As tech continues to grow into one of the most important industries in the world, many people try to find their way in. They want to lay the groundwork for a career in tech by learning programming languages, participating in real-world projects, collaborating with other learners, and getting career-readiness support to begin their job hunt — enter the software engineering bootcamp!
These programs have been around for over a decade but their popularity has grown steadily, making them prominent educational pathways. One factor may be the fact that 4-year degrees are no longer the sole requirement for getting a job in tech. In fact, hiring managers today see software engineering bootcamps as providing credible education and relevant training.
Is a software engineering bootcamp right for you? And what if you want an education that builds on the benefits of a bootcamp and offers more?
The Origins of the Software Engineering Bootcamp
In 2012, research by CompTIA found that 93% of tech employers felt their IT departments had lower technical skills than their target goal. As if anticipating these findings, the first coding bootcamps were launched just a year before to help bridge that skills gap. General Assembly and Code Academy (now known as The Starter League) were among the first to roll out skills-focused, short-term bootcamps similar to the ones we know today.
What Does a Software Engineering Bootcamp Look Like?
Software engineering bootcamps are intensive programs designed to prepare anyone, from tech beginners and enthusiasts to those who want to change careers, for successful entry into the tech industry.
Program length varies, but can generally take from 3 to 6 months to complete. Learners can take their classes on a full- or part-time basis through in-person courses or virtually.
Additionally, some bootcamps are built to provide a software development-focused curriculum that gives learners the ability to stack additional skills related to software development.
1. Accelerated Pace
One important aspect of software engineering bootcamps is how quickly they can be completed. Learners have the option to fast-track their education by dedicating their time to completing their program within 12 weeks. This makes it possible for graduates to build up their skills and potentially enter the workforce at an accelerated pace.
2. A Real-World Environment
One of the most in-demand qualities of a bootcamp is the way it teaches software engineer skills through real-world projects. As learners go through their program, they complete projects with tools, interactions, and situations they can expect in the workplace. This gives them the knowledge and skills needed to enter the software development field, while helping them build a project they can showcase to employers as they begin the job-seeking process.
3. Career-Seeking Preparedness
In addition to meeting the needs of employers, bootcamps may support graduates as they search for a job. This is where career services come into play. Learners may get to work with career advisors and coaches to prepare for success in the job searching process. Career services teams help learners tailor their resumes to the needs of a potential employer. They also help learners craft their portfolios and practice interviewing. In many cases, career services teams provide a direct connection to tech industry professionals, recruiters, and employers that can lead to job opportunities.
4. Collaborative Instruction
Whereas traditional education can flow in one direction, from instructor to learner, software engineering bootcamps take a collaborative approach. At bootcamps, learners are encouraged to interact with their instructors and peers. By working together, learners get a better understanding of what it’s like to work as a team with multiple moving parts, something that can be expected once they enter the tech industry.
5. The Anatomy of a Program
Software engineering bootcamps begin by laying the groundwork for a career as a software engineer. Their approach differs from that of a traditional 4-year institution because it focuses on the skills currently required by employers and the relevant training needed for today’s jobs.
Typically, a program introduces the fundamentals of programming languages, web applications, software development, and other concepts. Things ramp up in the next phase of the program, where learners take an in-depth and more technical look at concepts. It all culminates with the completion of a capstone project which puts knowledge and learnings to the test.
6. Program Cost
According to a 2020 study by BestColleges which compiled program costs from over 620 programs at 130 bootcamps, the average cost was $13,579. The most expensive bootcamps came in at more than $20,000 while the most affordable ones cost a “few thousand dollars.” For comparison, the average academic year at a 4-year institution is priced at $16,300 or almost $65,000 for the full 4 years.
It Is Right for You?
Bootcamps offer a wide range of benefits to learners looking to get into tech. A bootcamp can provide learners with technical skills in months, real-world training, affordability, and career services.
If you believe a future in tech is right for you, we believe you can make it happen, whether you’re new to tech or a tech wizard ready to take your skills to the next level.
