Bootcamps | BestColleges (2024)

FAQs

Are bootcamps enough to get a job? ›

Yes. Many companies will accept candidates based on skills, background, and bootcamps or projects they've completed – a degree isn't always a requirement!

Coding bootcamps are called ”boot camps” for a reason. They're short, intense, and stretch students to their studying limits. With this, it is important to learn how to avoid coding bootcamp failure. Bootcamp failure is not uncommon because many applicants don't know what to expect.

The 2014 report claimed that no more than 75% of coding bootcamp graduates gained employment as developers after graduation. In 2015, that number dropped to 66%. For 2016, it jumped back up, to 73%. By the 2018 report, the latest year for which the report was completed, the number had hit 78%.

One of the main reasons why coding bootcamps are hard is the technical curriculum. Coding can be intuitive for some people, but most students find it challenging to learn the logic and syntax of a programming language. Like any new skill, it takes time and patience to learn how to code.

Coding bootcamp graduates can secure jobs in the tech industry by focusing on developing relevant skills, building a strong portfolio, networking actively with potential employers, applying strategically, and excelling in technical interviews.

Yes—about three-quarters of coding bootcamp graduates report finding jobs or earning promotions after completing their programs. Most earn more than they did before their bootcamps, with 79.8% reporting moderate to significant salary increases.

Con: Preparation Varies

This can leave bootcamp graduates unprepared to deal with novel situations because they don't have a solid coding foundation to stand on, and can only solve problems “one way.” Many graduates (but not all) lack real world experience in a coding job, too.

Though salaries will vary depending on your location and experience level, your earning potential is decent after coding bootcamp. For example, you may start at a position for around $65,000. However, by your second or third job, your median salary has the potential to jump up to nearly six figures at around $99,229.

Highlights: Coding Bootcamp Statistics

The coding bootcamp market grew by 4.38% in 2020 despite the COVID-19 crisis. In 2020, there were 128 in-person coding bootcamps and 75 online coding bootcamps in the United States. Around 86% of coding bootcamp graduates found jobs within 180 days of completion.

I highly recommend NCLEX Bootcamp due to how good they explain the rationales, especially the case studies. I don't see any other resource doing it as awesome as Bootcamp. The rationales are superior, the explanations are beautiful, and the format is very similar to NCLEX.

How much is too much for a coding bootcamp? ›

Coding bootcamps have a range of price points, from as little as $100 to more than $20,000. Bootcamps may also offer monthly payment plans or free training programs. In short, there are coding bootcamps available for every budget.

The median age for bootcamp students is 31, and, according to data, most have a Bachelor's degree and have amassed professional experience in varied fields.

Requirements for coding bootcamps

Some programs may also require a test to prove your math, English proficiency, and technical skills, as well as an interview. Each bootcamp provider's website should list the specific requirements, and it's worth reviewing these as you consider your options.

The short answer is yes. If you're applying for a software engineering or other technical role, a bootcamp and related projects are a great way of showing off your skills.

Yes, employers usually view bootcamp grads favorably. A 2017 survey by Indeed found that 72% of employers thought bootcamp graduates were "just as prepared and likely to be high performers" in a job as people who have a computer science degree.

That said, most (if not all) students do make it to graduation. According to a report by the Council on Integrity Results Reporting, bootcamps see an average graduation rate of 92%. When compared to the average college graduation rate (59%), this actually speaks in favor of bootcamps as a viable education option.

Some employers may value college credentials over private bootcamp training, especially if you have little or no relevant work experience. Enrolling in a certificate program grants you the name recognition and resources of a higher education institution, but they can be more expensive than a bootcamp.