Coding Bootcamps – A Complete Guide

• Coding bootcamps offer a condensed course on coding languages and software development.
• Most bootcamps don’t require any previous coding or technology experience.
• A number of coding bootcamps are now offering scholarships for women who want to learn how to code.

Most people assume that you need to go to a university or a college and earn an official degree to be qualified for a career in coding. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. With intensive online coding bootcamps, you can become an expert within a few months and earn yourself a qualification to help you advance your career in technology or help start career in tech.

In this guide, we’ll look specifically at coding bootcamps, including definitions of what they are, what you’ll learn, and how this can benefit you. We’ll also break down the cost of a typical bootcamp, challenges that you may face, the different types of bootcamps, and the career options available after completion.

What are Coding Bootcamps?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive course aiming to educate you on the ins and outs of coding and various other digital skills. It is an accelerated course aimed specifically at beginners with little or no prior knowledge of the subject. A coding bootcamp will normally prepare you for a career in technology in only about 12 weeks, a route far quicker than a university or college. 

Bootcamps use project-based learning and teach the top programming languages and frameworks. Many graduates from these programs can often work for big tech companies such as Google or Apple.  

Who Would Benefit from a Coding Bootcamp?

Everyone can benefit from an online coding bootcamp. However, it is beneficial for those who want a technology-based career but don’t currently have any formal qualifications or experience. For those who want a career change into tech or want to get a head start without going to university, online coding bootcamps can provide them with the experience and knowledge they need.

Another significant benefit of online bootcamps is that you don’t need to relocate to study for a specific course. Online bootcamps take place exclusively online and are accessible from your computer or laptop. You will complete the bootcamp from your own home and spend time with experienced instructors who will help you complete projects and assignments. Completing the course depends on the student using their own time and practicing coding/exercises whenever possible. You can even study while working a full-time job.

What Concepts Will You Learn in Coding Bootcamps?

Typically, a coding bootcamp will familiarize you with the most common and widely used modern programming languages and frameworks used in the industry. This includes languages such as:

• JavaScript
• Python
• Django
• GitHub
• Chrome Dev Tools

Generally, these programs are used in full-stack web development, meaning you’ll gain experience working in both the front and back end of a website. 

The specific languages, programs, and concepts you’ll learn will vary depending on the bootcamp that you choose. However, you are likely to learn a few key programs and concepts widely used across the industry. This can include using coding languages such as: 

• HTML
• CSS
• jQuery
• Express
• MongoDB
• Leverage coding tools such as Git

As part of the bootcamp, you are likely to undertake a project such as creating a blog application, an online game, or an e-commerce shopping cart system. You’ll learn how to develop new applications from scratch. 

You will likely learn how to configure web servers and maintain and improve existing web systems. You should leave the bootcamp with a complete understanding of coding and web development. 

The curriculum in an online coding bootcamp will shift with our ever-changing tech world. This means whatever the latest tech trends are, you’ll be prepared and updated with the latest software and programs. This can be extremely useful when finding a career after the bootcamp, as using the latest coding programs and techniques will give you an edge over other potential candidates.

Costs to Attend a Bootcamp

There are several pricing options available when it comes to online bootcamps. The price of attending a bootcamp will vary depending on where you choose to enroll, but typically they cost anywhere from $10,000 to $13,000. Some are even available for free. However, it’s likely the more you pay for a bootcamp, the better your resources will be and the more you will learn.

While the cost may seem pricey, it’s a fraction of what you would have to pay if you were to study the same course at a university. That’s what makes bootcamps a highly cost-effective way to get experience and knowledge quickly.

Challenges of Online Coding Bootcamps

As online coding bootcamps take place within your own home, you may have to balance the tasks and learn from the bootcamp with a full-time job or other obligations. A large part of these bootcamps involves independent learning, so you must be responsible and manage time effectively. Otherwise, you can expect to fall behind.

You’ll need to prepare to put in hard work if you want to get the most out of the experience.

Types of Bootcamps Offered

When considering a coding bootcamp, it’s essential to understand the various types available to find the best fit for your needs and goals. One crucial aspect to consider is whether to enroll in a full-time or part-time BootCamp.

Full-time Bootcamps

Full-time bootcamps require a significant time commitment and an intensive course load, whereas part-time bootcamps allow students to learn at a more relaxed pace. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, with full-time bootcamps providing a more immersive experience and faster completion time, while part-time bootcamps offer greater flexibility for those balancing work or personal responsibilities.

A full-time remote bootcamp mimics a classroom experience and will sometimes require between 40-60 hours a week of lectures and independent study. Typically, an online class will use video conference tools like Zoom or messenger systems such as Slack. They can include one on one mentor guidance as well as group lectures and activities. Normally a full-time bootcamp will require students to give up their full-time job and focus entirely on the course.

Online vs In-Person Study

Another factor to consider is whether to attend an in-person or online coding bootcamp. Both formats have unique learning environments and experiences, with in-person bootcamps typically offering more hands-on instruction and collaboration opportunities, while online bootcamps provide greater accessibility and convenience for students. When choosing between the two formats, it’s essential to consider factors such as your learning style, location, and available resources.

Self-Paced Courses

A self-paced bootcamp generally takes place over a longer period and lets students approach their education at their own pace. There is less of a time commitment per week, and the bootcamp can generally be balanced with a full-time job or other commitments. Students will complete projects on their own schedule and occasionally meet with an instructor online to go through any questions they may have.

Specialized Bootcamps

Finally, some coding bootcamps focus on specific programming languages or areas of expertise, allowing students to tailor their learning experience based on their career goals. These specialized bootcamps can be an excellent option for those looking to develop a particular skill set or enter a specific industry.

Programs Offered at Coding Bootcamps

• Cybersecurity Bootcamps
• Data Analytics Bootcamps
• Data Science Bootcamps
• Digital Marketing Bootcamps
• FinTech Bootcamps
• UX/UI Design Bootcamps
• Web Design Bootcamps
• Web Development Bootcamps

Learning Formats

Typically, an online bootcamp will consist of lectures and independent study. Depending on what type of bootcamp you choose, the focus on these two factors will vary. A full-time remote bootcamp will focus on online lectures and classes, while a self-paced bootcamp will mostly be independent study.

Often this independent study can entail undertaking a project or task for presentation to your peers later. The lectures will teach you the concepts that you will need to apply in your individual projects. You may also have to participate in group projects with other students, present a finished product back to your mentor, and do lots of independent reading and studying the course materials. 

How Long Does it Take to Complete a Coding Bootcamp?

How long it takes to complete a coding bootcamp is dependent on the type of bootcamp you choose. A full-time bootcamp can be as quick as 2 months. However, more comprehensive courses can last up to 7. The average full-time bootcamp lasts about 14 weeks and is generally considered enough to earn an entry-level position for most coding-based jobs. 

Choosing the Right Coding Bootcamp

Before choosing a coding bootcamp, it’s important to assess your goals and needs. Start by identifying the programming languages and skills you want to learn, as well as considering your current knowledge and experience. This will help you narrow down your options and find a bootcamp that aligns with your objectives.

Next, research the available coding bootcamps, comparing online and in-person options. Key factors to evaluate include the curriculum, instructors, and student reviews. Gathering information on these aspects will help you make an informed decision about which bootcamp offers the best learning experience for you.

Lastly, consider the financial aspects of attending a coding bootcamp. Understand the costs involved, including tuition, materials, and potential living expenses if attending an in-person bootcamp. Additionally, explore options for scholarships, grants, and payment plans to help ease the financial burden and make your coding education more accessible.

Preparing for a Coding Bootcamp

Before starting a coding bootcamp, it’s essential to build foundational coding skills. Self-paced online courses and tutorials can help you learn the basics of programming languages and concepts. Additionally, engaging in coding practice exercises and challenges can solidify your understanding and improve your problem-solving abilities.

Another valuable preparatory step is networking with coding bootcamp alumni. Connecting with former students can provide insights into the bootcamp experience and help you set realistic expectations for your learning journey. Furthermore, building these relationships can create a network of contacts for future job opportunities.

Finally, striking a balance between work, life, and bootcamp commitments is crucial for success. Develop a realistic schedule that accommodates your learning needs while allowing time for personal and professional obligations. Additionally, create a supportive learning environment by establishing a dedicated study space and seeking encouragement from friends, family, and fellow students.

Maximizing Your Coding Bootcamp Experience

To get the most out of your coding bootcamp experience, it’s essential to engage with instructors and peers actively. Asking questions and seeking help when needed will ensure a thorough understanding of the material, while collaborating on projects and learning from others can enhance your problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Applying the skills you’ve learned to real-world projects is a crucial step in solidifying your coding expertise. Building a coding portfolio to showcase your work will help demonstrate your abilities to potential employers, while participating in hackathons or other coding events can offer opportunities to hone your skills and network with other professionals.

Lastly, seeking out additional resources and support can further enhance your learning experience. Utilize online forums and coding communities to connect with others, ask questions, and share knowledge. Attending coding meetups and networking events can also help you build relationships and discover new opportunities in the field.

Outcomes of Coding Bootcamps

There is a call now more than ever for developers and front-end experts who are needed in various companies across the globe. Completing a coding bootcamp will open the door to many career opportunities for you, as candidates with advanced technical knowledge of coding are in high demand.

Salary Potential for Coding Bootcamp Graduates

The average starting salary for most graduates from an online coding bootcamp is around $65,000, but the actual starting salary can vary from job to job. More often than not, increased knowledge of the field and what is required of you makes it easier to negotiate a higher salary for jobs involving coding, and coding bootcamps can help you with that. Most people see a significant increase in their salary after taking an online coding bootcamp.

Financing/Payment Options Available for Coding Bootcamps

As the price is quite high for an online coding bootcamp, there are many financing and payment options available to make the process more affordable. Below we’ve outlined some different methods on offer from various bootcamps.

Income Share Agreements (ISA)

An Income Share Agreement, or ISA, means that after completing a bootcamp, the student will pay a percentage of their salary to the bootcamp for a set period of time. Depending on the bootcamp, this percentage can vary, and the length of time when payments are made can be anywhere between 1 and 4 years. 

An Income Sharing Agreement generally shows a bootcamp’s confidence that their students will land high-paying jobs after their course and risk their part. Most bootcamps provide an outcome report detailing how many of their students are in employment after their course, so it’s always worth asking about.

Most schools run ISA agreements through a third-party organization, so the terms and contracts vary from bootcamp to bootcamp. 

Pay-As-You-Go Programs

Some bootcamps split their curriculum into various modules and allow you to pay separately for each module you want to learn. This way, there is no time constraint on your course, and you can pay in smaller and more affordable installments. These programs come without any obligation to pay the next installment so that you can try the course, and if you dislike it, opt-out. 

The main benefit to a pay-as-you-go program is that it allows you to learn at your own pace and lets you pay for future modules only when you can afford them. 

Private Loans

Another option for funding your bootcamp expenses is a private student loan. Due to the high demand for web developers, several organizations work with bootcamps to fund students’ courses through private loans. 

The rates at which you pay back the loan can vary between bootcamp and lender. They’ll provide an interest rate detailing how much the amount you need to pay will increase and provide the length of the period when they expect you to pay it back. Using this information, they can often forecast how much you’ll be required to pay over various installments and for how long.

Post-Bootcamp: Transitioning to a Coding Career

After completing your coding bootcamp, it’s essential to leverage your experience when transitioning to a coding career. Highlight your newly acquired skills on your resume and use your bootcamp network to explore job opportunities. This will help you showcase your accomplishments and connect with potential employers.

Continuing your coding education is also crucial for long-term career success. Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, and consider pursuing additional certifications or advanced coding courses to expand your skillset. This commitment to ongoing learning will keep you competitive in the job market and help you adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

Finally, building a successful coding career involves developing a strong personal brand and online presence. Showcase your work through an online portfolio or blog, and engage with the coding community on social media and professional networking platforms. Emphasizing the importance of ongoing learning and adaptability will help you stand out as a dedicated and skilled professional in the field.

Who Hires Coding Bootcamp Graduates and What Jobs are Available for Them?

There are many jobs for those who graduate from an online coding bootcamp. You could work supporting a company’s web infrastructure, work for an agency that supports other companies with web services, or even start your own freelance web development business. Below we’ll outline some of the more common tech jobs available to those who have graduated from a coding bootcamp.

• Back-end Web Developer — A back-end web developer is responsible for the upkeep and technical construction of a site. You’d be responsible for how the site works.
• Front-end Web Developer — A front-end developer manages how the site looks through its interface. Your responsibilities may include integrating graphics and videos or other applications for use on a website.
• Webmaster — A webmaster is responsible for the content on a site, ensuring everything functions correctly and is in working order. Your responsibilities may also include interacting with the site users to identify any bugs that may need fixing.
• Full-stack Developer — A full-stack developer is responsible for both the front-end and the back-end of a company and is typically hired by smaller businesses that may have a smaller workload. It’s their job to handle all aspects of maintaining a website.

Most companies need an online presence in today’s marketplace, so there is a diverse range of sectors that you could end up working in. It could be for a tech giant like Google or a smaller independent company needing help setting up their first website.

Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?

There are many options for online coding bootcamps. However, all bootcamps tend to provide their graduates with years of experience and knowledge over a short period of time. A quality course prepares graduates for a new tech and web development career through a comprehensive curriculum that includes modern courses.  Therefore, coding bootcamps are worth it for those seeking a high-paying career in a shorter time than it would take to complete a 4-year degree.

There are many financing options available to pay for a bootcamp, so it’s never been easier to get started. Search below for online coding bootcamps to find the right one for you, and take the first steps towards your new tech career.

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List of Online Bootcamps

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