A Guide to the 10 Best Coding and Programming Bootcamps

Are you looking to enter the tech industry or pursue a career change? Or maybe you just like a good challenge? If so, you may consider enrolling in a coding bootcamp. When it comes to the tech industry, more and more students are forgoing the traditional university path and choosing something that better fits their needs. Coding bootcamps are often less expensive than four-year degrees. They only take between a few weeks to a few months to complete, provide more hands-on experience, and often help students find their first job after graduation. For those reasons, it's not surprising that more people are choosing bootcamps over university programs.

The tech industry also continues to be a lucrative industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 15% increase in information technology (IT) and IT occupations between 2021 and 2031, nearly double that of the average expected growth for all other industries. In 2021, these workers also earned a median annual salary of $97,430, more than double the national median salary across all jobs.

What Are Coding Bootcamps?

Coding bootcamps provide a streamlined and often far less expensive option for people who want to break into the tech industry. They often cover topics from data science to software engineering to cybersecurity. Many bootcamps are also online, meaning students can work around their schedules and other responsibilities more easily.

While bootcamp students spend less time in the classroom than college students, most bootcamps start immediately with hands-on knowledge and training. In contrast, computer science degree students might spend multiple semesters learning foundational knowledge but spend limited time learning how to actually code.

Coding Bootcamps for You

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Bootcamp

Maybe you decided that a bootcamp is the way to go. But then comes the big question: Which bootcamp should you pick? While you can find a lot of good options out there, you should consider four main factors when deciding which is the best fit for you.

Cost

As with many things, it's a difficult line between wanting a good deal and a quality product. On average, a bootcamp that prepares you for a new career may cost a few thousand dollars.

In addition to how much a program costs, you should also consider the available payment options. Many programs offer financing, scholarships, or deferred payment until you land your first job, which can help ease the financial burden.

Duration

Many programs last somewhere between 3-10 months, depending on if students opt for a full- or part-time option. While it might be tempting to look for the quickest program available so you can start working, remember that these courses teach fairly complex material. It can take a while to fully comprehend what these programs teach you.

Format

Studying online offers many benefits, but it's not for everyone. Before choosing a program, figure out if you'd prefer an online or in-person learning environment.

If online seems like the better choice, you'll also need to decide if you'd prefer a regimented structure with live classes or a more self-paced bootcamp.

Career Services

Many bootcamps provide career services to their students. Many of the programs listed below offer students up to six months of career services, helping with everything from crafting a great resume to putting students in direct contact with potential employers.

Do Coding Bootcamps Get You Jobs?

One of the primary benefits of choosing a bootcamp over a college program is that bootcamp providers are often more invested in helping their graduates find work. A few bootcamps have job guarantee policies, meaning they refund students' tuition if they cannot find work. Many bootcamps also offer career services that can help with networking, writing a resume, and nailing an interview.

Both large and smaller tech companies are changing their perceptions of the importance of a computer science degree. While previously mandatory for many tech jobs, now many employers see that bootcamp graduates can often bring more hands-on experience to the table. Examples of the companies that often hire bootcamp graduates are:

The Best Coding Bootcamps

Methodology

Bootcamp Ranking Guidelines

At BestColleges, we believe the best bootcamp is the one that fits your schedule, your learning needs, and your career aspirations. That's why we often present our recommendations in alphabetical order -- because the real best bootcamp is the bootcamp that's best for you.

Get the Qualities You Want in a Bootcamp

We use icons to make browsing bootcamps easy for you. Use this breakdown to quickly identify program qualities you are looking for.

Accepts GI Bill®

Accepts the GI Bill® as funding for tuition.

Also Available In Person

This online bootcamp also offers in-person options.

Career Services

Offers career services to help you land your dream job after graduation.

CIRR Member

This bootcamp is a current member of the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting. Learn more at cirr.org.

Evening & Weekend Options

Bootcamps are offered during convenient evening and weekend hours.

Job Guarantee

Employment is guaranteed as soon as you finish your bootcamp.

Money-Back Guarantee

Tuition is refunded if you don't land a job within a given time frame after graduation. Visit the bootcamp website for terms and conditions.

Start for Free

No deposit is required to get started. Begin your bootcamp for $0.

Other Notable Schools for Coding

Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?

What kind of education and experience you get from a bootcamp depends on the amount of time and effort you put in. Employers like to see an applicant's portfolio or experience, so students who use their time and opportunities well in a bootcamp may build a stronger portfolio.

Getting a tech job after a bootcamp may also lead to a pay raise, making bootcamps worth it for many people.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Coding Bootcamps

How do I choose the best coding bootcamp?

To choose the best coding bootcamp for you, look for a program that meets your specific set of needs. Think about what you want to learn and whether you learn best in person or online.

Another important consideration includes finding programs that fit your financial needs. Also, check if bootcamp providers offer scholarships, financing options, or income share agreements.

There are many good options out there, so chances are, if you do your research, you'll find something that fits your needs.

Which coding bootcamp is best for beginners?

Software engineering and web development are popular choices for those new to the tech industry. But you should choose a bootcamp based on what you want to learn and do rather than what is best for beginners.

Many coding bootcamp providers design their programs for students new to the field, so many programs are suitable for beginners. However, a few programs require a certain skill level for enrollment.

Some bootcamps that require previous knowledge may also offer an introductory class to bring students to the appropriate starting level.

Can I learn how to code for free?

Yes. There are free coding resources available online, but choosing this path may not be easy. The comprehensiveness and clarity of free online resources can be a hit or miss.

Learning to code is like learning a new language — some are a bit easier, like HTML. When learning your first language, it can be a good idea to pay for a course or bootcamp that provides learning materials and resources. But it can be much easier to learn subsequent languages, so you may be able to learn them using free resources.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://benefits.va.gov/gibill/index.asp.

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