Chicago is a bustling city with a thriving tech industry, offering numerous job prospects for individuals skilled in coding. For those eager to transition into a career in technology swiftly, Chicago hosts several bootcamp programs designed to expedite the journey from novice to proficient developer. This guide is your roadmap to navigating the array of options available in the city's coding bootcamp scene, helping you find the ideal program to kickstart your tech career journey.
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)
Actualize
Actualize is an online software engineering bootcamp based in Chicago that offers part-time and full-time bootcamp options. Instructors with professional educational experience teach students full-stack web development including Ruby, Rails, JavaScript, VueJS, SQL, and Git. The Online Live classes are conducted in real-time with video conferencing. Actualize has a deeply integrated “Job Hacking” curriculum focused on the personal branding and networking skills necessary to land a new job, which Actualize feels is just as important as learning to code. To apply, students simply need to complete an online application form. Following this, there are two interviews with an admissions advisor. While there are no coding challenges involved, applicants are required to finish four weeks of pre-work before the program begins.
Technical Discipline: Web Development, Full Stack Development
Duration: 5 weeks of pre-work + 12 weeks
Cost: $16,900
Code Platoon
Code Platoon, situated in Chicago, Illinois, is a non-profit coding bootcamp specially designed for veterans and military spouses transitioning into civilian careers. They offer both full-time and part-time programs in Full-stack Software Engineering and DevOps and Cloud Engineering, spanning 15 and 28 weeks respectively. These programs can be attended either in-person or remotely via video conference. Students undergo rigorous technical training, emphasizing problem-solving, teamwork, and discipline. Code Platoon provides various scholarships to veterans, spouses, minorities, women, and transgender veterans, among others. Additionally, students can take part in networking events, workshops, and apprenticeship opportunities post-graduation.
Technical Discipline: Software Engineering, DevOps Engineering
Duration: 16 weeks (plus an optional 12-week internship)
Cost: $16,500
Per Scholas
Per Scholas, a national nonprofit, offers technology training for unemployed or underemployed individuals. Their courses include systems support, software engineering, and cybersecurity. These courses are available online, in hybrid formats, and in person at the Philadelphia campus on John F. Kennedy Boulevard. 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
Duration: 10-15 weeks
Cost: Free
Coding Dojo
Established in 2012, Coding Dojo stands at the forefront of coding bootcamps, renowned for its flagship program: teaching 3 full stacks in 3 months. This intensive curriculum covers a mix of HTML/CSS, Python/Django, JavaScript/MEAN, Ruby/Rails, iOS/Swift, C#.NET, or PHP/LAMP. Offering programs in Software Development, Data Science, and Cybersecurity, Coding Dojo provides students with the flexibility to learn coding languages like Python, JavaScript, Java, and C#/.NET Core. They can also delve deeper into data and visualization in Python or prepare for Cybersecurity challenges. Alongside the comprehensive curriculum, students engage in peer collaboration, and interactive lectures with instructors, receive unlimited career services support, and access Teaching Assistants seven days a week.
Technical Disciplines: Machine Learning & AI, Cyber Security, Full Stack Developer, Front-End Developer, Data Science
Duration: 16 weeks (Full-time); 18-34 weeks (Part-time)
Cost: from $9,995 to $16,995
Whether you're taking your first steps in coding or aiming to refine your existing skills, this resource provides valuable insights into the available programs in the city. Delve into the unique features of each program, assess their potential advantages, and uncover the opportunities they present for your tech journey in Chicago.
