For the past eight years running, Glassdoor has consistently listed software engineering roles on its roundup of “Best Jobs in America,” meaning that this career tops the chart in terms of compensation, job satisfaction, and number of job openings available.
Many who are eager to break into this field elect to pursue a degree in computer science, which is a route that does have its advantages. However, the cost and time it takes to earn a computer science degree is prohibitive for many students, and the prospect of graduating with student loans in the five- or six-figure range can dampen the appeal of a career in software engineering.
Thankfully, there’s another more affordable and less time-consuming route that you can take. With a software engineering bootcamp, you can enter the field in a matter of months rather than years, and at a fraction of the cost. Let’s take a look at the best software engineering bootcamps on the market!
Best Software Engineering Bootcamps
Ready to kickstart your software engineering education? Here are eight of the best software engineering bootcamps you can pursue.
University Of South Florida - Corporate Training and Professional Education (USF CTPE)
The University of South Florida CTPE Software Engineering Bootcamp provides a comprehensive learning experience, equipping aspiring software engineers with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in this dynamic field. Led by Colt Steele, Udemy's best new instructor in 2016, the bootcamp covers a wide range of programming languages, tools, and technologies, ensuring participants are well-versed in the latest industry trends.
Hands-on exercises and projects allow students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, gaining valuable practical experience. The custom capstone project serves as a showcase of each student's capabilities, providing a strong foundation for their portfolio. And a flexible, 100% online format caters to busy schedules, enabling students to learn at their own pace while still receiving personalized 1:1 mentor support. Additionally, nine optional career units equip students with the essential skills for job hunting, including resume writing, networking strategies, and technical interview preparation.
With its comprehensive curriculum, flexible learning format, and dedicated career support, the USF CTPE Software Engineering Bootcamp empowers individuals to launch their careers in the ever-evolving tech industry.
Rating
N/A
Features
1-on-1 mentorship
Flexible online classes
Career preparation
Part-time
Duration
10 weeks
Price
$4,995
Springboard
The Software Engineering Bootcamp from Springboard is a part-time, fully online coding bootcamp course with a project-based curriculum that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the tech industry, even without prior experience.
The bootcamp offers comprehensive, mentor-led online lessons, including software engineering and coding. Lessons are self-paced and can be completed within 6-9 months. Springboard provides students with access to a supportive community of mentors, thought leaders, and alumni, along with personalized guidance from a student advisor and industry mentor.
By putting in 20-25 hours of study per week, you can complete the entire bootcamp in just nine months, allowing you to dive straight into the working world.
Rating
4.63/5 (Course Report)
Features
1-on-1 mentorship
Flexible online classes
Career preparation
Project-based
Job guarantee
Part-time
Duration
±9 months
Price
$16,200
BrainStation
BrainStation's Software Engineering Bootcamp is a comprehensive and immersive program that prepares you to become a software engineer. The program is offered in both full-time and part-time formats, and you can choose to learn online or in person.
BrainStation students get access to exclusive guest lectures and panel discussion events led by some of the world's leading subject matter experts and industry professionals. This is a great opportunity to learn from the best and get insights into the latest trends in the software engineering industry.
BrainStation's Software Engineering Bootcamp is a project-based program, so you'll get plenty of hands-on experience applying what you've learned. You'll work on real-world projects with leading companies like Mastercard, Microsoft, and Google.
BrainStation claims a 90% hiring rate within 180 days of graduation. This means that you're very likely to get a job as a software engineer after completing the program.
Rating
4.67/5 (Course Report)
Features
1-on-1 mentorship
In-person or online
Project-based
Good for beginners or intermediate learners
Slack-based community
Duration
20 weeks (full-time)
Price
$3,250
Thinkful
Thinkful offers two types of software engineering bootcamps: full-time and part-time. Both courses are designed to help you learn the skills you need to get a job as a software engineer in just a few months. The full-time course is the most intensive option, requiring 50 hours of study per week for five months. You'll also complete a four-week prep course before the bootcamp begins. The tuition for the full-time course is $16,000.
The part-time course is a more flexible option, requiring 20-30 hours of study per week for six months. There are no live classes or prep courses with the part-time course, but you will still have access to live video sessions with a personal mentor. The tuition for the part-time course is $9,975.
Rating
4.54/5 (Course Report)
Features
1-on-1 mentorship
Online or full-time classes
Career Services
Duration
Self-paced
Price
$16,000 for full-time; $9,975 for part-time
4Geeks Academy
4Geeks Academy’s Full-Stack Developer Program can help you become a professional web developer in just 18 weeks. The program covers the most sought-after and highest-paid technologies, including Python, JavaScript, and front-end libraries. You will also learn how to code in a web development language, script algorithms, and build awesome apps.
The program is designed for beginners with no previous coding experience. You will learn everything you need to know to get started in the tech industry, including programming, logic, and research skills. 4Geeks Academy also offers a job guarantee, so you can be confident that you will get a job within 180 days after graduation.
Rating
4.86/5 (Course Report)
Features
1-on-1 mentorship
Accelerated learning
Multilingual
Career Services
Duration
9 weeks
Price
$13,499
Flatiron School
Flatiron School offers a Software Engineering course that can help you jumpstart your career in as little as 15 weeks. The program is designed for both beginners and experienced programmers, and it covers the latest technologies and problem-solving techniques. You will learn how to code, but also how to learn and adapt.
The course is available in both full-time and part-time formats, and it is taught by experienced software engineers with years of real-world industry experience. The full-time course is designed for those who are ready to commit to a rigorous schedule and graduate in just 15 weeks. You will attend classes Monday through Friday for 8 hours a day, immersing yourself in the world of software engineering. This intensive approach is ideal for those who want to make a quick career transition.
The part-time course is designed for busy individuals who may not have the time to commit to a full-time schedule. This flexible option allows you to learn at your own pace and complete the course in 40 weeks. You will have access to pre-recorded lessons, optional live lectures and office hours, and a Slack community where you can connect with classmates and instructors. Flatiron School also offers a job guarantee, so you can be confident that you will get a job within 180 days after graduation.
Rating
4.47/5 (Course Report)
Features
Flexible payment options
In-person or online
Practical exercises
Mentorship support
Lab time with experts
Duration
15 weeks
Price
$16,900
Fullstack Academy
Fullstack Academy's Software Engineering Immersive is an intensive, full-time online coding bootcamp that prepares you for a career in software engineering in just 16 weeks. The program covers a wide range of in-demand skills, including JavaScript, Java, GitHub, and Git. Students of all experience levels are welcome, as the program begins with a comprehensive introduction to code. Upon completion, graduates will have the skills and portfolio they need to land a job as a full-stack JavaScript developer.
This intensive full-time program is designed for individuals who are ready to make a career transition and fully immerse themselves in learning. Experienced instructors provide real-time guidance and support throughout the program.
There’s no prior coding experience required. The program starts with a foundation in the basics of programming, making it accessible to students of all levels.
Rating
4.8/5 (Course Report)
Features
Live classes
Career support
Great for beginners
Duration
16 weeks
Price
$19,910
General Assembly
General Assembly is a renowned technical education provider that empowers individuals to embark on a career transition into the tech industry in just three months. Through its comprehensive part-time and full-time bootcamps and short courses, General Assembly imparts the essential skills, career guidance, and networking opportunities required to navigate the dynamic tech landscape.
The bootcamp experience at General Assembly is led by industry experts who bring their hands-on experience to the classroom. Students engage in real-world projects that culminate in a solid portfolio showcasing their technical prowess and problem-solving abilities. Since its inception in 2011, General Assembly has successfully guided over 40,000 students worldwide through its rigorous bootcamps, equipping them with the expertise to thrive in the tech domain.
Rating
4.31/5 (Course Report)
Features
Full-time or part-time
Live classes
Career services
Good for beginners
Hiring partners
Duration
12-24 weeks
Price
$15,950
What Are the Benefits of a Software Engineering Bootcamp?
There are a few reasons why you might choose to attend a software engineering bootcamp instead of pursuing a formal education at a college or university.
Bootcamps provide a condensed learning experience, typically lasting between 12 to 24 weeks, allowing students to quickly grasp the fundamental concepts and practical skills required for entry-level software engineering positions. A degree can take 4-6 years to complete, which means it takes a lot longer to start working and earning a salary.
Bootcamps prioritize practical application, emphasizing hands-on projects and real-world case studies to prepare students for the demands of the job market. This experiential approach ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills to tackle actual programming challenges.
They also tailor their curriculum to align with the specific skills and technologies that employers are actively looking for, making sure that their students are well-versed in the latest industry trends and practices, increasing their employability and earning potential.
Being off campus isn’t as lonely as you think, either. Bootcamps provide a platform for students to connect with industry professionals, potential employers, and fellow aspiring software engineers. Many bootcamps offer both in-person and online options, catering to the diverse schedules and learning preferences of students. Students can pursue their career goals without disrupting their existing commitments or day jobs.
What Kinds of Jobs Can You Get After a Bootcamp?
After completing a software engineering bootcamp, graduates can pursue a variety of rewarding and in-demand careers in the tech industry. Some of the most common job titles include:
Front-end developer: Front-end developers are responsible for creating the user-facing aspects of websites and applications, ensuring a seamless and engaging user experience.
Back-end developer: Back-end developers focus on the server-side logic and functionality of websites and applications, ensuring data integrity, security, and performance.
Full-stack developer: Full-stack developers possess the skills to handle both front-end and back-end development, making them versatile and highly sought-after in the tech industry.
Web developer: Web developers design, develop, and maintain websites, ensuring their functionality, accessibility, and visual appeal.
Software engineer: Software engineers apply engineering principles to solve complex problems through software development. They design, develop, test, and implement software applications and systems.
If you have your heart set on a specific role in the industry, make sure to choose classes and additional bootcamps that will help you meet the criteria.
What Makes for a Good Software Engineering Bootcamp?
When we were evaluating the bootcamps on the list, we were looking at specific criteria. We know that most bootcamp students are signing on because they are looking for an affordable way to pursue their dream career. Here’s what we look for:
Career-Focused Curriculum
A bootcamp’s curriculum should align with the current demands of the tech industry, focusing on the most relevant and in-demand skills and technologies. You should conclude your bootcamp and be able to walk into an entry-level job in your chosen field.
Expert Instructors
Instructors should possess extensive industry experience and a proven ability to effectively convey complex programming concepts. We favor bootcamps that are taught by experts in their field—i.e., actual software engineers—because they are able to provide practical advice, support, and guidance to students that someone with only theoretical knowledge simply can’t.
Job Support
The bootcamp should provide comprehensive career services, including resume and portfolio assistance, interview preparation, and job placement support. Many bootcamps have agreements with leading organizations across the US and offer students a guaranteed job. That means all the bootcamp graduates can hit the ground running.
Good Rating
Look for bootcamps with high student satisfaction ratings and positive reviews from alumni. This is usually a good indication that the bootcamp does what it’s supposed to!
Practical Projects
A bootcamp curriculum should emphasize hands-on projects that allow students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. Project-based bootcamps give students an extra advantage because the coding projects they work on become the basis of their portfolios. These portfolios can be presented to potential employers as invaluable evidence of their skills and abilities, especially for students who haven’t worked before.
Certification
Bootcamps can be certified, much in the same way that universities and colleges are accredited. If you opt to go for a bootcamp that isn’t certified, make sure it’s well regarded in the industry.
How To Prepare for a Software Engineering Bootcamp
Enrolling in a software engineering bootcamp is your first step towards a fulfilling career in the tech industry. But to make the most of the benefits of this intensive learning experience, you have to start preparing early. Here’s how!
Assess Your Readiness
Bootcamp courses are short, immersive, and often self-paced. This can take tremendous self-discipline and requires a lot of practice. Consider these questions:
Are you genuinely passionate about creating software applications and solving technical challenges?
Do you enjoy puzzles, logic-based games, and figuring out how things work?
Are you comfortable with abstract concepts, and can you grasp complex ideas relatively quickly?
Are you disciplined and self-motivated, capable of dedicating significant time and effort to learning new skills?
If you answer "yes" to most of these questions, then software engineering might be a good fit for you. If you have doubts or reservations, it might be worth exploring other career options or taking some introductory programming courses to get a clearer understanding of the field first.
Know Before You Go
Once you've confirmed your interest in software engineering, it's time to research and select the bootcamp that best suits your needs and preferences. Carefully review the bootcamp's curriculum to ensure it aligns with your career goals and interests. Check the programming languages, technologies, and projects covered in the program.
Next, consider the physical location of the bootcamp if in-person attendance is required. If online or hybrid options are available, look at the flexibility and scheduling that the program offers. Does it fit in with your commitments?
Then, look at the cost. Compare the tuition fees of different bootcamps and consider any financial aid or scholarship opportunities available. Do they offer flexible payment options? Deferred tuition? Guaranteed job placement so you can start paying off your course right away?
Finally, research the bootcamp's reputation in the industry, read alumni reviews, and check their job placement rates for graduates.
Learn the Coding Fundamentals
Before enrolling in a bootcamp, it's beneficial to gain a basic understanding of programming. This will help you grasp the material more quickly and make the most of the bootcamp's instruction.
Concepts such as variables, data types, operators, conditional statements, loops, and control flow are all important. You can take a look at coding tutorials, interactive coding platforms, and introductory programming courses to strengthen your understanding. Some bootcamps may even offer introductory prep courses to help you come to grips with the basics.
Complete the Prerequisites
Many bootcamps have prerequisites that ensure students have the necessary foundation, which includes basic computer literacy, mathematical concepts, basic coding knowledge, and programming experience.
Carefully review the bootcamp's prerequisites and ensure you meet them before applying. If any prerequisites are lacking, consider taking online courses or completing introductory programming tutorials to bridge the gap.
Utilize Online Resources
The internet is a treasure trove of learning resources for aspiring software engineers. Take advantage of online tutorials, interactive coding platforms, and coding challenges to practice and refine your skills. Look at sources like:
Codecademy: An interactive learning platform with courses on various programming languages.
FreeCodeCamp: A non-profit organization offering free web development courses.
Khan Academy: A comprehensive educational platform with introductory computer science and programming courses.
HackerRank: A platform for practicing coding skills and participating in programming competitions.
Regularly practicing coding challenges and solving coding problems will only enhance your problem-solving abilities, coding proficiency, and confidence.
Becoming a Software Engineer After a Bootcamp: Success Stories To Learn From
Pursuing a career in software engineering can be daunting, especially if you aren’t following a traditional career or academic path. The good news is that there are lots of people who have found their dream jobs through bootcamps.
Rob’s Success Story
In this video, we meet Rob. Rob barely knew how to use a computer when he decided to delve into the world of software engineering. He had very little knowledge in the field but somehow knew he could make it. After completing a short but immersive bootcamp, Rob became a successful software engineer.
Felix Feng
Felix Feng wrote an article for FreeCodeCamp about his experience applying for jobs after a coding bootcamp. He spent three months applying for jobs and eventually landed a job as a software engineer. While it wasn’t easy, Felix explains that it’s very doable.
FAQs About the Best Software Engineering Bootcamps
We’ve got the answers to your most frequently asked questions.
What Is a Software Engineering Bootcamp?
A software engineering bootcamp is an intensive training program that teaches you the skills you need to become a software engineer. They usually offer additional benefits like accelerated learning, reduced costs, and career support.
Is a Coding Bootcamp Enough To Become a Software Engineer?
Coding bootcamps can be a great way to start your career in software engineering, but whether or not it’s enough to launch your career depends entirely on the bootcamp itself. You will also need to have a strong foundation in computer science and mathematics, and a determination to succeed.
How Much Do Software Engineering Bootcamps Cost?
The cost of a software engineering bootcamp can vary depending on the program and the location. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to $10,000 to $20,000.
What Is a Realistic Salary To Expect After a Coding Bootcamp?
The average salary for a software engineer is around $100,000 per year. However, your salary will vary depending on your experience, skills, and location.
