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Are boot camps worth it?

There are many boot camp options for individuals looking to learn new skills or change careers. But all boot camps are not created equal, nor are they priced the same. If you’re struggling to decide which boot camp is right for you, review some of the key elements to look for in a boot camp to maximize your return on investment.

Is a boot camp worth it?

For many learners, entering the tech workforce is an important part of their career plan. Whether beginning their career or switching to a new one, entering a new field can be daunting. And the options for where to take your career can be overwhelming.

However, the tech sector offers many professional opportunities. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment in the computer and information technology sector is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations between 2022 and 2032, with more than 375,000 job openings projected each year. Those jobs also pay well, with a median annual wage of more than $100,000.

As a result, many learners interested in pursuing these types of careers choose boot camps as a quick way to gain the in-demand skills that employers are looking for, while developing valuable experience. Learners can upskill on an accelerated timelines and pay a fraction of the price of full degree programs.

Still, it’s important to do your due diligence when vetting the quality of a boot camp and its curriculum. Is a coding boot camp worth it or should you pursue a full degree in computer and information technology? To answer a question like this, you have to consider the key benefits of the different learning paths and accurately assess your skills against the skills that employers are seeking in job applicants.

Six key benefits to look for in a boot camp

1. Market-driven curriculum

For many learners, it’s difficult to know what skills employers are looking for. And, it will be even more difficult to gain the skills for a specific type of role within a tech field if they are not particularly familiar with that industry.

One of the benefits of boot camps in comparison to other online courses is that the university-backed curricula are constantly evolving to address employer needs and new technology. Through ongoing discussions with employer network partners, universities, and leading professionals, boot camps offered through edX teach the skills employers currently need and will require in the future given innovation in technology and changes in consumer trends. With boot camps available for various tech fields, you can find a field that interests you and will help you move closer to your desired professional outcomes.

2. Name recognition

Boot camps offered through edX are a result of collaboration with more than 50 leading universities, providing a significant advantage when applying for jobs after completion of the coursework.

A university’s name recognition can be helpful with employers because they know that universities take educational quality and standards very seriously. University-backed boot camps also give employers the reassurance that successful boot camp learners will be well-trained and effective in the workplace if hired.

3. Dynamic virtual learning environments

Many online courses are self-study models, with little to no interaction with instructional staff or peers. This lack of engagement and personal support can be challenging for some learners and demotivating for others.

In comparison, the dynamic virtual learning environment found in boot camps offered through edX enables learners to upskill quickly and confidently. Synchronous online class sessions offer interaction with instructional staff who can answer questions in real time. In addition, group projects with real-world applications allow you to collaborate with your peers and help each other through complex materials. This can better prepare you for a tech career which heavily relies on team engagement.

4. Tutoring and learning support

Learners can sometimes feel lost applying what they learn when working independently. Sometimes a concept doesn’t make sense, or they may have trouble applying a method to a practice problem or project. For those participating in self-study courses or non-university affiliated boot camps, support may be lacking in these situations, which can leave learners frustrated and unable to progress through learning content and materials. However, boot camps offered through edX provide resources to help learners every step of the way. Tutors are available to help answer any questions, provide resources to help, and even set up a one-on-one tutoring session via Zoom.

5. Tech support

For many boot camp learners, getting set up for virtual classes can come with challenges. Whether it’s your first time using remote meeting platforms or installing new programs on your computer, you’ll have access to a dedicated support team who can help you troubleshoot any technical issues you encounter during your studies, making sure you can stay on track without interruptions.

6. Career support

Learning new professional skills is the first part of beginning a new career. The actual job search process is what enables learners to demonstrate their skills to potential employers and land their desired tech role.

Key elements of an effective job search include:

  • Developing a CV

  • Accessing cover letter templates

  • Creating or updating your LinkedIn profile

  • Networking at industry events (in person and online)

  • Creating job search materials including a professional portfolio

  • Identifying potential industries, companies, and roles

  • Applying for positions

  • Preparing for interviews

  • Using the right communication process to interact with potential employers

  • Salary negotiations

  • Job acceptance and onboarding

With boot camps offered through edX, you will receive career support to ensure your success beyond the classroom. Robust career services can help you make a successful transition to a new tech career, or advance in your current field.

What makes edX Boot Camps different?

edX Boot Camps are university-backed, dynamic virtual learning boot camps offering market-driven curricula that help learners gain the in-demand skills they need to succeed in their desired tech career.

Your boot camp experience will include:

  • 24/7 tech support to help you set up and access your virtual learning environment, as well as troubleshoot any additional issues in accessing or working with materials.

  • 24/7 tutoring support to assist you with questions regarding content, as well as to schedule one-on-one Zoom tutoring sessions on a weekly basis.

In addition to the outstanding instructional staff and practical, project-based skills reinforcement learners receive during their boot camp experience, edX Boot Camps offer key services to help learners achieve their employment goals. Each learner’s Career Services team works to assist them through their job search process step-by-step, focusing on specific job search activities.

Successful boot camp learners will also gain access to a global alumni community and a network of more than 260 employers seeking skilled boot camp alumni.

Ready to take the next step?

Are you ready to take the next step in your career journey? If so, it’s time to begin your research and determine which boot camp makes the most sense for you. Review the cost of a boot camp and verify that the boot camp you choose provides the key benefits that will help drive your job search and fuel your tech career success. This will ensure that you get the return on investment you are seeking to propel you into the next stage of your career.

Get started on your learning journey today with edX.

Last updated November 2023