Bootcamp Types: The Ultimate Guide to Comparing Coding Bootcamps

Coding bootcamps are educational programs offering specific programming skills along with career placement assistance. Students learn popular computer programming languages and frameworks like JavaScript, Ruby, and Python. Instructors often use a project-based curriculum that allows students to build a portfolio to aid them in their job search.

Because technology continues to evolve, bootcamps also attract computer programmers looking to learn new skills. These students already have work experience in their field and use bootcamps for professional development purposes.

Most coding bootcamps use an intensive instructional model. You have options in how you receive that instruction, however. Primary differences in programs include where they are offered and the required time commitment per week.

Online programs may feature part-time, full-time, self-paced, or accelerated options.

In-person programs offer face-to-face instruction and interaction with classmates. With this format, teams can easily collaborate on projects and instructors are available to answer questions in real time.

Hybrid bootcamps combine the flexibility of online learning with the interpersonal benefits of in-person instruction. Hybrid programs can also expand the accessibility of in-person learning for students balancing work and family obligations with their education.

Full-time coding bootcamps require a significant time commitment each week. Some full-time bootcamps estimate that students spend 40-60 hours per week dedicated to the bootcamp. This time estimate includes both instructional time and time spent on assignments. Because of the time commitment, full-time programs may require leaving employment for the duration of the program.

Part-time coding bootcamps take longer to complete than a full-time option, but can provide students greater flexibility. These programs require 15-20 hours of instruction and study each week. Often, learners can continue their employment while participating in the bootcamp.

Both independent providers and university-affiliated bootcamps typically offer a mix of full-time and part-time bootcamps.

In a self-paced bootcamp, students progress as quickly or as slowly as they want while mastering their program’s core concepts. Self-paced options are almost always conducted online, but students still interact with instructors or course mentors through things like virtual office hours.

This format supplies the most flexibility for learners, though they need good time management and organizational skills to stay on track. The student’s pace determines the time commitment and length for these programs, which can span from a few weeks to several months.

Coding bootcamps offer a variety of payment options, so be sure to examine the pros and cons of each carefully before making a decision that’s right for you.

The chart below provides the average costs of coding bootcamps based on data collected by BestColleges from over 620 bootcamp programs offered by about 130 bootcamp providers.

Choose your coding bootcamp carefully. Coding bootcamps lack accreditation and few states regulate how they report student outcomes, which means much of the information students find when comparing different bootcamps comes directly from the provider. Check to see whether a bootcamp you are interested in is a member of CIRR. If they are, you can find audited data on things like bootcamp graduation rates, employment outcomes, and starting salaries for bootcamp graduates.

You can also follow these tips when searching for a program:

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Editor’s Note: This article contains general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a professional advisor before making decisions about financial issues.