As the world gravitates more towards technology, it is increasingly necessary to possess tech skills to secure future careers. If you are interested in programming or related fields, one of the ways to acquire the essential skills is by attending a coding bootcamp. With numerous coding bootcamps available, it can be a challenge to choose the one that fits your career goals. To help you make the right choice, below is a list of what you should look for when scouting for a coding bootcamp.

1. Requirements and Curriculum

Before enrolling in a coding bootcamp, you have to make sure that it fits your learning and career goals. After deciding on the programming language you want to learn, check the bootcamp’s curriculum to ensure the language is part of its curriculum. Look at the courses and what they entail, and check whether they are up to date to fit the current tech demands.

The curriculum will also help you establish whether you need to understand the fundamentals before applying. Note that some coding bootcamps require you to have prior experience in coding before signing up, while others accept beginners. Therefore, you need to be honest with your skills and level of knowledge to ensure you choose a bootcamp that adequately addresses your educational needs.

2. Tuition Costs

The ability to pay for your tuition means you can comfortably undertake your training and complete it without financial constraints. Therefore, look out for the bootcamp’s tuition costs to establish whether you can afford it. Knowing the financial requirements upfront not only allows you to choose a bootcamp that fits your budget but also helps you plan your finances. Note that the average tuition cost is about $11000.

If your budget is low, look out for coding bootcamps that offer scholarship opportunities or payment plan options to help you finance your education. You can also take advantage of programs like GI Bill benefits for discounts on coding camps for veterans. Since every coding bootcamp is unique, shop around and compare different offers so you can find one that fits your career goals within your budget.

3. Format

Coding bootcamps are available in online, in-person, or hybrid formats. Online coding bootcamps happen virtually, while you have to attend in-person coding bootcamps physically. Hybrid bootcamps, on the other hand, combine online and in-person formats to give you the best of both worlds. When choosing a coding bootcamp, consider your ideal learning style so you can choose the best format for you.

If you excel in a class environment where you can easily interact with your classmates and instructors, an in-person coding bootcamp is your best option. Online formats may work well for you if you prefer-self paced learning, or distance won’t allow you to attend in-person classes. Besides your learning style, your lifestyle can also inform your choices. Individuals with full-time jobs or parental responsibilities will find online coding bootcamps more convenient.

4. Learning Duration/Pace

How much time are you willing to commit to your training? Note that it can take you anywhere between 8 weeks to a whole year to complete your training. Usually, the duration of the bootcamp depends on whether the program is part-time or full-time. Part-time coding bootcamps require students to be available during weekends or evenings, while full-time programs run from Monday to Friday.

Part-time coding bootcamps take longer than full-time programs since it takes longer to complete the curriculum when studying only a few hours or days a week. Therefore, choose a coding bootcamp whose learning pace is convenient for you to ensure you achieve your goals within your ideal timeline.

5. Student Outcomes

Unlike university programs, bootcamps lack accreditation systems that allow for third-party evaluation of the programs. Therefore, it can be tasking establishing how good a bootcamp is for you. When looking for a coding bootcamp, check their student outcomes by considering factors like graduation rates, employment success after the bootcamp, and starting salaries of previous graduates.

Fortunately, most bootcamps readily provide information about student outcomes on their websites. If they are not available on the website, consider asking for the details directly. Checking student outcomes allows you to assess your return on investment to ensure you are getting value at the end of your training.

6. Career Services

Some coding bootcamps offer career services to their students. These may include career coaching, assistance with creating professional portfolios, help with interview preparation, and resume review. Some also connect graduates with hiring organizations to help them obtain employment after training.

Since career services add value to your education by helping you network and get your foot in the door of your dream career, it is advisable to consider coding bootcamps that integrate them into their programs.

With the above information, you can figure out what’s important to you and narrow down your search to the best coding bootcamp for you.