Amid rapid advancements in areas like AI, cloud computing, data science, and cybersecurity, the demand for software engineers who create the systems and applications that power these technologies is soaring. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 26% job growth for software engineers over the next decade, making it one of the fastest-growing computer jobs.
Attending a top-tier software engineering bootcamp is one of the best ways to quickly gain the skills and credentials to land a job in this prolific field.
This article will identify the best software engineering bootcamps you can attend online in 2024. We’ll also outline a robust software engineering curriculum, examine the costs and benefits of these career-focused training programs, and answer FAQs from prospective students.
Software Engineering Bootcamp Overview
- Average Cost: $15,000
- Duration: 3 to 10 months (varies part-time vs. full-time)
- Format: Live, instructor-led training + self-paced labs.
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
| Compare The Best Software Engineering Bootcamps Online | ||
| School | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Springboard | Software Engineering Bootcamp | 9 months |
| App Academy | Online Coding Bootcamp | 16-48 weeks |
| TripleTen | Software Engineering Bootcamp | 14-30 weeks |
| Codesmith | Immersive Software Engineering Program | 13-38 weeks |
| TrueCoders | Full Stack Software Engineering Bootcamp | 9+ weeks |
Software Engineering Bootcamp Curriculum
As a career-focused training program, the skills and technologies you learn in a well-structured software engineering bootcamp align with workforce demand. Look for a program with these sought-after subjects when choosing a bootcamp in software engineering:
Programming Fundamentals
This essential training in core computer programming concepts like variables, syntax, data types, control structures, object-orientated programming, and debugging forms the bedrock of a software engineer's skill set.
Full Stack Web Development
A comprehensive software engineering bootcamp integrates front-end (user-facing) and back-end (functional) web development skills, a.k.a., the "full stack." It should cover HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for front-end development, server-side languages like Python, PHP, and Ruby, and database management skills. This training teaches students to develop and manage all facets of a web application - a valuable skill in today’s job market.
Software and Computing Theory
Learning to code is crucial in a software engineering bootcamp; however, you also want a program that teaches software development's theoretical underpinnings. Understanding first principles and how to think contextually about software challenges will make you a more well-rounded engineer and improve your long-term success prospects regardless of industry trends.
Python Programming
Python is a popular and versatile high-level programming language with widespread applications in software development, data analysis, automation, and more. Look for a software engineering bootcamp that teaches Python programming skills using in-demand libraries like NumPy, PyTorch, Pandas, TensorFlow, and Keras.
Software Development Methodologies
This module explores proven approaches to software development, including the widely used Agile, DevOps, Scrum, and Waterfall models. This part of the bootcamp emphasizes the importance of planning, teamwork, and iterative development in engineering successful software projects.
Database Management
This subject focuses on storing, retrieving, and managing database data. It includes learning SQL for database manipulation, understanding relational and non-relational databases, and concepts like backups and database design.
Software Testing & Quality Assurance
This part of a software engineering bootcamp focuses on the tools and methodologies to ensure software quality. It includes unit testing, integration testing, system testing, debugging, and software maintenance.
Emerging Technologies
Students in a well-designed software engineer bootcamp will gain exposure to emerging technologies shaping the future of the field. In 2024, this includes areas like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), cloud computing, Blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and augmented and virtual Reality (AR/VR). Understanding these innovative technologies and how they relate to software engineering will prepare students for lasting success in this evolving space.
Soft Skills
Beyond the tech, software engineering bootcamp students should seek every opportunity to sharpen industry-relevant soft skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, time management, patience, interpersonal communication, presentation, and adaptability.
Software Engineering Bootcamp Cost
The price range for most software engineering bootcamps falls between $10,000 and $20,000. The average list price of the 25 reputable bootcamps we analyzed for this ranking was about $15,000. Factors influencing the cost of software engineering bootcamps include program duration, delivery format, course material depth, available career services, and training provider reputation.
Many schools offer financial assistance through loans, installment plans, scholarships, and financial aid. Some of this year’s top software bootcamps also offer deferred tuition or income-sharing agreements (ISA) wherein you pay nothing upfront but agree to share a portion of your income once you get hired. Regardless of which bootcamp you choose, speak with an admissions advisor to determine your ideal cost structure before enrolling.
The Best Software Engineer Bootcamps Online
Our top 5 software engineering bootcamps were chosen based on numerous factors, including the relevance of skills and platforms learned, published career outcomes, flexibility, program features, school reputation, affordability, and overall value.
Here are the best software engineering bootcamps you can take online in 2024:
Springboard
Springboard's Software Engineering Bootcamp is a superbly-designed online program for aspiring engineers. The curriculum - developed in partnership with coding legend Colt Steele - focuses on project-based training in full stack software development. Notable areas of study include web development using HTML, CCS & JavaScript, version control with Git and GitHub, Software QA testing, SQL database management, Query, Bootstrap, Python, React, AI prompt engineering, and computer science fundamentals.
This fully online software engineering bootcamp boasts a 96% job placement rate 12 months after graduation, an average salary increase of over $27,000, and a track record of graduate hiring at Netflix, Google, Microsoft, and other tech giants. Springboard’s software bootcamps also feature an extensive mentorship program, professional portfolio assistance, and a job guarantee.
- Duration: 9 Months (Part-Time)
- List Price: $9,900 (Paid Upfront) - $13,860 (Monthly)
- Formats: Online
App Academy
App Academy's Online Coding Bootcamp provides the expertise to pursue a lucrative role in software engineering. Students learn marketable programming languages and tools across the stack, including Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, React-Redux, Ruby on Rails, SQL, and more. This bootcamp also features a dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) module to help students capitalize on this revolutionary industry trend.
This software engineering bootcamp caters to various learning styles and schedules, offering multiple full-time and part-time study options. We also liked their flexible pricing structure, which features an income share agreement (ISA) option where students only pay tuition after they secure a job earning at least $50,000.
- Duration: 16 Weeks (Accelerated), 24 Weeks (Full-Time), or 48 Weeks (Part-Time)
- List Price: $0 - $31,000 (ISA)
- Formats: Online
TripleTen
TripleTen's Software Engineering Bootcamp is a top-notch online program designed to turn absolute beginners into job-ready software engineers. The curriculum features in-demand software skills and platforms like HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, React.js, Node.js, Babel, Rest API, Google Cloud, MongoDB, and UI design, covering web and mobile application development.
TripleTen reports that 89% of graduates land a job in tech within six months, with a median graduate salary over $75,000. This online software engineering bootcamp also features a comprehensive student and graduate support system, including one-on-one tutoring, code reviews, career coaching, mock interviews, and professional portfolio development.
- Duration: 14 Weeks (Full-Time) - 30 Weeks (Part-Time)
- List Price: $9,700 (Paid Upfront) - $12,000 (Monthly)
- Formats: Online
Codesmith
Codesmith's Immersive Software Engineering Program utilizes a block-driven approach to software development training that prepares students to become autonomous and adaptable engineers. Their respected online software engineering bootcamp teaches valuable computer science and software engineering fundamentals alongside project-based training in hot domains like JavaScript, machine learning, and Agile development.
This software engineering program features flexible part-time and full-time online learning options and onsite training in New York City. We also favored Codesmith’s intense focus on practical application wherein students create ground-up coding projects throughout the program, culminating in a final open-source project to test their hard-earned dev skills.
- Duration: 13 Weeks (Full-Time) to 38 Weeks (Part-Time)
- List Price: $21,800
- Formats: Online or Onsite (NYC)
TrueCoders
TrueCoders' Full Stack Software Engineering Bootcamp is an affordable, streamlined training program for aspiring engineers with zero coding experience. Its curriculum includes coursework in practical technologies like C#, SQL, JSON, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and ASP.NET. While it doesn’t go as deep as other entries on this list, this program punches above its weight class as the most affordable software engineering bootcamp to round out our 2024 ranking.
The online full stack bootcamp comes in three formats catering to different learning styles and schedules, including a 9-week live online course and two flexible self-paced options: self-driven and flex. The self-driven program is incredibly affordable at $688 but doesn’t include a certificate of completion, one-on-one support, or career services.
- Duration: 9+ Weeks
- List Price: $688 (Self-Driven), $4,500 (Flex), or $6,500 (Live)
- Formats: Online
Frequently Asked Questions
Technical trainers answer FAQs from software engineering bootcamp candidates.
Do I need coding experience for a software engineering bootcamp?
No. Most software engineering bootcamps are designed for novices with no prior coding experience. That said, some programs require students to take short introductory courses before the bootcamp begins, usually self-paced and free of charge. These introductory courses can also be a great way to gain exposure to the material and determine if a software engineering bootcamp is right for you.
How long are software engineering bootcamps?
Most software engineering bootcamps last 3 to 10 months. The most significant factor in program duration is the difference between full-time and part-time programs. Full-time software engineering bootcamps typically require about 40 hours of weekly study versus 10-20 hours for part-time. Self-paced software engineering programs usually have no time limit.
What jobs can I get after finishing a software engineer bootcamp?
Popular jobs you can pursue after completing a software engineering bootcamp include junior software engineer, web developer, computer programmer, QA tester, and full-stack developer. The best software engineering bootcamps have partnerships with local and national companies to help graduates land one of these positions.