Learning to code can be a game-changer for your career, and the best part is that you can get paid to do it. Many companies offer coding bootcamps and online courses that cover the basics and beyond.
With the right training, you can develop in-demand skills and boost your earning potential. In fact, a coding bootcamp graduate can expect to earn up to $75,000 per year.
Not only will you gain valuable skills, but you'll also be part of a rapidly growing industry. The demand for skilled coders is skyrocketing, with job openings expected to increase by 21% in the next few years.
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Bootcamp Options
There are many coding bootcamps that offer deferred tuition or income share agreements (ISAs), allowing you to get paid to learn code. Some popular options include Ironhack, which offers a 9-week or 24-week bootcamp with an ISA that can be discussed with your admissions manager.
Ironhack's Deferred Climb Loan allows you to defer payments for six months before entering a 36-month repayment term, with estimated monthly payments ranging from $14,017 to $15,942 over 42 months. Another option is the Bloom Institute of Technology, which offers a flexible and customizable online program with a 60-month repayment term after earning an annual salary of at least $50,000.
You can also consider coding bootcamps that provide financial stipends to their students or offer job guarantees after completion. Some bootcamps even offer courses in multiple programming languages, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, C++, and Java.
Here are a few coding bootcamps that offer deferred tuition or ISAs:
- Ironhack: Offers a 9-week or 24-week bootcamp with an ISA that can be discussed with your admissions manager.
- Bloom Institute of Technology: Offers a flexible and customizable online program with a 60-month repayment term after earning an annual salary of at least $50,000.
- Zenva Academy: Offers the One-Hour Coder Academy, a program that includes courses in multiple programming languages and provides a curriculum suitable for beginners.
These bootcamps can be a great way to get paid to learn code, but it's essential to research each program thoroughly and understand the terms of their ISAs or deferred tuition plans before enrolling.
Alternatives to ISAs
If you're not a fan of income share agreements, there are other ways to fund your coding education. You can look into coding bootcamp loans, but make sure the lender partners with your school.
Research is key when it comes to finding a legitimate coding bootcamp. Some bootcamps offer low-quality instruction, while others inflate their job placement numbers. Searching for reviews on sites like Course Report and SwitchUp can help you determine if a bootcamp is trustworthy.
Alternatives to ISAs
If you're not a fan of income share agreements, don't worry, there are other options to consider.
You can look into coding bootcamp loans if the lender partners with your school.
Researching a coding bootcamp before applying is crucial, as quality varies widely. Some bootcamps offer low-quality instruction.
Searching for reviews on sites like Course Report and SwitchUp can help you determine if a bootcamp is legitimate.
Supplement Free Resources
You can only get so far with free coding resources, and that's where paid products come in. They're worth investing in, especially if you're serious about making a career out of coding.
I learned this the hard way, by trying to rely solely on free resources and getting stuck. That's why I recommend supplementing your free coding resources with paid products.
The Web Developer Bootcamp by Colt Steele is a great course to consider. It teaches you a wide range of skills, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more.
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Paid platforms like Coursera, edX, Mammoth Interactive, and Udacity offer more advanced coding courses. They can help you take your skills to the next level and get you hired faster.
Here are some paid platforms to consider:
- Coursera
- edX
- Mammoth Interactive
- Udacity
Codecademy's Web Development Career Path is also a great resource to check out. It can take you from no-code to a junior web developer in no time.
Evaluating Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps can be a great way to learn to code, but they're not for everyone. If you enjoy coding, consider taking free classes online to test the waters.
Before applying to a bootcamp, research schools carefully and check out deferred tuition options like Income Share Agreements (ISAs). These can be helpful if you enter the tech field.
Subpar programs do exist, so don't be afraid to dig deeper. Reach out to alumni, scour the web for reviews, and don't be shy about asking questions.
Are Bootcamps Legit?
For the most part, yes, coding bootcamps are legit. However, some programs can be subpar and charge a lot with little return.
You should spend time researching the school to get a sense of their quality. Reaching out to alumni can also provide valuable insights.
Subpar programs often get away with charging high prices because they don't deliver much. Scouring the web for reviews can help you avoid these programs.
It's essential to do your due diligence and research before committing to a bootcamp. This will save you from wasting time and money on a program that won't help you achieve your goals.
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Skills and Learning
You can learn a wide range of coding skills in a bootcamp, including web development, cybersecurity, and data science. These programs can equip you with the basics of full-stack web development, data management, and computer programming languages like HTML and Python.
Some of the specific skills you might gain from a coding bootcamp include:
The skills you gain from a coding bootcamp can open up doors to more amazing opportunities, including a solid future ahead of you with a salary of $81,252 as a web developer in the USA.
Skills Learned at Bootcamp
At a coding bootcamp, you can learn a wide range of skills that can set you up for success in the tech industry. You can gain the basics of web development, cybersecurity, and data science.
You'll learn to code the front and backends of sites or apps, also known as full-stack web development. This means you'll be able to work on both the client-side and server-side of websites and applications.
Data management is another key skill you'll learn, allowing you to work on transferring raw data into integrated resources for further development. This is a crucial skill in today's data-driven world.
You'll also deepen your knowledge of computer programming languages, including the latest languages like Python and JavaScript, as well as older standbys like HTML. This will give you a solid foundation in programming and make you more versatile in the job market.
Here are some specific skills you might expect to gain from coding school:
- Full-stack web development
- Data management
- Computer programming languages (e.g. HTML, Python, JavaScript)
- Advanced problem solving
Some bootcamps, like the One-Hour Coder Academy, also offer a curriculum suitable for beginners and provide coding challenges and quizzes to reinforce learning. This can be a great way to learn by doing, rather than just reading about it.
If you're interested in game development, you can even learn Unity programming through a certification pathway like the Unity Associate Programmer Certification Pathway. This includes 11 courses covering various aspects of game development with Unity.
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Learning Code
Learning code can be a daunting task, but with the right resources and mindset, it can be a rewarding experience. You can learn the basics of web development, cybersecurity, and data science during your coding bootcamp, along with other subjects in the tech field.
One of the best ways to start learning to code is through freeCodeCamp, a website that offers a free and well-organized curriculum, along with a strong community of learners. You can complete challenges and projects to earn certificates and gain practical experience.
The demand for coders is steadily growing, with the average salary of a web developer in the USA being $81,252. Learning to code can also provide you with outstanding problem-solving skills and enhance your CV.
To get paid while learning to code, you can try freelancing, where you can apply your new skills to practical projects and earn money on the side. You can also join a coding bootcamp, which may offer financial stipends or job guarantees after completion.
Here are some of the skills you might expect to gain from coding school:
- Full-stack web development: Learn to code the front and backends of sites or apps.
- Data management: Work on transferring raw data into integrated resources for further development.
- Computer programming languages: Deepen your knowledge of the latest computer language programs, along with older standbys such as HTML and Python.
- Advanced problem solving: Gain confidence in researching, analyzing and troubleshooting issues as they arise to optimize the performance of your software and programs.
Some popular programming languages to learn include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, C++, and Java, which can be learned through courses like the One-Hour Coder Academy.
Career Opportunities
Attending a coding bootcamp can open doors to a range of career paths, such as developer, engineer, project manager, UX designer, digital marketing, web designer, and cyber security officer.
You could also launch your own freelance business, giving you the freedom to choose your own projects and clients. A coding bootcamp provides the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in these careers.
A Course Report study found bootcamp graduates land employment with an average starting salary of $69,079, making it a lucrative career choice.
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4 Geeks
4 Geeks offers a part-time bootcamp that can be completed in just 16 weeks. You'll have access to a live-classroom environment and one-on-one mentoring.
Previous coding experience isn't required, just a passion for learning. This makes it a great option for those new to the field.
Full-stack web development is just one of the many skills you can learn at 4 Geeks. You'll gain knowledge of both front and backends of sites or apps.
You can also expect to learn data management, computer programming languages, and advanced problem solving. This will help you become a well-rounded developer.
Here's a breakdown of some of the skills you might expect to gain:
With 4 Geeks, you'll have access to remote sessions as well as in-person classes at campuses in Miami, Orlando, and internationally.
Jobs After Bootcamp
After completing a coding bootcamp, you can pursue a wide range of career paths. You can become a developer, engineer, project manager, UX designer, digital marketing specialist, web designer, or cyber security officer, to name a few.
The bootcamp can help you land a high-paying job, with an average starting salary of $69,079, according to a Course Report study.
Some of the most in-demand jobs after bootcamp include software engineering, web development, and cybersecurity. You can even start your own freelance business and work on projects that interest you.
Here are some examples of jobs you can get after bootcamp:
- Developer
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- UX Designer
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Web Designer
- Cyber Security Officer
Your salary potential is also impressive, with web developers in the USA earning an average of $81,252, plus bonuses and a 401(k), which can lead to a solid future.
Join Challenges
Joining challenges is a great way to earn money and build your coding skills. You can participate in competitions, hackathons, and challenges that offer cash prizes or other rewards.
Some coding competitions offer a cash prize, while others give winners prizes like a trip to a tech conference or free products. You should read the fine print before participating to know what you can expect.
To succeed in a competition or hackathon, you'll likely need some prior coding knowledge. But don't be discouraged if you're just starting out – everyone starts from somewhere.
You can enter coding contests to test your skills and earn some extra cash and other prizes. The first-place winner of the Square Developer Hackathon receives $20,000, and the top project in each category earns a smaller cash prize.
The Theta Hackathon offers a higher cash prize for the first-place winner, who receives $75,000. The runner-up gets $50,000, and the top project in each technology track earns $17,500.
Here are some notable coding competitions that offer cash prizes:
- Square Developer Hackathon: $20,000 for the winner, $2,000 to $15,000 for smaller cash prizes
- Theta Hackathon: $75,000 for the first-place winner, $50,000 for the runner-up, $17,500 for the top project in each technology track
These competitions can help you gain an advantage over other applicants and demonstrate your passion and dedication to programming.
Freelancing and Income
You can start freelancing and earning money while learning to code, but it may take some time to get started. Freelancing sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer can connect you to coding projects and clients.
On Upwork, you can filter by Experience Level to find entry-level/freelance coding jobs for beginners, and you can earn $20-40 / hour with freelance programming jobs for beginners. Experienced freelance programmers earn an average yearly salary of $72,000 if they work full-time.
To stand out from other freelancers, avoid common freelancer mistakes and learn how to write the perfect freelance proposal. It may take a few months to get your first client, but Chris Misterek was able to double his previous full-time salary by freelancing on Upwork.
Additional reading: How to Learn to Code for Beginners
Freelancing marketplaces take a percentage of your earnings, with Upwork taking 10% per project and Fiverr taking as much as 20%. However, you can also get paid directly through referrals, which means you don't have to share your earnings.
Here are some tips to help you get paid freelance coding projects:
- Reach out to local businesses to offer your services
- Ask your family and friends if they need help with coding projects
- Sign up with an agency that matches corporate clients with freelancers
- Apply for freelance and contract positions on LinkedIn
By freelancing and earning money while you learn to code, you can gain valuable experience and build a portfolio to showcase your skills to potential employers.
Professional Development
Many companies have an allocated budget dedicated to learning new skills. You can use this budget to learn code and get funding for your professional development.
Your job position may need some coding skills, and you'll get funding to learn. This is a great option if you can't afford learning full-time but have a passion for coding.
Sharing your progress with friends and on social media can also help you get paid to learn code. Four friends have reached out to the author for help with websites, with two offering to pay.
Professional Development Program
Many companies have an allocated budget dedicated to learning new skills, making it a great option for those who can't afford to learn full-time but have a passion for coding.
You can use this budget to learn code, and it's a great way to get funding for professional development.
Your current employer may have a professional development program that you can tap into, so be sure to ask about it and see what's available.
Companies often provide funding for professional development because they recognize the value of having skilled employees, and it's a win-win for both parties.
Share Your Progress
Sharing your progress with friends and on social media can be a great way to get noticed and attract potential clients. Four friends have reached out to the author for help with websites, and two offered to pay them.
Sharing your progress on social media shows that you're actively working on your coding skills, which can make you more attractive to potential clients. Even if you help someone out for free, it can get you exposure and a potential reference to help you find your first paid coding gig!
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Sarah Greer, a homeschooling mom turned freelance developer, made her start by telling her friends about her progress. She had one friend who put her in touch with a local business owner who needed a website built.
Sharing your progress can lead to unexpected opportunities. Adda Birnir got put in touch with a client who needed a website built, and she was able to charge her $500 for the work.
You don't have to be an expert to accept a gig, and sharing your progress can help you find opportunities to practice and learn. It's like having homework that comes with a check!
Success Stories and Tips
You can start earning money while learning to code sooner than you think. My first internship started in June 2017, and I'd only been coding for six months. It's worth applying now instead of waiting for the right moment.
Tuomas Kivioja, also known as Internet Made Coder, is a great example of someone who learned to code and found a dream job in less than half a year. He became a self-taught software engineer and started building his career from his bedroom, completing online coding courses and doing paid tasks to gain experience.
To make coding a habit, try the #100DaysOfCode movement on Twitter, where you code every day for an hour, or even just five minutes a day, to get accustomed to spending time in a code editor.
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Make a Habit
Making a habit of coding can be a game-changer. Habits are hard to make and even harder to break, but with the right approach, you can make coding a habit you never want to break.
The #100DaysOfCode movement on Twitter is a great example of this. Alexander Kallaway created the movement to code every day for an hour, for 100 days. You can start with a smaller goal of 30 minutes a day, like I did.
Even five minutes a day can be beneficial. It's better to start small and be consistent than to try to code for hours and give up. Consistency is key.
By making coding a daily habit, you'll be accustomed to sitting down every day to spend time in a code editor, which will help you when you're ready to earn money programming.
Coders' Success Stories
Meet Tuomas Kivioja, a self-taught software engineer who switched careers in just 4 months. He finished university with an economy degree and then became a coder, building his career from his bedroom.
Tuomas learned the basics of coding through online courses and then started working on simple projects to earn money while learning. This shows that it's possible to learn to code and find a great job in less than half a year.
You can also make money coding by sharing your journey on social media. For example, you can create how-to videos for beginners or share your project progress on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.
There are many ways to monetize your social media presence, including affiliate marketing, brand sponsorships, YouTube ad revenue, and online courses. Here are some specific ways to earn money:
- Affiliate marketing: Earn a 5% to 30% commission per purchase by embedding links or promotions to products or services in your content.
- Brand sponsorships: Earn $1,000 or more per sponsored post if you have over 100,000 followers.
- YouTube ad revenue: Earn money by including ads before and during your videos, but you'll need at least 1,000 YouTube subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time.
- Online courses, coaching, and playbooks: Earn money via online courses or how-to tutorials, such as a platform for coding beginners.
Perseverance
Don't give up on your coding dreams, it's possible to make money while learning. Tuomas Kivioja, a self-taught software engineer, switched his career path to coding in just 4 months.
You can start coding online and earning money way sooner than you think, even if you've only been coding for a few months. My first internship started in June 2017, and I'd only been coding for six months at the time.
Remember, the worst that can happen is someone says you're not the right candidate for their job, in which case you keep coding and try applying to other coding jobs for beginners later. It's better to have tried and learned from the experience than to give up altogether.
It's possible to learn to code and find your dream job in less than half a year, as Tuomas Kivioja's story shows. He became a self-taught software engineer and started building his career from his bedroom.
If you're feeling frustrated, remind yourself that perseverance is key. Keep pushing through, and you'll eventually reach your goal.
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