Online vs. In-Person Tech Bootcamp: Which Is Right for You?

Learning used to be limited to in-person sessions inside a classroom. But thanks to technological advancements, information is now only a few clicks away. As a result, students have a wide range of educational alternatives, from attending traditional classrooms to enrolling in online courses.

These innovations have likewise been adopted in some tech bootcamps. They deliver programs via online and in-person formats, offering prospective learners more flexibility in choosing how they want to learn new tech skills.

If you’re considering enrolling at a tech bootcamp, read on as we break down which learning option is right for you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tech Bootcamp

If you’re a career switcher who wants to enhance your skills and pursue a tech career, below are several factors to consider before choosing the right bootcamp program.

1. Learning Style

Are you an independent learner, or do you prefer the experience of attending a class with other students? Do you have enough self-discipline to set your learning schedule? Determining your learning style early on can help you decide which bootcamp program fits you best.

2. Time Commitment

Find out how long it will take you to finish your prospective bootcamp program. Then determine if you are ready, professionally and personally, to set aside the required hours per week to attend classes and complete assignments and projects.

For example, Flatiron School’s full-time schedule will require you to spend 45 to 60 hours per week on the program to finish in 15 weeks. On the other hand, the part-time schedule will allow you to complete the program in 40 weeks and require around 25 hours of study per week.

3. Tuition Costs

This is one of the most crucial things you need to consider when researching bootcamps. What is the difference in cost between an online and in-person bootcamp? Look at the payment plans available and any student loans you are eligible for. Moreover, consider any additional expenses for in-person bootcamp programs. For example, consider board and lodging, travel expenses, and other costs.

4. Return on Investment

Another vital statistic to look at is the outcomes of the bootcamps you are considering. Research graduation rates and whether most students successfully landed their dream role after completing their program. What kind of career support or career services does the bootcamp offer? Some bootcamps provide career services long after graduation, so it is worth looking into this as well.

When considering pursuing a bootcamp program, you have two choices in the learning mode: attending an in-person or an online course. Let’s take a closer look at both options.

Is an In-Person Tech Bootcamp Right for You?

An in-person tech bootcamp program entails attending classes on campus and meeting with instructors and peers face-to-face. There are several advantages when choosing an in-person program, and we have outlined some of them below.

Direct Interaction With Peers

Through an in-person program, you can easily interact with your peers. Instead of sitting in front of a screen, you’re in a classroom surrounded by people on the same learning journey. As such, learning becomes a more interactive experience.

In-person programs offer ample opportunities to work with fellow learners on different class requirements. This program also makes building your professional network easier because you have more opportunities to interact personally with those in your cohort.

Easier Access to Instructors for Feedback and Guidance

Unlike online courses, in-person programs allow instructors to give you immediate feedback. This can be crucial to anyone learning a new skill. Being in the same classroom as your instructor, you can ask for help and receive guidance immediately. This can be especially useful when working on a project or trying to master a new skill.

A More Structured Way of Learning

With an in-person bootcamp or a full-time online program, you don’t have to think about pacing yourself to finish the program on time or creating your study schedule. Likewise, there’s no need to squeeze in pockets of learning in your everyday life. Here, a schedule is laid out for you. All you have to do is show up.

Moreover, when you are pursuing an in-person program, you have fewer distractions since you’re learning under the direct supervision of your instructors. It feels more like a traditional classroom setting where you and your cohort are immersed in lessons. This environment can help you focus on the course and maximize your learning experience.

Is an Online Tech Bootcamp Right for You?

If you are a working professional, a parent, or simply have a hectic lifestyle, this mode of learning may be better suited for you. Below are some of the perks of studying online.

More Flexibility

A part-time online tech bootcamp is beneficial if you lead a busy life. For example, are you a parent, primary caregiver, or working professional who must juggle your studies along with your work and family? If you cannot follow a set schedule, a part-time online bootcamp may be better suited for you because you can dictate when and how much time per day you can spend on the course.

No Need to Relocate to Attend a Course

Online tech bootcamps have made it possible for you to pursue a specific bootcamp that fits you best without relocating. No more commuting or spending money traveling to a campus. With just a few clicks on your keyboard, you would be able to upskill in tech.

Learn at Your Own Pace

With a part-time online bootcamp, you have more control over your learning. You fit learning into your schedule, not the other way around. If you can spend six hours today on the course but only two hours tomorrow, that’s fine. The only time requirement is that you finish the entire program within the given time frame.

Full-Time/Live Program vs. Part-Time/Flex Programs at Flatiron School

Flatiron School offers a full-time/live schedule, both online and in-person, that is 15 weeks long. There is also an online part-time/flex option, which is paced for students to complete the program in 40 weeks.

Students enroll in an in-person program on campus or an online program and are expected to attend class from Monday to Friday for nine hours each day. They also have 20 hours of homework, projects, and assignments on nights and weekends.

Daniel Reyes, Account Executive on the Flatiron School’s Admissions Team, shares additional insights on the differences between an online and in-person bootcamp at Flatiron School as well as their full-time/live programs.

“All together, we’re talking 60 hours of study per week; you’re married to Flatiron School. It’s why we call these things bootcamps,” he says. “Full-time/live programs happen in real-time, so students have a lot of structure because they’re meeting at the same time each day with the same instructor and classmates.”

The main takeaway is that you will not have flexibility regarding your schedules. But, in exchange, you get to graduate in just 15 weeks!

On the opposite end is Flatiron School’s flex program. “Our flex program was made for working professionals,” says Reyes. “We realize that not everyone can stop working for 15 weeks, so this program gives you the control and flexibility to choose when to learn and how many hours a week to spend on your studies.”

Most people finish in 40 weeks because they put 25 hours a week into completing the program. Reyes shares that some students have graduated in 20 or 30 weeks by spending more time on the course every week, but all students ultimately have up to 60 weeks to graduate.

“The takeaway is that you will not have as much structure because of all the flexibility. That’s why you can learn at your pace.”

Indeed, your choice of program will depend on what you’re looking for in your studies. Convenience or connection?

The in-person program offers more opportunities to create stronger bonds with instructors and classmates because you will be together for 15 weeks. The online program, on the other hand, makes it possible to eliminate the hassle and cost of commuting to class and learn from the comfort of your home.

“I also tell students, if you want remote work, what better way to prove to an employer that you can do that than telling them you took an intensive bootcamp online and were successful,” Reyes adds.

Take Control of Your Learning at Flatiron School

No matter which learning mode fits you better, Flatiron School provides courses that meet your needs.

Flatiron School offers full-time in-person programs at its New York City and Denver locations and full-time online programs. Part-time online courses are also available for those who need more flexibility and can’t commit to a full-time schedule. No matter which format you choose, each program offers the same high-quality training you can take from wherever you are.

You will also have an experienced professional as your dedicated full-time instructor to contact for educational support, feedback, and one-on-one sessions. You can also be part of Flatiron School’s Slack Community Space, which provides peer-to-peer support and community events. These ensure you have the resources to help you along your journey and complete your program.

After completing the course, you can meet with a career coach and receive help in terms of career services, such as how to apply for a tech job, update your resume, enhance your LinkedIn profile, and experience mock interviews. You can access the career services available for up to 180 days after graduation.

Whichever mode of learning you choose, you will experience an exceptional learning journey at Flatiron School. Get in touch with Flatiron School to learn more about its programs.