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Coding bootcamps are intensive education programs that teach practical, job-ready tech skills. Bootcamps are a time-saving alternative to a traditional degree.
The Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR) reviews and verifies bootcamps. CIRR maintains transparent, objective standards that confirm student outcome data through tracking and auditing. The nonprofit organization examines job placement rates and other key outcome-related metrics.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the following job growth rates for tech careers from 2020-2030:
Students can build the skills to secure entry-level tech positions. CIRR-verified bootcamps offer an efficient, cost-effective path to this industry.
What Is a CIRR-Verified Bootcamp?
The Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR) is a nonprofit organization. CIRR counters deceptive claims about educational outcomes. The council partners with education providers on a voluntary basis. CIRR-verified bootcamps work with CIRR to provide transparent information regarding the following data points:
- Graduation rates
- In-field job placement rates
- Median salaries among graduates working in the field
Bootcamps offer a shorter alternative to associate and bachelor's degrees.
Many bootcamps unaffiliated with CIRR provide quality education and reliable student outcome data. However, a CIRR partnership indicates a bootcamp's exceptional commitment to transparency.
Bootcamps offer a shorter alternative to associate and bachelor's degrees. Programs typically run on compact schedules averaging around 12-16 weeks for full-time students. They focus on quickly equipping learners with the required hard skills for entry-level tech positions.
Bootcamps may offer full- and part-time schedules, along with in-person and online delivery formats. Independent companies and nonprofit groups typically operate them, though some maintain formal affiliations with community colleges and universities.
Skills Learned in CIRR Bootcamps
CIRR bootcamps teach targeted tech skills. For instance, cybersecurity bootcamps teach how to detect and respond to cyberthreats. Students can select a bootcamp based on how closely it aligns with their interests and career goals.
Skills learned through bootcamps include:
- Coding: Many bootcamps build foundational coding and programming skills. Students learn widely used programming languages such as JavaScript, Python, Ruby on Rails, C#, and C++.
- Full-Stack Web Development: Full-stack web developers cover both the client and server sides of the website-building process. Client-facing skills are known as "front end," while server-facing skills comprise the "back end." Many web development bootcamps emphasize both.
- UX/UI Design: The user experience (UX) describes the general nature of a user's interaction with a website or other digital product. User interfaces (UIs) are a crucial aspect of the overall UX, including features like menus, icons, and links. UX/UI design bootcamps teach students to create more intuitive digital products with superior ease of use.
- Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity bootcamps develop both offensive and defensive skills for protecting computer networks and digital assets. They typically cover security essentials and ethical hacking techniques. Learners often test their skills to use by responding to simulated cyberattacks.
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What Will a CIRR Bootcamp Cost?
Typical bootcamp prices range from $7,500-$13,950, according to a 2019 RTI Press report. Many factors influence costs, including program length and location. In some cases, students may have additional costs related to:
- Application fees
- Lab fees
- Necessary computer equipment, software, textbooks, or other learning materials
- Preparatory courses or modules designed to bridge knowledge gaps
Some bootcamps allow learners to defer their tuition payments or enter into income-sharing agreements.
Payment options also vary. Students usually have the option of paying upfront or in monthly installments.
Some bootcamps allow learners to defer their tuition payments or enter into income-sharing agreements. These arrangements may enable students to delay their costs until they land a tech job. These programs effectively function as job guarantees.
Prospective learners should note that coding bootcamps do not currently qualify for federal financial aid programs. Bootcamp participants in need of funding can explore private loan options. However, some bootcamp providers offer various financial aid options for learners.
- Get more details about bootcamp costs
- Learn how to pay for a coding bootcamp
- Explore financial aid and scholarship options
- Use the GI Bill to pay for a coding bootcamp
What Jobs Can I Get After a CIRR-Verified Bootcamp?
CIRR-verified bootcamps help learners build in-demand tech skills. Some programs cater to experienced tech professionals seeking to enhance their existing abilities. However, most programs serve beginners and newbies transitioning into new careers.
View the link below to explore some of the most popular computer science career paths.
Web Developer: Web developers help launch and maintain personal and commercial websites. The profession includes client-facing "front-end" skills and server-facing "back-end" skills. Developers with both skill sets are known as "full-stack" developers. Web development bootcamps usually focus on building full-stack abilities.
Median Annual Salary: $77,200
Job Outlook (2020-30) +13%
Software Developer: Software developers create computer and mobile applications for specific user needs. These professionals follow standardized workflow processes, including extensive quality assurance (QA) and testing practices. Many entry-level roles focus on QA and testing tasks. Bootcamps can equip students with the foundational knowledge needed for these jobs.
Median Annual Salary: $110,140
Job Outlook (2020-30) +22%
Web Designer: Web designers combine technical abilities and creative flair. This specialized profession focuses on finding aesthetically pleasing solutions to technical specifications and user needs. CIRR-verified web design bootcamps focus specifically on building complementary skill sets in the field.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $52,240
Video Game Designer: Video game designers create entertainment products for both desktop and mobile computing platforms. Job roles often include generating gameplay ideas and content themes along with writing code and testing early product versions. Bootcamps for aspiring game designers usually cover technical coding skills and game theory essentials.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021):$66,610
Computer Programmer: Programmers have mastery of many coding languages. They create and test the code that allows computer systems and software products to function. The BLS anticipates declining growth rates in this popular career path, mainly due to overseas outsourcing.
Median Annual Salary: $89,190
Job Outlook (2020-30): -10%
Other Computer Science Education Options
Bootcamps typically appeal to learners seeking quick, career-oriented skills training. These programs offer value to those seeking entry-level tech jobs, but they don't suit everyone. Some students may prefer the pace and comprehensiveness of a traditional degree. Consider the advantages of degree programs:
Associate Degree in Computer Science
Associate degree programs cover the foundations of computer science. They typically appeal to learners with little existing knowledge or experience. Students can usually complete an associate degree in about two academic years.
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
At the bachelor's level, students can specialize in concentrated areas of computer science and technology. General programs are also available, allowing learners to explore specific areas of interest through electives. Most bachelor's programs span four academic years.
Master's Degree in Computer Science
Master's programs in computer science offer learners the opportunity to develop advanced knowledge and skills in highly targeted areas. These degrees mainly appeal to ambitious learners seeking career advancement.
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Computer science doctorates tend to attract those seeking to become recognized experts in a particular disciplinary branch. These research-heavy educational paths may lead to professor positions or highly specialized roles in niche technology fields or.
Explore Other Coding Bootcamps
The Council on Integrity in Results Reporting fills a vital function in the bootcamp space. However, there are many reputable learning programs unaffiliated with CIRR. The list below explores some of these options.
Top CIRR-Verified Bootcamps
This alphabetical list includes bootcamps verified by the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR). CIRR bootcamps follow a transparent reporting process for student outcomes like graduation and job placement rates.
The following intensive bootcamps are accepting students and can provide pathways to tech careers. The 10 highlighted bootcamps below are among the most popular on our list.
App Academy
App Academy offers software engineering bootcamps in New York, San Francisco, and online. Founded in 2012, the school helps students gain in-demand skills to change careers.
Software Engineering Immersive
App Academy's online and on-campus CIRR bootcamps focus on software engineering and full-stack development. With two options for full-time learners and one for part-time students, the bootcamp takes 16, 24, or 48 weeks to complete.
Bootcamp participants can pay upfront or participate in an income-share agreement program. Income-share students pay nothing until they get a job making at least $50,000 a year. The curriculum includes hundreds of hours of practice using JavaScript and Ruby on Rails.
Upfront Cost: $17,000-$22,000 upfront; other tuition options available
Format: Online or on campus; full or part time
Length: 16 weeks or 24 weeks (full time); 48 weeks (part time)
CIRR Member: No
App Academy's Job Placement Assistance
App Academy reports a 95% job placement rate for 2019 graduates of its in-person New York bootcamp. The average placement time for this group was 4.9 months.
Codesmith
A member of CIRR, Codesmith makes software engineering education accessible. Its intensive bootcamps prepare students for careers as software engineers.
Software Engineering Immersive
Codesmith offers full- and part-time immersive software engineering bootcamps in Los Angeles, New York City, and online. The school's frequently updated software engineering course covers JavaScript, DevOps, advanced Git, and best practices in UX/UI.
The curriculum explores algorithms, data structures, system design, and programming paradigms. Admission requirements include an online application, short essays, and an optional coding challenge. Applicants also complete technical and non-technical interviews. Codesmith offers scholarships for students from underrepresented groups.
Upfront Cost: $19,950
Format: Online or on campus; full or part time
Length: 12 weeks (full time); 38 weeks (part time; remote only)
CIRR Member: Yes
Codesmith's Job Placement Assistance
Codesmith offers interview practice and support after students graduate. Codesmith reports that 86.8% of New York City graduates found a job in the field within 180 days of completing the program.
Codeup
Founded in 2013 as one of the first coding bootcamps in Texas, Codeup has more than 1,800 alumni.
Data Science and Web Development
Codeup offers two 22-week CIRR bootcamps for full-time students: data science or web development. The data science program does not require prior experience and meets in person in San Antonio. The data science curriculum covers applied statistics, machine learning, and Python.
The 22-week web development course takes place in Dallas, San Antonio, or online. Web development students gain HTML, JavaScript, Java, and Git skills through hands-on projects and responsive instruction.
Format: Online or on campus (depends on course); full time
Length: 22 weeks
CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Codeup
- Cyber cloud
- IT/systems engineering
Codeup's Job Placement Assistance
Codeup reports that in 2020, 85% of data science graduates got a job within six months of graduating. The school provides job placement assistance and a 100% tuition refund to students who do not find employment within six months of graduating.
Elevin Fifty Academy
An Indiana-based nonprofit that offers tech education at various levels, Eleven Fifty Academy helps people gain the skills they need to change or improve their careers.
Web Development
Eleven Fifty Academy's CIRR-verified web development bootcamp with full-time (12 weeks) and part-time (26 weeks) options. Students learn to code with JavaScript and create personal portfolios to showcase their skills to potential employers. They also receive career services during the program.
Eleven Fifty Academy partners with local companies, offers weekly workshops, and guides students on the curriculum. Although prior tech experience can help students succeed, the school accepts complete beginners.
Upfront Cost: $13,500
Format: Online or on campus (may be all online currently due to Covid-19); full or part time
Length: 12 weeks (full time); 26 weeks (part time)
CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Eleven Fifty Academy
- Software development
- Cybersecurity
- IT professional
- UX/UI design
Eleven Fifty Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Eleven Fifty Academy offers one-on-one career services. Within 50 days of graduating, the academy places 80% of students in jobs with an average starting salary of $55,000.
Epicodus
A highly collaborative coding school founded in 2012, Epicodus helps people get the skills they need to land tech jobs.
Full-Stack Web Development Bootcamp
Students can take a CIRR-verified, full-stack web development bootcamp from Epicodus in Portland or Seattle. The program includes 800 hours of classroom learning, 80 hours of job and internship preparation, 150 hours of internship learning, and 40 hours of postgraduate computer science and job search help if needed.
Financing options include income-share agreements, payment plans, and student loans. Epicodus requires a part-time introductory class for just $100 that prepares learners to enroll in the immersive course.
Upfront Cost: $11,700 (standard tuition); $7,800 (upfront discount)
Format: Online or on campus; full or part time
Length: 20 weeks (full time); 40 weeks (part time)
CIRR Member: Yes
Epicodus's Job Placement Assistance
Epicodus offers extensive career services. These include a mentorship program, resume and cover letter reviews, and a postgraduate job search bootcamp. Career advisors provide assistance for up to one year after graduation.
Fullstack Academy
Fullstack Academy offers tech education online, on its New York campus, and through its Grace Hopper program for women. The school also partners with more than a dozen universities.
Software Development/Engineering and Full-Stack Web Development
Fullstack Academy offers full-time, part-time, and self-paced CIRR-verified bootcamps. These programs run in New York, in Chicago, and online. Each coding bootcamp includes three phases: foundations, junior, and senior. Students can pay upfront or with a personal loan. They can also use veteran benefits or apply for a scholarship.
The full-time software engineering immersive program provides training in popular developer tools like Sublime, Git, Github, and Bash. Graduates leave the program with four projects in their software engineering portfolio to show prospective employers.
Upfront Cost: Varies by course
Format: Online or on campus; Full or part time, self paced
Length: Varies by course
CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Fullstack Academy
- Data analytics
- Cybersecurity analytics
Fullstack Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Fullstack Academy provides job placement assistance during and after the bootcamp. The school boasts a median starting salary of $85,200 for full-time software engineering graduates.
Tech Elevator
Tech Elevator offers online and in-person tech education. Of the school's more than 2,000 graduates, 90% hold jobs in software development.
Tech Elevator Coding Bootcamp
Tech Elevator offers full-time, 14-week CIRR bootcamps that help students gain the coding skills to change careers. The school hosts bootcamps online and in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, and Philadelphia.
The curriculum focuses on full-stack development, including daily lectures, group work, and one-on-one support. The bootcamp provides training in database programming with SQL, front-end JavaScript frameworks, and building APIs. Each class comprises 15-18 learners. Students do not need any prior coding experience.
Upfront Cost: $15,950
Format: Online or on campus; full time
Length: 14 weeks
CIRR Member: Yes
Tech Elevator's Job Placement Assistance
Tech Elevator boasts a 90% job placement rate and a 95% graduation rate. Bootcamp participants access a robust hiring network and a career readiness and tech reskilling program.
Grace Hopper Program
Fullstack Academy partners with the Grace Hopper Program to offer an immersive software engineering bootcamp. This program specifically caters to women and trans and nonbinary people.
The Grace Hopper Program Coding Bootcamp
The Grace Hopper Program's CIRR coding bootcamp focuses on full-stack development. Students pay no tuition until they secure a job after graduation. The 13-week, full-time immersive program in New York City starts with a four-week, part-time introductory class online.
The program emphasizes education, opportunity, and mentorship. The curriculum covers the fundamentals of computer science, full-stack JavaScript, and in-depth web development and programming. Applicants must complete an online coding assessment and a virtual interview.
Upfront Cost: $17,910
Format: Online and on campus; full and part time
Length: 17 weeks
CIRR Member: No
The Grace Hopper Program's Job Placement Assistance
The Grace Hopper Program connects bootcamp graduates with more than 840 hiring companies in New York City and Chicago. New York City graduates earn a median annual starting salary of $90,000.
Thinkful
Founded in 2012 and headquartered in New York City, Thinkful is an online educational platform. More than 600 fully remote employees work at Thinkful.
Data Science, Data Analytics, and Software Engineering
Thinkful offers online CIRR bootcamps in data science, data analytics, and software engineering. Students get live mentorship from industry experts and pay no tuition until they get a qualifying job. The program includes on-demand technical coaching, unlimited technical interview practices, resume-writing help, and access to Thinkful's Slack community.
The software engineering and data analytics programs offer full-time and part-time options. Data science students set their own schedules and enroll part time. Full-time participants graduate in five months, while part-timers graduate in six months.
Upfront Cost: Varies by course
Format: Online; full or part time depending on course
Length: 5-6 months
CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Thinkful
- UX/UI design
- Digital marketing
- Technical project management
Thinkful's Job Placement Assistance
Thinkful provides professional job coaching and boasts an 81% job placement rate within six months of graduation. Students who do not get a qualifying position within six months of finishing the bootcamp receive a full tuition refund.
Turing
A nonprofit headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Turing School offers online programming education and career support.
Front-End Engineering and Back-End Engineering
Turing School offers two online CIRR bootcamps: front-end engineering and back-end engineering. The back-end program focuses on Ruby and explores JavaScript, Ruby on Rails, and PostgreSQL. The front-end course emphasizes JavaScript and covers HTML, CSS, and NodeJS.
The full-time programs take seven months to complete, with a one-week break every six weeks. Turing School does not require prior coding experience. Applicants must complete an online application explaining why they want to attend the bootcamp and pass a logic quiz.
Upfront Cost: $20,000 (includes a new laptop)
Format: Online; full time
Length: 7 months
CIRR Member: Yes
Turing School's Job Placement Assistance
Turing School provides career support during the bootcamp and after graduation until students find a job. In the second quarter of 2021, it took Turing School graduates an average of 47 days from graduation to find a job.
Code Platoon
- Full-stack software engineer
- Chicago, Illinois or online
- Full time
- $17,000
Launch Academy
- Full-stack development
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Full time
- $17,500
The Tech Academy
- Software developer, game developer, mobile app developer, etc.
- Online; Utah; or Portland, Oregon
- Part or full time
Frequently Asked Questions About CIRR and Bootcamps
What is the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting?
The CIRR is a nonprofit organization that audits the student outcome data generated by education providers like bootcamps. Its function is to provide prospective learners with a neutral, authoritative way to verify bootcamps' claims.
Does a bootcamp have to be CIRR-verified?
CIRR verification is entirely voluntary. Coding bootcamps are under no obligation to participate. Many reputable bootcamps do not affiliate themselves with the organization. However, CIRR membership signals high levels of transparency regarding graduation and job data.
Are CIRR bootcamps worth it?
The student outcome data published by CIRR-verified bootcamps is highly reliable. The organization independently audits and verifies these claims. Bootcamps with high in-field placement rates typically deliver strong returns on students' educational investments.
Will a bootcamp verified by CIRR cost more than other bootcamps?
Bootcamp providers set their tuition rates internally. Therefore, CIRR affiliation may or may not influence the program's cost. Prospective students should carefully compare the prices of all options and factor them alongside student outcome data.
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