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Coding bootcamps pack an intensive computer science education into just a few months of instruction. These hands-on programs may offer an attractive alternative to traditional education for people seeking to start or advance a career in tech.
Tech industry employment has grown steadily since September 2020. However, one tech job stands out from the rest: software development.
According to CompTIA's August 2022 report, companies posted over 147,740 software development and engineering jobs in July 2022. That totals almost five times the number of postings for the second-most-popular tech job.
With such a high demand for software developers, a bootcamp can help learners prepare for the career quickly. Keep reading to learn more about available software development bootcamps and what they include.
What Is a Software Development Bootcamp?
General coding bootcamps often explore one topic, such Java programming or front-end development. Software development bootcamps combine several topics into one course, preparing students to become full-stack developers.
The curriculum typically includes introductory topics like building web interfaces and JavaScript coding. It then covers front- and back-end development using one or more programming languages.
Some software development bootcamps last up to two years. However, most take less than six months. The length depends mostly on the class format.
Full-time bootcamps may last only a few months but often require more than 40 hours of weekly commitment. Part-time and self-paced software development bootcamps last longer. However, the less-intense format can make it easier for students to continue working.
Software development bootcamps may occur online, in person, or in a hybrid format. Students can enroll in university-affiliated bootcamps or independent programs.
Traditional computer science degree programs often take longer to complete than bootcamps. An associate degree usually lasts two years, and a bachelor's degree four. These degree programs also include general education classes while bootcamps focus exclusively on coding and software development.
- Discover other bootcamp programs
- Compare types of coding bootcamps
- Read our guide to bootcamp programs
- Learn how to get into a coding bootcamp
Skills Learned in Software Development Bootcamps
Software development bootcamps take students from front-end development to app deployment and product management. Learners explore client- and server-side coding, often using several programming languages. They also develop collaboration skills through team projects.
These bootcamps include several complex topics, but the following are a few common skills.
- HTML and CSS: Students usually start the bootcamp with HTML and CSS. These core website building blocks provide learners with a strong foundation in front-end development. Learners use HTML and CSS — often combined with JavaScript — to create user interfaces and basic website animation.
- Application Frameworks: Software developer bootcamps generally introduce learners to several application frameworks. Learners practice using web frameworks to structure application interfaces. They may learn different frameworks depending on which programming languages the bootcamp teaches. Some programs focus on only JavaScript frameworks. Others include Python, Java, and C#/.NET frameworks.
- Database Creation: Students learn to design, manage, and create databases. They explore how data storage affects software. Some bootcamps focus on relational databases. Others cover both relational and nonrelational databases. Database courses typically teach SQL, a database programming language.
- Project Management: A software developer must oversee an application's lifecycle, from planning to maintenance. Many bootcamps include a project management course that introduces tools like Agile, Scrum, and Kanban. Learners gain hands-on experience with development workflow management through collaborative team projects. They also learn about quality assurance and refactoring.
What Will a Software Development Bootcamp Cost?
Software development bootcamp prices vary from $2,500-$50,000. However, most tuition costs fall between $10,000-$15,000.
This significant price range results from different class formats and program lengths. For example, self-paced bootcamps typically charge less or require a monthly subscription. Long, full-time programs, like the 20-month bootcamp at Holberton School, typically have a higher price tag.
Bootcamps often accept various payment plans to help bootcamp applicants cover the costs, including the following:
- Upfront Payment: Students pay the complete cost at the beginning of the program. This option may cost less than monthly or deferred payments.
- Monthly Payments: Students pay a monthly fee while completing the bootcamp.
- Income Share Agreements (ISA): ISAs typically require little or no upfront payments. Once bootcamp graduates earn a salary at or above a set amount, they share their income with the bootcamp.
- Loans: Bootcamp enrollees can apply for private loans through companies like Ascent and Climb Credit.
- Deferred Payments: Students delay payment until they have finished the bootcamp and/or landed a qualifying tech job. These payments may form part of an ISA or loan.
- Scholarships: Bootcamps may offer identity- and need-based scholarships. Some also provide scholarships to students who complete preparatory courses.
Bootcamp applicants should carefully consider each option above and understand that tuition forms only a part of the entire cost. They may need to invest in materials like a new laptop.
Beginner coders might also consider paying for preparatory courses. Some schools offer these courses for free. The intensive bootcamp schedule may also require time off from work and away from family.
- Get more details about bootcamp costs
- Learn how to pay for a coding bootcamp
- Explore financial aid and scholarship options
- How do income-share agreements work?
What Jobs Can I Get After a Software Development Bootcamp?
Software development bootcamps can prepare students for different tech careers.
Graduates can land jobs as software engineers and developers. They may also work as web developers, web designers, and systems analysts. Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, median annual salaries for these positions range from about $77,000 to over $110,000 as of 2021.
With experience, software development bootcamp graduates may also move into senior roles, such as systems management. The BLS reports a median annual salary of over $159,000 for these managerial positions as of 2021.
Systems Analyst
Computer systems analysts examine companies' IT systems and help improve their efficiency. These professionals work closely with software engineers and programmers. Systems analysts need programming skills and in-depth hardware and software knowledge.
Average Annual Salary: $99,270
Job Outlook (2020-30): +7%
Software Developer
Software developers communicate with clients to understand their technical needs. They create customized software solutions and oversee the development process, including testing and maintenance. Some software developers focus on creating web or mobile applications. Others design operating systems for consumer electronics.
Average Annual Salary: $110,140
Job Outlook (2020-30): +22%
Software Engineer
Software engineers share many responsibilities with software developers. However, software engineers take a broader approach. They combine engineering principles with technology to offer system-wide solutions. Software engineers typically need more education than software developers. They may lead software development teams.
Average Annual Salary: $110,140
Job Outlook (2020-30): +22%
Web Developer
Web development focuses on creating websites. It covers some similar topics as software development, such as JavaScript programming, HTML, and CSS. Web developers may work with front- or back-end development — or both — to create functional web pages. They often work with web designers to create a final website for clients.
Average Annual Salary: $77,200
Job Outlook (2020-30): +13%
Web Designer
Like web developers, web designers create websites for clients. However, web designers focus more on a website's visual aspects. They develop graphics, choose fonts and colors, and organize the site's layout. Web designers also create mockups, test interfaces, and integrate visuals. They work in teams to bring a client's vision for their website to life.
Average Annual Salary: $77,200
Job Outlook (2020-30): +13%
Other Computer Science Education Options
While coding bootcamps provide a short and potentially cost-effective educational path, they may not work for everyone. Aspiring software developers should carefully consider all education options before investing in one.
For example, associate and bachelor's degrees in computer science cover many of the same topics as bootcamps. However, they are less intensive and let students explore other fields and interests.
A bachelor's degree may also provide graduates with more work opportunities than a bootcamp. The BLS reports that many tech employers still expect applicants to hold undergraduate degrees. The most common IT job requiring a bachelor's degree is software development.
However, some employers value experience and skill over degrees. Students must make the final decision, considering program length, cost, and focus. Remember that learners can combine bootcamps with degree programs, compounding their experience and education.
Consider other computer science education options below.
Associate Degree in Computer Science
Associate degree programs typically last two years. While longer than most bootcamps, these programs offer a quick path to entry-level tech positions. Graduates can often apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree later.
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
A bachelor's degree remains the standard education requirement for many careers, including tech positions. While not all employers expect a bachelor's, this four-year degree can prepare graduates for diverse jobs and graduate study.
Master's Degree in Computer Science
A master's degree can help current tech professionals specialize and land higher-paying positions. It also allows professionals in other fields to expand their skills or switch to a computer science career. Most master's programs last about two years.
Ph.D. in Computer Science
As the terminal degree in the field, a Ph.D. in computer science prepares students to pursue careers in academia and research. The programs typically take 3-5 years to complete and require a dissertation.
Explore Other Coding Bootcamps
Students interested in other computer science specialities might consider different bootcamps. Some bootcamps focus on parts of software development, like front-end development. Others cover subjects like software engineering, cybersecurity, UX/UI, and app development.
2022's Bootcamps for Software Development
People ready to start their career as software developers might consider these ten popular U.S. bootcamps. Listed in alphabetical order, these programs provide intensive curriculums with hands-on practice.
They can last 3-23 months, depending on the format. Students can select a part-time, full-time, or self-paced learning option.
Explore the list below and find one that fits your schedule. Any of these 2022 top software development bootcamps can help start a software development career.
ACC helps prepare students for in-demand careers. It offers fast-track career paths, GED certificates and ESL classes, and bachelor's degree programs. The software developer bootcamp forms part of its continuing education options.
Software Developer Bootcamp
Applicants must pass a computer literacy assessment as a prerequisite to this bootcamp. Those who need extra practice can take the Software Bootcamp Prep Course. ACC also offers a bootcamp trial class that exposes candidates to the intensive hands-on labs.
The core curriculum includes front and back-end development, immersing students in technologies like JavaScript, MongoDB, and SQL. Enrollees work closely with mentors and classmates to complete real-life projects. They build web applications and take them through the entire development process, from planning to deployment.
- Cost: $6,497
- Format: Hybrid or on campus; Part-time
- Length: 24 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Austin Community College
Python Development Web Development Information Security Data Analytics Amazon Web Services Linux/UNIX Cisco Certification Microsoft Certifications VMware Apple SWIFT
Austin Community College's Job Placement Assistance
The bootcamp covers resume creation and interview preparations. Enrollees receive tips on pay negotiation, the job search process, and creating online portfolios.
Headquartered in Vermont, Burlington Code Academy trains individuals in software development and UX/UI design. It emphasizes collaboration and project-based learning.
Software Development
The application process includes an interview and logical assessment. Complete beginners can take the JavaScript preparatory course before starting the software development bootcamp.
The project-based curriculum begins with programming basics like command lines, functions, and program organization. The following sections explore front and back-end development, application frameworks, and databases.
Burlington Code Academy's full-time and part-time bootcamps differ slightly. Full-time students spend the final four weeks working on solutions for real clients. Part-time learners work on a team capstone project.
- Cost: $12,000
- Format: Online; part time or full time
- Length: 12 weeks (full time); 24 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Burlington Code Academy
JavaScript After Hours UX Design After Hours UX/UI Design Bootcamp
Burlington Code Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Career coaches may help students develop a professional image and interviewing skills. Enrollees can also participate in workshops and networking events.
Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, Claim Academy prepares students for careers in software development or cybersecurity. Companies like WellsFargo, IBM, and Boeing have hired Claim Academy bootcamp graduates.
Live Full-Stack Coding Program
Bootcamp applicants must complete a technical interview. They can prepare with self-paced prework or live mini bootcamps. Claim Academy also offers free introductory bootcamps.
The online program covers C#/.NET, Java, and JavaScript. However, students can choose to focus on one language with a more specialized in-person software development bootcamp.
All available programs provide hands-on learning. The online bootcamp lets students work at their own pace as they explore data structures, object-oriented programming, and technical project management.
- Cost: $15,498 (full time); $16,498 (part time)
- Format: Online or on campus; part time, full time, or self-paced
- Length: 12 weeks (full time); 5 months (part time)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Claim Academy
Java Full-Stack Software Developer C#/.NET Full-Stack Software Developer JavaScript Full-Stack Software Developer Cybersecurity
Claim Academy Job Placement Assistance
The bootcamps teach students to write effective resumes and excel at interviews. Claim Academy also hosts a demo day where enrollees can connect with potential employers and showcase their projects.
This Seattle-based school began in 2013 with 20 students. In less than 10 years, it has graduated over 1,500 students. Code Fellows shares its proven curriculum with partners worldwide.
Software Development
Code Fellows uses a modular curriculum, meaning it offers courses at five levels (100-500). The 100-level classes are self-paced and teach software development basics.
The 200 and 300 levels include one program each. They cover topics like server-side routing, authentication, document object model manipulation, and introductory algorithms.
Learners can continue their coding journey by choosing more specialized courses at the 400 and 500 levels. Options include Advanced Software Development in Python and iOS App Development with Swift.
- Cost: $5,000 (each for 200 and 300 levels)
- Format: Online or on campus; part time, full time, or self-paced (100 level only)
- Length: 4 weeks (full time); 9 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Code Fellows
Ops and Security
Code Fellows' Job Placement Assistance
Levels 200-400 include career transition services. Students receive mentoring and training on how to build a network, ace an interview, and find jobs. Graduates from the 400-level courses can meet with potential employers.
Coding Dojo began in 2012 and now has campuses in California and Washington. Although it offers other bootcamps, Coding Dojo specializes in software development and offers a comprehensive 3-stack curriculum.
Software Development
Coding Dojo's software development bootcamp welcomes beginner coders. The tuition includes a two-week preparatory course. It covers document object manipulation, web interface, and technologies like jQuery.
Students begin the core curriculum with JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. They practice building interfaces and animating user experience.
The bootcamp then delves into its 3-stack approach. Students learn full-stack development using three languages: Python, Java, and JavaScript. Each focused section lasts four weeks and covers object-oriented programming, databases, and frameworks.
- Cost: $14,995 (on campus, full time); $15,495 (online, full time); $8,495 (online, part time)
- Format: Online or on campus; full time or part time
- Length: 14 weeks (full time); 16-32 weeks (part time accelerated); 28 weeks (part time flex)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Coding Dojo
Data Science Bootcamp Cybersecurity Bootcamp UI/UX Design Bootcamp
Coding Dojo's Job Placement Assistance
Coding Dojo reports an 83.8% placement rate for the first six months post-graduation. It offers resume, portfolio, and job application guidance during the bootcamp. Graduates can also seek help with contract negotiation, networking, and interviews.
Founded in 2016, Holberton School has over 30 campuses worldwide. The Tulsa, Oklahoma, campus supports the growing local tech industry by training individuals and connecting them with employers.
Computer Science and Full-Stack Web Development
The 20-month program includes five trimesters of intense study. Students complete 5-9 classes each trimester, working with technologies like GraphQL, React, and ES6.
The courses begin with fundamental skills. Enrollees learn procedural and object-oriented programming, system administration, and basic data structures. More advanced classes cover back-end programming, user interfaces, and website integration. Students also explore web stack, data storage, and file management.
Program graduates can pursue careers as software developers, web developers, and software quality assurance analysts.
- Cost: $50,000
- Format: Online or hybrid; full time
- Length: 20 months
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Holberton School
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Linux Programming, Advanced Algorithms, and Blockchain Machine Learning
Holberton School's Job Placement Assistance
Enrollees gain professional development and collaboration skills throughout the program. They also learn technical writing and whiteboarding skills.
Launch Academy began in 2013 and now has a network of over 1,000 alumni working for companies like HubSpot and Microsoft. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Launch Academy continually updates its curriculum to accommodate the evolving tech industry.
Full-Stack Software Development
Applicants must schedule a one-hour interview that includes problem-solving challenges. Once accepted, students may complete a three-week preparatory course to confirm their interest in software development.
The curriculum begins with part-time online classes. For eight weeks, learners develop basic HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and database skills. They work remotely with classmates and instructors.
Students then transition to on-campus classes for ten weeks. They dive full time into software development, focusing on team and capstone projects.
- Cost: $17,500
- Format: Hybrid; part time and full time
- Length: 26 weeks
- CIRR Member: Yes
Launch Academy's Job Placement Assistance
While participating in on-campus classes, students also receive professional training. They develop resumes, cover letters, and online profiles. After graduation, Launch Academy offers continued support with networking, interview preparation, and job applications.
Launch School advertises a slow learning path, emphasizing software development fundamentals. It helps students launch careers at companies like Deloitte, HP, and Etsy.
Software Development
Launch School separates its program into two sections: core curriculum and capstone.
The core curriculum offers a mastery-based learning approach. Students work at their own pace, advancing only once they have proved topic mastery. They complete live coding interviews, projects, and written exams to show their understanding.
Upon successful completion, learners continue with the capstone portion. They spend four months in full-time classes, exploring topics like software architecture and cloud infrastructure. Each student then completes an intensive, research-based capstone project.
- Cost: $199 per month
- Format: Online; self-paced (core curriculum) and full time (capstone)
- Length: 8-16 months (core curriculum); 4-7 months (capstone)
- CIRR Member: No
Launch School's Job Placement Assistance
The capstone portion of the program includes 1-3 months of career searching. Launch School reports that all capstone graduates have landed jobs within 180 days of graduation. In 2020, the average starting salary was over $118,000.
Located in Portland, Oregon, The Tech Academy offers two types of self-paced bootcamps: automated and premier. The premier bootcamps include instructor assistance and guidance, while the automated bootcamps let students work entirely at their own pace.
Software Developer Bootcamp
Students can choose to complete the premier or automated version of the software developer bootcamp. Both programs include the same curriculum.
The first courses cover the fundamentals, including computer basics, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. As the program progresses, the courses become more intensive. The C#/.NET and Python classes each take about 160 study hours to complete.
Enrollees in the premier bootcamp also spend 160 hours on live projects. They spend two weeks working in a team to develop real-world software.
- Cost: $11,660 (premier, full time); $14,000 (premier, part time); $4,000 (automated, part time)
- Format: Online, on campus, or hybrid; part time or full time; self-paced
- Length: 22 weeks (full time); 40 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by The Tech Academy
C# and .NET Framework Bootcamp Python Developer Bootcamp Cybersecurity Bootcamp Front-End Web Developer Bootcamp Game Developer Bootcamp Mobile App Developer Bootcamp JavaScript Developer Bootcamp Java and Android Developer Bootcamp Data Science Bootcamp UI/UX Designer Bootcamp
The Tech Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Whether completing the premier or automated software development bootcamp, students receive job placement assistance. The final class provides resume, interview, and job search guidance.
Apple cofounder Steve Wozniak wanted to empower the rising software developers. He started Woz U, a network that connects aspiring tech professionals with higher education institutions and potential employers.
Software Developer Training Program
Woz U offers this bootcamp through the Southern Careers Institute. It combines hands-on experience with a curriculum designed by industry experts.
The ten classes take students from JavaScript basics to app deployment. Enrollees create front-end applications, back-end services, and databases. They develop skills in AJAX, ASP .NET, SQL, and React.
Students also learn project management skills and put them into practice with a final group project. The teams present their full-stack application to potential employers.
- Cost: $13,300 on average
- Format: Online; self-paced
- Length: 33 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Woz U
Cybersecurity Training Data Science Training Mobile Application Developer
Woz U's Job Placement Assistance
Woz U gives enrollees exclusive access to job and networking opportunities. Students also work with a career services coach to build their resume and practice interviewing skills.
- Coding Program | Software Development Training
- Online
- Full time
- $24,000
- Full-Stack Software Development; Online Software Development Course
- Austin, TX; Online
- Part time
- $9,175
- Immersive Full-Stack
- Boise, ID
- Full time
- $8,900
- Cleveland Codes Tri-C Software Developers Academy
- Hybrid; online and in Cleveland, OH
- Full time
- $4,500
- Immersive Course in JavaScript Development
- Charleston, SC; hybrid
- Full time
- $10,000
- Software Development Deep Stack Bootcamp
- Online
- Part time
- $2,500
- Online Software Developer Course
- Online
- Full time
- $0-$15,000
- Front-End Software Developer, Back-End Software Developer
- Online
- Part time
- $4,900
- Explore Software Development; Intro to Software Development; Foundations of Software Development; Intermediate Software Development; Advanced Software Development
- Memphis, TN
- Full time
- No upfront costs; deferred payment plan for 3 years
Common Questions About Software Development
Can you become a software developer with a bootcamp?
Yes, bootcamps can help prepare you to become a software developer. They teach core computer science concepts in a few months. Bootcamps often provide job placement assistance.
Are software development bootcamps worth it?
Students generally get out of bootcamps what they put into them. Schools may offer mentoring and career support. Learners who take advantage of these resources and dedicate themselves to the program often find that software development bootcamps are worth it.
How hard are coding bootcamps?
Both part-time and full-time coding bootcamps demand significant commitment. These intense programs cover many complex topics in a short period. The best bootcamps include academic support resources to help participants succeed.
What are the skills required for software development?
Software developers often work in front- and back-end development. They should know how to build databases and create software using popular programming languages like Python and Java. Tech professionals also need soft skills, like communication and problem-solving abilities.
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