C++ Bootcamps

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Shauna Blackmon is a journalist and writer specializing in the intersection of technology and humanity. She is also currently finishing her master's degree in international relations, focusing on future technologies and smart borders....
Updated on October 16, 2023
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Madison Hoehn has worked as an associate editor for BestColleges, focusing on coding bootcamp rankings and the skilled trades. She is passionate about providing readers with alternatives to a traditional four-year college. She holds a BA in English l...
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Originally called 'C with Classes' by creator Bjarne Stroustrup, C++ takes the already powerful programming language C and adds object-oriented, generic, and functional features. The language combines two opposite traits: it is strong but also fast and lightweight. This combination is why it can be found in so many operating systems, web browsers, applications, and video games.

A popular feature of C++ is that it's a scalable language, meaning that it allows developers to have more control over the resource application use. It is also an object-oriented programming language, meaning that the main focus is on objects and the ability to manipulate and reuse them.

While C++ is a very versatile programming language, it is also one of the more complex and more difficult to learn. Students looking to add C++ to their toolbelt are often advised to have a basic understanding of programming before attempting to master this language.

For students and tech professionals looking to add this skill to their resumes, coding bootcamps can be an excellent choice. These high-intensity programs often specialize in one area of expertise and may assist graduates with finding a career in the tech industry. If you want to start learning C++, these bootcamps may be a great fit for you.

Best C++ Bootcamps

Codecademy

  • Locations: Remote
  • Program Cost: $14.99-$19.99 per month
  • Learning Formats: Online
  • Time Commitment: Self-Paced

Evening & Weekend Options

In this beginner-friendly C++ course, students will learn about vectors, loops, and functions. They will also practice new skills with fun projects, such as creating a Harry Potter sorting hat or a Magic 8 Ball. This class is great for those who want to learn the basics of C++ without going super in-depth.

One benefit of joining Codecademy is that once you sign up for either of the pro versions, you get access to all of Codecademy's courses. Many take between 20-30 hours to complete, so students can learn the basics of a wide variety of coding skills in a relatively short time.


Developer Bootcamp

  • Locations: Remote
  • Program Cost: $2,400
  • Learning Formats: Online
  • Time Commitment: Self-Paced

Evening & Weekend Options

In this course, students have the benefit of being assigned a small working group with an assigned instructor. This offers students more personalized attention than in many other programs. The learning material in this bootcamp is split into two parts, each of which is half lecture and half hands-on learning exercises.

While this program is designed for students with prior experience in C or C++, there is also a free prerequisite course available for students new to programming. There are also two additional courses if students choose to continue their education. These courses are not included in the price, but Developer Bootcamp offers discounts if you sign up for multiple courses.


Coding Bootcamps for You

Udacity

  • Locations: Remote
  • Program Cost: $399/month or $1356 for four months
  • Learning Formats: Online
  • Time Commitment: Self-Paced

Career Services
Evening & Weekend Options

This five-part program aims to teach experienced software engineers what they need to know to become C++ developers. Students get hands-on learning opportunities such as building a route planner with OpenStreetMaps, building a multithreaded traffic simulator, and coding your own C++ application.

Udacity also features a career portal to help students tailor their resumes, LinkedIn, and GitHub profiles, as well as one-on-one coaching appointments and career and networking events. Overall, Udacity puts a strong priority on helping students find employment. There are also numerous scholarships available for students in need of financial aid.


Udemy

  • Locations: Remote
  • Program Cost: $19.99
  • Learning Formats: Online
  • Time Commitment: Self-Paced

Evening & Weekend Options
Money-Back Guarantee

This self-paced, beginner-friendly intro course takes students through the fundamentals of C++, including polymorphism, templates, abstract classes, and polymorphic templates. The course specifically focuses on problem-solving skills to prepare students to navigate real-world problems.

Once purchased, students receive lifetime access to the course, which is continuously updated and expanded. This way, students can refer back to old material and stay up-to-date with new or evolving trends. Udemy also frequently discounts their courses making them very affordable, but there is a 30-day money-back guarantee just in case you find the class is not for you.


UC San Diego

  • Locations: Remote
  • Program Cost: $2,995 (excluding textbooks and materials)
  • Learning Formats: Online
  • Time Commitment: Full or Part Time

Career Services

This university-level certificate program at UC San Diego starts with the basics of C and then delves into C++, covering numerous standard library items. The course focuses on efficiency, portability, and implementation independence. Students are expected to have a working knowledge of programming. Beginners are required to take a prerequisite course, costing an additional $725.

By the end of the 12-month program, students should be able to design, develop, and maintain applications using both languages. Since this program is offered through a university, students are eligible to receive 12 credit units if they choose to combine their C++ courses with a degree program. The program also offers an interest-free payment plan.

What Is C++ Programming?

C++ is a cross-platform language that creates web browsers, applications, and operating systems. It is an object-oriented language, meaning it organizes the design around the data instead of the functions. Because of this, programs written in C++ are often very efficient and easily changeable.

C++ is a part of a familial network of C languages. The original, simply called C, was the first of its kind, developed in the 1970s by an engineer at Bell Laboratories. C++, also created at Bell Laboratories, utilized many of the same features but added numerous tools and abilities. C#, developed at Microsoft in 2000, adds even more capabilities and is component-oriented, making it a high-level language.

While each of the C languages is distinct, they do build off of each other. Learning at least the basics of C before moving on to C++ or C# will give learners a better understanding of how to utilize the language.

What Is C++ Used For?

There probably isn't a single day where you don't interact with something built with C++. Web browsers, operating systems, and games often rely on C and C++ because of how strong and malleable they are. They are also commonly used in the financial, scientific, insurance, and tech industries. This means that it is usually not difficult for C++ developers to find work.

Common job titles for C++ specialists include embedded systems engineer, software developer, C++ programmer, C++ developer, and firmware engineer. The largest employers of C++ developers in the US are Microsoft, Capital One Bank, Cisco, IBM, and Verizon.

What Kind of Jobs Can You Get By Learning C++?

While C++ is not the most popular programming language, there are still plenty of opportunities to make a great career as a C++ developer. Some of the jobs you might expect to see as a C++ developer include:

  • C++ Programmer – These specific types of programmers use C++ to develop mobile or desktop applications and maintain older systems. Their average annual salary was $116,250 in May 2022, according to Indeed.
  • DevOps Engineer – Senior-level software engineers can use their C++ expertise to develop software that runs faster and more efficiently. DevOps engineers' average annual salary was $117,800 in May 2022, according to data from Indeed.
  • Software Development Manager – Those who demonstrate strong leadership skills may choose to mentor the next generation of programmers in addition to managing large development projects, programs, and initiatives. Indeed data shows the annual average salary for these professionals was $134,349 in May 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions About C++ Programming Bootcamps

What are C++ bootcamps like?

Coding bootcamps are often one of the best ways to learn programming or technical skills. Mostly online or self-paced, bootcamps combine expert instructors with hands-on learning. Coding bootcamps often incorporate career support into their programs and help students pursue work in the industry after graduation.

Coding bootcamps have become so popular that it should not be too difficult to find one that fits your needs. As many bootcamps are offered online, students with a variety of different schedules and learning needs can find something that works for them.

Can a C++ bootcamp get me a job?

Nothing is guaranteed, but C++ is a popular skill and might help get you noticed by employers. Some bootcamps offer career services and help with job placement, which might be particularly helpful if you're just launching a career in tech.

As is often the case, it mostly comes down to the time and energy you invest in the program. An easy ten-hour course might be a good intro, but it's not likely to elevate you to a new career path. If you are specifically looking to improve your resume to land a new job, pay attention to the bootcamp's depth of instruction and take your time to make sure you fully absorb the content.

Are coding bootcamps good for beginners?

Overall, C++ is one of the more complex programming languages to learn, so many of the bootcamps discussed above recommend that students have a basic familiarity with C or other programming languages. There are also plenty of bootcamps that cover C as well, so students can find something to match their current level.

If you are an absolute beginner, it could be helpful to specifically aim for a bootcamp that has a smaller class size and more individualized attention. Trying to learn entirely on your own might be difficult, as many concepts in computer science can be tricky.

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