Technology is shaping the future of work as we know it.
Over the last decade, technology companies have increased their demand for skilled professionals who specialize in areas like web development, app design, and software programming. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), website and software development careers are growing at least five times faster than all occupations, on average. Now is the time to break into this field—the question is, how?
Coding bootcamps are paving the way for aspiring website designers and developers, allowing them to pursue career-focused training and launch a career quickly, in just a matter of months. Read on to learn more about what coding bootcamps are, what they cover, and how to choose the right coding program.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term, and skills-based training program that teaches the fundamentals of website and mobile application design, development, and security.
Coding bootcamps are available at the postsecondary level. They can be found at trade and technical schools, as well as at some colleges and universities. Coding bootcamps may also be run by private, for-profit organizations, to support employee development.
Overall, the goal of coding bootcamps is to offer a fast, streamlined path toward high-tech careers in computer programming, software engineering, and web design or development. These programs are tailored to career preparation, equipping students with the hard, technical skills that employers desire.
Coding bootcamps can be completed within several months, making them a viable alternative to the traditional, four-year computer science degree. These bootcamps are great for beginners who are interested in a high-tech career, as well as for professionals looking to enhance their skillsets, in a short amount of time.
What Do You Learn in Coding Bootcamp?
Coding bootcamps cover a broad range of subjects relating to computer programming, website development, and mobile application design. The goal is to provide students with the skills needed to build webpages and mobile apps from the ground up. Students learn how to code and, further, how to apply that code to projects and bring designs to fruition.
In a coding bootcamp, you can expect to learn the fundamentals of:
- JavaScript
- HTML
- CSS
- UX/UI Principles
- Animation
- Web Design
- Back-end and Front-end Development
- Mobile App Programming (for iOS and Android)
- Search Engine Optimization and Marketing
- Photo Imaging
- Python, Java, Ruby, PHP, and other coding languages/frameworks
- Cybersecurity
Learning to code is at the heart of every bootcamp. However, students do not simply learn via lectures in the classroom; they also learn by doing. Coding bootcamp programs are designed to be immersive experiences in which students can also learn through hands-on projects. At Paier College, for example, coding students learn how to create engaging web content, implement various programming languages, and design with usability in mind. They do so through in-class, online, and real-world design projects.
How Long Does it Take to Complete a Coding Bootcamp?
Coding bootcamps vary in length, depending on the institution as well as the format of the program. Generally, they take between six to eight months to complete. Those taking full-time coding classes may complete the program faster than those taking part-time courses, which is something to keep in mind.
At Paier College, students have the option to pursue a coding certificate in Web Application Design or Mobile Application Design. Depending on the program you choose, you can complete your coding certificate in 24 to 32 weeks.
What Careers are Available to Coding Bootcamp Graduates?
The widely-known career website, Indeed, recently conducted a survey on coding bootcamps. The findings were clear: Coding bootcamps are highly esteemed by employers today. In fact, 72 percent of employers agreed that coding bootcamp graduates are just as likely to be high performers as graduates holding a computer science degree. At least 80 percent of employers surveyed had hired a coding bootcamp graduate.
There are a variety of career options that graduates can pursue after coding bootcamp. For example, graduates may qualify for job titles such as:
- Professional Coder
- Web Developer
- Web Designer
- Application Developer
- Application Designer
- Software Developer
- Front-end Developer
- Back-end Developer
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Programmer
And more! The options are vast with the knowledge gained from a coding bootcamp program.
How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp Program
As noted, there are various types of coding bootcamp programs. For example, you can pursue a coding bootcamp at a college or university, or a school-affiliated program. Sometimes, however, you’ll find that coding bootcamps are frequently offered through private organizations. It is important to do your research to determine which program type aligns with your needs. Most coding bootcamps are advertised as “fast” and “career-driven,” but not all are equal in their level of quality.
One major consideration is that coding programs offered at collegiate institutions, such as Paier College, are typically accredited. When a school or program is accredited, it means that they meet certain standards of quality set forth by third-party entities. They must meet and exceed criteria for their curriculum, faculty, graduation rates, and more—all to ensure students get a high-quality education. Students attending accredited institutions may also qualify for federal financial aid for their education.
Coding bootcamps offered at colleges typically provide college credit, as well as an award at the completion of the program. For example, at Paier College, students earn a postsecondary certificate award in their chosen field.
On the other hand, independent companies offering coding bootcamps do not have this level of credibility or financial support. They do not have oversight – nor are they verified – by accrediting agencies. They typically do not offer college credit, either, or financial aid. If college credit or tuition assistance is important to you, consider a coding program that is offered by a reputable school.
At the end of the day, a great coding bootcamp or certificate program will ensure you become a master in the field. This program will provide deep expertise in website and application design, as well as coding languages, software tools, and user experience. It will also align with your needs as a student, in terms of flexibility, costs, and career outcomes.
Learn More About Coding Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps are highly beneficial for those who are passionate about technology, design, and computer programming. They offer a fast, and often more affordable, alternative to a college degree program, by teaching the fundamental, career-centric skills needed for coding success. Whether you are seasoned in computer science, or just dipping your toes into web design and development, a coding bootcamp could be a great next step for you.
If you are interested in learning about Paier College’s coding programs in Connecticut, you may learn more by visiting https://www.paier.edu/coding/ today.