Introduction
As technology continues to evolve and impact our daily lives, the need for highly competent tech professionals grows each day. Nearly every industry needs employees who are proficient in various software required to maintain operations.
The problem posed by this growing need for experts is the amount of technical training that each individual has to go through. Professionals have to spend years in a university program to achieve the level of skill that companies need. Some industries also require specialized certifications or accreditations.
As a solution to this problem, coding bootcamps offer an alternative path to a tech career. These intensive training programs are designed to help individuals gain the technical skills they need to land their first tech job or switch to a new career in the tech industry.
History of Coding Bootcamps
The first coding bootcamps started sometime in 2012, addressing the need for more technical professionals. By 2013, around 30 different programming bootcamp programs were available to those looking to pursue a career in software engineering or become junior software developers. Today, this number continues to grow, with over 600 coding bootcamp online and in-person programs available worldwide.
What Is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive training program that helps individuals learn a wide range of valuable coding skills. It is a short-term course that serves as an alternative or supplement to a traditional college degree in computer science. Some of these bootcamps are specifically designed for people with little to no technical background, allowing them to learn practical skills that could help them pursue a tech job in the software development field.
How Do Coding Bootcamps Work?
Unlike traditional computer science degree programs that focus on a lot of theory and data structures, coding bootcamps concentrate on practical skills that are relevant to the job market’s current needs. These intensive programs condense all essential skills into a relatively short curriculum, allowing students to develop their coding abilities while maximizing their time. Depending on the program, programming bootcamp courses last from 12 to 40 weeks.
Students often work on real world projects and team programming projects that simulate actual development environments. Many coding bootcamp grads leave with a portfolio showcasing their web development, mobile development, or data science expertise.
How Is a Coding Bootcamp Different From a College Program?
Cost
A coding bootcamp costs around the same price as one semester in a computer science degree program, averaging $11,000 – $14,000. On the other hand, a full-time college degree costs around $150,000 depending on the school. Many coding bootcamp online programs offer flexible payment plans and scholarships to ease the financial burden.
Time Commitment
Typical computer science degrees take 4 years to complete, while coding bootcamps can be finished in just 12 weeks. This makes attending a coding bootcamp an attractive option for career changers seeking a new tech career quickly.
Pace
Since coding bootcamps offer condensed content, they tend to be fast-paced. Students are expected to absorb complex concepts like data structures, machine learning techniques, and security tools in a short period.
Curriculum
University students graduate with a well-rounded understanding of tech principles. Those who enroll in coding bootcamps, whether in-person or coding bootcamp online, become more knowledgeable in specific coding languages and their practical applications. These skills are in high demand among potential employers hiring entry level job candidates.
Types of Coding Bootcamps
While most coding bootcamps have similar curricula, each programming bootcamp follows a different model in educating prospective students. The different options available allow prospective students to choose a course that aligns with their goals.
Schedule
Before choosing which coding bootcamp to enroll in, individuals must consider the kind of program that will work with their respective schedules.
Full-Time
Full-time programs are similar to traditional college settings because students are required to attend classes for a set number of hours per week. With this kind of bootcamp, it may be necessary to drop full-time jobs or other commitments.
Part-Time
Part-time coding bootcamp online programs offer more flexibility. Students can continue working while preparing for their job search and building coding abilities in their free time.
Format
Another important aspect of choosing the right coding bootcamp is the format used for teaching.
In-Person
In-person programs require students to meet at a specified location, much like college classes. This kind of bootcamp also tends to be more structured, so it is perfect for those who need more guidance from their instructors.
Online
A coding bootcamp online gives students the convenience of remote learning. Many programs include access to a supportive community, mentors, and career services that assist during the job hunt and job search process.
Self-Paced
Self-paced coding bootcamp options are ideal for disciplined learners. Students can master various programming languages, web development, or data analysis at their own pace while managing other life commitments.
Other Options
In addition to standalone programs, university bootcamps have gained traction. These are typically coding bootcamps backed by universities, leveraging the school’s reputation and offering enhanced career support. Students not only gain practical skills, but they also tap into alumni networks and development teams for better job prospects. Some university bootcamps focus on areas like mobile app development, data science, or full stack development.
What Is a University Bootcamp?
This type of program is just like a traditional coding bootcamp, but it has the backing of a recognized university, allowing students to take advantage of the school’s network and resources. Having the name of an established educational institution can also help them increase their career opportunities.
The curriculum provided will differ depending on the partner school. Some university bootcamps offer introductory classes from their existing programs, while others simply improve the curriculum set by the coding bootcamp company to make sure that it meets the needs of the local job market.
Conclusion
Many bootcamp graduates find that their bootcamp experience provides them with the essential skills needed for their first job as junior software developers. The average salary for coding bootcamp graduates can be competitive, especially in major tech companies. Career switchers often move into roles like project manager, software developer, or senior developer after building experience.
The continuous learning aspect of the tech industry means that coding bootcamp grads must keep honing their problem solving abilities, writing code, and expanding their knowledge of machine learning techniques and security tools. However, with strong analytical skills and career services to guide them, many bootcamp grads land their dream job.
If you’re ready to boost your tech skills and navigate the job hunt with confidence, consider enrolling in a coding bootcamp today!
