The decision to attend a coding bootcamp can be life-changing, but like any investment, there are always things to consider. Most coding bootcamps are intense, short, and require high levels of commitment, making preparation vital for success.
This blog looks at how to prepare for a coding bootcamp, the types of bootcamps, and how Coding Dojo is the key to a lucrative career in tech.
What Is a Coding Bootcamp?
For anyone looking to learn how to code, coding bootcamps are one of the quickest ways. Coding bootcamps are highly immersive, short-term, and comprehensive, allowing students to develop the skills and knowledge to break into the competitive world of tech.
In 3 months or less, students will rapidly become experts in coding languages such as HTML, CSS, Ruby on Rails, Python, Django, JavaScript, and PHP stacks. Once complete, students leave with portfolios packed with projects showcasing their skills and unique talents that employers are looking to add to their firms.
How to Prepare for a Coding Bootcamp: 5 Easy Steps
1. Learn to Code with Various Resources
- Coding Books
Coding books are a great starting point for learning code. Reading coding books can do wonders for anyone looking at how to prepare for a coding bootcamp. The benefit of most coding books is that they provide a complete picture when introducing new coding concepts rather than jumping around between different topics.
- Coding Podcasts
No doubt podcasts are entertaining, but they can also be educational. This is especially true for coding. Podcasts can be a tremendous resource for explaining coding concepts, discussing new trends, or sharing tips and tricks. For anyone looking to learn to code online, now’s never been a better time with tons of podcasts available to help get started.
- Coding Tutorials
Let’s be honest: learning anything can be challenging. When it comes to learning to code, this is particularly true. Coding tutorials help break through the boredom that can strike when learning to code that comes with reading or staring at a screen. Sharing concepts in manageable chunks makes topics much easier to digest; coding tutorials are real game-changers.
- Coding Projects
In coding, a stellar portfolio is worth more than gold. A stellar portfolio provides junior developers a way to prove their coding skills while acting as a valuable marketing tool when applying for jobs by presenting various beginner coding projects they’ve done.
2. Take an Introductory Coding Course
- Intro to Web Development
Coding Dojo’s free Intro to Web Development Course gives a taste of programming concepts and web development. This course, lasting two to three hours, covers topics such as: How the Web Works, HTTP Request & Response, and Front-End vs. Back-End. It’s perfect for beginners of all backgrounds.
- Intro to Python
Another great option is Coding Dojo’s Intro to Python Course. This free coding bootcamp course allows users to dabble in the world of Python. A perfect option for newcomers to the coding world or those with more experience, this two-hour workshop covers the basics of the Python programming language, showcasing its versatility, and provides examples of real-world applications.
- Intro to Programming Algorithms
Lastly, Coding Dojo’s Algorithm App provides a free collection of self-paced online lessons and quizzes, covering a range of foundational coding concepts. This option is a great starting point for learning to code from quick exercises, helpful video tutorials, and short coding challenges.
3. Set Up Your Dev Environment
It’s a good idea to set up your dev environment before the official kick-off of the coding bootcamp. Set aside time to create a quiet environment and remove any possible distractions. Then take some time to get acquainted with the course curriculum, instructors’ expectations, and the different applications regularly part of the program. That way, it’ll be easier to hit the ground running.
4. Bookmark Helpful Resources for Reference
While first learning to code, Google is an absolute blessing for finding solutions. A good idea to keep in mind is to bookmark all helpful resources for future reference. After all, who knows what issues or bugs you might encounter? An old bookmark might save the day.
5. Join Coding Groups or Communities
Ask any developer, and they’ll tell you coding can be pretty daunting at first. By joining a coding group or community, newcomers can connect with veteran programmers, ask for advice, learn tricks-of-the-trade, and find the motivation to keep learning.
How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp: 7 Factors to Consider
1. The Types of Coding Bootcamps
- Full-Time Coding Bootcamp
Typically, most full-time coding bootcamps last about two to seven months, with about 40 to 80 hours of weekly coding class time. It’s not uncommon to hear students putting in at least eighty hours of study time into coding bootcamps to review concepts and work on portfolio projects.
Part-time coding bootcamps, lasting from six to nine months, usually occur during evenings or weekends, requiring a weekly commitment of sixteen to thirty hours. As most students work full-time during the day, part-time coding bootcamps are an excellent option for anyone looking to transition their career into programming.
As a popular favorite, online coding bootcamps usually are self-paced and require only ten to twenty hours of commitment per week. The online setting allows students to work projects and assignments into their existing schedule without ever having to leave the comfort of home.
As the classic option, in-person coding bootcamps require students to commit to forty to eighty hours of weekly coding class time for two to seven months. There are certain benefits that students can only get with studying in person, which include access to instructors, classroom resources to review new topics, and support from classmates throughout the program.
Finally, there’s the accelerated coding bootcamp. As the most flexible option, students can access all full-time coding bootcamps resources when needed. Typically, these coding bootcamps require two to four hours of class time with another twenty to thirty hours of study time per week. The benefit is that students can tackle projects, concepts, and assignments when their schedule allows them the time.
2. The Pace and Duration of the Coding Bootcamp
With so many options for coding bootcamps, it’s vital to pick the right fit. With various options, there’s a fit for every lifestyle, schedule, or learning style. When deciding which is the best choice, it’s a good idea to consider the pace and duration of the bootcamp.
3. The Cost of the Coding Bootcamp
This point might seem obvious, but the cost is always a significant factor. As coding bootcamps aren’t free, it’s a good idea to consider what’s a truly affordable price. Keep in mind there are different options from payment installments, loans, and financing options that can work with any situation.
4. The Coding Bootcamp Curriculum
The truth is not all coding bootcamps cover the same material. If a specific programming language seems more interesting, it’s wise to check if the program covers that concept. A good rule of thumb is to do a lot of research on potential jobs associated with specific topics within the bootcamp.
5. Career Services Offered
Most bootcamps offer some career support services to successful students. With a strong network of employers always looking for new candidates, help with resume writing, and interview tips, it’s good to know what services are available before registering.
6. Student Reviews and Outcomes
Past student reviews are among the best indicators if a coding bootcamp is a good fit. Taking the time to check out what past students had to say about their experiences gives a better idea of what to expect once you register.
7. Your Schedule and Availability
A final consideration is your schedule and availability. It’s essential to ask yourself how long you’re willing to commit to the program. Considering coding bootcamps aren’t cheap and can be pretty intense, it’s wise to take the time to give it some thought.
Join Coding Dojo’s Coding Bootcamp and Launch Your Career
Every business will need a wealth of knowledge and critical skills for the future. Without a doubt, Coding Dojo is the place to be for preparing for a coding bootcamp. In 14+ short weeks, Coding Dojo’s bootcamp will take you from beginner to an absolute master in software development. Contact us today; your future is waiting!
Coding Bootcamp FAQ
Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?
Yes, coding bootcamps are definitely worth the investment. With most students earning 51% or more on average after graduating, coding bootcamps can be the key to a rewarding career in tech. Graduates, on average, make $80,943 in their second job after finishing the coding bootcamp, then $99,229 once they move into their third job.
Is Coding Hard to Learn?
In general, learning how to code isn’t too hard. Keep in mind that when it comes to learning anything new, there’s always a bit of a learning curve. As time goes on and with some dedication, coding gets easier and more manageable.
How Much Does a Coding Bootcamp Cost?
On average, with data taken from 620 bootcamps from BestColleges, the average bootcamp cost is about $13,500,, going all the way up to $20,000 on the high end.
How Long Is a Coding Bootcamp at Coding Dojo?
Coding Dojo’s bootcamps range from twelve to thirty-two weeks, with in-person, online, full-time, or part-time program options. Coding Dojo boasts over 8,000 graduates since being established in 2012, with locations across the country.
What to Do After a Coding Bootcamp?
After graduation can be confusing. With no more school and most job searches lasting three to six months, some might wonder what’s their next move. Here are four ways that you can move forward: update your resume to reflect new skills, polish up your portfolio, apply for jobs every day, and have some projects on the go to keep busy and skills sharp.