UC Berkeley Bootcamp is a great launchpad for people looking to explore a career in the tech industry. It is an extension of UC Berkeley, one of the premier higher learning institutions in the US. It combines the prestige of university education with the practicality of a coding bootcamp, ensuring that students walk away with key skills, hands-on experience, and professional portfolios.
Not all university coding bootcamps are created equal. Some of the things to consider when choosing a bootcamp to attend include the overall learning experience and career goals. This UC Berkeley coding bootcamp review will take a deep dive into its programs, locations, instructors, and application process. We will also look at the tuition and ways to fund your education at the UC Berkeley extension coding bootcamp.
Attending one of the top university coding bootcamps is a fantastic way to get a solid programming foundation upon which you can build a great career. But how do you know you’ve chosen the right one? Fortunately, this UC Berkeley bootcamp offers the fast pace and intensity of a coding bootcamp alongside the prestige and scholarship that only a respected institution like Berkeley can provide.
UC Berkeley is one of the United States’ premier higher learning institutions and is a leader in cutting-edge research and next-level technological design. In this article, we’ll take a look at it and find out what makes UC Berkeley Coding Bootcamp stand out from the competition. We take a deep dive into the program’s particulars, examining the coursework you can expect to see, the instructors who teach it, school locations, and the interview process.
UX/UI Bootcamp, FinTech Bootcamp, Digital Marketing Bootcamp, and Data Analytics Bootcamp
| Description | The UC Berkeley UX/UI Bootcamp covers HTML, JavaScript, GIT, CSS, user prototyping, and design research, while the UC Berkeley FinTech Bootcamp covers Python, Pandas, Amazon Web Services, algorithmic trading, linear regression, and scikit-learn. The UC Berkeley Digital Marketing Bootcamp tackles search engine optimization, data strategies, domain authorities, and paid advertising.The UC Berkeley Data Analytics Bootcamp, meanwhile, covers Python, databases, statistics, Tableau, machine learning, and, web visualization. |
| Cost | $9,995-$13,995 |
| Location | Online |
| Start Dates | Every quarter |
| Class Time | Part-time: 4 to 9 hours/week |
| Program Duration | Part-time: 18 to 24 weeksSelf-paced |
| Part-Time Courses | UX/UI BootcampFinTech BootcampDigital Marketing Bootcamp |
| Full-Time Courses | N/A |
Top UC Berkeley Bootcamps
The top UC Berkeley Bootcamps listed above are designed to help students build core skills in UX/UI, fintech, digital marketing, and data analytics in as little as 18 weeks. Students are required to attend virtual classes, some of which are led by industry experts. This UC Berkeley coding bootcamp review will walk you through all four programs and highlight key topics you will learn respectively.
Berkeley UI/UX Bootcamp
UC Berkeley UX/UI Bootcamp is a part-time program that can be completed in 24 weeks. It is ideal for working adults looking to upskill or people seeking a flexible learning experience. Virtual classes are held only three times a week. UC Berkeley UX/UI students also have access to the career services team which they can consult throughout the bootcamp and 90 days after.
What you will learn at Berkeley UX/UI Bootcamp:
- User-centric design research. You will learn qualitative and quantitative research practices, information architecture, user experience, and persona creation.
- Visual prototyping and wireframing. You will engage in storyboarding, decision mapping, and more using tools like Adobe XD, Figma, InVision, and Google Slides.
- User Interface Development. You will learn topics like atomic design, color theory, typography, UI grids and composition, and heuristic evaluation.
Berkeley FinTech Bootcamp
Berkeley FinTech Bootcamp is an online part-time program that spans 24 weeks. Classes are held two days a week and last two hours each. The program is curated to help you develop a strong understanding of core topics in financial technology. UC Berkeley FinTech Bootcamp also offers a unique learning experience that incorporates instructor-led sessions and self-study.
What you will learn at Berkeley FinTech Bootcamp:
- Blockchain and cryptocurrency. You will cover topics like Ethereum, smart contracts, consensus algorithms, distributed ledger, and transactions.
- Machine learning in financial technology. You will learn algorithmic trading, linear regression, forecasting, deep learning, support vector machines, and AWS SageMaker.
- Programming and financial libraries. You will be introduced to tools and software like Python, Pandas, APIs, Amazon Web Services, SQL, and NumPy.
Berkeley Digital Marketing Bootcamp
UC Berkeley Digital Marketing Bootcamp is an 18-week, part-time program. It is suitable for learners with tight schedules as classes only take place three days a week for three hours each. Berkeley Digital Marketing Bootcamp offers a market-driven curriculum with a focus on effective marketing strategies.
What you will learn at Berkeley Digital Marketing Bootcamp:
- Digital marketing strategy. You will learn about data strategies, digital funnels, content strategy, customer journey, and organic social media.
- Digital advertising, data organization, and automation. You will be exposed to social media advertising and analytics, audience building, and marketing automation.
- Optimizing campaigns and websites. You will gain a deeper understanding of
WordPress, link building, content optimization, domain authority, and more.
Berkeley Data Analytics Bootcamp
UC Berkeley Data Analytics Bootcamp is a 24-week, part-time program offering a blended learning experience. Students attend virtual classes online for four hours every week and complete assignments and complex projects on their own time. UC Berkeley’s data analytics program can prepare you for entry-level positions in business analysis and more.
What you will learn at Berkeley Data Analytics Bootcamp:
- Front end web visualization. You will cover HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, dashboarding, JavaScript charting, and geo-mapping using Leaflet.js.
- Python programming. You will learn about data visualization using Matplotlib, API interactions, and other popular Python libraries like Pandas and NumPy.
- Intermediate Excel and database management. You will create pivot tables in Excel and code using VBA scripting. You will also learn to use MongoDB and PostgreSQL.
UC Berkeley Bootcamp Locations
UC Berkeley Bootcamp has three brick-and-mortar locations in the greater San Francisco Bay area. However, all the bootcamps listed above are currently offered online. This affords flexibility and convenience to UC Berkeley Bootcamp students, especially those who are also working while studying.
UC Berkeley Bootcamp Review
UC Berkeley’s coding bootcamp gets top marks from former students who regard the program as tough and challenging yet provided huge benefits to their personal and professional development. Some were particularly impressed with the way UC Berkeley bootcamp monitors their performance through constant check-ins even though the programs are fully remote.
In their Berkeley coding bootcamp reviews, the students highlight specific aspects of UC Berkeley’s bootcamp that pushed them and made them better developers. They include a top-notch career services team, hands-on learning, a market-driven curriculum, and stellar instructional staff. On average, students gave UC Berkeley’s bootcamp top ratings across the board.
Berkeley’s coding bootcamp gets top marks from former students who regard the program as tough and challenging, but of huge benefit to their personal and professional development. In their reviews, the students highlight specific aspects of UC Berkeley’s bootcamp that pushed them and made them better developers. On average, students gave Berkeley’s bootcamp top ratings across the board.
UC Berkeley Extension Bootcamp Cost
UC Berkeley extension coding bootcamps cost between $9,995 to $13,995 depending on the specialization. This is around the average cost of a coding bootcamp in 2021, according to our State of the Bootcamp Market Report.
It should be noted that the school offers various financing options and will work with the student to help them pay for coding bootcamp. It accepts some government educational assistance programs and offers scholarships to help defray costs.
Additionally, a new government program called EQUIP is being rolled out to provide financial assistance to low-income students attending training bootcamps that partner with colleges and universities. These options can help you assess the best choice that works for your situation.
Bootcamp Instructors
One of the reasons to choose the extension of an elite university is the quality of the instructors. Depending on the program, UC Berkeley Bootcamp students will be taught by some of the best educators around. They will get to learn, collaborate, and connect with industry experts who want them to grow and flourish in their professional careers.
At UC Berkeley Bootcamp, classes have limited enrollment to ensure that the instructor-to-student ratio is low. Students will work with leaders in the field and benefit from their professional experiences. As some graduates mentioned in online reviews, the instructors are responsive and flexible. They would have one-on-one conversations with students to help them grasp a concept or complete a difficult task.
Berkeley Bootcamp Schedule
Your schedule at UC Berkeley coding bootcamp will vary depending on the program. The UX/UI, FinTech, and Digital Marketing Bootcamps are offered on a part-time basis while the Data Analytics Bootcamp is flexible and self-paced.
The part-time programs at UC Berkeley Bootcamp are structured in two ways: blended learning which combines instructor-led and self-study sessions or three hours of online lessons on three weekdays. Meanwhile, those taking the self-paced program don’t have set schedules for their studies.
Berkeley Bootcamp Reddit Discussions
UC Berkeley’s bootcamps were developed in association with Trilogy Education Services, an innovative startup known for working with prestigious universities across the country to offer training bootcamps.
We love this concept and had a great discussion about it with Dan Somer, Trilogy’s founder and CEO, that you can find here. We’re not the only ones who love it, either. You can find all kinds of Reddit chatter about Trilogy’s program, in general, and Berkeley’s coding bootcamp in particular.
Much of the Reddit conversation centers around the new model that Trilogy is developing and that Berkeley is following. For instance, a Redditor asking for program information got an ecstatic review from one poster who loved the mix of value and flexible schedules that Berkeley offers. They couldn’t get over how good the instructors are and they were especially happy that they were able to attend bootcamp and still keep working.
Berkeley Bootcamp Curriculum
UC Berkeley Bootcamp offers a slew of comprehensive programs that can help you kickstart a career in the tech industry. In this article, we highlight four top programs which are UX/UI, FinTech, Digital Marketing, and Data Analytics Bootcamps.
Each program offers a market-driven curriculum that provides an opportunity for students to develop professional portfolios. UX/UI students can expect to learn the fundamentals of user-centric design, along with common tools like Adobe XD and Figma. Fintech students will be introduced to topics like blockchain, cryptocurrency, and machine learning in financial technology.
All UC Berkeley Bootcamp programs are tailored to be job-specific. As such, digital marketing students will be exposed to the latest content strategies, social media advertising and analytics, and marketing automation. Similarly, data analytics students will become familiar with common industry topics and tools like Python and its libraries, database management systems, and intermediate Excel.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
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UC Berkeley Bootcamp Job Placement
No information about UC Berkeley Bootcamp job placement is available online. However, students can prepare to enter the job market by using UC Berkeley Bootcamp’s career services. It is designed to help students determine a career path, build industry connections, showcase their skills effectively, and ace job interviews. Students also get to have one-on-one sessions with dedicated career coaches.
It is interesting to note that UC Berkeley’s career services team works with over 260 employer partners, which means students receive exclusive networking opportunities. Upon successful completion of your program, you will still receive support from UC Berkeley through its Career Engagement Network. You will have access to job-related events and other resources that might help you in your career.
UC Berkeley Bootcamp Admissions Process
The only Berkeley bootcamp admission requirement is to pass a simple assessment test. Students interested in pursuing UX/UI, fintech, digital marketing, or data analytics do not need to have industry experience to apply. Below are the steps you need to take to enroll in UC Berkeley Bootcamp.
- Form submission. Visit the program page and fill out an online form indicating your interest. Key in a few details that will allow the school to reach you.
- Admissions interview. Have a quick chat with a member of the admissions team. This is your opportunity to ask any questions about the program or the school.
- Application. Fill out an application form detailing your background and your motivation to enroll in UC Berkeley Bootcamp.
- Assessment. Take a logic-based skills assessment and complete a multiple-choice test. This is only meant to gauge your problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Financial options, deposit, and enrollment agreement. Upon passing the assessment, you can start discussing financial options, make the necessary payment, and sign the enrollment agreement.
UC Berkeley Bootcamp Payment Options
To make tech education more accessible, UC Berkeley Bootcamp offers several financing options that we will discuss below. Eligible students can also take advantage of UC Berkeley coding bootcamp financial aid. Before enrolling, students are welcome to consult the school’s financial advisor to work out a financing option that works best for them.
Interest-Free Payment Plan
This is a great option for students looking for a more manageable payment plan. You will have to make a deposit and split the remaining balance into monthly payments with zero interest.
Scholarships
UC Berkeley offers limited scholarships. They can be general or specific to a program. Interested students are encouraged to visit the official scholarship page for more information.
Upfront Payment and Early Registration Pricing
Some UC Berkeley bootcamps offer a discount when paid in full before the enrollment date. The amount may vary depending on the start date. The school recommends upfront payment as this can also ensure successful enrollment. You can visit the schedule page to learn more about early registration pricing.
Can FAFSA Pay for Berkeley Tech Bootcamp?
No, all UC Berkeley Extension students, including those enrolled in UC Berkeley Bootcamp, are not eligible for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, depending on the program, you may be able to apply for a private student loan or opt for any of the financing options listed above.
Is UC Berkeley’s Bootcamp Worth It?
Yes, UC Berkeley Bootcamp is worth it because it combines the prestige of university education with the flexibility and affordability of a coding bootcamp. It also offers a wide range of programs that can help you build industry-relevant skills through hands-on projects.
Its bootcamp programs also cover some of the most in-demand tools, giving students an edge as they enter the workforce. At UC Berkeley Bootcamp, your remote learning experience is also made better thanks to a team of dedicated instructors and career services experts.
UC Berkeley Coding Bootcamp FAQ
One of the most common questions prospective students ask is, “How hard is it to get into UC Berkeley Bootcamp?” The answer is that the admissions process is relatively simple. UC Berkeley Bootcamp does not require prior experience which makes its programs much more accessible to all. Prospective students have to indicate their interest, explain their motivation, pass a logic-based assessment, and make the necessary payment.
Depending on the program, UC Berkeley Bootcamp’s tuition can cost between $9,995 to $13,995. According to Career Karma’s State of the Bootcamp Market 2021 report, the figures are around the average market rate.
Yes, UC Berkeley Bootcamp is open to everyone interested in pursuing full stack development, UX/UI, fintech, digital marketing, data analytics, cyber security, and tech project management. These include UC Berkeley students, former students, and non-students.
No, UC Berkeley Bootcamp programs don’t currently offer college credits. However, students receive a certificate of completion at the end of the program. A certificate indicates that its holder has received adequate training in a specific career field. As such, it may boost your chances of landing a relevant job.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
