In Baltimore, the path to a career in the tech industry offers a range of educational options, from traditional university routes to specialized bootcamps focusing on coding, IT, cybersecurity, and beyond. As the tech landscape evolves in the age of AI, aspiring tech professionals need to adapt their learning endeavors to meet the changing demands of the job market. Before casting a wide net and applying to numerous companies, individuals looking to transition from their existing careers, or those simply seeking a fresh start, can explore a variety of programs that are fostering Baltimore's next generation of tech talent. Discover these opportunities in this latest roundup of local bootcamps and tech skills development programs.
Code Labs Academy (CLA)
Based in the heart of Berlin, Code Labs Academy thrives on its ability to meet the diverse needs of our students. As a global EdTech startup, we offer dynamic tech bootcamps tailored to individuals from all walks of life – whether you're a fresh graduate, a career switcher, or a professional with high aspirations. Our curriculum spans Cyber Security, Data Science, UX/UI Design, and Web Development, ensuring a wealth of engaging learning opportunities. At Code Labs Academy, we're passionate about fueling your career aspirations. We provide personalized educational and career guidance services designed to align with your unique ambitions – whether you're venturing into tech for the first time, transitioning from a non-tech background, or simply eager to expand your skill set. From tailored 1:1 career coaching to immersive learning sessions with our expert instructors, we create an environment where your success takes center stage. With our structured course format, you'll swiftly progress from your starting point, emerging as a proficient bootcamp graduate in just 12 to 24 weeks, armed with a comprehensive portfolio ready to showcase your talents. With flexible installment plans to ensure maximum affordability, we ensure acquiring essential tech skills is not only accessible but also fun. With Code Labs Academy, you can get started on an exciting journey to actualize your full potential in the ever-evolving world of technology!
Technical Discipline: Web Developer, Front-End Web Developer, Data Scientist, UX/UI Designer, Cyber Security Engineer
Duration: 12-24 weeks.
Cost: $5,499 (USD)
Digital Harbor Tech Center
The Digital Harbor Tech Center provides a selection of technology-focused programs, such as Mini Makers, Maker Foundation, and Advanced Makers programs. The organization is focused on youth tech programming, community programs, and workforce development
Duration: Varies
Cost: Programs are offered at no cost, although donations are appreciated.
Nucamp
The program offers part-time online coding courses, providing students with the flexibility to manage other commitments while acquiring coding skills. Courses consist of 8-14 hours of online content and are self-paced. Students collaborate with 14 classmates and one instructor. Weekend courses include a four-hour live workshop guided by the instructor, with ongoing feedback available via private chat throughout the week. Nucamp courses offer flexible scheduling: they often take place on weekends or evenings, providing students with the opportunity to learn at their own pace.
Technical Discipline: Web Development, Full Stack Development
Cost: $1,500-$17,000.
Duration: 1-5 months
University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
UMGC provides cybersecurity bootcamps that cover skills such as ethical hacking and network security. As per the UMGC website, you can potentially become a cybersecurity analyst in as little as six months through their program, which also emphasizes AI and is entirely online and self-paced.
Technical Discipline: Cybersecurity
Duration: 6 months
Cost: The total program cost is $12,495, with a 12% discount available for upfront payment.
Catalyte
Catalyte offers apprenticeships in software development, IT services, project management, and other areas to facilitate individuals in gaining practical experience in the tech sector.
The program, Software Development Apprenticeship continues to be a cornerstone of Catalyte. The organization has managed to shorten the development phase of the apprenticeship, during which apprentices acquire new skills before being assigned to a client, from six months to 14 to 20 weeks. The scheduling of Catalyte's apprenticeship programs varies.
Technical Discipline: Software Development
Duration: Varies
Cost: All of Catalyte’s apprenticeships are provided free of charge.
Betamore
Betamore offers a variety of tech-focused training programs, including coding bootcamps and workshops. The organization is continuing to enhance its Startup 101 and Software Engineer Training (SET) programs. Additionally, there is news about an upcoming partnership with another Baltimore City organization to expand programming and increase accessibility.
Technical Discipline: Software Engineering
Duration: The schedule for Betamore’s courses varies.
Cost: The six-month engineering course is priced at approximately $4,000, while the full six-week Startup 101 program costs $500
Per Scholas
Per Scholas delivers courses in IT support, end-user desktop support, software engineering, AWS re/Start, and cybersecurity, available in remote, hybrid, or asynchronous formats. Per Scholas, a national nonprofit, offers technology training for unemployed or underemployed individuals. Their courses include systems support, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Per Scholas offers intensive courses lasting 10 to 15 weeks in various tech fields like Full Stack Java Development, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Cloud DevOps, and IT Support. Operating across 17 cities in the US, their programs aim to bridge the gap between local talent and tech employers. These training opportunities are provided at no cost, thanks to corporate partnerships. Throughout the courses, Per Scholas focuses on both technical skills and professional development, preparing learners for job positions and interviews with their partner companies. Upon completion, graduates are directly connected to job opportunities at these partner companies. Additionally, Per Scholas provides ongoing career coaching, networking events, and career services support for up to 2 years after training
Technical Discipline: Web Development, Cybersecurity, Full Stack Java Development, Software Engineering
Duration: 10-15 weeks
Cost: Free
Towson University
Towson University provides a self-paced online cybersecurity bootcamp tailored to equip participants with the essential skills required for a cybersecurity career. Towson makes use of an open enrollment approach, allowing interested individuals to start at their convenience.
Technical Discipline: Cybersecurity
Duration: Self-Paced
Cost: The program fee is $4,299.
Code in the Schools
CodeWorks, offered by Code in the Schools, is a five-week training program covering various tech disciplines including game development, web development, python, data science, mobile app development, cybersecurity, and digital forensics. The program caters to individuals aged 14-21. The applications for the summer session are typically submitted through the affiliated YouthWorks Application.
Technical Discipline: Game Development, Web Development, Data Science, Cybersecurity
Duration: 5 weeks
Cost: Specific information regarding the program costs is not available.
NPower
NPower provides introductory courses on Computer Administration and CompTIA IT fundamentals certifications designed for young adults, veterans, and military spouses residing in East and West Baltimore.NPower offers two cohorts annually, scheduled for spring and autumn.
Technical Discipline: Cybersecurity, CompTIA
Duration: 16 weeks (with a possibility of 7 weeks of internship)
Cost: The program is completely free of cost.
UMBC Training Centers
The centers offer a variety of professional development programs, including training in cloud computing and cybersecurity. UMBC recently launched its Center for Applied AI. UMBC Training Centers' course schedule may vary.
Technical Discipline: Cloud computing, cybersecurity
Duration: Varies
Cost: Many of UMBC's programs are offered free of charge.
