Intro
Choosing the right tech bootcamp includes finding the right balance between program offerings, curriculum, location, and your personal goals. While the tuition is often a focal point, you should also consider which bootcamp aligns best with your career aspirations, the skills you need, and where the bootcamp is situated. A novice web developer, for example, can have different requirements than someone pursuing a data science career.
There is a broad array of tech bootcamps available, ranging from well-known nationwide institutions to smaller, specialized local programs (or branches of larger ones).
We've researched and evaluated various tech bootcamps in the industry and have compiled a list of the top 10 bootcamp options for you to consider.
| Compare the Best Tech Bootcamps | 1  | 2  | 3  | 4  | 5  | 6  | 7  | 8  | 9  | 10  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
How much will you spend to attend the tech bootcamp? | $8,900-$13,860 | $16,900-$17,900 | $10,000-$20,000 | $950-$16,450 | $690-$8,705
| $2,450-$16,500 | $9,995-16,995 | $5,341-$16,000 | $6,750-$19,910 | $17,000-$22,000 |
What year was the tech bootcamp founded? | 10 | 11 | 6 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
How many different areas of study are on offer? | 5 | 4 | 5 | 20 | 20 | 16 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 1 |
Top 10 Best Tech Bootcamps of 2023 - Comparison & Reviews
- 1
Springboard
Flexible Bootcamp to Break Into a Tech Career- Years operating10
- Tuition$8,900-$13,860
- Variety of courses/programs5
Springboard is an online bootcamp offering five self-paced courses to help students break into tech careers. In addition to the learning material, it offers mentorship and guidance before, during, and after the learning period.
In addition, it welcomes students at all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals looking to advance their careers. The fees are relatively affordable and there are a number of financing and scholarship options available. If these options don’t work for you, you can opt for the deferred payment scheme, where you pay a small upfront fee and pay the rest after you land a job.
Why we chose Springboard: We chose Springboard because of its quick application process, affordable tuition, and student resources.
Our experience: We found Springboard’s website very easy to use, and when we had questions, the chat feature was very helpful for getting quick responses.
Pros- Quick application process
- Relatively affordable tuition fees
- Flexible learning schedule
Cons- Not ideal for students who aren’t self motivated
- Scholarship amounts are very low
- 2
Flatiron School
Comprehensive coding bootcamps for beginners- Years operating11
- Tuition$16,900-$17,900
- Variety of courses/programs4
Flatiron School is a coding bootcamp offering four intensive courses with part-time and full-time study options. These include bootcamps for software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and UX/UI product design.
What’s more, Flatiron School has excellent student support resources, including 180 days of post-graduate career coaching. It’s a little on the pricey side, but there are flexible payment options, and I’d highly recommend it if you want fast-track entry into the world of tech.
Why we chose Flatiron School: We chose Flatiron School because of its high-quality courses and flexible study options.
Our experience: We had nothing but a positive experience with Flatiron School. The team is friendly, it has transparent prices, and the admissions process is straightforward.
Pros- Great student resources
- Flexible study options
- Transparent prices
Cons- On the expensive side
- Very low acceptance rate
- 3
Kenzie Academy
Affordable and flexible coding bootcamps- Years operating6
- Tuition$10,000-$20,000
- Variety of courses/programs5
Kenzie Academy is a coding bootcamp that’s linked to Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). It offers five high-quality programs, ranging from nine to 12 months in length. There’s an expectation of between 20 and 40 hours of work per week, depending on your course.
Moreover, Kenzie Academy provides various student resources, including post-graduate career support. Its prices are quite affordable for such long bootcamps, and it’s a great option for anyone with no tech skills who wants to enter the world of coding.
Why we chose Kenzie Academy: We chose Kenzie Academy because of its straightforward admissions process, high-quality bootcamps, and excellent learning resources.
Our experience: We had a smooth, positive experience with Kenzie Academy, and its Kenzie Free program is an excellent place to begin.
Pros- Smooth admissions process
- Attractive student resources
- Flexible online courses
Cons- No short-term training options
- No payment plans
- 4
General Assembly
Detailed coding lessons for non-tech beginners- Years operating12
- Tuition$950-$16,450
- Variety of courses/programs20
General Assembly’s coding bootcamps help beginners with no tech knowledge learn how to code and transition to new careers. There are also courses that current tech professionals can complete to grow their skills and advance in their roles. The company offers several financing options, making learning more accessible.
While its practical learning method prepares you for the workforce, General Assembly doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be able to secure employment after graduation. Nevertheless, its comprehensive curriculum and personalized training make General Assembly worth considering.
Why we chose General Assembly: We chose General Assembly for its high-quality course content, practical learning techniques, and robust student resources.
Our experience: We had a positive experience with General Assembly. We especially appreciated the straightforward signup process and the easy-to-navigate website.
Pros- Highly-rated curriculum
- Many student resources available
- Personalized training
Cons- Unaccredited
- Employment not guaranteed
- 5
Careerfoundry
Affordable tech courses with a job guarantee- Years operating10
- Tuition$690-$8,705
- Variety of courses/programs20
CareerFoundry is an online bootcamp ideal for those looking to switch careers in tech and for beginners wanting to enter the industry. Its 20 programs include six career-change bootcamps, six introductory courses, and eight advanced courses.
CareerFoundry also offers robust student support—including a student Slack community, a program library, dual mentorship, informative blogs, and a job guarantee with dedicated career assistance. I’d highly recommend it for those looking to gain tech skills and become job-ready without breaking the bank.
Why we chose CareerFoundry: We chose CareerFoundry for its cost-effective courses and six-month employment guarantee.
Our experience: Overall, we had a good experience with CareerFoundry. Enrolling in a program is straightforward, and the program advisors are friendly and always willing to help.
Pros- Self-paced study
- Extensive student and career support
- Six-month job guarantee
Cons- No email or phone number to contact
- No full scholarships
- 6
BrainStation
In-depth tech bootcamps on a flexible schedule- Years operating11
- Tuition$2,450-$16,500
- Variety of courses/programs16
BrainStation is an education platform offering various tech bootcamps and certificate courses. With campuses in major tech cities worldwide, the company provides in-person and online learning options. BrainStation’s programs are also available both part- and full-time, allowing flexibility for students with other commitments.
At the start of your journey with BrainStation, you’ll get a learning advisor with whom you can discuss course options, career prospects, financing, and more. In addition to regular classes, BrainStation incorporates hands-on projects and one-on-one coaching into the curriculum.
Overall, BrainStation is an excellent option for anyone seeking in-depth courses that work for your schedule.
Why we chose BrainStation: We chose BrainStation for its variety of courses, scholarship options, and flexibility.
Our experience: Overall, we had a good experience with BrainStation, especially with the quick application process.
Pros- 16 bootcamp and certificate courses
- Various student resources
- Offers flexible learning schedules
Cons- No job guarantee
- Limited financing options
- 7
Coding Dojo
Hands-on bootcamps for tech beginners- Years operating11
- Tuition$9,995-16,995
- Variety of courses/programs4
Coding Dojo offers part- and full-time online courses in software development, data science, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Its lessons build beginners’ confidence and knowledge to become skilled in a new field.
While Coding Dojo offers fewer programs and is more expensive than some competitors, it makes up for it with its highly rated curriculum and excellent student resources. Overall, Coding Dojo is worth considering if you want to gain tech skills and receive lifetime career support to secure and flourish in a new job.
Why we chose Coding Dojo: We chose Coding Dojo because of its beginner-friendly curriculum, practical learning, helpful student resources, and lifetime tech career support.
Our experience: We had a positive experience with Coding Dojo. The website is easy to navigate, the syllabi are clear and readily downloadable, and there are many user-friendly resources.
Pros- Suitable for beginners
- Hands-on learning
- Lifetime support from career services team
Cons- Pricier than some other options
- Offers only four programs
- 8
Thinkful
Flexible, inclusive coding bootcamps- Years operating11
- Tuition$5,341-$16,000
- Variety of courses/programs6
Thinkful offers six coding bootcamps with part- and full-time study options. Its courses include everything from software engineering to data science and data analysis, and they’ll leave you equipped to enter the workforce immediately.
Additionally, Thinkful offers students the ability to defer payment for their course until six months after graduation. It’s easy to apply to, the acceptance rate is high, and it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to learn new skills and start a career in tech.
Why we chose Thinkful: We chose Thinkful because of its flexible study options, affordable courses, and focus on encouraging women and non-binary individuals to enter the tech world.
Our experience: We found the application process smooth and the support team friendly, and we had a great all-around experience using Thinkful.
Pros- Part- and full-time pathways available
- Excellent career support
- Smooth application process
Cons- No full-time option for some courses
- Payment plans are expensive
- 9
App Academy
Intensive Guided Pathway to Software Engineering- Years operating11
- Tuition$17,000-$22,000
- Variety of courses/programs1
App Academy is a coding bootcamp that offers a single program. Its Software Engineering Bootcamp lasts for 24 weeks (full-time) or 48 weeks (part-time) and adheres to a strict learning schedule that requires students to attend live online classes.
It’s one of the top-rated bootcamps around, and it has a history of excellent service. You will find it a little more expensive than some of the alternatives, but it’s worth every cent. Overall, it’s an excellent option if you’re looking for a software engineering bootcamp that offers intensive, guided online learning.
Why we chose App Academy - We chose App Academy because of its high-quality learning materials and the wide variety of programming languages and skills taught in its bootcamp.
Our experience - From the smooth application process to the readily available student support, we had a positive experience throughout our interactions with App Academy and its staff.
Pros- Easy access to live tutors
- Teaches numerous development skills
- Live online teaching format
Cons- A little on the expensive side
- Limited to a single program
Tech bootcamps cover a range of skills, including coding, web development, data analysis, cybersecurity, UX/UI design, and more. The specific focus depends on the different programs offered by the bootcamp, as well as the curriculum.
Bootcamps vary, but they usually range from 8 weeks to as long as 9 months, with full-time and part-time options. Some also offer self-paced programs.
Yes, many bootcamps offer scholarships, income share agreements (ISAs), and financing options to make attendance more accessible. Research each program's financial assistance offerings.
Reviewing the Top Tech Bootcamps: Our Methodology
Top10.com's tech bootcamp reviews are grounded in objective assessments. Our evaluations stem from thorough research conducted on bootcamp websites, trusted third-party platforms, student reviews, and hands-on experience gained through free trials or, in some cases, paid enrollment.
While we may not always complete the entire bootcamp program, our reviewers undergo the signup process, engage with customer support to gauge response times, and explore other aspects within the review period. For additional insights, we rely on the bootcamp's official descriptions, student feedback, reviews, ratings from independent accreditation bodies, and reputable tech publications.
Here are some of the key factors we considered when evaluating the tech bootcamps on our list:
1. Cost
2. Curriculum and program type
3. Learning pace and depth
4. Geographic availability
What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Tech Bootcamp
Before selecting a tech bootcamp, it's crucial to ask key questions to ensure you make the right choice. Here's a concise guide:
Goals and Path: Define your career goals – web development, data science, etc. Ensure the bootcamp aligns with your aspirations.
Curriculum: Review the curriculum. Does it cover necessary skills and stay current?
Learning Format: Choose between in-person, online, or hybrid learning based on your preferences.
Duration: Consider the program's length, whether full-time or part-time, to match your availability.
Cost: Calculate the total cost, including tuition and any fees. Explore financing options.
Job Placement: Research job placement rates and post-grad support to assess your career prospects.
Reviews: Seek insights from alumni and reviews to gauge the bootcamp's reputation.
Accreditation: Verify if the bootcamp holds industry accreditation.
Answering these questions will help you make an informed decision, setting you on the right path to success in the tech industry.
What Types of Tech Bootcamps Are There?
Tech bootcamps offer a range of specialized niches to suit different career paths:
Web Development Bootcamps: Cover front-end and back-end skills
Cybersecurity Bootcamps: Specialize in safeguarding digital assets
Data Science Bootcamps: Focus on data analysis and machine learning
UX/UI Design Bootcamps: Nurture creative talents in user experience and interface design
Mobile App Development Bootcamps: Target iOS and Android platforms
Full-Stack Bootcamps: Provide comprehensive training across development domains
Part-Time Bootcamps: Offer flexible options for busy schedules
Online Bootcamps: Provide remote learning flexibility
Tech Bootcamp Safety/Avoiding Scams
When embarking on your journey to find the right tech bootcamp, it's essential to be vigilant and avoid potential scams. Start by conducting thorough research into the bootcamp's background and reputation. Check for reviews from past students on trusted platforms and look for any red flags like consistently negative feedback or unrealistic promises.
Additionally, you can verify the bootcamp's accreditation and industry affiliations to ensure legitimacy. Do your due diligence on programs that demand large upfront payments with no clear refund policy or those that make lofty job placement guarantees. Additionally, reach out to current or former students to gain insights into their experiences. By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself from fraudulent tech bootcamps and make an informed choice for your education and career.
Tips on Tech Bootcamps
Tech bootcamps offer a fast track to tech careers, but making the right choice is crucial. Here are some expert tips to navigate the landscape and maximize your bootcamp experience.
First and foremost, it's essential to set clear goals. Define your career objectives, whether it's web development, data science, or UX/UI design. This clarity will help you choose the most suitable bootcamp that aligns with your ambitions.
Next, thorough research is your best friend. Dive into the specifics of each bootcamp you're considering. Examine curricula, teaching methods, and alumni outcomes. Look for reviews and testimonials from past students to gauge their satisfaction levels. Don't forget to ensure that the bootcamp holds accreditation or affiliations with reputable industry organizations, as this often indicates quality.
Lastly, consider your learning style and preferences. Different bootcamps offer various formats, such as in-person, online, or hybrid options. Select the one that best suits your preferred learning environment. Keep an eye on your budget and explore financial aid options like scholarships, financing plans, or income share agreements. And as you embark on your bootcamp journey, remember that networking, active participation, coding practice, and personal projects will play crucial roles in your success. These tips, combined, will equip you to choose the right tech bootcamp and kickstart a rewarding tech career.
How Much Does a Tech Bootcamp Cost?
The cost of a tech bootcamp can vary significantly depending on several factors. Generally, bootcamps range from a few thousand dollars to over $15,000. One major determinant of cost is the type of program you choose. Full-time, immersive bootcamps often come with a higher price tag due to their intensive nature, while part-time or online programs tend to be more affordable.
Another factor affecting cost is the duration of the bootcamp. Shorter, more intensive programs may cost less upfront but can be demanding in terms of time commitment. Some bootcamps offer financing options, income share agreements (ISAs), or scholarships to help alleviate the financial burden. It's important to carefully consider your budget and explore available funding options before making a decision. Additionally, keep in mind that the investment in a tech bootcamp can lead to significant career opportunities and increased earning potential, making it a valuable long-term investment in your future.
Final Thoughts on Picking a Tech Bootcamp
Selecting a tech bootcamp demands thoughtful consideration, akin to choosing other types of education. Carefully grasp the nuances of bootcamp programs, tuition structures, and inclusions. Prioritize researching the available options in your vicinity. Define your tech specialization and learning pace, establish a budget, and shortlist suitable bootcamps for deeper evaluation.
Although choices may be limited for specific tech fields, always scrutinize for hidden fees and program terms to avoid unwelcome surprises. A well-informed decision sets the stage for a successful tech bootcamp experience.
