Coding Bootcamp Myths Vs. Facts

The internet is full of myths and misconceptions about coding bootcamps.  These days, anybody with a blog can share their opinion, call it a “fact,” and muddy the water.  With all of that misleading information out there, it’s imperative to get the truth. After all, your future is on the line.  

At Career Karma, we’re experts in the world of coding bootcamps.  We know a thing or two, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of these common misconceptions.  Once we clear up the air on coding bootcamps, we’ll present you with the facts. Read on and we’ll help you make the right choice.

MYTH:  Coding bootcamp isn’t worth the time/money

Coding bootcamp isn’t easy, and you’ll need to put in real effort to succeed.  You’ll have to work hard to succeed, but all the resources you need are at your fingertips.  The reward is a direct path into a high-paying software engineering job. Depending on your state, you can earn an impressive starting salary.  Coding bootcamps usually cost between $5,000 and $20,000, but don’t run to the bank yet.  Many coding bootcamps offer income sharing agreements, which defer the cost until you graduate and land a job.  You only begin making payments once you land a job. Click here to learn how income sharing works.

Can’t I learn to code by myself?

Sure, you can learn to code without coding bootcamp, but your chances of failure are much higher.  Coding bootcamps provide resources you won’t have access to with any free option. Coding bootcamps provide instructors and access to other students to answer questions and increase your chance of success.  Additionally, coding bootcamps work alongside the tech industry to teach you the programming languages that are in demand now. Without coding bootcamp, you’ll lack the experience needed to succeed in the field.  

I already know how to code. Why shouldn’t I just apply for jobs?

If you learned to code on your own, good for you!  However, don’t go throwing your name out there so fast.  There’s more to software engineering than just knowing how to code.  Do you know all of the right languages? Do you know where to apply? Do you have an impressive portfolio?  If you answered ‘no’ to any of these questions, you’re probably not prepared to apply for jobs. Experience is key in this industry, so it’s worth attending a coding bootcamp to build your credibility.  “I taught myself how to code,” isn’t the eyebrow-raiser to employers that it used to be. Coding bootcamp will sharpen your coding skills, build a portfolio, and help you stand out from the competition.

MYTH:  I’m not qualified because I have no experience.

Coding bootcamps train you from the ground-up to be a software engineer.  You don’t need any previous coding experience going in, and you can learn everything you need before you apply.  Some bootcamps require a basic screening before application, but Career Karma can walk you through it.  The interview process may seem daunting, but it’s not difficult if you practice before applying.

You’ll need a little computer knowledge, but you don’t have to be Mark Zuckerberg to get started.  Coding bootcamps enroll truckers, nurses, lawyers, engineers, cashiers, and every other profession imaginable.  People from all walks of life succeed in coding bootcamp, so your background doesn’t matter. Even if you have a criminal record, you’re still qualified to attend a coding bootcamp.  

MYTH: There’s no way you can become a software engineer in a year.

Actually, you can become a software engineer in a year.  Countless Career Karma members successfully transitioned into software engineering careers through coding bootcamps.  All it takes is time, ambition, and the right coding bootcamp. The tech industry needs new talent, and coding bootcamps are a proven way to get your foot in the door.

But I don’t have time to go to school!

You don’t have to go to school full-time.  You can take classes part-time or online– whatever fits your needs.  Coding bootcamps can be extremely flexible, so do your research and figure out which program works for you.  Dozens of excellent coding bootcamps offer flexible schedules. Some coding bootcamps even offer living stipends if you choose to attend full-time.