue a career in banking, corporate finance, or business management.
- You want to develop technical skills related to business and commerce.
Final Comparison Table:
| Feature | Online BA SMU | Online BCom SMU |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years (6 semesters) | 3 years (6 semesters) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or equivalent | 10+2 with Commerce |
| Mode of Study | 100% Online | 100% Online |
| Payment Options | EMI available | EMI available |
| Average Salary | ₹2.5 LPA to ₹6 LPA | ₹3 LPA to ₹8 LPA |
Conclusion
Both Online BA and Online BCom programs from Sikkim Manipal University offer flexible, industry-oriented education. If you are interested in the arts or social sciences, the Online BA SMU will suit your goals. If finance, accounting, or business is your interest, the Online BCom SMU is the better fit for you.
Whichever program you choose, SMU ensures you receive a recognised, high-quality education that will help you grow professionally while maintaining your current job or routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are SMU Online degrees valid for job opportunities?
Yes, both the Online BA and Online BCom from Sikkim Manipal University are UGC-approved and recognised for job opportunities in India and abroad.
Q2. What are the key differences between Online BA and Online BCom at SMU?
The Online BA focuses on arts and humanities, while the Online BCom is centred around business, accounting, and finance.
Q3. Can working professionals apply for these courses?
Yes, both courses are designed with flexible learning options, making them ideal for working professionals.
Q4. Is there career support after completing the courses?
Yes, SMU offers career support services, including resume building and job placement assistance, to eligible students.
Q5. Are there any scholarships available for online students?
For specific information on scholarships, please visit the official SMU website or contact their admissions department.
