Full-stack web development bootcamps prepare students for software engineering and development roles, along with various other computer science careers. Students often choose these programs for their condensed and focused nature, while employers value their emphasis on practical and relevant training. Bootcamps equip learners with applicable skills for many industries, including computer systems design, healthcare, and business and finance.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth in employment for web developers between 2020 and 2030, 5% more than the average rate for all occupations. The fast growth results from an increasing demand for ecommerce, mobile device solutions, and enhanced communications with users. Full-stack developers also enjoy strong financial rewards, earning median annual wages of $77,200.
What is a full-stack web development bootcamp?
A full-stack web development bootcamp provides training in both front- and back-end development. It also covers the most useful programming languages, web applications, and database architectures.
Full-stack web development bootcamps vary in curriculum, length, and delivery format. They often teach learners design strategies, the common tools and environments, and web and application development strategies. Depending on the program, participants may complete bootcamps anywhere from 3-12 months.
The available formats can differ considerably between programs, with some offering online, in-person, and hybrid study options, along with self-paced, part-time, and full-time schedules. They may run through colleges and universities or through independent organizations, which might also impact bootcamp accreditation. With so many options available, prospective students can usually find a bootcamp that suits their needs.
Skills learned in a full-stack web development bootcamp
Participants can pick up plenty of skills in a full-stack web development bootcamp. They may develop skills in areas such as architecture, design, databases, and application development.
Coding bootcamps often cover multiple programming languages, including HTML, JavaScript, Python, and CSS. Students learn when and how best to use these different scripting languages. In addition to learning how to code, bootcamp participants can pick up the following skills:
- Project planning
- Static and multi-page website development
- API and application development
- Database architecture
- Testing
- Mobile development
- Storage creation and handling
What should I expect from the day-to-day in a coding bootcamp?
Full-stack coding bootcamps may require students to attend online or in-person classes during the day, weeknights, or weekends. Learners often spend between 20-30 hours studying each week, in addition to instructor-led discussions, group projects, and independent study. Coding bootcamps also feature networking and mentorship opportunities.
Prospective students often ask, how hard is coding? The answer depends on the language and the function, but bootcamps usually aim to provide the fundamentals in an approachable way. While some of the more rigorous bootcamps require passing grades, most provide the necessary assistance to help students get through successfully.
Why pursue a bootcamp vs. a degree?
In many ways, full-stack web development bootcamps provide an accessible alternative to different computer science degrees. They can qualify graduates for some of the same entry-level careers but in a shorter period of time and for less money. The following list highlights some of the things that make coding bootcamps worth it.
- More affordable
- Quicker training times
- Easier admission
- Focused and practical training
- Networking potential
- Mentoring opportunities
How much do full-stack web development bootcamps cost?
The cost of a full-stack web development bootcamp depends on the program and organization offering it. These programs can fall anywhere between $2,000-$31,000, though most come in at around $10,000.
Coding bootcamps usually cost less than a college degree because they feature fewer credits and do not provide general education training. Some programs offer free training, but most charge competitive rates for professionals looking for access to a rewarding field. The types of support offered, technologies used, and faculty quality can all impact program costs.
Though bootcamp students cannot always access the same type of federal funding as college and university degree-seekers, they can qualify for scholarships and financial aid. Many organizations also offer low-interest payment plans and creative financing options, such as payment deferrals and income-sharing agreements.
Top full-stack web development bootcamps
To help prospective students narrow down their list of potential full-stack web development bootcamps, we have listed some of the top programs available in the U.S. Though not an exhaustive list, the following entries should give aspiring web developers a good start to their search.
- In-person location: Miami and Orlando
- Available online? Yes
- Format: Online and in-person, part-time
- Length: 16 weeks
- Subjects: Web development, API development, and advanced applications
- Cost: $7,499
- Financing options: Upfront payment, extended payment, and income-sharing agreement
- Job placement assistance: Yes
4Geeks Academy’s full-stack web developer bootcamp has prepared aspiring developers for the field since 2014. The training covers coding foundations and popular Python and JavScript languages, along with web, API, and application development. Bootcamp participants have access to support throughout the program and after graduation.
4Geeks Academy’s programs start multiple times each year and feature three weekly online or in-person classes. Much of the learning takes place through project-based practical training. For admission, applicants need only logical thinking and do not need coding experience.
- In-person location: San Francisco and New York
- Available online? Yes
- Format: Online and in-person, part-time and full-time
- Length: 16-48 weeks
- Subjects: Python, JavaScript, React, MySQL, and responsive design
- Cost: $17,000-$31,000
- Financing options: Upfront payment, payment plans, financing, and deferred tuition model
- Job placement assistance: Yes
Running since 2012, App Academy’s full-stack web development bootcamp trains aspiring software developers and engineers. The program starts with programming, computer science, and development fundamentals, moving into front- and back-end engineering and Python. The training combines lectures, projects, partner programming assignments, and self-study.
App Academy’s classes run Monday through Friday for full-time students, whereas part-time learners spend up to 27.5 hours each week with homework, evening weekday classes, and Saturday lessons. For admission, prospective online students need to complete non-technical assessments and an interview, plus technical challenges prior to beginning courses. Prospective in-person students need to pass a coding challenge.
- Format: Online, full-time and part-time
- Length: 4-7 months
- Subjects: HTML and CSS, server- and client-side programming, and native app development
- Cost: $9,800
- Financing options: Upfront payment, month-to-month, and custom payment plans
- Job placement assistance: Yes
CareerFoundry started offering its full-stack web development bootcamp in 2014, striving to train the next generation of development leaders. The training comprises front-end fundamentals and full-stack immersion, including programming, app development, testing, and collaboration.
Learners study online 15-40 hours each week and, depending on their scheduling choice, can graduate in less than seven months. CareerFoundry offers multiple start dates each year, provides tutoring and mentorships, and allows students to develop a portfolio as they study. For admission, prospective students only need a computer and an interest in web development.
- In-person location: Chicago, Denver, New York, Austin, and more
- Available online? Yes
- Format: Online and on-campus, full-time and part-time
- Length: 15-60 weeks
- Subjects: JavaScript, React.js, Ruby basics, and SQL
- Cost: $16,900
- Financing options: Upfront payment, payment plan, and loan financing
- Job placement assistance: Yes
Flatiron School was founded in 2012, and the full-stack web development bootcamp provides a streamlined pathway to the software engineering profession. The training covers front- and back-end development, front-end web applications, and back-end web APIs. Depending on their chosen delivery method, students may learn through class instruction, independent study, or 1-on-1 instruction.
Flatiron School offers monthly start dates and various mentorship opportunities. Full-time students spend nine hours in class daily, Monday to Friday, while part-time learners can customize their schedule. For admission, prospective students need to complete an interview and a problem-solving assessment.
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Full-stack web development bootcamps: Top programs and what to expect