Best Self-Paced Bootcamps
Melisa Sartore
What Is a Self-Paced Online Coding Bootcamp?
Self-paced online bootcamps allow students to learn programming concepts at their convenience. Learn more about the best self-paced bootcamps.
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Coding bootcamps teach students how to code with programming languages. As intensive programs that focus on programming, coding bootcamps also include information about popular tools and technologies used in IT.
The curriculum of coding bootcamps builds new skills and hones existing programming abilities to prepare learners for technology jobs across industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 13% growth in computer and information technology employment from 2020 to 2030, indicating a continued need for trained coders and programmers in the employment landscape.
As bootcamps expand the scope of their offerings, they continue providing career training ideal for the needs of a world increasingly dependent upon technology. This page provides information on self-paced online coding bootcamps to help you find a program that matches your needs and the demands of the job market alike.
Self-paced online coding bootcamps vary in length and focus. A 2019 RTI International report indicated the average length of bootcamps was 16.5 weeks. Part-time programs averaged 24.3 weeks, while full-time bootcamps averaged 13.1 weeks in length.
Online bootcamps provide flexible options for students to complete courses and training. Typically much shorter than an undergraduate degree, coding bootcamps may be offered through private organizations or higher education institutions.
In contrast to synchronous programs, online self-paced bootcamps let learners view course materials and complete assignments at a pace that matches their schedules. Students in online self-paced bootcamps progress at a rate that ensures retention and comprehension of the information — they can move through class content as slowly as needed.
Online bootcamps are conducted remotely, allowing locational flexibility for students who work or have other obligations that may prevent them from attending part- or full-time bootcamps in person.
Read our guide to bootcamp programs
Skills Learned in Self-Paced Bootcamps
Self-paced bootcamps build technical abilities, foster critical thinking and analytical skills, and train students to use programming languages. Bootcamps may also cover concepts such as web and application development. They incorporate hands-on activities so students gain experience using the tools they need for the job market.
Common skills covered in self-paced coding bootcamps include:
Programming Languages: Bootcamps introduce learners to programming languages. Popular languages include Python, JavaScript, C++, and SQL, all of which have uses in web and application development. Students learn about the logic woven into each language as they learn to think abstractly and solve problems.
Front-End Development: Front-end development focuses on the client-facing aspects of web development, including the look of a website or application. Front-end developers optimize user experiences with interactive features and visuals. Students learn about frameworks and libraries, version control, and browser and device testing as they explore how to ensure optimal performance.
Back-End Development: Back-end development focuses on the server end of a website or application, which users do not see. Back-end development involves using databases, applications, and servers to maximize efficiency and functionality.
Adaptability: Because the world of technology continues to change, bootcamps must emphasize the continued modification of programming languages. They also explore the latest tools and technologies used in coding and web development as students learn how to adapt to client needs, project demands, and new environments.
What Will a Self-Paced Bootcamp Cost?
The cost of an online self-paced bootcamp varies. In 2019, RTI Press reported the median price for a full-time comprehensive bootcamp was $13,500. Part-time programs had a median price of $7,500. Some programs require students to complete preparatory coursework before enrolling in a bootcamp, and these costs are not reflected in the average prices above.
Some bootcamps have arrangements with lending institutions to help enrollees secure loans to pay for programs. Additional payment options for self-paced bootcamps include income share agreements, upfront payment, and deferred payment.
Upfront payment often results in a lower overall price. Deferred payment plans may require an initial deposit. Income share agreements deduct a percentage of graduates' salaries for a fixed term after they secure employment.
Many bootcamps offer job guarantees to students and incorporate employment assistance into their programs. Prospective attendees should research employment rates and conditional requirements for job guarantees as they look for an online self-paced bootcamp.
How do income-share agreements work?
What Jobs Can I Get After a Self-Paced Coding Bootcamp?
Career paths for students who complete a self-paced coding bootcamp include web development, video game design, and application development. Salaries vary based on prior experience, location, and industry.
Computer programmers write, test, and correct code and scripts used in computer software and applications. They ensure functionality and work closely with software developers and engineers to construct effective, efficient programs. Because computer programmers need knowledge of programming languages, an online self-paced bootcamp provides essential training for the role.
Web designers develop and create websites and applications. Their clients include individuals, businesses, organizations, and other entities. Web designers integrate technical and graphical components, create code, and ensure functionality. They use multiple programming languages and various tools in their work, making an online bootcamp a useful training opportunity for aspiring web designers.
Average Annual Salary: $52,370
Web developers may focus on the front end, the back end, or do full-stack development. Front-end developers develop a website's layout, integrating graphics and interactive user elements. Back-end developers build the technical framework for a website and make changes as needed. Full-stack developers carry out both front- and back-end duties. All web developers must know coding languages and the tools used to develop websites, topics covered in coding bootcamps.
A video game designer develops game concepts, stories, and ideas with fellow artists and designers. They code the look, function, and interactivity of a video game, testing their work for bugs to optimize gameplay. Video game designers may develop products for computers, consoles, or mobile platforms.
Software developers design software for computer applications and mobile devices. They create models and diagrams to craft an application or system, working with computer programmers to create appropriate code. Knowledge of coding is key for software development, meaning bootcamps offer relevant education for these professionals. Software developers test and maintain software, documenting and correcting errors.
Alongside self-paced online coding bootcamps, options for computer science education include undergraduate degrees, graduate programs, and professional development opportunities. Though a bootcamp does not replace a degree, it can serve as a path to building knowledge and skills applicable to specific positions.
Professionals who already hold a degree can also benefit from bootcamps if they want to learn how to code, hone their existing coding abilities, or transition into a coding position.
Educational paths for computer science include:
Associate Degree in Computer Science: An associate degree in computer science typically takes two years of full-time study. Students learn foundational principles and practices of computer science, which can prepare them for entry-level positions in IT and computer programming.
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science: Through four years of full-time study, a bachelor's degree in computer science integrates general education classes with computer science courses. Students learn programming languages and other computer science essentials. Bachelor's degrees in computer science may include internships that provide practical training.
Master's Degree in Computer Science: A master's degree in computer science — which typically takes 1-2 years of full-time study — builds students' advanced knowledge of topics like computer programming, data science, and information systems while developing learners' research skills. A computer science master's degree can allow students to specialize their knowledge in niche areas like artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and software engineering.
Ph.D. in Computer Science: A Ph.D. in computer science builds on prior knowledge and experience. Taking 3-7 years of full-time study, doctoral degrees usually require learners to write a dissertation showcasing their original research in specialized areas of the field.
In addition to introductory programs that cover many topics, coding bootcamps may focus specifically on areas like web development, data science, software engineering, or cybersecurity.
2022's Self-Paced Bootcamps
Bootcamps across the U.S. offer opportunities for students to learn valuable skills in a short period of time to pursue careers in tech. Listed in alphabetical order, we collected information from bootcamps accepting learners in 2022 to provide insight into course offerings and how they meet your needs.
Some of the top providers offer self-paced bootcamps. The information in this guide is current, but if you find a program that catches your interest, make sure to check the program's website for any potential changes.
Bethel School of Technology
Based in Redding, California, Bethel Tech offers the first faith-based tech bootcamp in the world. The school's computer science programs integrate technical content with spiritual wisdom.
Full-stack Bootcamp
All of Bethel Tech's bootcamps allow students to study at their own pace. The full-stack bootcamp includes 11 components for learners to complete in 39 weeks.
The full-stack curriculum builds foundational information about coding structures, programming, and frameworks. Students learn about front-end and back-end web development alongside project management and mobile development. A culminating capstone accompanies a core foundation element emphasizing the Bible, faith, and leadership.
Format: Online; self-paced
Other Courses Offered by Bethel School of Technology
Bethel School of Technology Job Placement Assistance
Bethel Tech provides career services that integrate its spiritual mission and technical emphasis.
With courses for students living in the United States, Mexico, Jamaica, and Spain, Bottega offers up-to-date computer science programs backed by the American Council of Education.
Python 3 and React
Bottega offers its Python 3 and React course through full-time and part-time delivery. The part-time program allows enrollees to complete a self-paced online coding bootcamp through 600 hours of content.
The curriculum covers Python programming and software development, front-end JavaScript foundations, database foundations, and advanced web development with React. Students have access to tutors, can attend real-time classes when available, and receive a certificate of completion at the end of the program.
Bottega partners with universities and corporate entities while providing transfer and continuing education opportunities to students at its own Bottega University.
Cost: $7,500 part-time
Format: Online; part-time (self-paced)
Length: 4-10 months
Other Courses Offered by Bottega
Mobile development, beginner
Mobile development, intermediate
Mobile development, advanced
Bottega Job Placement Assistance
Bottega provides resume and interview preparation support, online job placement resources, and advisor assistance after graduation.
Codeacademy remains committed to making coding accessible and engaging through free and paid courses at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Located in New York City, Codeacademy also provides learning and practice tools, code challenges, and concept cheat sheets to learners of all ages.
Full-Stack Engineering
With extensive self-paced options, Codeacademy's self-paced coding bootcamp stands out as a comprehensive program that prepares learners to pursue careers in the field.
The full-stack engineering self-paced curriculum includes more than 50 lessons that provide students with the knowledge and skills to work and think like programmers. Enrollees learn front-end and back-end development, build web applications, and develop strong portfolios.
Cost: Free for basic plan; $14.99 for monthly Pro Lite plan; $19.99 for Pro plan
Length: Varies
Other Courses Offered by Codeacademy
Front-end engineering
Codeacademy Job Placement Assistance
Codeacademy offers entire courses in interview preparation, along with videos, blogs, and career advice resources.
Coder Foundry
Located in Kernersville, North Carolina, Coder Foundry offers online programs to accommodate learners with different needs. Coder Foundry features a Launchpad program that includes a job guarantee for graduates.
Complete .NET Coding
The self-paced online coding bootcamp at Coder Foundry provides comprehensive training through more than 100 hours of content. The bootcamp includes information about programming languages, data models, and tool creation to prepare students for careers in full-stack web development.
At the end of Code Foundry's bootcamp, each enrollee possesses a web developer portfolio they can present at interviews. Code Foundry also offers guidance on handling technical questions and crafting resumes.
Cost: $99 monthly subscription; $594 annual subscription; $420 semi-annual subscription
Other Courses Offered by Coder Foundry
Controlling and winning the interview
Code Foundry's Job Placement Assistance
Code Foundry assists in resume preparation and features mock interviews. Learners receive job placement assistance through Code Foundry's partner TEKSystems.
Evolve Security Academy
Chicago's Evolve Security Academy aims to close the cybersecurity talent gap. Its proprietary security platform allows the organization to offer top-tier cybersecurity services.
Evolve Security Academy's cybersecurity bootcamp includes in-person and live online options. Each enrollee completes 290 hours of coursework and activities over 20 weeks. Lab simulations allow students to use open source and commercial tools to explore networking, threat intelligence, security operations detection, and cryptography.
Each learner also completes a security apprenticeship during the final portion of the bootcamp. Students receive a CompTIA Security+ voucher upon completion of the program.
Cost: $14,500 for in-person; $12,500 for live online
Format: Online; part-time
Length: 20 weeks
Other Courses Offered by Evolve Security Academy
Offensive security certified professional bootcamp
Evolve Security Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Evolve Security Academy provides career coaching, resume preparation, and mock interview resources. Additional job preparation assistance includes connecting learners to alumni networks and industry partners.
Flatiron School
Founded in 2012, Flatiron School has campuses in Denver, New York City, and online. This school provides in-person and online events as part of its programs.
All of Flatiron School's courses provide self-paced options that allow learners to complete programs in about 40 weeks. Students use recorded lectures, weekly check-ins, and chats with classmates and instructors throughout the program.
This self-paced online coding bootcamp covers front-end and back-end development for software and applications. Divided into four curriculum phases, the software engineering course integrates group projects at each step. The program culminates with a large-scale project that allows students to demonstrate their abilities with advanced technologies.
Format: Online; full-time and part-time
Other Courses Offered by Flatiron School
Flatiron School's Job Placement Assistance
Flatiron provides up to 180 days of one-on-one career coaching to students. This includes resume reviews and mock interviews. Enrollees can access more than 100 career preparation lessons and networking resources.
With more than 20 campuses worldwide, General Assembly educates individuals and companies alike. This organization offers 12-week full-time and 24-week immersive part-time programs, along with on-demand and part-time courses.
UX Design On Demand
As one of three online on-demand courses, General Assembly's UX Design program includes 48 hours of content. Students learn about user research, information architecture, sketching, and wireframing. Additional coursework explores prototyping and visual design.
Throughout the UX design program, individuals take part in five one-on-one mentoring sessions. By signing up for General Assembly, learners gain full access to its platform for 12 months. This allows students to download lesson guides, quizzes, and skill assessment resources at their convenience. General Assembly also provides free coding training, workshops, and events online.
Cost: $9,500 for on-demand; $3,950 for part-time courses; $15,950 for immersives
Format: Online, in-person; full-time, part-time, self-paced
Other Courses Offered by General Assembly
Data analysis on demand
Digital marketing on demand
Data analytics immersive
Data science immersive
Software engineering immersive
General Assembly's Job Placement Assistance
General Assembly provides students with coaching and access to its extensive network of partners and alumni. Career development events and workshops are also available online.
Kenzie Academy
Offered in collaboration with Southern New Hampshire University, Kenzie Academy provides certificate programs and free coding classes. Kenzie Academy also partners with Amazon and offers a career program for its employees.
Software Engineering Certificate
Kenzie Academy's 12-month software engineering program focuses on back-end development, allowing enrollees to explore how to research, build, and deploy cloud-enabled software applications.
As part of the program, students participate in instructional team-facilitated sessions and independent learning activities and assessments. The curriculum prepares individuals to pursue roles in software development engineering at Amazon.
Format: Online; part-time with self-paced and interactive components
Other Courses Offered by Kenzie Academy
Amazon career choice program
Kenzie Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Students receive interview preparation and mentorship support, along with practice problems and training for engineering-related job opportunities.
LaunchCode
LaunchCode provides free tech education and career assistance to individuals of all backgrounds to expand and reshape the tech field. LaunchCode began in 2013 and works with companies and organizations in St. Louis, Kansas City, and Philadelphia.
LaunchCode's full-time immersive Codecamp and its flagship full-stack web development course cover similar content. The immersive camp includes guided support, while the full-stack web development blends in-class and online instruction.
This self-paced online coding bootcamp includes readings, videos, practice problems, and assignments. Students learn the most common languages, tools, and technologies used in computer programs as they build well-rounded skill sets.
Length: 14-20 weeks
Other Courses Offered by LaunchCode
Women+
CodeCamp
LaunchCode's Job Placement Assistance
LaunchCode features an apprenticeship program for job assistance. The organization also partners with employers through its tech talent accelerator initiative.
Nucamp
Established in 2017, Nucamp is based in Bellevue, Washington. The organization remains dedicated to building diversity and filling affordability and accessibility gaps within software development.
Complete software engineering bootcamp
The comprehensive software engineering bootcamp at Nucamp includes 1,400 hours of content. As a sequence of four individual bootcamps, the program includes information on development fundamentals.
Nucamp's program emphasizes back-end data structures and algorithms using Python and SQL. Learners explore web responsiveness, front-end development, and multiplatform development.
Cost: $260-$5,170
Length: 11 months
Other Courses Offered by Nucamp
Back-end, SQL, and DevOps development
Front-end and mobile development
Full-stack and mobile development
Nucamp Job Placement Assistance
Career resources include one-on-one coaching and access to Nucamp's job board. Nucamp also provides a career development course with activities and assignments to help job-seekers.
Booting Up
Online, Chicago
Bright Star Institute
The Nine-Week Online Coding School
9-18 weeks, self-paced
Claim Academy
Live online full-stack coding program
Online, Saint Louis
Code Platoon
Full-stack software engineer: immersive
Part-time, self-paced
Free for military veterans and their spouses
Full-time, part-time, self-paced
Covalence
Catalyst full-stack program
Full-time, part-time, or self-paced
Grand Circus
After-hours programs
Part-time, daytime, and after-hours classes
Kal Academy
Full-time, part-time, weekend
Microverse
Montana Code School
Back-end and front-end development
Product Gym
All part-time bootcamps
TrueCoders
Software engineering, web development
Coding, data analytics
Online, Phoenix, Tucson
UConn Coding Boot Camp
Coding, cybersecurity
Coding, data analytics, fintech, technology project management
V School
Web development, UI/UX design
Software engineering, data analytics
$6000 for 12 weeks of access, $7,500 for 24 weeks
Bootcamps offered in partnership with Trilogy Education Services
Numerous colleges and universities around the U.S. partner with Trilogy Education Services for their bootcamps. Trilogy Education functions as a workforce accelerator that works with universities, employers, students, and instructors to provide innovative and cutting-edge digital skill programs.
Trilogy Bootcamp Review
Common Questions About Self-Paced Bootcamps
Are coding bootcamps self-paced?
Some coding bootcamps are self-paced, allowing students to complete the course at their own speed to ensure maximum information retention. Other programs may be full- or part-time with weekly meetings.
What is a self-paced bootcamp?
A self-paced bootcamp allows you to complete classes, activities, and assessments on a flexible, convenient schedule without due dates and deadlines.
Are self-paced bootcamps hard?
Like all bootcamps, self-paced programs are intense and require dedication. Because progress in a self-paced bootcamp is not determined by a weekly, instructor-led schedule, learners who are independent, motivated, and self-sufficient may thrive more than students who prefer traditional classroom structures.
Are bootcamps worth the money?
To determine the return on investment for a prospective bootcamp, consider which career-ready skills the program is designed to strengthen. Research the job placement assistance tools each bootcamp offers to understand how the program can help you achieve your professional goals.